How to Use a VPN

How to Use a VPN in 2024: A Beginner’s Guide

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PUREVPNHow To GuidesHow to Use a VPN in 2024: A Beginner’s Guide

You’ve set up a VPN on your laptop or mobile device, and you’re good to go, but how do you use it? A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a tool that masks your IP address and protects your online activities by using military-grade encryption.

Therefore, your real identity is safe from prying eyes, and you can avoid price discrimination while shopping online. You experience throttle-free speeds and get access to content unavailable in your region. You’re also able to use public WiFi networks safely and work from home with complete peace of mind.

In this article, we’re going to explore how you can make the most out of a VPN, taking PureVPN as an example. Using a VPN is generally easy! That’s because VPNs focus on ensuring that their service is as intuitive as possible. Now, let’s dive in:

how to use a vpn

What is a VPN & How Does it Work?

VPNs are invaluable tools that establish a secure, private tunnel between a user’s device and the open internet. All your data is passed through this tunnel, and your IP address is also masked in the process. As such, your internet traffic is made invisible to hackers, snoopers, ISPs, the government, and other third-parties.

VPN Tunnel

PureVPN supports multiple tunneling protocols and up to 256-bit encryption to provide you with maximum data security. Once connected, you can browse the web without having to worry about someone watching your every move.

If you wish to experience guaranteed security, anonymity and freedom, you need PureVPN!

Who Uses Virtual Private Networks?

VPNs were usually used by organizations to securely connect employees to corporate resources and networks. Today, more and more privacy-conscious Internet users are turning to VPNs as a means to protect their online activities from the prying eyes of ISPs, governments, and hackers.

With VPNs becoming easier to setup and cheaper to subscribe to, their accessibility and popularity has increased exponentially. They’re often used to unlock geo-restricted content on streaming services and bypass censorship measures in countries like China and Russia.

What is Virtual Private Network (VPN) Configuration? 

The term VPN Configuration means the settings required to offer a secure connection between your device and the VPN server. These settings consist of things like how your tool communicates to the server and how it protects your data. 

Note: The information may additionally vary depending on the kind of VPN you are using.

Simply put, a VPN creates a hidden route between your device and the VPN server. This tunnel keeps your online data secure from digital pests who want to spy on you. You also can access online resources that are blocked for your region. 

To get this feature, you typically must deploy a special VPN software program and select a server to connect to. It is critical to observe best practices to keep your online content personal and secure.

What Does Add VPN Configuration Mean on My Device? 

When you download a VPN, you can see there is an “Add VPN Configuration” to your device, meaning configuring the important features and parameters to create a steady Virtual Private Network (VPN) connection.

These settings include VPN server addresses, authentication methods, and encryption protocols. These settings may also vary depending on the VPN service you use and the form of device you downloaded it on. 

Once set up, you could, without problems, enable and disable VPN connections for your device to guard your online activities.

How to Setup a VPN in 3 Simple Steps

Setting up and using a virtual private network is as easy as 1, 2, and 3. Once you have subscribed to your desired PureVPN plan, just follow these instructions:

1. Download

Download PureVPN App

Download and install the PureVPN app for your device.

2. Log In

Sign in with your PureVPN username and password.

3. Connect

Connect to the UK VPN Server

Connect to one of our 180+ locations and voila!

How to Use VPN on Multiple Devices

Download the Best VPN App for iOS (iPhone and iPad) in 2022 - PUREVPN

A worthy VPN should support at least five simultaneous connections on any device of your choice. With our VPN service, you can:

  1. Download and install the VPN on Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Android TV, Fire Stick, Edge, Firefox, and Chrome.
  2. Connect up to 10 different devices with just one account. This means you can secure all your and your family’s devices in one go, even if you’re living separately.

Want to enjoy top-of-the-line protection on all your devices? Consider your wish granted. PureVPN has user-friendly apps for iOS, Windows, Mac, Android, and routers. Learn everything you need to know about setting up and using:

How to Use a VPN on Android

1. Download and install PureVPN app for Android.

2. Launch the app using your credentials.

3. Tap Quick Connect or choose a server location on your own.

4. Wait for the connection to establish.

5. You are all set!

Take a look at this Android VPN setup guide – it’s straightforward and you’ll be ready to go within minutes!

How to Use a VPN on Mac

1. Download and install PureVPN software for Mac.

2. Launch the software using your credentials.

3. Connect to your desired server location.

4. Now, wait for the connection to establish.

4.You are all set!

