How to Set Up a VPN on a Windows 10 Computer

Are you worried that advertisers and spies will sniff around your traffic or activities? Do you want to bypass your country’s restrictions on certain websites? Then you might want to use a Virtual Private Network or VPN.

What Is a VPN?

A Virtual Private Network or VPN is a connection method that is used to improve the privacy and security of private and public networks. It is often used by private individuals and corporations to protect sensitive data.

With a VPN, subscribers can get an IP address from a gateway city that the VPN service provides. For example, even if you are living in San Francisco, you can appear to live in Asia or another gateway city.

How Secure Is a VPN?

When you use a VPN, your true location will be hidden. Your IP address will not be your own as well. This means advertisers and spies may find it hard to track your activities across the web. However, while VPNs seem like great tools, they are actually not a cure-all for privacy and security threats. After all, VPNs won’t do so much to protect your passwords.

How Do I Unblock All Websites Using a VPN?

VPN technology may grant you access to all your favorite sites from all over the world and help you bypass local encryption and blocks. But how do you do it? Simply follow the steps below:

  1. Choose a VPN service and download it.
  2. Launch the app.
  3. Select a server location.
  4. Click Connect.
  5. Visit any websites you want. Don’t worry because there’ll be no restrictions or blocks.

How Do I Set Up a VPN on Windows 10?

Before anything else, you have to choose and subscribe to a VPN service. Once you have chosen one, take note of your login credentials as you will be using them on all your other devices, be it on a tablet, laptop, or computer.

After subscribing to a VPN service, you can proceed with setting it up. Though most VPNs come with apps that allow you to set up the service conveniently, others need to be set up manually. We’ll teach you how below.

Microsoft’s Built-in VPN Client

Sure, you have plenty of options out there. But we will begin with the widely-supported VPN client that is built into your Windows 10 computer.

To set it up, follow these steps:

  1. Go to the Start menu.
  2. In the search box, input vpn.
  3. From the search results, select Change virtual private networks (VPN).
  4. Now, navigate to Settings.
  5. Select Network & Internet and click VPN.
  6. Choose Add a VPN Connection.
  7. If asked, provide your login credentials.
  8. Navigate to the VPN Provider dropdown menu.
  9. Select Windows (built-in).
  10. Make sure that the VPN type is set to Automatic.
  11. Check if the Type of sign-in info is set to Username and password.
  12. Provide the Server name and Connection name.
  13. Scroll down and input your VPN account credentials.
  14. Click Save.
  15. Exit Settings.
  16. Click on the WiFi icon in the taskbar.
  17. Connect to the Internet as you normally would.

How to Uninstall a VPN Service on Windows 10

If you don’t feel like using a VPN anymore, simply disconnect it or have it completely uninstalled. If you check the Windows 10 Action Center, there should be a button for switching on or off the VPN service. But we’ll discuss this further below:

  1. Right-click on the Start menu.
  2. Choose Settings.
  3. Select Network & Internet.
  4. Choose VPN.
  5. Find the VPN connection you want to uninstall or disconnect.
  6. If you wish to simply disconnect, click Disconnect. Otherwise, click Remove. Hit Remove again to confirm your action.

What Is the Best Free VPN for PCs?

There is no best free VPN for a PC. This is because we all have our own personal requirements or preferences. We just have to remember that while many free unlimited VPNs for Windows 10 are fraudulent, there are decent free services out there that really don’t cost anything. We have listed down a few below:

1. Speedify

If you reside in a country or place with an unstable or poor Internet connection, then this is the service for you. It works by combining all incoming connections in your place into a faster, stronger, more secure, and stable access point.

2. CyberGhost

For years now, CyberGhost has been in the limelight of the VPN industry. This is because it has many amazing features that are designed to protect users from fraud, third-party interference, and censorship.

3. Windscribe

Windscibe offers a desktop and a browser version. Although its primary feature is a VPN network, it actually has other handy tools, such as a reliable firewall, an adblocker, and a secure link generator.

4. VPNBook

VPNBook is completely free to use. It does not have service limitations or bandwidth caps. It also does not have a premium service. You only have a list of servers, and the rest will be up to you. Having said that, it’s not ideal for beginners.

5. Opera VPN

As the name suggests, this service is designed for the Opera browser. It’s free to use, and it does not have annoying ads. It comes with three major features, which include Hidden IP Address, Public WiFi Security, and Unblock Firewalls and Websites.

Important Reminders

Setting up a VPN can be daunting if it is your first time. But hopefully, the steps above helped you to do it correctly. And now that you know how to set up a VPN on your Windows 10 computer, you should be all set for more secure and safer browsing.

Now, if you are looking for a reliable VPN service, we suggest that you try Outbyte VPN. Although it’s not as popular as some of the other paid tools on the market, this VPN service comes with effective and efficient features, such as online privacy and security solutions. It also has easy-to-use apps that work on macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and Windows.

What do you think about VPNs? Are you convinced you should use one? What VPN service do you recommend using? Let us know your thoughts below.