1. Save your preferred locations
Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) on your devices offers various benefits, including rerouting and securing internet traffic to enhance security and privacy. VPNs also help bypass geographical restrictions and censorship. While VPNs don’t provide complete anonymity online, they do improve the security of your online activities.
If you’ve decided to use a VPN, it’s essential to understand how to maximize its potential. This guide will introduce you to key VPN settings and features applicable to most VPN services available today.
Most VPN services offer a range of countries to connect to securely. To simplify the process, save your frequently used locations and servers for quick access, eliminating the need to scroll through the entire list.
2. Set up automatic VPN startup
Many VPN services offer the option to launch automatically when your computer starts up. This feature ensures continuous online protection without manual intervention. It’s recommended to enable auto-start for your VPN to stay secure without effort.
3. Activate the kill switch
A kill switch is a crucial feature offered by VPN software, halting all internet traffic if the VPN connection drops. This prevents your data from being exposed to third parties in the event of a VPN failure. Make sure to enable the kill switch in your VPN settings for added security.
4. Use incognito mode in your browser
While a VPN enhances security, it may not fully protect against certain online tracking methods like cookies. Combining a VPN with incognito or private browsing further improves privacy and tracking prevention. Additionally, location spoofing features work more effectively with this setup.
5. Utilize split tunneling
Many VPN services offer split tunneling, allowing you to choose which sites and apps use the VPN. This feature enables you to protect sensitive internet traffic while maintaining faster speeds for other activities like browsing or streaming.
6. Connect to the closest server
If you’re not targeting a specific geographic location, use the ‘quick connect’ feature to connect to the nearest server with optimal speeds. This ensures standard VPN protections while minimizing potential slowdowns, even if the server is in the same country.
7. Download the mobile apps
Most VPN services provide mobile apps in addition to desktop software, offering protection for your smartphones and tablets. Android and iOS apps simplify VPN configuration, ensuring all your device activities are secure with minimal setup required.
