Use Upwork from anywhere with a VPN

Is Upwork blocked in your country? Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for Upwork is the easiest way to access the platform and work privately from anywhere. The best VPNs for Upwork provide strong encryption which stops local networks, ISPs, and government agencies from tracking your online activity and enforcing digital restrictions. As such, you can unblock Upwork from anywhere in the world.

Not all VPNs are secure enough to unblock Upwork in countries like Cuba, Iran, Crimea, Russia, and Syria. Additionally, your VPN has to be fast enough to avoid potential problems like sporadic disconnection or repeated transactions. That’s why it’s so important to choose wisely, even if you’re not in a country with a history of strict digital censorship.

In this guide, we have pinpointed the top VPNs for Upwork so that you can change your IP address and protect yourself against online surveillance at the hands of ISPs, government agencies, and other eavesdroppers. Our testing focuses on security features, speed, and ease of use – to ensure you get a smooth Upwork experience no matter where you are.

Keep scrolling to learn how to use Upwork privately from anywhere and to pick from our list of the best VPNs for Upwork. 

What are the best VPNs for Upwork?

An Upwork VPN must have servers with IP addresses that haven’t been flagged as suspicious by the platform. If you’re a professional who relies heavily on Upwork to make a living, you may prefer to get a VPN with a dedicated IP. This gives you a reliable IP address to access your account no matter where you intend to travel.

You will find detailed summaries of our recommendations later in this guide. If you’re short on time, you can use the quick list below to pick up your Upwork VPN and get started.

Best Upwork VPNs:

1. NordVPN: The best VPN for Upwork. Offers dedicated IPs for a small additional monthly fee. Has a vast network of over 5,000 servers worldwide. Known for its high speeds, reliability, and strong privacy measures. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee for you to try it out.
2. Surfshark: Best budget VPN for Upwork. Effective for accessing Upwork in regions where it’s restricted. Secure enough to use Upwork without being monitored while at work. Known for high-speed servers and supports unlimited simultaneous connections, making it ideal for families.
3. CyberGhost: Great for beginners. Easy to use with robust encryption and a strict no-logs policy. Can unblock Upwork, social media, VoIP apps, and popular streams like Netflix US. Offers dedicated IPs in 10 countries. 45-day money-back guarantee.
4. PureVPN: Very cheap. Works for bypassing restrictions on Upwork and many other websites. Offers port forwarding and dedicated IPs for an extra fee. Fast WireGuard protocol is ideal for streaming. Works with Netflix US and dozens of streaming services.
5. IPVanish: Fast and dependable. Has a wide selection of US servers. Fully featured apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. Comes with strong AES encryption and a kill switch. It works to access Upwork but does not offer dedicated IPs for those who prefer an IP only they use.
6. ExpressVPN: Over 3,000 servers in more than 100 countries. Effective at unblocking a wide range of international services, including Upwork. Supports streaming in multiple Netflix regions. Doesn’t offer dedicated IPs but includes a 30-day money-back guarantee to test it.

How we picked the best VPNs for Upwork

Later in this guide, you can learn additional specifics about how we test and review VPNs for Upwork. For now, here is a list of the main criteria used to make our picks:

• Global server network: We picked VPNs with large server networks so you can access Upwork safely from any location. This is great for digital nomads.
• Bypass geo-restrictions: We picked VPNs that allow you to get an IP address back home while traveling. These VPNs also work to unblock Upwork in countries where the government has restricted it.
• Fast speeds: We were careful to recommend fast VPNs to let you engage in video calls with clients or freelancers. Fast speeds also make the VPN useful for streaming and torrenting.
• Robust encryption: This will protect your online activities against eavesdroppers, allowing you to work safely on public wifi or while traveling. Strong encryption and a killswitch also ensure you can hide your IP address from Upwork.
• No-Logs policy: A commitment to not store any personal browsing data.
• Multiple simultaneous connections: Support for connecting several devices at the same time.
• Superior customer support: High-quality, accessible customer service.
• Dedicated IPs: Additional credit if the VPN offers dedicated IP addresses.

Best VPNs for Upwork

The summaries below provide the information you need to make an informed decision.

Aug 2024

works with upworkTested Aug 2024

NordVPN is our number one VPN recommendation to use with Upwork. It allows seamless access to Upwork in multiple countries where it isn’t normally available.

The VPN has robust security features that enable users to unlock Upwork from anywhere without being tracked by local networks, ISPs, or government agencies. Each subscription includes a choice of security protocols, AES encryption, ad and tracker blocking, multi-hop, split tunneling, Tor over VPN, and DNS leak protection. Users can also choose between OpenVPN and NordLynx, a custom protocol developed by Nord to give users faster speeds.

