Two Ways to Use a VPN on Windows 11

There are two primary methods for using a VPN on Windows 11. The first is using your VPN provider's dedicated app — this is the easiest and most feature-rich option. The second is using Windows 11's built-in VPN client, which supports IKEv2, L2TP/IPSec, PPTP, and SSTP protocols without any third-party software.

This guide covers both methods.

Method 1: Using a VPN Provider's App (Recommended)

Step 1: Choose and Subscribe to a VPN Service

Visit your chosen VPN provider's website and sign up for a plan. Make note of your login credentials — you'll need them shortly.

Step 2: Download the Windows App

Navigate to the provider's download page and download the Windows client installer (.exe file). Most providers offer a direct download from their website and may also have an app in the Microsoft Store.

Step 3: Install the Application

Run the downloaded installer. Windows may ask for administrator permissions — click Yes to allow the installation. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup.

Step 4: Log In and Connect

  1. Open the VPN application.
  2. Enter your username and password.
  3. Choose a server location from the list (or use the "Quick Connect" / "Fastest Server" option).
  4. Click Connect. A notification will confirm when the connection is established.

Step 5: Verify Your Connection

Open a browser and visit a site like whatismyip.com or ipleak.net. Your displayed IP address should now match the VPN server's location, not your real one. If it shows your real location, the VPN is not connected correctly.

Method 2: Using Windows 11's Built-In VPN Client

This method is useful if you're connecting to a company VPN or want to manually configure a connection without a third-party app.

Step 1: Open VPN Settings

Go to Settings → Network & Internet → VPN, then click Add VPN.

Step 2: Fill In the Connection Details

  • VPN provider: Windows (built-in)
  • Connection name: Choose any name you like
  • Server name or address: Enter the server address from your VPN provider
  • VPN type: Select the protocol your provider supports (IKEv2 is recommended)
  • Sign-in info: Enter your username and password

Click Save when done.

Step 3: Connect

Return to the VPN settings page, click your newly created connection, and click Connect. You can also connect quickly via the system tray network icon in the taskbar.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Connection keeps dropping: Enable the kill switch in your VPN app settings; also try switching protocols.
  • Slow speeds: Try a server geographically closer to you, or switch from OpenVPN to WireGuard.
  • VPN won't connect: Check your internet connection, firewall settings, and ensure your VPN subscription is active.
  • DNS leaks detected: Enable the "DNS leak protection" option in your VPN app, then retest at dnsleaktest.com.

Recommended Settings to Enable After Setup

  • ✅ Kill switch — prevents exposure if the VPN drops
  • ✅ Auto-connect on startup — ensures you're always protected
  • ✅ DNS leak protection — keeps your DNS queries private
  • ✅ WireGuard protocol — for the best speed and security balance