We're such big advocates of VPNs because we know how exposed we can be without them these days.
But getting one and knowing how to get the best out of your new layer of VPN privacy protection are two very different things. That's why it's important to make a few tweaks before you get up and running fully.
1. Turn on the kill switch
Use your kill switch. It's not just a badass sounding feature but it is actually one of the most important weapons in your VPN arsenal against snoopers.
The kill switch will automatically terminate your internet connection should your VPN drop out. Why is this important?
Without this, your real IP address and unencrypted traffic could be left exposed.
This can happen for many reasons: from switching wi-fi networks to losing mobile signal or putting your device to sleep. If your device reconnects without the VPN active, you could be exposed when you presume you're secure.
A kill switch can be system-wide to block all traffic until the VPN is back online, or a version that only works when the VPN is active.
So, you can adjust to suit your level of security needs. Dive into the settings and see what works best for you but, either way, make sure to use your kill switch.
2. Auto connect on untrusted wi-fi
Similar to the above, if you have a VPN but it's not active then you're not only wasting time and money but are also leaving yourself open to prying eyes.
As such, it pays to have your VPN setup to automatically fire up whenever you are at risk. This can be the case when on public wi-fi connections like in cafes, at hotels or in airports.
Toggle on your auto connect and you won't need to remember to open or even turn on your VPN, it will automatically do that when it detects your on a new wi-fi connection.
Usefully, some VPNs let you define what networks are trusted, like at home, where it won't auto connect. This can get you the best of both worlds with both protection and convenience.
3. Pick protocols perfectly
Dive down into the VPN protocol options on your service and suddenly you're able to fine tune how it works to suit your needs. Some protocols favor security, while others are more about speed, for example.
Many decent VPNs now default to an option like WireGuard, which gets you a healthy balance of both speed and security. That makes choices like this ideal for daily use streaming, gaming and web browsing. But sometimes older choices can serve specific tasks.
OpenVPN, for example, might be older but it's highly secure and adaptive — allowing you to run it on multiple devices. This can be a good choice on highly restrictive networks where you may not otherwise be able to get your VPN up and running well.
A nice balance is to start using a recommended VPN protocol to see if that works fine. Should you run into issues, like trying to remain hidden while streaming or getting online behind restricted networks, then go into manual mode and try a different protocol.
Having this option can mean whatever situation you find yourself in, your VPN should be able to serve you with the right protocol pick.
4. Disable split tunnelling
Split tunneling can be a useful feature, allowing you to stay in VPN mode for certain apps but outside of it for others. This can be helpful if you want to stay local for your banking, for example, but still want to remain in your VPN tunnel for other apps like streaming or gaming.
The problem that comes from this is more complexity and potential for privacy gaps.
For this reason, you could just as easily disable it unless you specifically have a need. Otherwise, you could potentially forget which apps are covered and which are not, potentially leaving your personal data exposed.
So, no fault of the VPN then, but this does create the potential for human error.
Unless you have a clear and specific reason to use split tunneling, you may as well turn it off. Then, should you need it — or feel more comfortable using your VPN and all its settings at a later stage — it's always there, ready to be turned on.
5. Enable notifications and alerts
While a VPN running quietly in the background is a great way to effortlessly stay covered, you can run the risk of taking for granted that all is running as expected.
By enabling basic notifications you can be alerted should anything go wrong or otherwise. So you're aware when your VPN connects, when it disconnects or when it switches servers. All that keeps you safely informed and in control.
When it comes to mobile devices these notifications can be of great use. It's here that connections can jump and change between wi-fi and networks, and apps can be closed or paused by the OS — sometimes including the VPN.
A notification can set your mind at ease so you know when you're connected, safe in the knowledge you'll be notified should that change.
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example: 1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service). 2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad. We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
