Whether it's for work or personal use, you can connect to a virtual private network (VPN) on your Windows PC. A VPN connection can helpprovide a more secure connection and access to your company's network and the internet, for example,when you’reworking froma coffee shop or similar public place.
Note:
This feature is not available in Windows 11 SE. Learn more
Create a VPN profile
Before you can connect to a VPN, you must have a VPN profile on your PC. You can either create a VPN profile on your own or set up a work account to get a VPN profile from your company.
Before you start:
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If it’s for work, look for VPN settings or a VPN app on your company’s intranet sitewhile you’re at work, or contact your company's support person.
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If it’s for a VPN service you subscribe to forpersonal use, visitthe Microsoft Store to see if there’s an app for that service,then go to the VPN service’s website to see if the VPN connection settings to use are listed there.
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Select theStartbutton, then type settings. SelectSettings>Network & internet>VPN>Add VPN.
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InAdd a VPN connection, do the following:
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ForVPN provider, chooseWindows (built-in).
(Video) Windows 10 and 8.1 Connect to a VPN Server Tutorial -
In theConnection namebox, enter a name you'll recognize (for example, MyPersonal VPN). This is the VPN connection name you'll look for when connecting.
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In theServer name or addressbox, enter the address for the VPN server.
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ForVPN type, choose the type of VPN connection you want to create. You’ll need to know which kind of VPN connection your company or VPN service uses.
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ForType of sign-in info, choose the type of sign-in info (or credentials) to use. Thismight be a username and password, one-time password, certificate, or a smart card if you’re connecting to a VPN for work. Enter your username and password in the respective boxes (if required).
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SelectSave.
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If you need to edit the VPN connection info or specify additional settings, such as proxy settings, choose the VPN connection and then selectAdvanced options.
Connect to a VPN
Whenyou have a VPN profile, you’re ready to connect.
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In Settings, select Network & internet>VPN.
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Next to the VPN connection you want to use, select Connect.
(Video) How To connect VPN in windows 10 in 1 Minute - VPN For Windows 10 -
If you're prompted, enter your username and password or other sign-in info.
When connected, the VPN connection name willdisplayConnectedunderneath it. To see if you’re connected to the VPN while you’re doing things on your PC, hover your mouse pointer over the Networkiconon the far right of the taskbar, then see if the VPN connectionshows.
Tip:You can also connect to a VPN through quick settings and the notification area. To add VPN as a quick setting, select the Network icon on the taskbar, then select Edit quick settings > Add > VPN > Done.
Whether it's for work or personal use, you can connect to a virtual private network (VPN) on your Windows 10 PC. A VPN connection can helpprovide a more secure connection and access to your company's network and the internet, for example,when you’reworking froma coffee shop or similar public place.
Create a VPN profile
Before you can connect to a VPN, you must have a VPN profile on your PC. You can either create a VPN profile on your own or set up a work account to get a VPN profile from your company.
Before you start:
-
If it’s for work, look for VPN settings or a VPN app on your company’s intranet sitewhile you’re at work, or contact your company's support person.
(Video) How to Set up VPN on Windows 10 | The Easiest Way -
If it’s for a VPN service you subscribe to forpersonal use, visitthe Microsoft Store to see if there’s an app for that service,then go to the VPN service’s website to see if the VPN connection settings to use are listed there.
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Select the Start button, then select Settings > Network & Internet > VPN> Add a VPN connection.
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In Add a VPN connection, do the following:
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For VPN provider, choose Windows (built-in).
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In the Connection name box, enter a name you'll recognize (for example, MyPersonal VPN). This is the VPN connection name you'll look for when connecting.
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In the Server name or address box, enter the address for the VPN server.
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For VPN type, choose the type of VPN connection you want to create. You’ll need to know which kind of VPN connection your company or VPN service uses.
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For Type of sign-in info, choose the type of sign-in info (or credentials) to use. Thismight be a username and password, one-time password, certificate, or a smart card if you’re connecting to a VPN for work. Enter your username and password in the respective boxes (if required).