Still confused? Visit this Mac VPN setup guide for more thorough instructions.

How to Use a VPN on Windows

1. Download and install PureVPN software for Windows.

2. Launch the software using your credentials.

3. Connect to your desired server location.

4. Wait for the connection to establish.

5. You are all set!

The process is as simple as it can get. For more in-depth information, check out this Windows VPN setup guide.

How to Use a VPN on iPhone

1. Download and install PureVPN app for iOS.

2. Launch the app using your credentials.

3. Tap Quick Connect or choose a server location on your own.

4. Now, wait for the connection to establish.

5. You are all set!

Alternatively, you can also use Quick Connect to find the best possible server based on your location. If you have more questions, read this iOS VPN setup guide.

How to use a VPN on FireStick

1. Go to the Amazon Appstore and search for PureVPN.

Go to the Amazon Appstore and search for PureVPN.

2. Download the app on your device and log in.

3. Tap Quick Connect or connect to your desired server .

Tap Quick Connect or connect to your desired server .

4. Now, wait for the connection to establish.

5. You are all set!

Need more information? Go through this Firestick VPN guide.

How to use a VPN on PS4 

Here’s how you can use PureVPN on your PS4 via router:

  1. Configure PureVPN on your router.
  2. Open the Dynamic Menu and navigate to Settings > Network Settings > Set Up Internet Connection.
  3. Choose Use WiFi when prompted and pick Easy as the connection type. This way, your PS4 will scan your Wireless connection automatically.
  4. When prompted, select Do Not Use a Proxy Server.
  5. Voila! You’re done.

How to use a VPN on Roku

Since Roku devices don’t natively support VPN, you will need to connect it to your VPN-enabled router. Here’s how:

1. Configure PureVPN on your router.

2. Perform a factory reset of your Roku device. 

3. On your Roku device, navigate to Roku Security Settings > Network > Wireless (WiFi)  

4. Select your VPN-enabled router and enter a password to connect.

4. Now that your Roku is connected to your router, give it a try! 

How to use a VPN on Kodi

Just follow these simple steps to use PureVPN on Kodi: 

1. Download the PureVPN Kodi add-on.

2. Connect to a server in your desired location.

3. Now, just install and open your favorite Kodi addon.

You have now successfully configured PureVPN on Kodi and can enjoy your favorite content without any hassle!

How to use a VPN on Xbox

You cannot use a VPN app directly on your Xbox, so you must connect it to your VPN-enabled router. Here’s how: 

  1. Configure PureVPN on your router.
  2. Once PureVPN is installed, connect your Xbox to your Wi-Fi network. 
  3. Enjoy all your favorite games on Xbox without a hitch!

How to use a VPN on Apple TV

Apple TV does not support VPN applications natively, but you can still secure it using PureVPN. All you need to do is: 

1. Configure PureVPN on your Wi-Fi router.

2. Connect your Apple TV to your Wi-Fi network by going to Settings > Network > Wi-Fi.

3. Wait for the connection to establish.

4. You are all set to watch your favorite movies, TV shows, and more!

How to use a VPN on a Chromebook

Whether you want to spoof your location or just want to watch a show which is restricted in your region, simply follow the steps to use PureVPN on your chromebook: 

1. Subscribe to PureVPN.

2. Open the Play Store, search for PureVPN, and click install.

3. Launch the PureVPN app and connect to a server in your desired country.

4. You are now connected! 

How to use a VPN on Omegle

You can unblock Omegle for you from anywhere in the world using PureVPN. All you need to do is follow the simple steps below:

  1. Subscribe to PureVPN and download our app.
  2. Connect to any server location where Omegle is available and not blocked.
  3. Enjoy chatting on Omegle from anywhere!

How to use a VPN on Web Browser

Whether you use Firefox or Chrome, getting a VPN on your browser isn’t a complicated endeavor. Just install the VPN extension from the Firefox Add-ons page or the Chrome Web Store, enter your PureVPN credentials to log in, and connect to your chosen country.

However, a VPN extension will only secure your browser’s traffic. You’ll need to use a VPN app to protect device-wide traffic. Got any queries? Look into this browser VPN guide.

