How to Use a VPN: Installation and Configuration Guide

There are over 100 VPNs available on the internet and major mobile app stores. While most follow a similar installation flow, the process generally requires creating an account, installing the client, and logging in.

The standard steps for installation include:

1. Navigate to the VPN provider's website in a web browser.
2. Select a plan based on duration, features, and the number of simultaneous devices.
3. Add a payment method and create a username and password.
4. Download the installer file.

For desktop users, downloads can originate from the Mac or Windows app store or directly from the provider's website. Downloading directly from the website often provides the most feature-rich version, but users must ensure they are on the legitimate site to avoid malicious copycats.

For mobile users, the Google Play Store or Apple App Store is the only option. It is important to check reviews to ensure the app is legitimate, as rival brands sometimes use paid placements to appear higher in search results.

Once the file is downloaded, follow the pre-programmed installation flow. If the provider is vetted, allow the necessary setup permissions. Finally, open the client and sign in with the credentials created earlier.

Most VPNs are ready to use immediately after installation, but reviewing the settings is recommended to ensure they match specific needs. The preferences control panel is usually accessed via a gear icon or the "Preferences" menu bar option on Mac.

Key settings to configure include:

• Activate the kill switch: This feature monitors the connection to the VPN server. If the connection drops, the kill switch instantly cuts off internet access to prevent sensitive data from being broadcast. It also helps avoid the Tunnelvision bug by ensuring only legitimate VPN servers are connected.
• Set up favorites and profiles: Users can select servers or websites used regularly. Some providers, like Proton VPN, allow creating user profiles that bundle several preferences together.
• Check split tunneling: This allows specific apps or sites to work outside the VPN. It is useful if you want a certain app unencrypted while keeping others secure.
• Manage content blockers: Activate or deactivate built-in ad blockers, malware detectors, and parental controls as needed.
• Select a VPN protocol: While it is best to let the VPN choose automatically, knowing where to switch protocols is helpful for troubleshooting if one protocol fails.

Before connecting, users must select a server location. Most apps offer an automatic option, which typically selects a node close to the user's physical location based on latency. This is sufficient for general anonymity.

However, specific use cases require manual server selection. The rule is simple: Pick a server in the place you want your signal to come from.

Common reasons to select a specific server include:

• Streaming: If a show like The Office is available on Netflix in the U.K. but not in the user's region, connecting to a British server allows access without an extra subscription. (Users should verify that the streaming service's terms of service do not expressly ban VPNs.)
• Bypassing censorship: To get around firewalls at schools, workplaces, or state levels, select a VPN server outside the restricted region. Censorship systems filter by location, so a virtual location outside that jurisdiction bypasses the block. (Users should always be cognizant of local laws regarding VPN usage.)

VPNs operate differently depending on the hardware and software. Here is how to use them on various platforms:

Desktop and Laptop
On Windows, download the EXE file from the provider's website or account dashboard. On Mac, look for a PKG file. Double-click the file and grant the necessary permissions to complete the installation.

Mobile (Android and iOS)
Download the app from the respective app store. Some providers offer free trials on mobile, but users should be aware that these may auto-renew into a paid plan.

Browser Extensions
VPN extensions protect only traffic passing through the web browser, acting as a primitive form of split tunneling. These are downloaded from the VPN's website and managed in the browser's extensions center.

Smart TVs and Game Consoles
Native VPN support is available on Google TV, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TV (tvOS 17+). For TVs without native support (e.g., LG, Roku, Samsung), users can:
1. Use a Smart DNS feature.
2. Install the VPN on a router.
3. Use a computer as a Wi-Fi hotspot while the VPN is active.

Routers
Installing a VPN on a router protects all devices on the network, including consoles and non-supported TVs. This requires a router with VPN firmware support (ISP default routers often lack this). Users must download a configuration file from the VPN provider and upload it to the router's control panel. Devices like the ExpressVPN Aircove come pre-configured for this purpose.