The idea behind of virtual private network (VPN) is to provide a point-to-point encrypted tunnel that uses the internet as the primary highway to connect users to a remote network offering access to the same resources as if the user was physically present at the remote location. While people who aren’t tech-savvy may find a little difficult to configure and understand this technology, Windows 10 includes easy-to-configure options in the Settings app to get connected to a private network without the need of extra software. In this guide, you’ll learn the steps to set up a VPN connection using the Settings app on Windows 10. In addition, you’ll learn the advanced options available, the steps to disconnect and remove a VPN connection from your device.

How to add VPN connection on Windows 10 How to connect to a VPN server on Windows 10 How to change VPN advanced options on Windows 10

How to add VPN connection on Windows 10

Use these steps to use the built-in VPN client to connect to a remote private network on Windows 10: Once you complete the setup, the new connection will be listed under the VPN section on Network & internet. Add a VPN connection on Windows 10 New VPN connection settings on Windows 10

Point to Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP) L2TP/IPsec with certificate L2TP/IPsec with pre-shared key Secure Socket Tunneling Protocol (SSTP) IKEv2

How to connect to a VPN server on Windows 10

After setting up a new VPN connection, you can use it to access your home or work office to access resources as if you’re at the site.

Connecting VPN server

Use these steps to connect to a virtual private network on Windows 10: Alternatively, you can also also connect to VPN server by clicking the network icon in the notification area of the taskbar, select the VPN connection from the network flyout menu, and clicking the Connect button. If everything is working correctly, the time to connect shouldn’t take more than two seconds. You’ll know your device is connected to the remote network because the connection will read Connected. Connecting to VPN server

Disconnecting VPN session

Use these steps to disconnect from a virtual private network on Windows 10: Alternatively, you can also click the network icon in the notification area of the taskbar, selec the VPN connection, and click the Disconnect button.

Removing VPN connection

Use these steps to remove a VPN connection on Windows 10: After you complete the steps, the VPN connection will be removed from your computer. Delete VPN connection on Windows 10

How to change VPN advanced options on Windows 10

If there is a problem trying to connect, or down the road requirements to connect to a remote network changes, you will need to re-configure the VPN connection settings. Use these steps to change the advanced settings of a VPN connection on Windows 10: On the main Windows 10 VPN setup section, you will also find additional settings, such as Allow VPN connections over Metered networks and Allow VPN to connect while Roaming (refer to previous image). You should consider to have these options enabled at all times, even more if you need to access a private network and you’re using a mobile hotspot. VPN connection advanced settings VPN advanced settings on Windows 10 If you’re looking to connect to your home network using a VPN connection, check these steps to configure a VPN server on your Windows 10 PC without the need of extra software. Update July 1, 2019: This guide was originally published in March 2016, and it’s revised in July 2019 for the latest version of Windows 10 All content on this site is provided with no warranties, express or implied. Use any information at your own risk. Always backup of your device and files before making any changes. Privacy policy info.