As online privacy concerns grow, the demand for virtual private networks (VPNs) continues to rise.
In 2025, VPN adoption is more than just about browsing securely. It’s about protecting data, enabling remote work, and complying with tightening regulations.
This increasing reliance on VPN technology has made VPN-related companies and cybersecurity firms valuable investment opportunities in the current market.
From cloud-native zero-trust solutions to backbone infrastructure, this space is brimming with opportunity.
In this guide, we’ll explore the eight best VPN stocks for 2025, split across three categories: established giants, emerging contenders, and speculative penny stocks.
TL;DR: Best VPN Stocks To Buy Now
- Palo Alto Networks (PANW): Zero-trust VPN leader for enterprises
- Fortinet (FTNT): Unified firewall and VPN hardware powerhouse
- Cisco Systems (CSCO): Enterprise networking with embedded VPN security
- Zscaler (ZS): Cloud-native VPN alternative, zero-trust champion
- Gen Digital (GEN): Norton VPN bundled in consumer cyber suite
- Cloudflare (NET): Secure app access without traditional VPN
- Ribbon Communications (RBBN): Infrastructure provider for secure VPN networks
- Sekur Private Data Ltd. (SWISF): Swiss-hosted VPN for privacy-first users
What Are VPN Stocks?
VPN stocks are companies that offer technologies for secure digital communication.
They may not all sell standalone VPN apps, but they play essential roles in VPN functionality or its next-gen alternatives.
Some enable encrypted tunnels for remote workers, while others provide proxy and identity-based security.
As of 2025, the VPN market is being shaped by enterprise cloud adoption, remote work mandates, and privacy regulations.
With the cybersecurity sector booming, VPN-related companies, whether offering classic VPNs or cutting-edge SASE solutions, are gaining ground on Wall Street.
3 Best VPN Stocks to Invest In
Palo Alto Networks (PANW)
Overview
Palo Alto Networks is a global cybersecurity leader that’s become synonymous with cutting-edge enterprise protection.
Founded in 2005, the company has continuously evolved its product suite to meet the demands of the modern digital enterprise.
Its flagship platform, Prisma Access, merges firewall capabilities with cloud-native secure access and VPN features, placing it squarely in the hybrid VPN-zero trust space.
The company also provides threat intelligence through its Cortex XSIAM and XDR products and remains at the forefront of the shift toward Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solutions.
Growth Catalysts
As of mid-2025, Palo Alto Networks is experiencing robust enterprise demand driven by the explosive growth in hybrid work models and regulatory cybersecurity mandates.
Its products are widely deployed in Fortune 500 firms, educational institutions, and federal agencies.
One of the company’s biggest differentiators is its ability to integrate AI-driven threat detection into its secure access tools, which is increasingly important as threat actors leverage automation.
The late 2023 acquisition of Talon Cyber Security expanded its reach into browser-based endpoint security, a key frontier in next-gen VPN alternatives.
Furthermore, growing demand for consolidated security platforms is pushing more organizations toward Palo Alto’s integrated offerings.
Risks
Palo Alto is priced at a premium compared to its peers, which raises concerns about valuation sustainability, especially in volatile markets.
While the company’s growth rate remains healthy, slowing macroeconomic conditions or budget tightening among enterprise clients could temporarily dent revenue.
The company is also in a fiercely competitive space, contending with Cisco, Fortinet, and next-gen disruptors like Zscaler.
Integration challenges from its multiple acquisitions could pose short-term operational friction.
Conclusion
Palo Alto Networks is an essential name in any cybersecurity investor’s portfolio.
For those seeking exposure to VPN evolution via enterprise-grade solutions, PANW offers a compelling balance of innovation, market presence, and scalable recurring revenue.
Its alignment with SASE and zero-trust frameworks ensures its relevance in a rapidly transforming landscape.
Fortinet, Inc. (NASDAQ: FTNT)
Overview
Fortinet has carved out a unique niche in cybersecurity by blending purpose-built hardware with cloud-integrated software.
The company’s FortiGate firewalls are widely deployed across government, financial, and healthcare sectors, often doubling as VPN access points for enterprise networks.