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Select Save.
(Video) How To Setup a VPN in Windows 10 | How to manually configure VPN on Windows 10 -
If you need to edit the VPN connection info or specify additional settings, such as proxy settings, choose the VPN connection and then selectAdvanced options.
Connect to a VPN
Whenyou have a VPN profile, you’re ready to connect.
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On the far right of the taskbar, select the Networkicon(either or).
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Select the VPN connection you want to use, then doeither of the following depending on what happens when you select the VPN connection:
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If the Connect button displays under the VPN connection, select Connect.
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If the VPN section in Settings opens, select the VPNconnection there, then select Connect.
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If you're prompted, enter your username and password or other sign-in info.
When connected, the VPN connection name willdisplay Connected underneath it. To see if you’re connected to the VPN while you’re doing things on your PC, select the Network icon(either or) on the far right of the taskbar, then see if the VPN connectionsays Connected.
FAQs
How do I connect to a VPN Network? ›
- Open your phone's Settings app.
- Tap Network & internet. VPN. If you can't find it, search for "VPN." If you still can't find it, get help from your device manufacturer.
- Tap the VPN you want.
- Enter your username and password.
- Tap Connect. If you use a VPN app, the app opens.
But if an app doesn't suit you, Windows 10 has built-in VPN support that can be manually configured. The OS doesn't support OpenVPN however, so we recommend choosing from L2TP/IPSec, SSTP, or IKEv2.
Why cant I connect to my Windows VPN? ›If your VPN software is not working properly, you can do several things: check your network settings, change your server, make sure the right ports are opened, disable the firewall, and reinstall your VPN software. If none of the below methods are working, it's time to contact your VPN provider.
How do I access VPN files in Windows 10? ›- In the search box in the Windows taskbar, enter \\ followed by the IP address of the remote computer (for example \\192.168. ...
- If you are asked for a username and password: ...
- If you want to configure a folder as a network drive, right-click the folder and select "Map network drive..." from the context menu.
...
Fill out the following fields:
- Name: Ivacy + (your server location)
- Type: L2TP/IPSec PSK.
- Server address: (from Ivacy's server list)
- L2TP secret: Leave blank.
- IPSec identifier: Leave blank.
- IPSec pre-shared key: 12345678.
- Step 1: Open "Network and Sharing Center" ...
- Step 2: In the window that appears, select “Change Adapter Settings” ...
- Step 3: A window should appear showing all of your network connections. ...
- Step 4: Select the "Networking" Tab.
PC: Check under your WiFi settings, to see if there is a VPN/proxy showing up. Mac: Check your top status bar. If you have a VPN/proxy set up, there will be a black box with four grey lines and one white line. If you cannot see this box, you do not have a VPN set up.
How do I find my VPN IP address in Windows? ›Click the advanced options button in the lower left corner of the VPN client window. The icon will look like a gear. In the new window that opens, look in the Statistics tab under Address Information and the IP address provided by the VPN will be the line that reads “Client (IPv4).”
Is the VPN installed on the computer? ›Just look at the Control Panel\Network and Internet\Network Connections to see if there is VPN profile and status is connecting.
What causes VPN not to connect? ›VPN issues happen once in a while. Your VPN might not be working for several reasons, including network problems, router errors, app glitches, or tunneling protocol.
Why can't I access a VPN? ›
If your VPN won't connect, this could indicate that your app has a bug, or maybe its setup is corrupted. Check this out by removing or uninstalling your VPN, then downloading and reinstalling the latest version.
Why is my secure VPN not connecting? ›Check for network problems
Some networks do not allow VPN connections and restrict VPN access using network or firewall settings. If this error appears when you connect to Secure VPN for the first time, it could be due to the network or firewall settings.
How To Set Up VPN For Remote Access. It's simple. Just install Access Server on the network, and then connect your device with our Connect client. Access Server will accept incoming connections from internet only if that device and user has the correct access code and certifications necessary.