How to Use a VPN on Netflix

If you are wondering how you can use a VPN for Netflix and change libraries often, here’s what you need to do: 

1. Get PureVPN subscription.

2. Download and install the VPN. 

3. Connect to a country server of your choice. 

4. Now enjoy Netflix shows from multiple libraries.

How to use a VPN to change location

Whether you want to protect your identity or access a restricted show, movie or game, try using PureVPN to change your location by following the steps below: 

  1. Get a PureVPN subscription.
  2. Download and install the PureVPN app on your preferred device.
  3. Select any country you want to connect to.
  4. Your IP address and location will now be changed. Enjoy restriction-free access to the internet!

How to Use a VPN on Router

If you want to enjoy network-wide protection, setting up a VPN on your router makes sense. All you need is to purchase a VPN-supported router (if you don’t have one already), and follow the instructions given by your VPN provider to get it up and running. Go to this Router VPN setup guide for more details.

How to Manually Configure a VPN

If your device doesn’t come with support for native VPN apps, then fret not! You can setup a VPN connection manually as well. Most platforms have built-in VPN settings. Here’s how you can leverage them to use PureVPN on:

What Can I access with the VPN?  

Suppose you need to watch the latest Korean series on Netflix but get the message, “This content is unavailable in your country.” You’ll feel disappointed, however, don’t worry. 

VPN lets you access Netflix Korea by means of converting your IP address with the one in Korea. Isn’t it amazing?

Additionally, VPN permits you to access NBC News, Dropbox, and apps like Venmo, downloadable content material (DLC) packs, and region-particular video games that are blocked in many countries.

Other benefits of VPN consist of the best safety features. They encrypt your online activity, making it harder for cybercriminals to intercept sensitive information. 

It additionally conceals your Internet activities and bypasses the bandwidth throttling imposed by your Internet Service Providers (ISPs), ensuring a secure and unrestricted online platform.

Will I Have to Pay for a VPN? 

Yes, you need to pay for a premium VPN; however, free VPNs are also available. Free VPNs may be useful for many, but they come with limitations, including slower connection speeds, data caps, and fewer server locations available. Remember, nothing is for free. 

Even if you can access geo-blocked content on the other side, you are compromising your security, which ends the primary purpose of having a VPN. 

On the contrary, paid VPNs offer a wide range of advantages. These provide features like no log policy, security with thousands of servers, and safety and privacy. 

Even though premium VPNs call for money, a few offer cash-back options. If you subscribe to a VPN but do not like its services, you could get a refund and unsubscribe within a confined period.

How to Use VPN Features

There are certain essential features that every VPN should provide and here’s how to use them to your advantage:

Pick a VPN Protocol or Let us Do It for You

You don’t necessarily have to select a VPN protocol on your own. Your VPN service can automatically pick one for you and let you change it whenever you want. Both IKEv2 and OpenVPN are believed to be the safest and most up-to-date protocols, so you should choose any one of them.

How to choose a VPN protocol (we’re using our Windows client an example):

  1. Open the Windows app and click Settings.
  2. Click App Settings.
  3. Choose your desired protocol.

OpenVPN offers excellent security, can circumvent firewalls, and is highly configurable. IKev2, on the other hand, is relatively faster and provides better connection stability. Check out this in-depth guide to VPN protocols to learn more.

Select Server Location Based on Your Needs

Which country should you connect to? Well, it depends on what you’re looking to achieve. If speed is your top priority, then select a location closest to your country. You want to access another country’s Netflix library, you’ll need to pick a server in that particular country. And, if your aim is to bypass government censorship, go for a country which is censorship-free.

One-Click Connectivity with Quick Connect

Using a VPN should be easy and fast, period! That’s why we have Quick Connect (the name of this feature may differ depending on the Virtual Private Network provider you use). What it does is connect you to the best server, allowing you to experience excellent speeds without skimping on privacy and security. Just open the app, tap the button, and we take care of the rest.

Prevent Your Privacy from Leaking With a Kill Switch

In simple terms, a Kill Switch terminates your Internet connection when a VPN disconnects during streaming or browsing. With this feature activated, you won’t have to worry about your real identity becoming exposed to the outside world.

Secure Specific Apps Using Split Tunneling

Split Tunneling is an essential VPN feature that lets you specify which apps use the VPN connection and which don’t. For instance, considering that a VPN hides your real location by changing your IP address, you wouldn’t want your banking app to use the VPN tunnel.

VPN For Streaming

Access UK Content From Anywhere with PureVPN

If you’re into streaming, a VPN can enable you to:

Change Netflix Regions

As you probably know, Netflix libraries vary from country to country. By using it, you can access your desired Netflix library securely and efficiently. For example, if you want to stream the US library, all you have to do is connect to a US server, and you’ll be able to watch US-only content.

