Iraq has some of the most advanced infrastructure, roads, railways and airports despite being involved in many wars throughout history. The country’s internet infrastructure is both modernized and reliable thanks to Iraq’s state-owned telecom company known as Iraqna. Iraqna was founded in 2002 and is the largest Iraq-based telecommunications company and the country’s first private Iraq-based network operator. Iraq’s internet speed is quite fast compared to other countries in the Middle East. Iraq has an average (median) download speed of 2.55 Mb/s and an upload speed of 0.58 Mb/s.
Since Internet censorship is widespread in Iraq, you’ll find it hard to access websites like Google and Yahoo because they are blocked by your ISP. But you can still unblock all popular sites using the one of the best VPNs for Iraq in 2022.
The best VPNs for Iraq quick guide
- NordVPN
- ExpressVPN
- Surfshark
Why Do I Need a VPN for Iraq?
Iraq is a country where the internet and technology are flourishing but Iraq’s population, due to political and social unrest, live in fear of surveillance – their government monitors their activity on the internet. In fact, Iraq has some of the tightest and most extreme censorship laws in the world so citizens can only access those sites that Iraqna allows them to access. Virtual Private Networks are used to give individuals and businesses an anonymous IP address for their computers so they can avoid surveillance and hackers stealing their sensitive information. VPN services create encrypted “tunnels” between the user’s device and the internet.
Check out Iraq’s most recent Freedom of Internet report to gain an insight on the online media environment in this country!
The Restrictions in Iraq
Iraq’s government uses internet filters which are very strict that if any website or content is blocked, the entire website will be inaccessible. Iraq doesn’t just use internet filters but other forms of censorship too. The country censors TV channels and radio stations which means that freedom of speech is not being taken seriously. Iraq has one of the worst records when it comes to freedom of speech, it ranks #161 out of 165 in the global press freedom index which is very concerning for the internet users because everything they search online can be monitored by the government and Iraqna. Iraq has no independent judiciary system which means Iraqna can effectively remove content they deem unacceptable or inappropriate.
The government has been actively blocking VPN access since 2014, but Iraq’s people are still finding ways around Iraq’s censorship methods by using VPNs.
The 5 Best VPNs for Iraq
A good VPN provides online privacy and anonymity by hiding your activity on the internet, encrypting all your traffic. A VPN also changes your IP address to make you anonymous online and provides unlimited bandwidth and high security. Our top 5 VPNs for Iraq have all of the essential features for an excellent and safe online experience.
1. NordVPN*
This VPN is considered to be the most secure VPNs for Iraq. It offers solid protection thanks to its highest level of security – there’s a tunnel to tunnel encryption, SSL 2048-bit encryption, a no-logs policy and additional protection layers. It has more than 5,200 servers in about 60 countries. NordVPN won’t store any of your IP addresses or traffic logs. It’s secure, reliable and customizable.
2. ExpressVPN*
ExpressVPN is a trustworthy provider for Iraq with its 256-bit encryption, automatic kill switch, limitless monthly data transfer, reliable 24/7 customer support, large bandwidth, no-logs policy, split-tunneling and up to 5 simultaneous connections. This VPN is an excellent choice for Iraq. There are servers in the Middle East that are just perfect for bypassing the government restrictions on the internet.
3. Surfshark*
This provider is a strong advocate of privacy and security, which you will be able to appreciate when we tell you Surfshark has no way of obtaining any personal information from users while the VPN is turned on. Surfshark offers privacy, security (AES-256-bit military-grade encryption, network kill-switch, no logs policy), unlimited simultaneous connections, 24/7 customer service live chat and fast speeds on all servers.
FAQs
The HideMyAss! VPN provider offers two servers in Iraq. It’s definitely a huge benefit since you can get an Iraqi IP address if needed. This VPN is also extremely secure and reliable.
You can easily do that with the help of a reputable VPN service. With a VPN you can use remote Iraqi VPN servers and change your IP address to Iraq.
The usage of a VPN for streaming or downloading content illegally is not encouraged. Piracy is illegal in the country. You need to be careful not to engage in any law-breaking online activities.