How do I OpenVPN on my browser? ›You will need to create an account by clicking the VPN icon and then 'Login to connect' button. Once the account is validated by email, choose you new location from the list and click 'Connect'. The VPN icon and buttons will turn green once you are safely connected and you can start browsing.
Can you connect to a VPN from anywhere? ›In simple terms, a VPN allows you to connect to your chosen server almost anywhere in the world, wherever the VPN you've chosen has servers. Every VPN provider allows you to choose a location or has the option to assign it to you automatically.
How do I use VPN on Chrome? ›Select Settings . In the “Network” section, select Add connection. Next to the VPN app, select Add . Follow the instructions on the screen.
How do I know if my VPN is working? ›- Some VPNs deliberately block internet traffic if they can't connect or there are issues with your internet connection. ...
- You should check your account details. ...
- Consider speed.
- Enter Name for identifying the object.
- Select "LAN/DMZ/RT/VPN" for Interface.
- Select "Single Address" for Address Type and then enter the server IP address 192.168. 188.10.
- Click OK to save.
- Click the Start button.
- Click Run...
- Type “mstsc” and press the Enter key.
- Next to Computer: type in the IP address of your server.
- Click Connect.
- If all goes well, you will see the Windows login prompt.
Select a VPN server location that is closest to your physical location on the Recommended server location list. Use the Smart Location feature, which recommends the optimal location for you. Run the Speed Test in the ExpressVPN app for Mac or Windows. Connect to server location at the top of the results list.
How does a VPN work for dummies? ›
A VPN connection establishes a secure connection between you and the internet. Via the VPN, all your data traffic is routed through an encrypted virtual tunnel. This disguises your IP address when you use the internet, making its location invisible to everyone. A VPN connection is also secure against external attacks.
Can I get a VPN for free? ›Is There a 100% Free VPN? Very few VPNs offer a truly free option. Instead, most companies offer time-limited trials or money-back guarantees. The VPNs listed in the table above, however, offer totally free subscription levels.
When should I use VPN? ›- Security on Public Wi-Fi. ...
- Data Privacy From Your Internet Service Provider. ...
- Data Privacy From the Apps and Services You Use. ...
- Data Privacy From Your Government. ...
- Access to Any Content in Any Place. ...
- Security When Working Remotely. ...
- Adaptable to Numerous Smart Devices. ...
- Smart Savings.
- Find VPN Servers Based on their Open Ports. ...
- Look for the owner of the VPN Server's IP Address. ...
- Identify all Blacklisted Lists on IP Addresses. ...
- Attempt to use Reverse DNS Lookups for checking VPN addresses. ...
- Consider using a VPN Detection API To Identify VPNs.
One such website is WhatIsMyIP.com which can help you in finding the VPN location through your IP address. All you need to do is connect to a VPN server, visit this website, and you will able to find your IPv4, IPv6 and local IP addresses, and even your ISP.
Is a VPN on your computer or router? ›The VPN Connection Distinction
Most standard WiFi routers support VPN pass-through functionality, which means the VPN user on a remote computer passes through the router and connects to your company's VPN server. The user manually logs in using software installed on their remote device.
While it's great to use a VPN on your phone or computer, you can bring the advantages to other devices by using it on your router instead. This way, your entire network reaps the benefits. Some routers include support for VPN networking out of the box, but most require that you flash them with special firmware.
What are the most common VPN issues? ›Common VPN issues include your VPN not connecting, your IP address still being visible despite the VPN saying it's connected, and your VPN continuously disconnecting. It's usually possible to overcome these issues by resetting your internet, restarting your VPN software, or changing your VPN server/protocol.
How do I allow VPN through my firewall? ›- Go to Settings.
- Go to Windows Defender Security Center.
- Open Virus & Threat protection settings.
- Click on Exclusions.
- Click on Add or remove exclusions.
- Click on Add an exclusion.
- Add your VPN client software.
Yes, it is possible for a firewall to block your VPN.
