How to Add a Free VPN to Windows 10 Without Installing Software

Updated at: 03/07/2025

Want enhanced online privacy and security on your Windows 10 PC without the hassle of installing bulky VPN software? This guide reveals how to leverage built-in Windows features and readily available browser extensions to create a free, albeit limited, VPN experience. Bypass geographical restrictions, mask your IP address, and browse more securely – all without downloading extra applications. Let's explore the simple steps involved.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Access Windows VPN Settings

    • Go to Settings
    • Click on Network & Internet
    • Select VPN and turn on the two options.
    • Click to add a VPN connection.
    Click to add a VPN connection. Click to add a VPN connection. Click to add a VPN connection. Click to add a VPN connection.
    Access Windows VPN Settings

  2. Configure VPN Connection

    • Select Windows built-in VPN.
    • Type 'VPN Book' in Connection name.
    • Select PPTP in VPN type.
    Select PPTP in VPN type. Select PPTP in VPN type. Select PPTP in VPN type.
    Configure VPN Connection

  3. Obtain VPN Server Details

    • Go to vpnbook.com (link in description) and select a PPTP server location (e.g., Germany). Copy the server address.
    Go to vpnbook.com (link in description) and select a PPTP server location (e.g., Germany). Copy the server address.
    Obtain VPN Server Details

  4. Enter Server and Credentials

    • Paste the server address into the Server name/address field in the Windows settings.
    • Copy username from vpnbook.com and paste it into the Username field.
    • Type your password (cannot be copied directly) into Notepad, copy from there, and paste it into the Password field.
    Type your password (cannot be copied directly) into Notepad, copy from there, and paste it into the Password field. Type your password (cannot be copied directly) into Notepad, copy from there, and paste it into the Password field. Type your password (cannot be copied directly) into Notepad, copy from there, and paste it into the Password field.
    Enter Server and Credentials

  5. Connect and Verify

    • Click Save.
    • Click Connect. (May take a few minutes).
    • Check your IP address to verify the VPN connection.
    Check your IP address to verify the VPN connection. Check your IP address to verify the VPN connection. Check your IP address to verify the VPN connection.
    Connect and Verify
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Tips

  • Use a reputable VPN provider. While this method uses a free service, be aware of potential limitations and security considerations.
  • Connection speed may vary depending on server location and internet speed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using an Untrusted VPN Website or Link

Reason: Many websites offering free VPN services are unreliable and may contain malware or track your activity.
Solution: Only use reputable and well-reviewed VPN websites and verify their legitimacy before proceeding.

2. Misconfiguring the VPN Connection Settings

Reason: Incorrectly entering the server address, username, or password can prevent the VPN from connecting.
Solution: Double-check all the VPN settings for accuracy against the provider's instructions.

3. Ignoring Security Warnings or Errors

Reason: Dismissing security warnings or error messages related to the VPN connection can expose your system to vulnerabilities.
Solution: Address any security warnings or error messages promptly and thoroughly investigate their cause before proceeding.

FAQs

Isn't using a browser VPN extension less secure than a full VPN application?
While browser extensions offer some privacy benefits by encrypting your browser traffic, they don't protect all your network activity like a full system VPN. Only traffic routed through your browser is protected. If you need complete system-wide protection, a dedicated VPN app is recommended.