Fortinet also delivers SD-WAN, endpoint protection, and SASE offerings under its expanding Fortinet Security Fabric.
Unlike some competitors, Fortinet’s vertically integrated approach allows it to optimize performance and cost by controlling both the software and hardware layers.
Growth Catalysts
In 2025, Fortinet’s revenue growth is being propelled by the rising demand for hybrid cloud security and remote work solutions.
Its FortiSASE product is gaining ground in mid-size businesses looking for a unified security experience without the need for multiple vendors.
Fortinet’s low latency, AI-powered detection, and simplified management interface make it particularly appealing to companies with limited IT resources.
Additionally, Fortinet’s aggressive push into 5G network security and operational technology (OT) protection has opened up entirely new customer segments.
With over 860,000 customers worldwide, Fortinet is also expanding its subscription-based revenue via service contracts.
Risks
Fortinet’s dependence on physical appliance sales, although mitigated, still differentiates it from pure-play cloud providers.
Supply chain disruptions can impact hardware availability, and any decline in global infrastructure spending could be a headwind.
The company has faced scrutiny in the past due to a few software vulnerabilities, and although patches were issued quickly, these incidents can harm trust.
Fortinet must also navigate the competitive terrain of cloud-native vendors encroaching on its enterprise base.
Conclusion
Fortinet is a balanced VPN stock for investors who want both legacy reliability and forward-looking innovation.
Its strength lies in its hybrid deployment model, allowing businesses to transition to the cloud at their own pace.
With strategic investments in AI, OT security, and SASE, Fortinet is well-positioned to capture demand across sectors.
Cisco Systems (CSCO)
Overview
Cisco Systems remains one of the largest and most established players in networking and cybersecurity.
With decades of dominance in switching and routing, Cisco has gradually reoriented itself to deliver software-defined solutions.
Its AnyConnect VPN and new SASE architecture form a key pillar of its remote access strategy.
The company integrates VPN functionalities into its Webex suite, firewalls, routers, and the Cisco SecureX platform.
With a strong enterprise presence and loyal customer base, Cisco continues to evolve into a cloud-first, software-driven business.
Growth Catalysts
Cisco is undergoing a significant transformation in 2025. It has made strides in shifting revenue from one-time hardware sales to recurring software subscriptions.
The Cisco+ Secure Connect platform combines SASE, zero-trust, and cloud-based VPN under a single interface.
Recent investments in AI-enhanced anomaly detection and behavioral analytics strengthen its value proposition for large enterprises and government clients.
Cisco also benefits from cross-selling its VPN and security products to its massive global install base, giving it an edge in customer acquisition costs.
Risks
Cisco’s legacy perception remains a hurdle as it competes with younger cloud-native firms.
The transition from on-premise hardware to SaaS-based solutions is ongoing and carries execution risks.
While Cisco has invested in SASE and zero-trust, its rollout speed has lagged behind more agile competitors.
Moreover, macroeconomic pressures could dampen IT budgets, affecting large infrastructure upgrades.
Conclusion
Cisco is a solid choice for risk-averse investors looking for reliable VPN and networking exposure.
Its pivot to a subscription-based model and integration of VPN into cloud-first platforms positions it to benefit from long-term digital transformation trends.
While not as fast-moving as pure-play cybersecurity startups, Cisco’s size, scale, and evolving offerings make it a steady force in the VPN market.
3 Top VPN Stocks That You Can Add
Zscaler (ZS)
Overview
Zscaler is a leading cloud-native cybersecurity company that’s at the forefront of the zero-trust movement.
Unlike traditional VPN providers, Zscaler’s platform doesn’t rely on static tunnels or network-based access. Instead, it provides identity-based secure access to applications through its Zero Trust Exchange.
This approach has made Zscaler a favorite among large enterprises and government agencies looking to modernize their security infrastructure.
Growth Catalysts
Zscaler is thriving in 2025 as zero-trust architecture continues to replace outdated VPN models.
Companies are prioritizing secure, scalable, and remote access platforms, and Zscaler’s solutions check all the boxes.