NordVPN has shared IPs in over 100 countries, which you can access with a monthly subscription that starts as low as $3.99. Dedicated IP options are available for users who prefer to use a unique IP address reserved for their use. You can pick from dedicated IPs in the US, UK, France, Germany, and the Netherlands. This will let you use Upwork with a consistent IP every time. However, it will cost you an extra $4.19 per month, bringing your total to $8.18.

Besides letting you log in to Upwork, NordVPN works to access region-locked streaming services in countries all around the globe, including Netflix US, Hulu, Max, Disney Plus, Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and many others.

It has apps for all major operating systems, and if you need some help setting up or using the VPN, you can contact the 24/7 live chat support. NordVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can use it risk-free.

BEST UPWORK VPN:NordVPN is fast and reliable. It offers secure servers in 100 countries. Dedicated IPs are available for an extra cost. Fast speeds make it great for streaming, and it works with Netflix US. Can provide secure access to Upwork from anywhere. Has a 30-day money-back guarantee to test it yourself.

Read our full NordVPN review to find out more.

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works with upworkTested Aug 2024

Surfshark is a highly popular and reliable VPN that lets you access Upwork on a budget. Despite being one of the most dependable, versatile, and secure VPNs on the market, it’s also one of the cheapest options, and a subscription costs just $2.49 per month.

This VPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, and it has one of the largest networks, with more than 3,200 servers across 100 countries. This makes it perfect for bypassing region locks and accessing Upwork in countries where it is blocked.

Surfshark provides outstanding speeds, so you can make secure video calls with your future clients or any freelancers you employ on Upwork. It also supports unlimited connections so that you can share your account with friends and family without additional fees.

Surfshark connects using 256-bit encryption, protects against data leaks, and offers a built-in kill switch. The network runs on diskless servers and has DNS-based malware scanning and tracker blocking to keep you even safer. This makes it suitable for using Upwork at work or on public Wi-Fi, where normally, whoever owns the hotspot could monitor your activities.

If you want a dedicated static IP address, Surfshark provides servers in the US, Netherlands, Germany, Singapore, Japan, and other locations for $3.75 per month. This makes Surfshark reliable for getting a consistent IP address on Upwork while only raising your total to $6.25 per month—which is amazing value for money.

Surfshark is very easy to use, with detailed setup guides, 24/7 live chat support, and apps for Android, MacOS, Windows, iOS, and Linux. Plus, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.

LOW COST:Surfshark is the best cheap VPN for Upwork. It has shared IPs in 100+ countries, and a choice of dedicated IPs in a dozen locations. Lightning-fast speeds for making video calls and for HD streaming. Works to unblock Upwork at work or in countries where it is unavailable. Apps for all platforms. Useful for accessing home streaming platforms on vacation. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Surfshark review

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works with upworkTested Aug 2024

CyberGhost VPN is known for its pocket-friendly prices, starting at $2.19 monthly. Another excellent selling point is the option to rent a static IP in key locations, including the US, UK, France, Germany, and Canada, for an additional $2.50 per month. This will bring the total to less than $5 for anybody seeking an IP address reserved for their use only.

With over 9,000 servers in 100 countries, CyberGhost provides extensive global coverage, making it easy to get an IP address on any continent. This makes it an excellent option for accessing Upwork in regions where it is blocked.

CyberGhost is designed to be user-friendly, making it a great choice for beginners. The apps list streaming servers by country, simplifying access to popular platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Prime Video. Torrenting is allowed with CyberGhost, although port forwarding is unavailable, so bear that in mind.

The security features are highly robust and include 256-bit encryption, DNS leak protection, an internet kill switch, and a strict no-logs policy. This ensures your Upwork activities remain private and means you can use Upwork safely on public Wi-Fi or at work.

The service supports up to seven simultaneous connections and has apps for all major devices.

CyberGhost provides round-the-clock support via 24/7 live chat and offers a 45-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test the service risk-free.

PERFECT FOR BEGINNERS:CyberGhost VPN is easy to use. Has the features you need to prevent ISP and government tracking when using Upwork in countries like Iran, Syria, and Russia. Fast speeds for streaming in HD, torrenting, and making video calls. Works to watch Netflix and other international streaming services. Generous 45-day money-back guarantee.

Check out our full CyberGhost VPN review.

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works with upworkTested Aug 2024

PureVPN is a highly cost-effective and flexible VPN service ideal for privately using Upwork from anywhere. It has apps for all platforms and an independently audited no-logs policy.

