How to Set Up a VPN on Windows

Windows can connect to a VPN either through an app or through its own built-in VPN settings. Which route you use depends on what your account lists. This guide shows both, along with how to check the result and what to do if it does not work.

You need an active pass first. If you have not bought one yet, or you are not sure where your details are, read getting started with XPASS first.

Before you begin

1. Open My Pass and confirm that your pass is delivered and has days remaining.
2. Note the app or connection details listed for Windows, and have your login details ready. Copy and paste them to avoid typing errors.
3. Make sure the PC has a working internet connection and that you can install software. On a work or school computer, the administrator may block VPN installation.
4. Run Windows Update if a restart is pending. It is not required, but it avoids confusing errors.

Option A: use the app listed on My Pass

1. Download the app only from the source named on your My Pass page. Avoid search results that look similar.
2. Run the installer. Windows may ask for permission to make changes; confirm if you started the installation yourself.
3. If the installer asks to add a network adapter or driver, that is normal for VPN software, because the app needs a virtual network connection.
4. Open the app and sign in with the details from My Pass.
5. Press the app's connect control and wait for the connected status.

Option B: add a VPN connection in Windows settings

Use this when My Pass gives you connection details for a manual setup.

1. Open Settings and go to Network & internet > VPN. Layout varies a little between Windows 10 and Windows 11.
2. Select Add VPN (in some versions, Add a VPN connection).
3. For VPN provider, choose Windows (built-in) unless your details say otherwise.
4. Enter a Connection name you will recognise.
5. Enter the Server name or address exactly as shown on My Pass.
6. Choose the VPN type that My Pass lists. If it does not state one, leave Automatic.
7. For Type of sign-in info, choose the option that matches your details, then enter your username and password.
8. Select Save.
9. Select the new connection in the list and choose Connect.

After this first time, you can connect from the network icon on the taskbar. Select the icon, choose your VPN entry and connect. Microsoft's own guide, linked in the references, covers the same menus.

Check that it works

1. With the VPN off, open a browser and search for "what is my IP". Note the address.
2. Connect the VPN and refresh. The address should change.
3. Open a few ordinary websites to confirm they load.

For further checks, including DNS, see how to check if your VPN is working.

Tips for everyday use

• Connect before you open sensitive accounts on shared networks. Remote workers can read more at VPN for remote work.
• Keep Windows and the VPN app up to date.
• Close and reopen the app, rather than reinstalling it, if it behaves oddly.

If it does not work

• Sign-in fails. Paste the details again from My Pass, check for extra spaces, and make sure the pass still has days remaining.
• Connection error. Re-check the server address and VPN type in your saved connection. A single wrong character will stop it.
• Connected but sites will not load. Disconnect and reconnect. If that does not help, restart the PC and test with another network, such as a phone hotspot.
• The installer is blocked. Antivirus or administrator policies may be stopping it. On a managed PC, ask the administrator.
• Frequent disconnects. Weak Wi-Fi is the usual cause. Move closer to the router or use a cable, and read improving connection stability.
• Cannot find the VPN menu. Search for "VPN" in Settings.

A VPN protects the traffic between your PC and the VPN. It does not make you anonymous or stop malware and phishing.

Summary

Take your details from My Pass, install the listed app or add a connection under Settings > Network & internet > VPN, connect, and confirm that your IP address changes. Menus can differ between Windows versions, so search Settings when in doubt. If you want more time later, see the pricing page or renew from My Pass.