The company has continued to expand its federal footprint, securing new contracts across state and national agencies.
Its partnerships with Microsoft Azure, AWS, and Google Cloud help position it as a cross-platform security layer in a multicloud world.
Additionally, its ZDX performance monitoring tool helps IT teams detect performance bottlenecks, making the Zscaler platform mission-critical.
Risks
While Zscaler’s growth potential is strong, the stock’s high valuation leaves little room for error.
Slower-than-expected revenue growth or execution missteps could trigger significant sell-offs.
The cybersecurity landscape is also incredibly competitive, with rivals like Palo Alto Networks, Fortinet, and Cisco accelerating their zero-trust roadmaps.
Moreover, reliance on cloud service integration can expose the company to vendor ecosystem risks.
Conclusion
Zscaler is one of the clearest plays on the next generation of VPN alternatives.
It offers a forward-looking solution to today’s most pressing remote access challenges and is a must-watch for growth investors who believe in the shift from network-centric to user-centric security models.
Gen Digital (GEN)
Overview
Gen Digital, the parent company of Norton and Avast, is a consumer cybersecurity firm that offers VPN services bundled with antivirus, identity theft protection, and device security tools.
Norton Secure VPN is integrated into Gen’s broader security platform, offering privacy protection across public Wi-Fi, IP masking, and bank-grade encryption for millions of users globally.
Growth Catalysts
Gen Digital’s core advantage lies in its massive installed base and cross-selling ability. As privacy concerns rise, more consumers are seeking all-in-one protection tools.
The company’s bundling strategy drives higher customer lifetime value and reduces churn.
In 2025, Gen Digital expanded its AI threat detection features across its VPN offering, improving both threat response and user experience.
Their latest consumer outreach campaigns also target emerging markets in Asia and Latin America, where digital privacy is gaining traction.
Risks
Consumer-focused VPN providers like Gen Digital face intense competition from freemium apps and niche privacy brands.
Although the bundling approach works well, it can also dilute focus.
The VPN product itself isn’t as feature-rich as standalone competitors like ExpressVPN or ProtonVPN. Additionally, being a mature player, Gen’s revenue growth is moderate compared to high-flying tech peers.
Conclusion
Gen Digital is a smart choice for investors seeking a stable, consumer-oriented VPN play.
Its focus on recurring subscription revenue and cross-platform integration makes it a solid long-term holding, especially for those who believe in rising global awareness around digital privacy.
Cloudflare (NET)
Overview
Cloudflare is not a pure-play VPN provider but plays a vital role in secure access through its Cloudflare Access solution.
This zero-trust network access product offers a modern replacement for VPN by validating identity and context before allowing users into internal systems.
Cloudflare is also a content delivery and DDoS protection powerhouse, serving millions of websites and applications around the globe.
Growth Catalysts
In 2025, Cloudflare continues to expand its secure access suite by building out integrations with identity providers like Okta, Ping, and Azure AD.
Its Workers platform, which supports edge compute capabilities, is becoming increasingly important for distributed VPN alternatives.
Enterprises are adopting Cloudflare Access to eliminate legacy VPN issues like latency and lateral attack risk.
The company’s large customer base, strong developer ecosystem, and new AI-based traffic filtering tools give it a powerful platform advantage.
Risks
Cloudflare’s valuation remains steep, and as with many high-growth tech firms, any slowdown in revenue expansion or rising operational costs could negatively impact investor sentiment.
Its VPN-adjacent tools are also just a portion of its broader platform, so investors looking for direct VPN exposure might find the play a bit too diluted.
Conclusion
Cloudflare is an excellent option for those wanting indirect exposure to the VPN space through the zero-trust access revolution.
Its expanding enterprise footprint and focus on decentralized, secure networking put it in a strong position to thrive as the traditional VPN model continues to evolve.
Top VPN Penny Stocks To Check Out Now
Ribbon Communications Inc. (NASDAQ: RBBN)
Overview
Ribbon Communications is a telecom infrastructure provider with a presence in VoIP, secure real-time communications, and data networking.
