Luckily, this is a fairly straightforward process. Follow the steps below to easily set up a VPN connection on Windows 11: If you’d rather just use a VPN provider’s software client to manage your VPN connections, we’d recommend picking up a Surfshark subscription. It’s blazing fast and has an easy-to-use software client. Like Windows 10, there are many ways to set up a VPN on Windows 11. If you’ve purchased a subscription from a leading VPN service provider, like Surfshark, then it’s best to just use the software or app they provide. However, if you want to connect to a dedicated VPN server, as is often the case for enterprise users, you’ll have to manually configure the VPN on Windows 11. This is usually the case with VPNs provided at workplaces or used by corporate networks. While manually configuring a VPN may sound daunting, it’s a fairly simple process. In this article, we walk you through the steps involved in manually setting up a VPN connection on Windows 11. We also explain how you can easily set up a VPN that does come with a software client.
Step 1: Get the Correct Login Details
When adding a VPN connection on Windows 11, you’ll be asked to fill in the relevant login details. These usually consist of a username, password, and server address or name. Now, you’re probably wondering where you can find these details. Well, that depends on the kind of VPN connection you’re setting up. If it’s a VPN connection for work, then your boss, company intranet site, or administrative section probably has the required log-in details. However, if it’s a VPN for private use, then the details are the same as those you used when creating an account or purchasing a subscription. Once you’ve got the necessary log-in details, proceed to the next step. Of course, if you don’t have a VPN account yet, then you’d have to sign up with a reliable service provider and get a subscription. We’d recommend getting a subscription with Surfshark, as it’s fast, secure, and pretty affordable!
Step 2: Use a Windows 11 Account with Administrator Rights
You should ensure that you’re using a Windows 11 account with administrator rights. Only these accounts are authorized to add and modify VPN settings on Windows 11. If you’re setting up a VPN on your own device, then it’s likely your account already has user rights. If you’re using a guest account on someone else’s device, then you may need to ask them to grant you admin rights. If it’s a work computer, make sure you get authorization from your IT department.
Step 3: Add a VPN Profile Using Windows 11 Settings
Once you’re using an account with admin rights, do the following:
Step 4: Connect to the VPN Server
Now that you’ve successfully configured a VPN profile, the next step is to connect to the VPN server. Here’s how you can do this: To check if you’re connected to a VPN server, you can hover your mouse pointer over the Network icon located on the right side of your taskbar. It should show the VPN connection’s name if you’re successfully connected. A quicker way to connect to a VPN is by using the quick settings menu. This can be accessed by pressing the Windows Key + A or clicking on the network, battery or volume icons in the taskbar. In the quick settings menu, you should see a VPN button/tile. Clicking on it will bring up a list of the different VPN profiles you’ve added. Tap on the Connect button next to the VPN connection you’d like to use. Note: The VPN tile isn’t listed for everyone in the quick settings menu. You can add the VPN tile as a quick setting by bringing up the menu and clicking on the small pencil icon in the bottom left.
Installing a VPN Client on Windows 11
The above steps are useful when you need to connect to a VPN without its own software client. However, if you’re using a premium VPN, like Surfshark, then it’s best to use the VPN service provider’s software client. By using the client, you can avoid the hassle of manually configuring a VPN. Moreover, you can also easily use different protocols and connect to servers located in several different nations. This can be particularly useful when trying to access geo-blocked content. The software client also comes with great security features, such as a kill switch and MultiHop connections, which lets you route your traffic through two different servers. We’ve provided a step-by-step guide on setting up a VPN connection using a software client on Windows 11 below:
Installing a VPN on Windows 11: A step-by-step guide
Benefits of Using a VPN with Windows 11
Having gone through this article, you may be wondering why you should use a VPN with Windows 11 in the first place. As we alluded to earlier, using a VPN keeps your information private and secure. However, there are several other benefits that come with using a VPN. These are:
A VPN encrypts your internet activity which helps prevent snooping and surveillance by your ISP, government surveillance associations, or other malicious actors. You can use public WiFi freely if you’re protected by a VPN. VPNs allow users to download torrents and other files safely and anonymously. You can change your IP address using a VPN. As a result, you can access blocked or censored content. VPNs also offer greater security, especially when accessing sensitive information, such as your bank accounts.
If you’re doubting whether a VPN is the best choice for you, you can always try out one of these excellent free VPNs for PC to get started.
Setting up a VPN Connection on Windows 11: Final Thoughts
Setting up a VPN on Windows 11 is one of the best things you can do to secure your digital identity and personal information. Regardless of whether you set it up manually or use a software client, having a VPN connection brings many advantages and allows you to use the internet in a secure manner. If you want in-built VPN functionality in the OS instead of having to install a separate software, this is the best way to go about it.
