On this page
Setting up a VPN is one of the easiest pieces of software you'll ever install. Once you've chosen one — see how to choose a VPN if you haven't — the rest takes minutes.
On your phone or tablet
- Subscribe and create your account on the provider's website.
- Install the provider's official app from the App Store or Google Play.
- Open the app and sign in.
- The first connection asks permission to add a VPN configuration — tap Allow.
- Press connect. When it turns green, you're protected.
On a Windows PC or Mac
- Download the app from the provider's website — not a random download mirror.
- Run the installer and sign in.
- Press connect, and optionally enable launch-on-startup so you never think about it again.
On a smart TV or streaming stick
Many providers have apps for Amazon Fire TV and Android TV — install them just like on a phone. For devices with no VPN app, set the VPN up on your home router instead, which protects every device on the network at once. Most providers publish a step-by-step router guide. This is also the trick behind watching your shows while travelling.
The two settings worth turning on
- Kill switch: blocks your connection if the VPN drops, so nothing leaks. Turn it on.
- Auto-connect / launch on startup: ensures you're always covered without remembering to flip a switch.
Key takeaway
Install, sign in, press connect. Then enable the kill switch and auto-connect. That's a complete, sensible setup.
Which server should you pick?
For everyday use, choose 'fastest' or 'recommended' and let the app pick the nearest server. Only choose a specific country when you want to appear to be there — for example, to reach a streaming library from home. More on that in the best VPN for streaming.