Unlock a World of Kodi Add-ons

You can enjoy tens of thousands of TV shows and movies with add-ons like Tubi TV, PopcornFlix, BBC iPlayer and TempTV. However, most of them are geo-locked. With a VPN, you can change your virtual location to where your desired add-on is available, and access them easily.

Live Stream Sports Anywhere

Looking to stream live sports? A Virtual Private Network not only hides your real IP address but also encrypts your data, so that you can:

  • Dodge geo-restrictions and watch the matches you want in real time from anywhere.
  • Enjoy streaming your preferred sports at throttle-free speeds.

Go through this guide on how to stream your favorite content with a VPN.

For Traveling

How to use VPN while traveling

If you’re planning to travel overseas for work or vacation, you should take a VPN with you for the best traveling experience.

  • Public WiFi is a great way to access the Internet while traveling. However, these unsecured networks are a breeding ground for cybercriminals. By using a VPN on your device, you’ll be able to use different hotspots safely and privately.
  • You won’t be able to access your favorite local content when you’re traveling due to geo-restrictions. It will allow you to get around these roadblocks in no time.
  • Once you’ve decided where you’re heading off to, use a VPN to find the best deals on accommodation, plane tickets, and car rentals. All it takes to avoid online price discrimination is switching your IP address!

Need more details? Here’s a detailed look at why you need a VPN for travel.

For Gaming

How to use a vpn for gaming

By making yourself anonymous through a Virtual Private Network, you can enjoy an enhanced gaming experience.

  • Unable to access a game unavailable in your region? Just change your virtual location to where it’s accessible!
  • Play your favorite games in complete privacy as your original IP address is hidden. This helps you avoid falling victim to doxxing when using Discord and other chatting programs.
  • You can enjoy gaming without having to worry about DDoS attacks as your actual IP address isn’t visible to anybody.

Still not convinced? Learn more about the benefits of a VPN for gaming.

How to use a VPN to unlock steam games

You can now enjoy any unavailable game by following the steps below: 

  1. Pre-order and preload your favorite Steam game.
  2. Shut down the Steam app and disconnect completely.
  3. Subscribe to PureVPN and download our app on your device.
  4. Connect to a server in any country where the game is available.
  5. Once connected, restart Steam and enjoy your favorite game without a hitch!

How to Get a VPN

While the idea of selecting and setting up a VPN may appear daunting, in reality, it’s straightforward. Here’s a guide to walk you through the process, from choosing the ideal VPN to making the most out of its features.

1. Choose the Right VPN

Given the vast array of VPN services available, picking the right one might seem like searching for a needle in a haystack. But the key lies in understanding your unique needs. Is your primary goal to stream geo-restricted content, boost online security, maintain privacy, or a combination of these? Learn more about how to choose the best VPN service for your needs.

2. Sign Up and Make the Payment

Once you’ve decided on the VPN that meets your needs, it’s time to commit. While you’ll find various subscription lengths available, opting for a longer duration, like a two-year plan, often brings substantial savings. Most VPNs provide a broad spectrum of payment methods, ranging from major credit cards to digital payment options like PayPal.

3. Download and Install the VPN app

Upon finalizing your subscription, you’ll need to get the VPN software. For desktop users, the official VPN website is your go-to source, while mobile users can find the necessary app on Google Play or the Apple App Store. Some VPNs also offer browser extensions, which can be found on their official pages. After downloading, log in using the credentials you set up earlier.

4. Configure Settings and Dive In

After logging in, it’s crucial to adjust the settings to suit your needs. Here’s a quick run-through:

  • Tunneling Protocol: Opt for WireGuard if you prioritize speed and security. Alternatively, OpenVPN – with its UDP for speed and TCP for enhanced security – remains a popular choice.
  • Encryption Strength: While many VPNs default to AES-256 encryption for optimal security, some allow you to toggle between 128 and 256-bit settings.
  • Activate the Kill Switch: This feature ensures that if your VPN connection drops, your internet access is immediately halted, keeping your data secure.

You can now use the VPN after configuring all of its settings. Simply connect to a server in your desired region, and you’ll be granted a new IP address from that region, all while benefiting from robust encryption to safeguard your online activities.

Why Use a VPN?

Why Use a VPN

There are many compelling reasons why you need to get started with a virtual private network. Take a look at some of the most common VPN uses below:

Access Your Favorite Video Content

If you can’t access the online streaming channel or service you want from your region, don’t worry. Just Connect and joining the server location where the content is accessible and enjoy it in your home country without any interruptions.