While not a pure-play VPN provider, its solutions are foundational for secure voice and data exchange, making it a critical player in the VPN ecosystem.
Ribbon’s portfolio includes session border controllers, optical IP networking, and SBC solutions used by carriers and enterprises worldwide.
Growth Catalysts
Ribbon is gaining traction in 2025 as telecoms and enterprises modernize their infrastructure to support secure, hybrid work models.
Its Apollo optical networking systems and Ribbon Analytics help power secure traffic routing across public and private networks.
The company’s cloud-native offerings align with the ongoing pivot from traditional MPLS and leased-line models.
Partnerships with Tier 1 carriers in the U.S., the Middle East, and Europe also present promising growth vectors.
Recent quarterly earnings showed improving margins and better operational efficiency.
Risks
Ribbon’s role in VPN infrastructure is indirect, and much of its revenue still comes from legacy hardware deals.
Transitioning fully to software-based models will take time and carry execution risk.
The stock is also a small-cap, making it more volatile and less liquid. Any delay in telecom capex cycles could disproportionately affect revenue.
Conclusion
Ribbon Communications is a smart speculative pick for investors looking at the infrastructure side of the VPN equation.
While not a headline-grabbing name, its secure networking products are essential enablers of modern VPN services.
Sekur Private Data Ltd. (SWISF)
Overview
Sekur Private Data Ltd. is a Swiss-based privacy tech firm offering secure communication and VPN tools for individuals and businesses.
Its flagship product, SekurVPN, is hosted entirely in Switzerland, taking advantage of the country’s strong privacy laws.
The company also offers secure email, messaging, and file-sharing solutions.
Growth Catalysts
Sekur is benefitting from heightened global interest in non-U.S. data residency and anti-surveillance technology.
The company markets its tools to privacy-conscious consumers, executives, and journalists.
In 2025, Sekur expanded its reach in Latin America and the EU, and launched new desktop clients with stronger encryption protocols.
With cyberattacks increasing worldwide, demand for Swiss-hosted services continues to rise. Sekur’s focus on not collecting user data differentiates it in the crowded consumer VPN space.
Risks
Like most OTC companies, Sekur operates with a small market cap and limited financial transparency.
Monetization remains a challenge, especially against better-funded competitors. Marketing costs are rising, and the company may need capital infusions to scale. Investors should be cautious about long-term sustainability.
Conclusion
Sekur Private Data offers unique VPN exposure with a privacy-first angle. Its Swiss hosting, no-data-logging policy, and expansion strategy make it an interesting speculative choice.
However, limited scale and high marketing spend pose near-term risks.
Should You Buy Top VPN Stocks?
Investing in VPN stocks could be a smart choice as the demand for online privacy and security increases globally.
VPNs play a crucial role in creating secure internet connections, protecting both individuals and businesses from data breaches, cyberattacks, and compromised networks.
As remote work continues to grow, companies are heavily investing in more robust VPN services to safeguard their operations.
Beyond business use, many consumers are using VPNs to access international content, making these networks appealing for personal use.
This creates a dual demand for VPN services, both from enterprises and individual users, driving long-term growth in the sector.
When considering VPN stocks, it’s essential to evaluate factors like trading volume, market capitalization, and financial health.
Some companies may also provide additional services like cloud security or data protection, which could diversify their revenue streams.
Given the rise in breaches and the increasing need for secure digital infrastructure, investing in VPN stocks now could lead to significant returns.
As with any investment, there are risks involved, including market volatility and competition within the cybersecurity sector.
However, the long-term trend toward online privacy and secure digital connections provides strong growth potential for VPN companies.
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VPN Industry Trends to Watch in 2025
The VPN landscape is undergoing a significant transformation in 2025. One of the most prominent trends is the rise of zero-trust security models that bypass the need for legacy VPN tunnels.
Companies are investing in context-aware, identity-based access systems that ensure users only reach what they’re authorized to access. This shift is particularly visible in large enterprises and government deployments.
Another critical trend is the convergence of VPN with Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) architectures. SASE integrates networking and security into a single cloud-delivered service.
