How to Install a VPN on Windows, Mac, Android and iPhone

Installing a VPN is straightforward on every major platform. The parts worth paying attention to are the settings afterwards and the check that it is actually working, both of which most people skip.

If you are still deciding whether you need one, start with our guide to what a VPN is and when you need it.

Before you install

Choose the provider first, because switching later means uninstalling everything. Then create the account and note your login details, since you will need them on each device.

Download the app only from the provider’s own website or your platform’s official store. VPN apps are a popular target for counterfeits, and a fake VPN is worse than no VPN.

Windows

1. Download the installer from the provider’s site and run it.
2. Approve the prompt that asks to install a network adapter. This is expected, and it is how the tunnel is created.
3. Sign in.
4. Pick a server. The nearest one gives the best speed unless you need a specific country.
5. Connect, then open the settings and turn on the kill switch and launch at startup.

Windows also has a built in VPN client under Settings, Network and Internet, VPN. That is for manually configuring a connection, typically for a workplace, and needs server details from whoever runs it.

macOS

1. Install from the provider’s site or the App Store.
2. Approve the request to add VPN configurations. macOS asks for your system password here.
3. Sign in, choose a server and connect.
4. Enable the kill switch and connect on startup in settings.

A VPN status icon appears in the menu bar when connected.

Android

1. Install the app from Google Play.
2. Sign in and tap connect.
3. Approve the connection request. Android shows a warning that the app can monitor network traffic. This is the standard prompt for any VPN.
4. In settings, turn on the kill switch.

Android also has a system level option under Settings, Network and internet, VPN, where “Always-on VPN” and “Block connections without VPN” give a stronger guarantee than the app’s own kill switch.

iPhone and iPad

1. Install from the App Store.
2. Sign in and tap connect.
3. Allow the VPN configuration when iOS asks, and confirm with Face ID or your passcode.
4. Enable connect on demand in the app’s settings if offered.

A VPN badge appears in the status bar while connected.

Router installation

Installing on the router covers every device on your network, including smart TVs and consoles that cannot run VPN apps themselves.

The trade offs are real: not all routers support it, setup is more involved, the router’s processor can become the speed limit, and you cannot easily turn it off for one device. Some providers sell pre configured routers if you would rather not flash firmware yourself.

Settings worth changing

• Kill switch. Blocks all traffic if the VPN drops. Without it, your connection silently falls back to normal and you will not notice.
• Protocol. WireGuard is fast and modern. OpenVPN is slower but very well tested. Avoid PPTP entirely.
• DNS leak protection. Stops DNS lookups going outside the tunnel.
• Split tunnelling. Lets chosen apps bypass the VPN, useful for banking apps that block VPN connections.
• Auto connect on untrusted networks. Protects you on public Wi-Fi without having to remember.

Check that it is working

Do this once after setup, and again after any major update.

1. Note your IP address with the VPN off, using any “what is my IP” site.
2. Connect the VPN and reload. The address and location should both change.
3. Run a DNS leak test. The servers listed should belong to the VPN, not your internet provider.

If your real address still shows, the tunnel is not carrying your traffic and the app needs reinstalling or reconfiguring.

Frequently asked questions

Why will a site not load with the VPN on?

Some sites block known VPN server addresses. Switching to a different server usually works. Banking sites are the most common offenders, which is what split tunnelling is for.

Can I install a VPN on a smart TV?

Some TVs run Android TV and support VPN apps directly. Others have no option, which is where router installation helps.

Does a VPN drain battery?

Some, because the connection stays active and traffic is encrypted. WireGuard is noticeably lighter than older protocols.

Which server should I pick?

The nearest for speed. A specific country only when you need to appear to be there.

Do I need a VPN on every device?

Each device connects separately. Installing on your router covers everything on your home network at once.

What if I forget to turn it on?

Use auto connect and, on Android, always-on VPN. Relying on memory is the main reason people are unprotected on public Wi-Fi.