Nowadays, it is important to make surfing the internet safe. Data misuse and cybercrime are increasing, and despite the incredible freedom that the new possibilities bring, many users have an uneasy feeling. However, if you want to use the advantages of digitization, you cannot avoid giving up anonymity when entering data.
Some examples here are online shops or online banking. However, so that sensitive information is protected from unauthorized access by third parties, there are so-called VPN connections. VPNs bring a lot of advantages and can be set up in Windows 10 in just a few steps.
What can VPN do, and what are its advantages?
VPN establishes a secure IP connection from a computer to a server. The connection is encrypted in such a way that nobody can access it without authorization. With the so-called encrypted tunnels, privacy remains protected, users surf anonymously, and sensitive data remains untouched.
Furthermore, a VPN connection can ensure that advertising, trackers, and malware are blocked. After choosing a VPN provider, you can set up the home network with a VPN connection. Immediately after registering, you will be provided with all the data and can start immediately. Below, we explain how to set up a VPN on Windows 10.
Setting up a VPN connection on Windows
- Click the start icon and open Settings.
- Go to “Network and Internet” and first select “VPN” and then “Add VPN connection”.
- Now, you can enter all data in the opened window.
- For VPN provider, select “Windows (built-in)”.
You can freely choose the connection name. Use a name that has a high recognition value. You must find and organize this later under the networks to establish a connection.
In the “Server name” or “IP address” field, enter the address of the VPN server that you received from your provider.
Under VPN type, select the type to which the VPN connection should be created. You can also get this information from your provider. This can be PPTP, L2TP, OpenVPN, or Wireguard.
Next, you can set a username and password. However, this is optional and does not have to be carried out. In the last step, save your entries.
The finished VPN profile is now ready to establish a connection. To connect, click on the network symbol on the right of the taskbar and look for the appropriate VPN connection.
With a click on “Connect”, the encrypted tunnel is established, and you can now surf safely and anonymously in your home network. All devices that connect to this network are also protected.
VPN software for Windows 10
There is another alternative way of setting up a VPN connection. For this purpose, providers offer software solutions installed on the respective device via an app and, once set up, connect to the network via VPN.
The rights of use are purchased for up to 24 months, a customer account is created, and the Windows app is downloaded from the Microsoft Store. After installation, the VPN connection is immediately available.
The advantage of this is that setting up a VPN under Windows 10 is even easier and faster, and the application can be used for other end devices such as smartphones and tablets. So you can always surf safely when you’re on the go.
If you open the app, you can choose a suitable server from different servers worldwide. The app can also automatically take over the search for the fastest connection if desired. In addition, there is another advantage of online shopping.
Some countries block offers for foreign IP addresses. With the appropriate selection of the location server, bargains can also be snagged at the conditions customary in the country.