As cloud adoption grows, SASE frameworks are increasingly replacing piecemeal VPN deployments.
Consumer demand is also evolving. Privacy concerns, data breaches, and surveillance fears are pushing users toward VPNs hosted in non-U.S. jurisdictions, such as Switzerland.
At the same time, app-based VPNs are becoming more user-friendly and integrated into antivirus suites.
AI-powered threat detection is being layered into VPN services, offering real-time behavioral analysis.
And finally, edge computing and 5G are redefining how and where VPN services are delivered, bringing speed and scalability improvements across the board.
Difference Between VPN and Zero-Trust Security Stocks
VPN and zero-trust stocks are often mentioned in the same breath, but they serve different security philosophies.
VPNs create a secure tunnel between a user and a network. It’s like giving someone a key to a locked door. Once inside, they have access to everything within.
Zero-trust security, on the other hand, assumes no one should be trusted by default, not even those inside the network.
Instead of a single key, zero-trust systems verify identity and context continuously. Users only access specific resources based on who they are, what they need, and when they need it.
While traditional VPNs are still widely used, the move toward zero-trust is accelerating.
Companies like Zscaler and Palo Alto Networks are leading this shift, offering identity-aware platforms that reduce the risks posed by compromised credentials and lateral movement within networks.
From an investment standpoint, VPN stocks tend to include legacy players and consumer brands, while zero-trust stocks are typically high-growth cloud-native firms at the forefront of security innovation.
FAQs
How Will AI Impact VPN and Cybersecurity Companies?
AI enhances threat detection, automates responses, and personalizes access controls, making VPNs and cybersecurity tools smarter and more efficient.
It also helps companies scale while defending against increasingly AI-powered cyberattacks.
Can You Use a VPN for Trading?
Yes, you can use a VPN for trading, which may help secure your connection when accessing trading platforms.
However, be aware that some platforms may restrict access based on location.
Always check the terms and conditions of your trading platform to ensure that using a VPN doesn’t violate their policies, which could lead to frozen accounts or restricted access.
How Do VPN Companies Earn Revenue?
VPN companies typically earn revenue through subscription models, offering monthly or annual plans to individuals and businesses.
Some companies also offer additional cybersecurity services, such as data center security or cloud-based infrastructure, providing diversified revenue streams.
What Role Do VPNs Play in Data Center Security?
VPNs help secure data center communications by encrypting data transferred between remote users and the data center.
This enhances security by preventing unauthorized access to sensitive information, making VPNs an essential tool in protecting global data centers and digital infrastructure.
Can I Invest in VPN Stocks Through an Exchange Traded Fund (ETF)?
Yes, there are cybersecurity-focused ETFs, such as the First Trust NASDAQ Cybersecurity ETF (CIBR), that include VPN providers and related cybersecurity companies.
These ETFs allow you to invest in a broad range of cybersecurity stocks, diversifying your portfolio while gaining exposure to the VPN market.
Are VPN Stocks Considered High-Risk Investments?
VPN stocks can be high-risk investments due to the rapid changes in technology and intense competition within the cybersecurity space.
The market is also sensitive to news of data breaches and evolving regulations.
However, companies with strong financials and diversified services, such as those securing data centers or offering other cybersecurity solutions, may present lower risks.
Final Thoughts
VPN and cybersecurity stocks could provide significant investment opportunities as the digital security market continues to grow.
As more companies and individuals prioritize online privacy and secure connections, demand for these best vpn stocks is expected to increase.
From cloud-native access tools to telecom backbone providers, the VPN ecosystem spans multiple sectors.
In 2025, investors can choose from enterprise stalwarts like Palo Alto, growth innovators like Zscaler, and speculative bets like Sekur Private Data.
Each stock in this guide plays a different role in the VPN value chain.
Whether you’re looking for blue-chip reliability, mid-cap momentum, or moonshot penny stock potential, VPN investing has something for every risk profile.
Always do your own research, align with your investing goals, and remember: in the world of VPNs, it’s not just about privacy, it’s about securing the future of digital work.
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