Installation VPN sur Windows
Online privacy and security are essential for any internet user. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is the best solution to guarantee online security and anonymity. Protect your personal data, browse with peace of mind, access geo-blocked content with this software. However, it is important to note that the installation steps vary depending on the version of Windows (Windows 8, 10 or 11). Despite these minor differences, the steps taken are the same. Before getting started, it’s important to understand the role of a VPN in order to choose the VPN that best suits your needs. Experienced or beginner, here are simple steps to easily configure your virtual private network on Windows.
The best VPNs of the moment
Compared to the previous version, Windows 11 has introduced changes in the menu and user interface. However, the network settings have been more or less in the same place since Windows XP. If you’ve already set up a VPN on Windows 10, the process is very similar. In fact, the VPN configuration settings themselves remain unchanged in the new version. It’s just a matter of knowing where to find them and what options to check. Windows 11 has replaced the old Notification Center with a quick access panel that lets you turn your VPN on and off without digging into settings.
Install the VPN app.
If you want a secure connection, but don’t need to set up a VPN manually, you don’t need to. The majority of VPNs have a Windows application. They offer features that the default Windows configuration does not support. Most notable among these is the kill switch, which ensures that you never accidentally browse the Internet unprotected. Then follow these simple steps to install VPN application:
- Start by signing up with a VPN provider.
- Download the Windows application from your provider’s website.
- Run the installer.
- Now just connect to the server at your desired location. Many VPNs put a Quick Access icon in your system tray so you can log in (or log out) without opening the app.
If you already subscribe to a VPN service, it’s always easier to use the Windows app that comes with it. It will provide an easy-to-use graphical user interface (GUI), access to more servers and automatic updates to their configuration.
Manually Install VPN on Windows 10 and 11
If you upgrade from Windows 10 and choose to keep your files and apps, all previously configured connections should still be there. If, however, you are using a fresh installation of Windows 11, you can create a new VPN connection in a few simple steps.
- Press the Windows key at the bottom left of your keyboard, then type “Settings.” Press Enter.
- Maximize the window if you haven’t already. This will display a side panel with additional settings categories.
- Click Network and Internet.
- Choose the VPN option, then click the big blue button.
- Add a VPN on the next page.
- Make sure the VPN Provider box is set to Windows (Integrated).
- Enter the name or address of your server in the second text box. These are either numbers separated by periods or a URL-like string.
- Make sure the Login Information Type is set to Username and Password.
- Enter your VPN username and password in the corresponding boxes, then click Save.
You should notice that the VPN connection you just created appears in the VPN settings page. If you click on it, an “Advanced Options” button will appear. This will allow you to change properties such as your username, password, server address, and preferred connection protocol. Unless you made a typo, you’ve done a manual installation.
Basic Reasons to Install a VPN on Windows
Privacy and security are important when browsing the Internet. Whether protecting personal data, accessing geo-restricted content or browsing the web, a VPN is positioned as the best security solution. Here are the main benefits of using a VPN.
Maintain good online privacy and security
VPNs have essential security features like 256-bit encryption. It effectively hides your IP address and prevents DNS leaks, ensuring that your online activities remain private. A good VPN offers a secure protocol that can protect your data from surveillance and hackers on public Wi-Fi networks.
Bypass geo-restrictions and censorship.
With multiple servers in different countries, a VPN allows you to bypass geo-restrictions and censorship. Some VPNs include obfuscation by default to make it easier to connect to countries like China and the United Arab Emirates. You can also access streaming services like Netflix and Disney+.
Place a kill switch
A kill switch disconnects your internet connection whenever you suddenly disconnect from the VPN. The important thing here is that it all happens automatically, without the need to constantly monitor the status of your connection. The good thing is that any VPN worth its salt has a Windows application with a kill switch.
Take advantage of split tunneling.
Split tunneling allows traffic to be routed simultaneously through a VPN using the same or different network connections. This allows multiple accesses to the virtual private network at the same time.
Take advantage of simultaneous connections
With a VPN, you can connect up to 10 different devices (or more) at the same time. It is a beneficial option for families or businesses.
Choose from a variety of VPNs.
Choosing a VPN can be a difficult process, as you have several reliable providers to choose from with different features.
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NordVPN offers plenty of security benefits as well as streaming sites, unblocking torrents, and web access from multiple countries. It has strong security and no logging policy. NordVPN has a reliable suite of security tools, including a malware blocker, kill switch, and DNS leak protection.
- Proton VPN offers a premium option with faster servers, more locations. You get apps for many devices and region-locked streaming services that can be unblocked. Additionally, it uses 256-bit encryption and has a no-logging policy. ProtonVPN uses the WireGuard protocol and you can change the encryption settings to increase connection speed. You also have 24/7 customer support.
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Surfshark uses unbreakable encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection to protect your online activities from prying eyes. It added ad and tracker blocking as well as split tunneling functionality. This provider follows a strict no-logging policy and has proven it through an independent audit. The suggested price is €2.69/month for a 2-year subscription, and €3.19/month for a 1-year subscription.
- Cyberghost is a budget option with connections for up to seven devices. It is fast and safe. This VPN makes it easy to access region/country blocked streaming service. You can choose between 128-bit or 256-bit AES encryption. IPv6 and DNS leak protections are built in, as is a kill switch. The company has a no-logging policy and accepts payment by credit card, PayPal or Bitcoin.