Impressively, this versatile VPN starts at just $2.14 per month, and you can add a dedicated IP for $2.49. This brings the total to $4.63 per month for a VPN with a static IP, which is the cheapest option we could find. You can pick from dedicated IPs in the US, UK, Canada, Germany, Australia, and various other locations.

With servers in over 65 countries, PureVPN offers excellent coverage for streaming, gaming, and secure browsing. Plus our tests revealed average download speeds of nearly 400 Mbps thanks to its lightning-fast WireGuard connections. This makes it a solid option for streaming or making video calls with your Upwork clients.

PureVPN boasts robust security features, including DNS and IPv6 leak protection, AES encryption, obfuscation technology, and a kill switch. In other words, it’s a reliable choice for maintaining privacy and security whether using Upwork or other services at home, at work, or on public wifi.

While 24/7 live chat support is available, we found response times can be slow, so you may have to wait a while to get answers. On the plus side, PureVPN supports torrenting and works to access popular streaming services like Netflix US, Disney+, Peacock, and ESPN, making it an impressive all-rounder.

CHEAP DEDICATED IPs:PureVPN is a great all-rounder, ideal for accessing Upwork on restricted networks or countries where it is unavailable. It features strong encryption, a no-logs policy, and affordable dedicated IPs. With fast speeds, it can stream Netflix, Hulu, Peacock, iPlayer, and more. Plus, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full PureVPN review

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works with upworkTested Aug 2024

IPVanish is a reliable US-based VPN ideal for accessing Upwork on public Wi-Fi, at work, or in regions where it is unavailable. It has secure apps for all popular platforms that let you access US services like Upwork from anywhere. With servers in over 20 US cities, you have even more control over where you get an IP address.

The VPN provides impressive speeds using the WireGuard protocol, making it suitable for torrenting and streaming. It is particularly effective for bypassing streaming blocks and blackouts. In our tests, it worked with Netflix US and Hulu. However, please note that it might not work with all international streaming platforms, so we recommend testing it with your favorites using its no-quibbles money-back guarantee.

IPVanish is perfect for families or shared use thanks to its unlimited simultaneous connection allowance. Its privately operated server network ensures full control over user data privacy, backed by a solid no-logs policy and successful third-party audit. This guarantees that no personal information is logged.

The only real caveat is that this VPN does not offer dedicated IPs. However, IPVanish remains a highly secure and reliable VPN that’s great for accessing Upwork on public wifi, at work, or on vacation. If you need help, you can contact the live chat support on its website.

ALLOWS UNLIMITED CONNECTIONS:IPVanish is a no-log VPN that offers a choice of protocols. It has servers in 50+ countries, making it easy to access Upwork abroad or at work.  It offers a choice of servers in 20+ US cities, making it easier to get a consistent IP address in your own city. Fast speeds that work to watch Netflix US. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Find out more in our full IPVanish review.

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works with upworkTested Aug 2024

ExpressVPN is a well-known and trusted VPN provider with a proven track record for privacy. The VPN has been around since 2009 and boasts over 3,000 servers in more than 100 countries. This makes it an excellent choice for accessing Upwork at work, public Wi-Fi, or in regions with restrictions. Its secure servers are backed by fast speeds and compatibility with popular streaming services like Netflix, making it a sweet all-rounder.

ExpressVPN employs 256-bit AES encryption, an internet kill switch, and DNS leak protection. It uses OpenVPN with obfuscation by default for added security when bypassing online filters. Alternatively, you can switch to its proprietary Lightway protocol to get even better streaming speeds or video calls with clients on Upwork.

The VPN has a solid no-log policy that has been independently verified. It is registered in the British Virgin Islands, a reliable country for privacy. Plus, it runs on diskless servers to ensure maximum security and privacy.

User-friendly applications are available for Android, iOS, Windows, Linux, and MacOS so you can work on any device you own. ExpressVPN also offers 24/7 customer support through live chat and a 30-day risk-free trial. The drawbacks? It is a touch expensive compared to our other recommended VPNs for Upwork, and it doesn’t offer dedicated IPs.

EXCELLENT SPEEDS:ExpressVPN is a highly secure VPN that makes it safe to unblock Upwork abroad or at work. No logs policy has been audited. Prevents tracking by local network administrators, ISPs, and government snoops. Works with Netflix, Hulu, iPlayer, and other streaming platforms. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read the full ExpressVPN review to find out more.

