A VPN may be a valuable tool for improving your online privacy. We’ll show you how to install one on Microsoft’s current operating system.
You may use a VPN to prevent your ISP from monitoring your online activity, mask your public IP address, and even pretend to be accessing the web from another location. Normally, you’d perform all of this with a VPN client program, but you might wish to configure Windows 11 to connect straight to a VPN. We’ll show you how to do it and why you shouldn’t.
How to Begin Manual VPN Setup on Windows 11
If you’ve made it this far, you either have a complex technical reason for wanting to manually establish a VPN or you’re full of arrogance. In any case, the first step is to pick what type of VPN connection you want to establish and which VPN servers you want to employ.
The answer to the first question is the VPN protocol. This is the technique that establishes an encrypted link between your device and the VPN server. There are several typical options:
- WireGuard
- OpenVPN
- IKEv2/IPSec
Related: Best Free VPNs for Firestick
WireGuard Configuration in Windows 11
WireGuard is quickly becoming a VPN industry standard. It is new, employs strong cryptography, and claims to be faster than previous protocols. Most devices do not support WireGuard by default, and you will need to download the specific client software for Windows.
The first step is to go to your VPN’s website and look for official instructions on how to set up WireGuard. I’ll be using Proton VPN in the following example. Because each service maintains the relevant information in a slightly different location, have the official paperwork ready.
First, I accessed the VPN service’s portal and proceeded to the section that contains WireGuard setup information. This is a single form for Proton VPN Opens in a new window That produces a configuration file depending on the settings you input. To produce the files, Surfshark VPN opens in a new window and employs a step-by-step procedure similar to that of a software wizard.
For Proton VPN and Surfshark VPN, I titled the configuration, choose the platform, the type of device that would connect to the VPN, and the location of the server I wished to connect to.
The Surfshark VPN Wizard asked if I wanted to produce cryptographic key pairs, and Proton VPN featured toggles for some extra choices. Again, the service you use may vary. After making my choices, I selected the Create button to obtain the configuration file
The WireGuard program alerted me after installation that it lacked configuration files. It’s not an issue. After dismissing the notice, the WireGuard software launched, with the single option to import configuration files.
I clicked it and browsed through the WireGuard configuration file I had previously downloaded. Finally, I pressed the Activate button, and my VPN connection was activated. My public IP address has changed by comparing my IP address with and without the VPN operates.
How to Configure OpenVPN in Windows 11
OpenVPN, like WireGuard, is free and open-source software that has long served as the workhorse for most VPN providers. It’s a solid option, and while WireGuard may one day overtake it, that day is still a long way off. You’ll need to obtain configuration files from your preferred VPN and install the official WireGuard client program, just like with WireGuard.
I used Proton VPN (Opens in a new window) for the procedures below, but most VPNs will have similar settings. Make sure to locate your VPN’s support documentation so you know where to get everything you need to use OpenVPN.
First, I signed into the Proton VPN web portal and went to the part where the OpenVPN and IKEv2 login and password are stored. I saved this information for later.
Related: How to Install 911 VPN Setup Steps
Then I went to the page where Proton VPN allows customers to obtain OpenVPN configuration files. I chose the type of device I’d be using (Windows, of course) and was then asked if I wanted to use UDP or TCP.
“UDP is quicker and preferred in most instances, whereas TCP is more reliable and can overcome some censorship attempts,” stated Proton VPN, and I’ve heard similar statements in other VPN documents.
Finally, I chose which VPN servers to use and downloaded the configuration file.
It should be noted that certain VPNs, such as Proton VPN, provide access to additional capabilities with their configuration files. For example, Proton VPN includes instructions for employing DNS filtering and multi-hop connections. Check your manual or, better yet, simply install the official VPN client.
Following that, I visited the OpenVPN website and downloaded the official client program (opens in a new window). It merely took a few seconds to install.
Then, in the taskbar, I right-clicked on the OpenVPN icon, chose Import, and then the Import File option. I browsed through the configuration file I downloaded earlier and selected it in the dialog.
When requested, I typed in the login and password that I’d already stored.
After that, I right-clicked the OpenVPN taskbar icon again and chose Connect. This established a VPN connection, and I verified that my public IP address had shifted.
The OpenVPN app, like WireGuard, may save many VPN settings. Make an effort to investigate it.
Related: Best VPN Services for October 2022
Frequently asked Quetions
Does Windows 11 have a built-in VPN?
Yes, there is a VPN client included in Windows 11.
Does Microsoft have its own VPN?
The ‘Microsoft Edge Secure Network’ is powered by Cloudflare.
Is Windows built-in VPN good?
Excellent for peer-to-peer file sharing and streaming
What are the disadvantages of VPN?
- Some VPNs may cause your connection to be slower.
- Some websites ban VPN users.
- VPNs are prohibited or illegal in several countries.
How do I find my VPN server address?
Check your welcome email.
How do I add VPN to my taskbar?
On the taskbar, click the Network icon, then click Edit quick settings > Add > VPN > Done.
How does VPN work on Windows 11?
The best VPN (virtual private network) services will give Windows 11 software to instantly connect to their private networks.