Enjoy Secure Internet in Public Places

Internet access is available almost everywhere we go. But while public hotspots offer great convenience, they also pose serious risks to your privacy and can result in hacking, identity theft, and more. Keep your connection secured on a public network with a VPN.

Secure Online Shopping

Online shopping has provided you with the ease of purchasing anything you want from the comforts of your home or couch. But it has also exposed you to threats like online credit card fraud. That said, you can ensure safe and secure shopping online by setting up a VPN.

Get Around FCC and Data Retention Laws

Data retention laws and FCC’s new Net Neutrality policies have made the Internet slow and restricted. Once the new laws are established, you are bound to experience slow streaming and downloading speeds as well as other inconveniences on the Internet. These issues, though, can be avoided by using a Virtual Private Network.

Ditch Online Price Discrimination

Believe it or not, there’s a lot of price discrimination on the internet. In other words, retailers and other providers see that you represent a certain country and impose higher rates than are found in other countries. This is not only limited to consumer products on e-commerce stores, but also extends to booking flights and rental cars online and purchasing certain games and services. You can get around this discrimination and save money by using a VPN.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do VPNs Provide Identity Protection?

Absolutely. A VPN conceals your true IP address and secures the data to and from your device using bank-grade encryption. As a result, your online activities can’t be tied back to you and third-parties are unable to see what you’re doing (the sites you visit, apps you use, videos you watch, and so on).

What’s the Difference between Free and Paid VPNs?

There are hundreds of free VPNs available that you can use at no cost, but the truth is – they have more cons than pros. Most of them log and sell your online activities to third-parties like advertisers for a profit.

These supposedly free services also lack must-have features and use little to no encryption. As if that wasn’t enough, users also have limited server locations to choose from and bandwidth limitations to worry about.

Paid VPNs, on the other hand, are generally the better option for your online privacy, security, and freedom. Sure, it’ll cost you money, but they’re well worth it. You can trust most of them with your data as they don’t keep logs of any kind.

These services come packed with features like a kill switch, split tunneling, and more. Your traffic is secured using 256-bit encryption, and a global server network lets you bypass geo-restrictions and censorship with ease.  For these reasons and more, you’re better off choosing paid VPNs over free ones.

What is a VPN app?

A VPN app is designed to make using a VPN seamless across multiple devices. It offers an intuitive interface and often features one-click connectivity, eliminating the need for complex manual configurations.

How do you connect with a VPN?

Connecting to a VPN is straightforward. Start by subscribing to a reputable VPN service. Once subscribed, download and open the app, sign up or log in, select a server location, and hit “Connect.” This will establish a secure connection, ensuring your data remains private.

Should I use a free VPN?

There are a handful of free VPNs, but they usually come with limits and downsides. Free VPNs have slower speeds and usage restrictions, as well as the possibility of collecting and selling your data to third parties for cash. It is advised to use a paid VPN service that offers optimal performance and layers of security.

How to Choose a VPN

Are you scouting the market for a paid VPN service? There are some essential things you should look out for. Some of them include:

  • Proven No-Log Status: You’d want to use a VPN that stores no connection or activity logs. While most providers claim not to keep logs, some have gone the extra mile and proven their privacy assurances via independent third-party audits.
  • VPN Jurisdiction: This is another vital factor as certain countries have mandatory data-retention laws, which companies have to comply with. Ideally, you should steer clear of VPNs based in the 5/9/14 Eyes countries.
  • Ease of Use: Nearly every VPN service is easy-to-use, but some are more than others. There are plenty of options available if you simply want to tap or click a button and get connected. Many will also let you delve into the features and settings if you need to.
  • Advanced Features: At a minimum, you must look for features like an Internet Kill Switch, DNS Leak Protection, IPv6 Leak Protection, and WebRTC leak Protection. After all, there’s no point in using a VPN that doesn’t keep your data and identity truly safe.
  • Usage: Some VPNs don’t support P2P activities, and others don’t provide access to geo-blocked streaming services. Determine what you want to use a VPN for and decide on a suitable provider based on that.
author

PureVPN

date

January 1, 2024

time

3 months ago

PureVPN is a leading VPN service provider that excels in providing easy solutions for online privacy and security. With 6000+ servers in 65+ countries, It helps consumers and businesses in keeping their online identity secured.

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