How to Set Up a VPN on Any Device

A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a server in a location you choose, which keeps your browsing activity private from your internet provider, network administrators, and anyone else monitoring the connection. Setting one up is straightforward on every major platform.

Before You Start

You need a VPN subscription. Popular options include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, Mullvad, and ProtonVPN.

Each has apps for all major platforms. ProtonVPN offers a functional free tier with limited server locations.

Windows

Download the VPN app from your provider website. Install, sign in, select a server location, and click connect. The app handles all encryption protocols and DNS settings automatically. Most apps include a kill switch that cuts your internet if the VPN drops. For manual setup, open Settings, Network and Internet, VPN, then Add a VPN connection.

Enter the server address and VPN type (usually IKEv2 or L2TP/IPsec).

Mac

Download the app from your provider website or the Mac App Store. Install, sign in, pick a server, and connect. For manual setup, open System Settings, then Network, click the plus button, select VPN, and choose IKEv2 or L2TP as the protocol. Enter the server address and credentials.

iPhone and iPad

Download the VPN app from the App Store.

Sign in and tap Connect. The app will ask permission to add a VPN configuration. Enable the On Demand feature to automatically connect when you join Wi-Fi networks. For manual setup, go to Settings, General, VPN and Device Management, VPN, then Add VPN Configuration.

Android

Download the app from Google Play Store. Sign in and tap Connect. Enable Always-on VPN and Block connections without VPN in the settings for maximum protection.

For manual setup, open Settings, Network and Internet, VPN, tap the plus icon.

Linux

Many providers offer Linux apps as .deb or .rpm packages. For OpenVPN, install the client through your package manager, download the .ovpn configuration files from your provider, and connect via terminal. For WireGuard, install through your package manager and use wg-quick up wg0 to connect.

Router-Level VPN

If you want every device on your network protected, configure the VPN on your router. Routers running DD-WRT, OpenWrt, or AsusWRT-Merlin typically have VPN client functionality built in. The main downside is that all traffic goes through the VPN, which can slow down devices that do not need encryption.

Verifying Your Connection

After connecting, visit a site that displays your IP address. The IP shown should match the VPN server location, not your actual location. Check for DNS leaks by visiting a DNS leak test website. Your DNS queries should resolve through the VPN provider DNS servers.

Final Thoughts

Setting up a VPN takes five minutes on any device. The provider apps handle everything automatically. Manual configuration gives you more control but requires more steps. Verify the connection is working properly after setup and enable kill switch features where available.