In today’s interconnected world, online security and privacy have become paramount. As the digital landscape evoles, browsers are incorporating more tools to safeguard user information. Microsoft Edge, not wanting to be left behind, now offers a built-in VPN service that allows you to protect your data and browse the web anonymously. This user-friendly guide will walk you through the simple steps to enable the free VPN on Microsoft Edge. Whether you’re using Windows 11 or Windows 10, you’ll be up and running with enhanced online security in no time.
How to Turn On Free VPN on Microsoft Edge?
To enable a free VPN on Microsoft Edge, follow these simple steps:-
Step 1. First, launch Microsoft Edge on your Windows 11 or Windows 10 computer. You can easily find the Edge icon in your taskbar or Start menu.
Step 2. Once Microsoft Edge is open, look for the “Settings and More” button in the browser window’s top-right corner. Three horizontal dots represent it. Click on this button to reveal a drop-down menu.
Step 3. From the drop-down menu, select the “Settings” option to open the Microsoft Edge settings panel, where you can customize various aspects of the browser.
Step 4. In the settings panel, locate and click on the “Privacy, search, and Services” option. This section allows you to manage privacy settings and access additional services provided by Microsoft Edge.
Step 5. Scroll down the page until you find the “Security” section. Within this section, you will see the “Microsoft Edge Secure Network” option. Toggle the switch to the “On” position. This will enable the built-in VPN feature.
Note: Ensure you are signed in with your Microsoft account for the VPN feature to work effectively.
Step 6. Microsoft Edge provides two VPN options. The first option is “Optimized,” which automatically enables the VPN when you’re connected to a public wireless network or visit a site without a valid certificate. The second option is “Select Sites,” which allows you to specify certain websites that should use the VPN. Choose the option that best suits your needs. If you select “Optimized,” the VPN will activate on public networks, but streaming and video content will not use the VPN service. If you choose “Select Sites,” you can add specific websites where you want the VPN to be active while all other traffic will be routed outside the VPN.
Step 7. After selecting your preferred VPN option, you’re all set! The VPN on Microsoft Edge is now enabled.
You will notice a shield icon in the top-right corner of the browser window. This icon indicates that the VPN is active. If you haven’t signed in with your Microsoft account, you can use this icon to log in.
Customize Your VPN Settings If you want to fine-tune your VPN experience and specify which sites should or should not use the VPN, follow these additional steps:-
Step 1. Repeat Steps 1-3 to access the settings menu.
Step 2. Navigate to “Privacy, search, and services” as before.
Step 3. Under the “Microsoft Edge Secure Network” section, select “Select Sites.”
Step 4. Click on “Manage Secure Network settings.”
Step 5. To add a site where you want to use the VPN, click the “Add a site” button under “Always use Secure Network for the sites you choose.”
Step 6. Enter the website’s name and click the “Add” button.
Step 7. Repeat Step 6 to add more websites to the VPN list.
Step 8. To exclude certain sites from using the VPN, follow the same process under “Never use Secure Network for the sites you choose.”
Conclusion
Ensuring online privacy and security is a top concern in our digital era, and browsers are constantly adapting to offer users the best protective tools. Microsoft Edge has taken a significant step by integrating a free VPN service, enabling users to surf the web with added confidentiality. With this user-friendly guide, Windows 10 and Windows 11 users can effortlessly activate this feature and bolster their online safety. Whether you’re just looking for an extra layer of protection on public networks or want to specify which websites use the VPN, Microsoft Edge has you covered.
