Proton has just released a native VPN app specifically designed for Windows ARM devices, a move that puts it among the few major VPN providers to support ARM-based Windows PCs. This new app aims to deliver enhanced security and performance for devices powered by Qualcomm‘s Snapdragon processors, such as those found in Microsoft‘s latest Windows ARM laptops. Proton’s team, well-regarded for their security-focused Proton Mail, collaborated with Microsoft to ensure the VPN’s core privacy features run seamlessly on ARM architecture. This native support means users won’t rely on Microsoft’s emulation layer, which often slows down applications and compromises efficiency, particularly in security-sensitive applications like VPNs.

While Proton VPN’s release is among the earliest for Windows ARM, it’s not alone in the race. Surfshark, which launched its own ARM-compatible version earlier, and NordVPN, expected to release an ARM app soon, are also adapting to this emerging Windows device trend. Each company is trying to address ARM compatibility issues unique to Windows, where differences in the ARM ecosystem present distinct challenges compared to macOS or Linux ARM environments. Emulation for such software often fails to fully support VPNs, especially given VPNs’ need for direct access to certain networking and kernel-level functions.

Looking ahead, Proton’s development roadmap hints at additional features in 2024, such as improved server selection options on iOS, iPadOS, and expanded support for IPv6, as well as new privacy tools like guest modes. As Windows ARM devices continue to rise, native apps like Proton’s are critical to delivering optimized VPN performance and security, and they’ll likely become the standard as more software providers adapt their products.