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Best VPNs for Upwork – Testing methodology

To find the best VPNs for Upwork, our VPN experts test the market in search of VPNs that focus on reliability and security. To make it onto our list, each VPN must provide strong encryption and maintain a strict no-logging policy. This guarantees that nobody can detect access to Upwork, and ensures that your online activities remain private and secure; perfect for using Upwork on networks where it could raise an eyebrow, such as at work.

The important thing to remember is that using an unreliable VPN can lead to serious problems for Upwork freelancers. This includes the potential for account suspensions. VPNs that don’t update their infrastructure and provide the latest security protocols run the risk of having their IP addresses blocked by platforms like Upwork. That is why we must warn against using anything less than the most reliable VPNs for Upwork.

To make your life easier, we use a careful VPN testing methodology. We examine how the VPN implements encryption, test for leaks, and assess the VPN’s overall performance. Below are some of the critical factors we considered when compiling this list of the best VPNs for Upwork:

1. Strong encryption: We only recommend VPNs that offer protocols like AES-256 and Chacha20 (WireGuard) this ensures that nobody can ever monitor your online activities and metadata.
2. No-logs policy: These VPNs store no user activity. This ensures that the VPN has no data to hand to the authorities or other third parties, even if it is approached with a warrant.
3. Reliability: These VPNs offer consistent and stable connections to avoid disruptions. They also work to access the vast majority of international services, making them workhorses for gaining online freedom.
4. Performance: We test the market in search of VPNS that offer high speeds for smooth browsing and data-sensitive tasks like video conferencing with clients on Upwork.
5. Decent server network: We choose VPNS that make every effort to update and improve their servers, including their shared IPs. This helps prevent P bans from major platforms like Upwork and Fiverr and popular streaming services that impose strict blocks, such as Netflix.
6. Leak testing: We check that each VPN offers robust protection against leaks, and includes a kill switch that works to prevent your home IP address from being detected by Upwork.
7. Accessibility: Ability to bypass geo-restrictions and access Upwork from anywhere.

How to use a VPN for Upwork

Using a VPN to access Upwork with added security is easy, but we understand it may confuse beginners. To make your life easier, we have included all the steps below. Check out the considerations section to learn why you might want a dedicated IP.

Here’s how to use a VPN for Upwork:

1. Choose a VPN for Upwork. We recommend NordVPN because it is highly secure and fast. Alternatively, you can opt for Surfshark an amazing all-rounder, or CyberGhost, which makes it cheap to get a dedicated IP.
2. Navigate to your favorite VPN’s website. Using our link will implement an automatic coupon code that reduces the cost of the VPN – getting you the cheapest cost anywhere online.
3. Subscribe to the VPN and download the VPN app onto your device. Our recommendations have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android – to let you use Upwork securely on any device.
4. Install the VPN software and log in using your credentials. Open the settings menu and check that the VPN is set to use a robust protocol like OpenVPN or WireGuard and engage the kill switch for added protection.
5. Choose a VPN server in your home country (or a country where Upwork is available if you need to work in a country where it is blocked). Click Connect.

That’s it! As soon as the VPN connects, you will get an IP address in a country where Upwork is available. You will also enjoy a fully encrypted connection, which means you can use Upwork privately at work or on public wifi.

Using a VPN with Upwork – Considerations

Whether you need to unblock Upwork while traveling, want to log in and use Upwork privately at work or in school, or want to log in to Upwork with an IP address in your own country while on public Wi-Fi, there are some important things to keep in mind.

When you connect to a VPN, your IP address appears to be in a different location. If you log in to Upwork using various VPN servers within a short period, this is likely to flag Upwork’s automated security systems. Doing this could result in temporary account suspension. If you intend to use a VPN, it is important to consider the location of the VPN servers you use.

Imagine the following circumstances:

• You log in to Upwork at home in the morning and then head to a coffee shop to work an hour later. You want to use Upwork safely and without being tracked, so you connect to your VPN.
• Connecting to a VPN server in a different country will seem unusual and may activate Upwork’s automated fraud detection systems. This is because you have appeared to be in two different countries within a short period.

The solution is to monitor the VPN servers you use carefully. Stick to a server in your own country (unless you need an IP address in another country while on vacation or living abroad). Always be careful not to switch between different VPN locations when using Upwork.

Clear your cookies and cache

If it is your first time using a VPN to access Upwork, we recommend clearing your cookies and cache before attempting to log in to your account using the VPN.

Upwork leaves cookies in your browser, ensuring previous sessions could provide information that contradicts your VPN. These browser trackers can increase the likelihood of Upwork’s automated systems flagging your account for suspicious activity.

Clearing your cookies and cache will ensure these trackers have been removed and cannot conflict with your VPN.

Do I need a dedicated IP VPN for Upwork?

