A VPN on a Windows PC is easiest to set up through the provider's official app. This guide covers 2 methods: using a VPN app and configuring Windows' built-in VPN. It also covers Windows 10, whose support ended on October 14, 2025.

Quick Answer

Method Best for What you need
VPN provider app Personal VPN services VPN account and official Windows app
Windows built-in VPN Work, school, or manually configured VPNs Server address, VPN type, and sign-in details

Method 1: Use a VPN App on Your Windows PC

A VPN provider's Windows app is usually the simplest choice for a personal VPN.

  1. Choose a VPN provider.
  2. Create an account or subscribe to the service.
  3. Download the provider's official Windows app.
  4. Install and open the app.
  5. Sign in.
  6. Select a VPN server, or use the provider's recommended server.
  7. Select Connect.
  8. Wait for the app to show Connected.

Download the app from the VPN provider's official website. Microsoft also directs personal VPN users to get the provider's app or connection details from the provider.

To stop the connection, open the VPN app and select Disconnect.

Method 2: Set Up a VPN Manually in Windows 11

Manual setup is useful when your employer, school, or VPN provider gives you the connection details.

What You Need

Get the following information before you start:

  • VPN server name or address
  • VPN connection type
  • Username and password, if required
  • Certificate, one-time password, or smart-card details, if required

Windows can use several sign-in methods, including a username and password, one-time password, certificate, or smart card.

Steps to Add the VPN

  1. Open Start > Settings.
  2. Select Network & internet.
  3. Select VPN.
  4. Select Add VPN.
  5. Set VPN provider to Windows (built-in).
  6. Enter a name under Connection name, such as Work VPN.
  7. Enter the VPN server under Server name or address.
  8. Select the correct VPN type.
  9. Select the correct Type of sign-in info.
  10. Enter your username and password if required.
  11. Select Save.

The server address, VPN type, and authentication method must match the details supplied by the VPN provider or organisation. If one of them is wrong, Windows may not connect.

How Do You Connect to the VPN in Windows?

After you create the VPN profile, connect to it from Windows Settings or the taskbar.

  1. Open Settings > Network & internet > VPN.
  2. Find the VPN profile.
  3. Select Connect.
  4. Enter your sign-in details if Windows asks for them.

You can also select the Network, Volume, or Battery icons on the taskbar, select VPN, choose the VPN profile, and select Connect.

Windows shows Connected beneath the VPN profile when the connection is active. A blue VPN shield may also appear on the network icon.

How Do You Set Up a VPN in Windows 10?

Windows 10 uses a similar setup path:

  1. Select Start > Settings.
  2. Open Network & Internet.
  3. Select VPN.
  4. Select Add a VPN connection.
  5. Choose Windows (built-in).
  6. Enter the server, VPN type, and sign-in information.
  7. Select Save.
  8. Select the VPN profile and choose Connect.

Windows 10 support has ended. Upgrade to Windows 11 if your PC supports it.

Which VPN Method Should You Use?

The right method depends on where your VPN details come from.

Choose a VPN app if you have a personal VPN subscription. The app handles server selection, login, and connection settings in one place.

Choose Windows built-in VPN if:

  • Your employer gave you VPN instructions.
  • Your school provided a VPN profile.
  • Your VPN provider supplied manual connection details.
  • You need to use a specific VPN protocol or server.

For most home users, the official app is quicker to set up. Manual configuration is mainly for users who have exact connection details from an organisation or VPN provider.

Why Won't My VPN Connect?

Start by checking the server address, VPN type, login details, and internet connection.

  • Confirm that the server address is correct.
  • Check that the selected VPN type matches the provider's instructions.
  • Re-enter your username and password.
  • Test your internet connection without the VPN.
  • Update or reinstall the provider's official app.
  • Contact your employer, school, or VPN provider if you do not have the required server settings.

Do not guess the VPN type or server address. Use the details supplied by the VPN service or organisation.

Bottom Line

Use the official app for a personal VPN. Use Windows' built-in VPN when an employer, school, or VPN provider gives you manual connection details.