How To Use a VPN

To activate a virtual private network (VPN), all you need to do is sign up for the service, install the apps on your devices, and turn on the VPN—that’s it. A VPN is one of the best tools for increasing your internet privacy and getting around annoyances like geo-restrictions and throttling from internet service providers.

VPNs encrypt your internet traffic and mask your IP address, giving you an extra layer of security and anonymity online. Most VPN services have easy-to-use apps that are compatible with various software and devices.

Let’s go through the basics of getting your first VPN up and running and why having one is a good idea.

Why use a VPN

A VPN masks your IP address by sending your internet traffic through an encrypted tunnel to a VPN server. From there, your internet data continues on to your intended destination, such as a website or streaming service. Data coming into your network or device goes through the same process. Here are some of the top reasons using a VPN is beneficial.

• Avoiding personalized and location-based ads
• Encrypting and securing your connection and online activity
• Protecting your devices and data when using public Wi-Fi
• Blocking tracking and throttling from internet service providers
• Masking your IP address for online anonymity
• Boosting your privacy on websites and apps

Let’s dive into how to use a VPN so you can start protecting your data and devices.

Steps to using a VPN

Step 1: Sign up for a VPN

The first step to activating a VPN service is signing up for a plan. You’ll do this directly on the VPN service website by choosing the plan that best fits your needs and price range. Once you subscribe to the service, you’ll be prompted to create an account.

Once your account is created, you’ll move on to the next step of installing and downloading your VPN.

Step 2: Download and install the VPN

You’ll then need to download the correct file for your operating system in order to install a VPN. For Windows, this will be an .exe or .msi file, and for Mac, a .pkg or .dmg file. You might also be able to find the VPN service in the Microsoft Store or Apple Store.

If you want to install a VPN on your phone, download the app from the App Store or Google Play store.

Step 3: Log into the VPN app

You’ll need the email and password you used for signing up for your VPN service to login to the app. Once you’re logged in to the app, you can move on to choosing your server.

Step 4: Choose a server

VPNs hide your IP address by passing your data through a VPN server. Most VPN services let you choose which server location you’d like to use. The server location you choose matters for two reasons:

• A physically closer server location will provide a more responsive internet connection with lower latency.
• The location you choose will determine what search results you get back from the internet and what content you can or cannot access.

For example, if you’re traveling in Europe but want to access your usual streaming content in the U.S., you should use a VPN server located in the U.S. The VPN will trick your streaming service into thinking you’re in the U.S., so you’ll have access to all the same content you see when you stream from home.

Most VPN services automatically default to the fastest server, so if you just want privacy through a responsive connection, you can let the app decide which server to use.

Step 5: Turn on the VPN

Once you’re logged in and have your server set, activating your VPN is as simple as pressing a button or toggle switch in the app. These activation buttons are usually right on the app’s home screen and are commonly labeled “Connect” or with a power icon. Now you’re ready to use your VPN to start masking your IP address.

FAQ about VPNs