A VPN, also known as the virtual private network, lets a computer access a public internet connection service attached to a private network, using a secure tunnel between the network and the machine. VPN helps in protecting the data from being tampered with. One may use it to surf the internet privately, or business-oriented solutions could allow employees to connect to a corporate network remotely securely.
While most modern-day VPN’s do come with a client built-in which can set up and configure VPN on windows in a single click, but if one is using a Windows 10 S mode or the service provider doesn’t offer a client; In this post, I will guide you on How to Create and Connect to a VPN Profile in Windows 11/10.
Create and Connect to a VPN Profile in Windows 11/10
Wondering how to create a VPN profile, connect to it, disconnect and completely remove it? Here’s how:
- Create VPN Profile
- Connect/Disconnect to VPN
- Remove VPN Profile
Starting with creating a profile and then moving on to connecting or disconnecting and finally removing it completely.
1] Create a VPN Profile
Before creating a VPN profile, make sure to keep all the necessary information ready such as the VPN type, server name, credentials, to complete the process with ease.
- Open the Settings Panel in Windows (Win + I)
- Navigate to Settings > Network & Internet > VPN
- Under VPN, choose the Add a New VPN Connection button.
- Here, under the text box right next to the VPN provider, choose Windows (built-in).
- In the Connection Name text box, choose and enter a name you’ll remember (for example, VPN Home 1). It would be assigned as the VPN connection name next time you connect.
- Next, in the Server name or address text box, type in the address for the VPN server that you would have obtained from the provider.
- While choosing the VPN type, make sure to select the same option which your VPN provider uses. It could be obtained from the provider itself.
- Lastly, under the Type of sign-in info, choose the type of sign-in info. It is usually a username and password, or an OTP (one-time-password), a certificate, or a smart card if connecting to a VPN network for work usage. Next, enter the username and password in the respective boxes.
- Now, click on the Save button to save the newly created VPN profile.
With that saved, now let us move on to connecting to the VPN profile.
2] Connect to a VPN Profile
Connecting or disconnecting to a VPN is as simple as making just a couple of clicks using the mouse. Here’s how:
- Open the Settings Panel in Windows (Win + I)
- Navigate to Settings > Network & Internet > VPN
- Under VPN, you’ll find the name of the VPN Profile you have created previously. Click on that and choose the Connect button to connect to the profile.
- Similarly, to disconnect from a VPN, choose the VPN Profile name and click on the Disconnect button to disconnect from the VPN Profile.
With that, you can easily connect or disconnect a VPN. Additionally, it could also be done using the Wi-Fi shortcut menu using the Taskbar.
3] Remove a VPN Profile Completely
Switched from a VPN provider to another? Would you like to remove the old connection completely from your PC? Here’s how to do so:
- Open the Settings Panel in Windows (Win + I)
- Navigate to Settings > Network & Internet > VPN
- Under VPN, you’ll find the name of the VPN Profile you have created previously. Click on that and choose the Remove button, and you’re good to go.
With that, the VPN profile will be completely removed from your PC.
Is It Legal To Use VPNs?
It is entirely legal to use VPNs in most countries of the world. While some of them are in talks of banning VPNs, there is not much done yet. VPNs can be used for illegal purposes too, use them responsibly.
Are VPNs Free To Use?
There are many VPNs on the internet that are free to use. There are several proxy websites too. However, these websites can’t provide you with complete security and anonymity as such apps and sites sell their data to advertisers. For safety, anonymity, and a better experience, it is recommended to use paid and reputed services.
Is Accessing Torrenting Websites Through VPNs Legal?
Many countries around the world have banned torrenting as they were extensively used for piracy. You need to know the laws and regulations for your respective country before accessing torrents through VPNs. Please know that piracy is illegal everywhere.
That said, How often do you switch between VPN service providers? Do let us know by dropping a comment down below.