How to use VPN on Windows (Guide and Tips)

Learn how to use VPN for Windows easily to protect activities on your personal or work computer. You only need a trusted VPN service, or you can manually set up a VPN.  

Beginners can appreciate the simplicity of most VPN apps. Furthermore, a VPN client usually has additional features, like rotating IP addresses or Kill Switch. 

Why get a VPN on Windows 

A VPN on Windows is a useful tool for staying safer and more private online. It changes your IP address, meaning it looks like you are browsing from a different location. Also, internet traffic encryption prevents various entities from seeing what you do online.

Thus, a VPN shields you from the intense tracking happening online. For instance, it confuses IP-based tracking, and even ISPs struggle to see what you do online. 

While internet traffic encryption is beneficial against tracking, it also does a lot for security. It protects your activities when you use public Wi-Fi or visit HTTP websites. 

So, a VPN offers a bundle of benefits, from security and privacy to more flexible content accessibility. 

Select VPN provider 

Keep in mind these suggestions when choosing a VPN for Windows devices:

• Analyze multiple expert and user reviews about products. 
• A trusted VPN provider should share information on traffic encryption and VPN protocols used. 
• Some free VPNs can guard your activities, but you should verify such products. That helps you avoid the risks of using a low-quality product. 
• A VPN should follow a no-logs policy, promising not to track or log your activities.
• A 30-day money-back guarantee lets you test the product and see if it satisfies your needs.

How to use VPN on Windows 10

If you use a VPN client, it will likely set up everything you need automatically. However, you can also use a VPN without a third-party app. Windows built-in support offers PPTP, L2TP/IPSec, and SSTP. You can also turn to OpenVPN.

Create a VPN profile 

You need a VPN profile before using the built-in Windows VPN. 

1. Click the Start button and open Settings-Network & Internet-VPN.  
2. Click Add a VPN connection. 
3. Select Windows (built-in) for VPN provider. 
4. The Connection name is the VPN connection name you will use for connecting. 
5. Server name or address should feature the address for the VPN server. 
6. The VPN type box lists all supported VPN protocols. 
7. Type of sign-in info lets you pick which credentials to use when connecting. So, you can make the VPN ask you to enter your username and password. 
8. Click Save once you have everything prepared. 

Connect to a VPN on Windows 

Once the VPN profile is done, you can connect to the VPN by following these steps: 

1. On the right of the taskbar, click on the Network icon. 
2. Pick the VPN connection you want to use. 
3. If the Connect button appears next to the VPN connection, select Connect. 
4. Depending on the type of sign-in, you might need to provide the necessary credentials. 

How to use VPN on Windows without manual setup 

You do not need to follow a manual setup if you use an application from a VPN provider. 

1. Download and install a VPN client on your Windows computer. 
2. Open the app and go through the necessary notices.
3. You should create an account before connecting to servers. 
4. Log into your account using supported login methods. Atlas VPN supports passwordless logins.
5. You can use free Atlas VPN servers without purchasing plans. 
6. Using a VPN app for the first time might require specific permissions.
7. Try Atlas VPN Premium plans for accessing more servers. 
8. We offer multiple payment methods, including cryptocurrencies.  

Other ways to improve how you use a VPN

A VPN client might let you control your connection in some ways. Here are some ways to configure it:

• You can change VPN protocols used for securing your connection. Atlas VPN offers IKEv2/IPSec and WireGuard®. 
• Turning on Kill Switch protects your privacy when experiencing connectivity issues. 
• Auto-connect connects you automatically as soon as the app starts. 
• A VPN can protect you in other ways. For example, Atlas VPN offers additional services like SafeBrowse and Data Breach Monitor. 

Enjoy using a VPN on Windows computers

You have the freedom to pick the VPN provider that best suits your needs. Manual VPNs are helpful, but their flexibility has its limits. 

Thus, choose a VPN service with everything you need and join the club of privacy lovers! 

*WireGuard® is a registered trademark of Jason A. Donenfeld.