Although you don’t strictly need a dedicated IP to access Upwork, you may prefer to use one, depending on your circumstances. Upwork users who have long built their reputations want to ensure their account is not accidentally closed.

The VPNs in this guide are high quality, meaning that even shared IPs should work to access Upwork without concerns. However, there is always an underlying chance that multiple users might attempt to access Upwork using the same server, which could raise suspicions of VPN use and result in a suspended account.

The solution to this problem is to rent a static IP address that is reserved for your use only. This type of VPN server is called a dedicated IP, and it provides two benefits:

1. Firstly, it allows you to use the same IP address every time you log in to your Upwork account.
2. Secondly, it prevents an IP address from seeming suspicious by removing the chances of two Upwork users logging into their accounts from the same VPN server.

Will Upwork disable my account if I travel abroad?

Some users complain that logging into and using their Upwork account abroad has led to account suspensions and an inability to work. Upwork says users can use their account on vacation and while traveling abroad. They can even continue using their account if they move to another country, so this shouldn’t be an issue.

Despite Upwork’s official line regarding using Upwork overseas, messages on Upwork’s community boards reveal that people who travel for three months or longer often begin to suffer problems. These users are advised to log in to their account while away to ensure that it isn’t disabled due to inactivity, which is the most common reason.

Other users experience account issues due to their location not matching their account registered location. If you have moved abroad permanently, you must update your account.

If you are only traveling abroad temporarily, it is better to keep your account registered in your home country, where you will return to. Under these circumstances, you may prefer to use a VPN while you are away to ensure that Upwork’s systems don’t flag your account as suspicious.

Why was my Upwork account deactivated?

The most common reason for account deactivation is lack of activity. You must ensure you log in to your account regularly to stop it from being locked up by Uregularpwork. In addition to activity, it is possible that your account could be suspended if you break the terms of service.

Anybody found to be using their account fraudulently – including by pretending to be from a different country than the one they live in – could end up with a deactivated account. Reviewing the Terms of Service and acting per the Community Standards is vital.

Reasons for account deactivation include:

1. Violation of the Terms of Service: Sharing your account, spamming, or providing false information can result in account closure.
2. Abusive behavior: Stalking, discrimination, spam, harassment, and other activities that violate the Terms of Service and Community Standards can result in bans.
3. Problems with the payment method: Issues in payment methods can result in suspension.
4. Suspicious activity: Spoofing your log-in locations or frequent location changes may raise red flags in the Upwork security system, resulting in your account’s deactivation.
5. Negative feedback: Consistently receiving poor feedback or low ratings from clients can lead to review and suspension.

If you receive an account suspension after using a VPN, refrain from using that VPN again and contact Upwork to express your concerns. Explain that you used a VPN to gain security on public wifi and that you have never used a VPN to engage in prohibited activities.

Upwork should reinstate your account because using a VPN is not against its Terms of Service. You may need to provide proof of identity and location to regain access to your account. Most people find Upwork will review their account and reactivate it as long as they have done nothing wrong. If the problem persists and your VPN keeps causing account suspensions, we recommend switching providers. You may also want to consider a dedicated IP with a server in the country where your Upwork account is registered.

Does Upwork track IP addresses?

Yes. Upwork tracks user IP addresses to enhance account security. If you log in from multiple IP addresses within a short period or from various locations simultaneously, your account may be temporarily disabled to prevent fraud or unauthorized access.

Users attempting to log in from previously banned IP addresses may also face difficulties. If this happens, try logging in from a different location to see whether the IP is banned rather than the Upwork account.

IP address problems are most common when using public wifi or living in rented accommodation, where previous tenants may have caused the IP address to be restricted. If this happens, you should consider using a VPN to bypass the issue (or contact your ISP to explain that you need a new IP address).

To avoid these issues, use a consistent IP address whenever possible and avoid logging in from multiple locations in a short timeframe. If you need to use different IP addresses regularly, such as when traveling, consider notifying Upwork support to let them know.

VPN users are advised to use the same server location each time. To completely prevent problems, consider renting a dedicated static IP reserved exclusively for your use. This can help maintain consistent access to Upwork without triggering security systems.

Can my Upwork account be suspended for using a VPN?

No. Upwork does not ban users from using VPNs, and VPN use is not against Upwork’s Terms of Service. This means you should be able to use a VPN without problems. That said, it is possible that inferior VPNS could have IP addresses that have been flagged as suspicious. If this happens, you could trigger Upwork’s security systems. This is why we recommend sticking to reliable VPNs like the ones in this guide.

Upwork VPN FAQs