How do I connect my laptop to a VPN? ›
...
Connect to a VPN
- In Settings, select Network & internet > VPN.
- Next to the VPN connection you want to use, select Connect.
- If you're prompted, enter your username and password or other sign-in info.
VPN protocol is not allowed: The administrator of the WiFi network has configured the wireless network so that it does not allow VPN protocols through. Some public WiFi providers only allow HTTP and HTTPS protocols and block everything else.
Should secure VPN be turned on? ›But if you're using a VPN for privacy reasons or to keep yourself anonymous online, then you should keep it on all the time. Since your VPN is your best form of protection against hackers and helps keep your information private, it's best to leave your VPN on whenever you're on the internet.
Why is Norton blocking my VPN? ›Norton Secure VPN needs access to UDP ports 500 and 4500 to connect to the VPN servers. You may see this error if the Internet traffic on these ports is blocked due to one of the following reasons: A software firewall that is installed on the device. Your network router.
Does a VPN server have an IP address? ›A VPN service establishes a secure encrypted tunnel connection from a device to a VPN server based in the selected country. The user device is assigned an actual static IP address, and all their data is routed via an encrypted tunnel.
How do I use OpenVPN on Windows? ›- Navigate to the OpenVPN Access Server client web interface.
- Login with your credentials.
- Click on the Windows icon.
- Wait until the download completes, and then open it (the exact procedure varies a bit per browser).
- Click open or double-click on the downloaded file to start the installation:
https://123.456.78.90/ https://vpn.businessname.com/ The IP address is the external IP address of your server. A custom hostname can be set up using the Admin Web UI and a DNS 'A' record.
Which browser has built in VPN? ›- Epic Browser. Epic is a privacy-focused browser built on Google Chrome's open source project, Chromium. ...
- Avast Browser. ...
- Opera Browser. ...
- Aloha Browser. ...
- UR Browser.
A VPN allows a user's devices to connect to a private network over a public network. VPNs were created to securely connect devices within a business network to private internet servers. They allow network users to access their business network remotely from home, another office, or elsewhere using public WiFi.
Does VPN only work with Wi-Fi? ›Yes. VPNs work with any internet connection type, not just Wi-Fi.
How do I connect to a network from a different location? ›
Download the VPN app to your device and install it. Open the application and enter your credentials to log in.. Click the “Quick connect” button to connect to the best remote server in seconds. After you're connected, your virtual location and IP addresses are changed!
How do you check if I am connected to a VPN? ›To see if you're using a proxy/VPN online, go to www.whatismyproxy.com. It will say if you're connected to a proxy or not. PC: Check under your WiFi settings, to see if there is a VPN/proxy showing up. Mac: Check your top status bar.
How do I use VPN on Firestick? ›- Downloaded VPN from the store.
- Go to Settings on your Fire device.
- Click My Fire TV.
- Click on Developer Options.
- Search for the Downloader.
- Select Download.
- Allow access and click OK.
- Enter the URL of your APK installer.
- Open the browser that is connected to your device's network.
- Enter your router's login credentials (username and password).
- Choose “Advanced,” “Advanced setup,” or a similarly named section and find and enable the VPN option there.
A VPN allows a user's devices to connect to a private network over a public network. VPNs were created to securely connect devices within a business network to private internet servers. They allow network users to access their business network remotely from home, another office, or elsewhere using public WiFi.
Where is my VPN located? ›One such website is WhatIsMyIP.com which can help you in finding the VPN location through your IP address. All you need to do is connect to a VPN server, visit this website, and you will able to find your IPv4, IPv6 and local IP addresses, and even your ISP.
How to find VPN IP address? ›On Windows
Click the advanced options button in the lower left corner of the VPN client window. The icon will look like a gear. In the new window that opens, look in the Statistics tab under Address Information and the IP address provided by the VPN will be the line that reads “Client (IPv4).”
A VPN replaces your actual IP address to make it look like you've connected to the internet from a different location: the physical location of the VPN server, rather than your real location.