Opera's free and unlimited VPN is now available on desktop

Opera's free and limited VPN is now available in its desktop web browser. The launch makes Opera the first major browser to come with a built-in VPN service.

Opera launches its free VPN app for Android and iOS smartphones earlier this year. When turned on, the VPN creates a secure connection to one of Opera's five server locations around the world. The VPN lets people choose where to appear on the internet, allowing them to access geo-restricted content as well as block ad-tracking cookies.

The Opera browser is able to automatically select the best server location based on factors such as network speed, latency, location and server capacity. When in automatic location mode, browsing through the VPN is always at maximum available speed, according to Opera.

The browser's VPN feature is powered by Opera subsidiary SurfEasy and uses a highly secure 256-bit Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) connection and doesn't log users details, meaning the user's browser history isn't stored.

Krystian Kolondra, SVP of Opera browser for computers, said: "If people knew how the internet truly works, I believe they all would use a VPN. By making our browser VPN free and easy to use, we hope to make it an essential tool, just as the lock and key is to your house."

"We know that people are concerned about their privacy online and that the interest for VPN is increasing. However, two major obstacles are blocking people from using it: VPNs are too complicated to use, and they require a monthly subscription. Opera resolves both issues by introducing its free and easy-to-use service right into the browser."