Most major VPN services offer desktop or mobile software, but you don’t have to use them. You can install and access the VPN from within Windows 11, meaning you don’t need any software at all.
There are pros and cons to this method, which we’ll explain to you in a moment, but first, let’s learn how to install a VPN in Windows 11.
WHY USE A VPN WITH WINDOWS 11?
The reasons for using a VPN on Windows 11 are the same as for using a VPN anytime: to improve your security and privacy. Once you’re connected to a VPN service, Internet traffic travels from your computer through an encrypted tunnel between your device and the VPN provider’s servers.
This prevents someone from snooping on your data, gives you access to geo-restricted content, and gives you relatively easy access to private networks outside of your own. VPN is a great solution for Windows 11 so that you too can enjoy the many advantages. There are many VPN myths floating around, e.g. B. that VPNs are only suitable for professional users or that you only need a VPN to hide “questionable” online activities. However, that is not the case and you can use a VPN whenever and wherever you want.
Also, it is now easier than ever to use a VPN service as almost all VPN providers offer a desktop or mobile solution that makes logging in easier.
But you don’t necessarily have to use their software. Instead, you can configure your VPN directly in Windows 11, turning off the VPN software. There are pros and cons to this, which we’ll get to in a moment, but first, read on to learn how to set up a VPN service in Windows 11.
SHOULD YOU USE A FREE OR PAID VPN?
We’ve talked about free vs paid VPNs numerous times over the years, and the answer is always the same: a paid VPN is always the best option.
Of course, it’s okay if you need to use a free VPN in a pinch.
HOW TO SET UP A VPN ON WINDOWS 11
As with its predecessor, you can also set up a VPN connection in Windows 11.
- Type “VPN” into your Start menu’s search bar and choose the best match.
- Choose Add VPN.
- Now select Windows (built-in) as the VPN provider.
- Add a connection name. This does not have to match the name of your VPN service or any specific server.
- Add a server name or address, which you can find on your VPN provider’s website. Search for “[VPN provider name] hostnames” or “[VPN provider name] server IP addresses” to find specific servers. Choose the type of VPN you use. Typically this is L2TP/IPsec, but the server you are connecting to may be using a different configuration. Check with your VPN provider for details and change this setting accordingly.
- Finally, you still need to enter your VPN username and password. Note, however, that some VPN providers provide you with a different username and password combination for manual VPN configurations, which you can find in your VPN settings.
- Click on “Save”.
The instructions above will work for most VPN providers. However, some services have special characteristics, e.g. B. different user names and passwords or other service-specific settings.
HOW TO SET UP AN IKEV2 VPN ON WINDOWS 11
A manual IKEv2 VPN connection differs slightly from the more commonly used L2TP/IPsec protocol as it also requires the installation of a security certificate. Although this requires a few extra steps, IKEv2 is considered one of the strongest and most stable VPN protocols and is worth using if you demand exceptional security. Also, it used to be difficult to find support for IKEv2 connections. Most major VPN providers now support the protocol and offer detailed instructions for their service.
However, you can use the instructions below as a general overview.
- Go to your VPN service and download the IKEv2 certificate. Your VPN provider will have a dedicated download and support page if they offer this service.
- After downloading, double-click the IKEv2 certificate, select Install certificate, and continue with the certificate import wizard. Select Local machine and click Next.
- Select Place all certificates in the following store and click Browse.
- Select Trusted Root Certification Authorities and click OK.
- Back in the Certificate Import Wizard, click Next.
- Click Finish and then click OK.
Once you’re done, you can return to the previous instructions for installing a VPN on Windows 11, but replace your VPN type with IKEv2.
Check your VPN provider’s website for a list of service-specific features as well.
PROS AND CONS OF MANUAL VPN CONFIGURATION
Wondering whether to go with manual VPN configuration or your VPN provider’s software? There are some pros and cons to be aware of.
- Pros: Extensive customization options, lots of open source tinkering, and more direct control over your VPN connection.
- Pro: A piece of software less on your computer, which takes up space.
- Pro: You still use the exact same VPN protocols and your connection is just as secure as when using the desktop or mobile VPN software.
- Cons: It’s harder to configure and maintain, not a good option for VPN beginners.
- Cons: You have to sacrifice some of the features that the desktop or mobile software offers, e.g. B. additional connection modes or security features.
All in all, using your VPN provider’s dedicated software is the best option for most users. It facilitates connection to the provider’s servers, simplifies switching between servers, and most applications have additional security features.
TRY A MANUAL VPN CONFIGURATION ON WINDOWS 11
Anyway, now you know how to manually configure your VPN service on Windows 11. Whether you decide to use the manual configuration or the VPN provider’s client is of course up to you, but at least you have all the options available.
