GuidesHow To'sHow To Set Up A VPN — Detailed Guide

How To Set Up A VPN — Detailed Guide

Downloading, installing and enabling a trusted VPN software is a way to set it up on your PC.

Expert Verified By

VPNs are essential for users who want to secure or are conscious about their data. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) provide users with a secure and encrypted connection between their router and another server. If you are unaware of the process for a PC, let’s learn how to set up a VPN.


Key Takeaways

  • VPN software helps secure your data and identity by establishing an encrypted connection between the server and router.
  • It can protect privacy and bypass regional restrictions but can slow the internet and pose data risks.
  • Turn on the VPN directly by clicking Connect in the app. Some services have a kill switch to prevent data leaks if the VPN disconnects.
  • It secures your data and identity, but malicious software can breach privacy by logging internet activities and accessing your data.


Methods Difficulty Rating

Download VPN

Rated: 5/10

Launch VPN

Rated: 4/10


Download VPN

Start with downloading a VPN, and look for the best VPN software. Here are a few that have appeared in the top 3 across the internet:

We suggest you always read the privacy policy first and then go for the one that satisfies your needs, and we recommend trying the free trial service before purchasing the premium version. Testing all three weekly should give you enough insight into which VPN best works for you.

Tip: Always check for pricing, location, privacy policies, and internet speed before choosing a VPN.

Let’s look into the working procedure of one of the easiest-to-understand VPN services, Proton VPN, with a great free service bundle.

  1. Download Software: Go to Proton VPN’s website > Click on Get Proton VPN.
    Setting up Proton VPN on PC
    Proton VPN homepage. Image Credits [Tech4Gamers]
  2. Choose Bundle: Pricing window > Choose a bundle > Click on Get (Service Name).
    Proton VPN Pricing
    Proton VPN pricing window page. Image Credits [Tech4Gamers] 
  3. Create Account: Account creation page > Enter ID, password, and Email address (keep a note of credentials).
    Proton Download File
    Proton VPN download file – Image Credits [Tech4Gamers]
  4. Homepage: Verify CAPTCHA > Click the Download button, which appears in a pop-up.
    VPN set up downloading screen
    Downloading screen for PC. Image Credits [Tech4Gamers]
  5. Download: Click the Download Proton VPN button > Choose location > Download.
    Download Proton
    Download option for Proton VPN. Image Credits [Tech4Gamers]
  6. Install: Go to the file location > Click on the setup file > Choose folder > Install the VPN.
    Proton Download File
    Proton VPN download file. Image Credits [Tech4Gamers]

Once Proton VPN completes installing, your download process formally finishes.

Launch VPN

  1. Login: Login to your Proton account > Use the ID and password you created earlier > Toggle on/off to Start and connect on boot.
    Proton VPN Login pop-up
    Proton VPN application login pop-up. Image Credits [Tech4Gamers]
  2. Tutorial: Take a tour to operate the VPN > You will find yourself on the main outlay.
    Proton disconnected
    Proton VPN main outlay when disconnected – Image Credits [Tech4Gamers]
  3. Choose Server: You can only access Japan, the Netherlands, and the United States > Or click Quick Connect and let the VPN choose the fastest server from your location.
    Tip: Use manual connection when accessing applications and content in a certain country.
  4. Options: Above the servers, you will find 4 options (only Kill Switch is available in the free version):
    • Secure Core – helps route your data from the VPN’s safest servers.
    • Net Shield – protects your computer from malware.
    • Kill Switch – the VPN will terminate your internet if the VPN disconnects, preventing any of your private data from leaking.
    • Port Forwarding – increases download speeds by allowing local apps to be accessible online.
Tip: You can also create custom profiles for different use case scenarios, where you won’t need to find the perfect server repeatedly. After exploring, connect to your desired server and check whether you have successfully connected.
Proton connected
Successful connection outlay. Image Credits [Tech4Gamers]

Check Internet Speed

After your VPN is connected, you will see your IP has changed in the top left corner, and you can monitor your internet speed. We used the quick connect option to get the fastest VPN server, which is located in Japan.

Before you start working with the VPN connected, we recommend doing an internet test to see how your latencies fare. Although, we doubt you’ll find many problems using the quick connect button.

The image shows slightly different download and upload speeds than our previous demonstration but notably higher latency. Despite using a free version with limited server access, the speeds remain impressive.

Internet Speed After VPN Connection
Checking the internet speed after setting up the VPN. Image Credits [Tech4Gamers]

Pros & Cons

How ToProsCons
Using A VPN✅Privacy protection.
✅By-pass geo-restrictions.
✅Adds extra security layer.
❌Speed reduction with free VPNs.
❌Malicious VPN providers can harm your data.
❌Makes some services incompatible.

Final Thoughts

VPNs offer benefits but don’t completely hide your identity. Reviewing VPN companies’ privacy policies is crucial due to potential data tracking. Nonetheless, VPNs reliably mask your data from ISPs and grant access to global regions, as discussed in various forums like Whirlpool Forum.

Additionally, we found some tweets sharing valuable insights into the topic:

While setting up a VPN, you only need to understand the factors differentiating a good service from a bad one and compare the pricing before opting for a service.


Frequently Asked Questions

When should I use a VPN?

You should use a VPN depending on your use case scenario. If you’re using a VPN to get blocked content, you’ll only enable it to stream. However, if you’re worried about privacy, you’ll want to enable your VPN whenever you go online.

Will I be completely hidden from everyone using a VPN?

You can hide your data and identity from your ISP through a VPN. However, you cannot completely hide your presence even through a VPN. Your data goes to the VPN companies, even though they promote zero data logging.

Can I use the same VPN service on my mobile that I use on my PC?

Most VPN services have applications for all your electronic devices. They can be a Windows PC, a Macintosh, or an Apple or Android phone. Before purchasing, you should confirm whether your preferred service has a mobile app.


Related Articles:

Was our article helpful? 👨‍💻

Thank you! Please share your positive feedback. 🔋

How could we improve this post? Please Help us. 😔

Related articles

How to Ground Yourself When Building A PC [Quick Steps]

How to Ground Yourself When Building a PC? In this in-depth guide, we'll be answering that question and others surrounding it.

PC Case: How to Clean Tempered Glass?

In this article, we'll be answering the questions: How to clean tempered glass PC? Why we use tempered glass? And more.

How To Install A Liquid CPU Cooler? [Step By Step]

Wondering about how to install a liquid cooler? Read our guide to learn about the quickest way to install it.

How Many Hard Drives Can A PC Have? [EXPLAINED]

In this guide, we'll be answering the question of how many hard drives can a PC have, and sharing information regarding storage devices.

How To Disable Firewall? [All Methods Guide]

This article provides a step-by-step guide on "How to disable the firewall" using different and easy methods.

Similar Guides