How to Turn Off VPN on Any Device — Easy Guide

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) protect your online activity by encrypting data and hiding your real IP address. Still, there are legitimate reasons why you might need to disable your VPN temporarily. Whether you’re troubleshooting a connection issue, accessing local services that block VPN traffic, or just switching networks, knowing how to turn off your VPN across devices is essential. In this guide, you’ll learn step‑by‑step how to disable PureVPN on various devices safely, plus what happens when you disconnect.

When You Might Need to Turn Off VPN

There are moments when keeping your VPN off makes sense. For example, you may experience network problems that require a direct connection, or you might be trying to access a service that blocks VPN traffic. Some online platforms, local apps, or corporate networks could function only when your internet connection appears local. Travel to countries with strict VPN regulations can also necessitate temporarily disabling the service. While PureVPN is designed to protect you, turning it off briefly for compatibility reasons is occasionally necessary.

How to Disconnect PureVPN on a Mac?

On macOS computers, turning off your VPN can be accomplished either through the PureVPN app or directly in your system network settings. First, open System Preferences, then select Network. From the list of connections on the left, find the active PureVPN configuration. Click the “Disconnect” button, and your VPN session ends immediately. Since your IP address and data are no longer encrypted after disconnecting, make sure you understand why you’re turning off your VPN before doing so.

How to Disconnect PureVPN on Windows?

Disconnecting PureVPN on Windows is easy. Follow these steps:

1. Open the Start menu and go to Settings.
2. Choose “Network & Internet.”
3. Select “VPN” from the left panel.
4. Locate the PureVPN connection you want to turn off.
5. Click “Disconnect” to stop the VPN session.

Once disconnected, your traffic returns to your normal internet route. Windows may prompt you to confirm or automatically reconnect if you have persistent VPN settings enabled.

How to Disconnect PureVPN on iOS?

On iOS devices like iPhones and iPads, here’s what to do:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Scroll to find VPN or General > VPN.
3. Tap the toggle beside your PureVPN profile.
4. Slide it to the off position to disconnect.

This method works whether you use the built‑in VPN settings or the PureVPN app itself. Once the toggle is off, all traffic flows without encryption until you reconnect.

How to Disconnect PureVPN on Android?

Great news: disabling PureVPN on Android phones or tablets is similarly straightforward. From your device’s main settings menu, find Network & Internet or Connections, then select VPN. You’ll see the active PureVPN profile; simply tap the slider to turn it off. Your Android connection will revert to your regular IP address and internet routing immediately. The process may vary slightly depending on your Android version or manufacturer, but the core concept remains the same: disable the VPN profile under network settings.

Chromebook and Other Laptops with VPN Profiles

For devices like Chromebooks that use built‑in VPN support without a dedicated app, head to Settings > Network > VPN. Click on the active VPN profile and toggle it off. Some browsers or extensions that provide VPN functions may require disabling the extension instead. Regardless of method, you’re stopping the VPN at the network layer so that your traffic returns to your direct ISP connection.

Router VPN — What You Should Know

Some users set up VPN connections directly on a router to protect every device in a home network. Turning off PureVPN at the router level varies by hardware, but usually involves logging into the router’s admin panel via your web browser and navigating to VPN settings. From there, you can disable the VPN configuration and reboot the router if needed. Once disabled, traffic from all connected devices goes through your regular ISP connection rather than an encrypted VPN server.

What Happens When You Turn Off a VPN?

Disconnecting your VPN has immediate effects. Your true IP address becomes visible to websites, online services, and your internet service provider. Because PureVPN encrypts and masks your connection, turning it off removes that layer of privacy and security. Sites that previously saw a VPN exit IP will now detect your actual network location. This may be fine for some uses, but it also means any monitoring or tracking is more straightforward. Returning to a public or unsecured network without the protection of a VPN increases risk.

Why PureVPN is Usually Best Left On

Think of your VPN as a secure tunnel between your device and the internet. While you can exit the tunnel at any moment, doing so exposes your connection to observers, trackers, and certain network restrictions. PureVPN protects your data in public Wi‑Fi environments, keeps your IP hidden, and helps block intrusive tracking technologies. Even when troubleshooting, make sure to reconnect once you’ve resolved the issue so you don’t lose those benefits.

Conclusion

If you frequently switch between turning PureVPN on and off, consider using features like “auto‑connect” or app‑specific rules that keep it active only where you want it. Make sure to update the PureVPN app regularly for the best performance and security. Remember, your privacy and online safety are strongest when your VPN is active — but knowing how to disable it safely gives you flexibility when needed.