How to Use a VPN

A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a tool that individuals or businesses use to protect their data and personal identity. It works by masking your IP address and rerouting your online traffic to different websites. VPNs are valuable for blocking data trackers and protecting your browsing habits, or for accessing websites and services that may not be available in your region. Additionally, VPNs increase security against government surveillance or hackers, especially when using public Wi-Fi. Some VPN services even allow employees to access company resources remotely. There are many VPN services to choose from, both paid and free. Using a VPN is as easy as installing software on your computer, smartphone, or tablet and launching the app.

Turn on your computer and connect to the internet. If you're at home, your computer will automatically connect. If you're in a public place, like an airport or café, you will need to manually connect to the network, especially if it’s your first time there.

• Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi without a VPN. It’s best to avoid using sensitive apps, such as email, until your connection is secure.

Choosing Between Paid and Free VPN Software. VPN services come in two versions: paid and free, both of which work well. If your goal is simply to access services like Netflix or BBC iPlayer from another country, or to secure your social media logins while using public Wi-Fi, the free version should suffice. However, for more robust encryption to hide your activities from government surveillance or data trackers from advertising companies, the paid version is recommended.

• Be aware that free services often come with unwanted toolbars, applications, or third-party ads on websites you visit.
• There are many reliable free VPN services like VPN Gate, TunnelBear, ProtonVPN, Windscribe, CyberGhost, and Starter VPN. However, many free VPNs limit your bandwidth, sell user data to third parties, display numerous ads, or offer trial versions. ProtonVPN, for example, claims on its website that it has no intrusive ads, no malware, no bandwidth restrictions, and does not sell user data to third parties. Despite these claims, there are some limitations, such as concurrent access to servers and devices you use.
• Most VPN services work across Windows, Mac, tablets, and smartphones.
• VPNs are also used by businesses to securely connect employees and protect sensitive corporate information.

Download the VPN Software You Need. Visit the website of the VPN service you want. You’ll see a download button on the homepage or a link in the navigation bar. Click the button to download and follow the instructions to select the version compatible with your operating system.

• If you're using the VPN for work, contact your company's IT department to get the VPN software. You'll need to install the software on your computer to access the company's server. IT will determine if your computer is compatible with the VPN software, and if not, they will assist in making adjustments and setting up the VPN access.
• Many VPN services offer download options for iOS and Android. If you're on a desktop site, click the link corresponding to your phone's operating system, and you’ll be redirected to the phone’s app store.
• If you prefer to download the VPN directly to your phone without using a computer, simply open your phone’s app store, search for the VPN app, and download it directly to your device.

Install the VPN Software. Once the VPN software is downloaded, locate the file and open it. Follow the installation prompts, then launch the software. Some VPN software, such as CyberGhost, can be used immediately after creating an account. Other services may require you to register with your email address.

• On Mac, open the .dmg file and drag the application to the Applications folder. If your computer is password-protected, you'll be asked to enter your password before running the application for the first time.
• On Windows, open the .exe file and follow the installation instructions. After installing the VPN, open the software from the Start menu.
• On smartphones, launch the app from the home screen. You'll be prompted to log in or create a new account if you don’t have one yet.

Review the Terms of Use. If you're using a VPN for personal purposes, don't forget to read the terms of use. Some VPN services, particularly free ones, may install intermediary applications or impose data limits. Make sure you understand what the VPN service provides and what it requires, including what data it collects.

• Check online forums for reviews to find out which software is best.

Launching VPN Software. After downloading and installing the VPN, it's time to launch it. Locate the application in the Applications folder, Taskbar, or on your desktop.

• On Windows, you can find the app icon on your desktop or click the Windows icon at the bottom-left corner of the screen to select the software from the Taskbar or Programs menu.
• On Mac, you can find the VPN app in the ‘’’Applications’’’ folder.

Follow the Instructions. Most VPN software provides simple instructions to help you get familiar with the service upon first use. Some services, like CyberGhost, require nothing more than clicking the yellow button in the center of the software window. TunnelBear asks you to set up an account. You can also adjust settings to tailor the experience to your needs.

• Most apps have an option to auto-connect when the computer starts.
• There’s often an option for TCP overrides (Transmission Control Protocol overrides). This means if your network provider blocks the connection, you can force the VPN to use the more stable, though sometimes slower, TCP protocol.

Enter Username and Password When Prompted. If you don't have an account, you’ll need to sign up. Using a VPN for personal or company purposes helps you access the internet more securely. At this stage, the procedure depends on how your company has configured VPN access.

• The VPN software might open a new window that resembles a workspace screen, though this is a virtual screen where you can access company resources. If the VPN doesn't launch a virtual screen, your IT department will provide instructions on how to access the company’s resources.

Activate the VPN. After registering and logging in, you can enable the VPN to protect your identity, secure files from unauthorized access, or access websites and content that may not be available in your current country. You can adjust settings to allow the VPN to automatically connect and choose how and when to connect.

• If you're using a free VPN, the service may limit your bandwidth each month or restrict usage time. Therefore, it’s advisable to only activate the VPN when you need to secure your IP address. For example, use the VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi in cafes but not when you're at home.
• You can use the VPN to access Netflix in other countries, enabling you to watch movies and shows unavailable in your region. The VPN lets you change your location by altering your IP address, allowing you to choose any country. If you’re in the UK, for instance, you can switch your location to the US to access US Netflix.

• The IT department can provide you with a default VPN password, which you can then change. Make sure to choose a strong yet memorable password, and avoid writing it down or keeping it close to your computer. Steer clear of using easily guessable information like birthdays, family member names, or anything others might figure out easily.
• If you forget your password or find that the VPN no longer lets you access it, inform the IT department right away.
• Contact the IT team immediately if you reinstall or upgrade your operating system, or restore your computer to a previous point. The VPN settings might be lost in the process.
• Before downloading any VPN software, research it on forums to ensure that it doesn't collect your personal information.
• Most free VPN software can meet your need for secure network access when you're away from home.
• If you're using a paid VPN version, ensure that the payment method is secure and the VPN service provides the features you require.