How to Set Up A VPN on Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, and More?

People know that a Virtual Private Network is used to bypass geographical restrictions and freely surf the internet, but they often overlook the main reason for using it. VPNs encrypt users’ online presence and provide a safer connection. 

In this hyper-exposed world, your data is always at risk, and setting up VPN channels can act as an invisibility cloak, ensuring your data remains private and secure. But how do you get a Vpn on your device? Just download and activate it!

This blog will walk you through the step-by-step process of how to set up a VPN on various devices. So, read till the end and take notes!

What is a VPN and Why Should You Setup a VPN?

VPN stands for Virtual Private Network, which creates a secure, encrypted tunnel through which the user can browse. It hides the IP address, device information, and location, reducing the risk of being exposed to ISPs or potential cyber threats and crimes. 

Here are more reasons why Vpn setup is more than needed for everyone: 

• It masks the IP address and location of the device.
• It helps you bypass all geo-location restrictions. You can access Netflix, YouTube Content, music, and websites that are prohibited in your region. 
• You can use your device to connect to your company’s cloud network without the risk of data theft. 
• It helps to use public and unsecured WI-FI networks safely.
• It prevents online tracking of advertisements and surveillance. 

How Do I Set Up A Vpn On My Smartphone?

Using a VPN on smartphones is a wise decision if you browse and connect to the internet 24/7. Whether you are an Android or iOS user, you can setup VPN within a few seconds and utilize its benefits. 

For Android 

Here’s how to set up a Vpn on your Android device: 

• First, install any VPN app from the Google Play Store on your device.
• Launch the application and log in.
• Grant necessary permissions and tap on Connect to the desired network. 

These are the manual VPN setup steps: 

• Go to the Settings app on your device. 
• Then select Network & Internet > VPN.
• Add a VPN by filling in the details (name, server, type, credentials). 
• Lastly, save and connect, and browse through it. 

  

For iOS 

Below are the steps for how do you get a Vpn on an iOS device: 

• First, install any VPN app from the App Store on your device.
• Launch the application and log in with your details.
• Now you need to grant the necessary permissions and tap on Connect to the desired network. 

You can also set up VPN manually: 

• Navigate to the Settings app.

• Select the General section.

  

• Here, tap on VPN & Device Management, then VPN.

  

• Now you can add VPN Configuration. Choose from(IKEv2, IPSec, or L2TP). 

  

• Lastly, fill in your server, account, password, and remote ID.

  

That’s it, you can now utilize VPN on your smartphone and surf freely without any fear of data loss.

How to Set Up A Vpn on Windows?

If you’re a Windows user, setting up a VPN is more straightforward than you might think. Whether you want to start with a built-in VPN or install a third-party service, here’s all the info: 

Method 1: Using a Third-Party App

• First, you have to do your research and choose a VPN service.
• Download the app on your device and log in to it.
• Allow the app to access the info, then select the server. 
• Tap on the Connect button to activate the VPN. 

Method 2: Use Built-In VPN Support 

• Go to Settings on your computer.

  

• Select Network & Internet option.

• Now, tap on VPN.

  

• Select the Add VPN Connection feature.

  

• Now you have to fill in all the required details mentioned below:
  • VPN provider: Windows (built-in)
  • Connection name
  • Server name/address: (From your VPN provider)
  • VPN type: (Choose L2TP/IPSec or IKEv2).

• After filling in the info, save and connect to activate the VPN.

How to Use Vpn on MacOS?

You can either use any third-party VPN or manually setup the VPN service that macOS integration offers. Working on macOS can get a little trickier because of multiple features, but here are the steps that simplify the setup.

Method 1: Using VPN App

• Go to the website of the VPN provider.
• Download and install the app on the MacBook. 
• Once the app is installed, launch it and grant permission to access.
• Now, select the network and connect to the server. 

Method 2: Manual VPN Setup

• First, unlock your device and go to System Settings.
• Next, choose the Network option. 

  

• Tap the … icon to select Add a new service. 

  

• Here, you need to choose VPN as the network interface.
• Select the VPN protocol (IKEv2, L2TP, or PPTP). 
• Provide the server and account details, add modifications, and establish a connection.

  

That’s it, VPN will start working on your MacBook, and you can claim your privacy and safeguard your browsing history.

How To Set Up A Vpn on a Home Router?

A router is a single source that connects multiple devices. Installing a VPN on it will automatically secure all other connected devices without having to install a VPN on every single one of them manually. 

For this, all you need is a router that supports VPN integration, such as DD-WRT, AsusWRT, Tomato firmware, and a VPN that is compatible with your home router. 

Here’s how to get Vpn on router: 

• On any device, log in to the router dashboard or seek help from your ISP.
• Go to the VPN settings and select OpenVPN or PPTP.
• Here, in the given sections, enter your server info, username, and password of the VPN.
• Follow the on-screen instructions and wait for the configuration to complete. 
• Save the changes and restart your router. 

As you connect any device, it will automatically be protected through the WI-FI network. 

How to Get A Vpn that’s Best for You?

As you are aware, why should you set up a Vpn, but the biggest question is how to choose one. There are a number of VPN services with multiple features in the market, and it truly gets tough to find the right one. 

To ease your struggle, we have listed the things that you should be looking for before deciding on setting up a Vpn:

• Look for the options with strong security mechanisms, preferably OpenVPN, WireGuard, or IKEv2/IPSec.
• Always go for the one that does not ask for logins. This is to ensure that providers do not store any cookies.
• Look out for speed and performance. The best options are the ones with minimal speed drop.
• Check out the multiple device compatibility options, as it’s best to cover all your devices under a single plan.
• You must select the provider offering 24/7 live chat or a quick response system to avoid hassle. 

With the steps above, you can test and find the VPN that fits your bill. The most popular ones you will come through are VPNEER, NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, and more. 

Test if the VPN is Working Properly

Once you’ve setup VPN, your job does not end here. You need to keep a regular check on whether it’s active or needs updating for proper functioning. Here’s how to test the VPN setup to ensure that your data and IP address always stay masked:

Method 1: Check IP Address

Go to whatismyipaddress.com on your device or search “What is my IP address?” and connect to the internet. Turn off your VPN service and check the IP address. Now, turn on the VPN and check the IP address again. If both inputs are different, it means your VPN is working. 

Method 2: Speed Testing 

First, go to speed testing sites like speedtest.net and check the internet speed by switching off the VPN server. Wait for a few seconds, and check the speed again after turning it back on. A slight drop in speed is normal; however, if you encounter a significant slowdown, you must update the VPN server. 

Method 3: Access Geo-Restricted Content 

Visit the platform that is restricted in your region. If you are able to access and play it, this means the VPN is working fine. In case you encounter any glitch, switch to a different country server or update the VPN service. 

Wrapping Up!

Using the internet without a VPN is like knowingly inviting looters and robbers into your house. And that’s why, whether you’re simply streaming content or using public WI-FI, having a strong VPN setup is crucial. 

We have discussed how to set up a Vpn on multiple devices and how to get the right one in this blog. Hopefully, with the steps explained here, you’ll be able to unlock a safe online environment. 

Read Next: Are VPNs Legal to Use? Everything You Need to Know Before You Connect

Frequently Asked Questions 

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