How to Get a VPN: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners & Professionals
Updated on July 9, 2025, by Xcitium
Ever wonder how to get a VPN and why it’s a hot topic in cybersecurity circles today? In a world where digital surveillance, cyber threats, and privacy breaches are commonplace, a VPN (Virtual Private Network) has gone from a geeky tool to a digital necessity.
Whether you’re an individual looking to secure your connection or an IT leader protecting enterprise data, understanding how to get a VPN is essential.
What Is a VPN?
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) creates a secure, encrypted connection between your device and the internet. It acts like a private tunnel through which your data travels, keeping it safe from hackers, ISPs, or even government monitoring.
Benefits include:
- Hiding your IP address
- Bypassing geo-blocks and censorship
- Secure public Wi-Fi usage
- Improved anonymity online
How to Get a VPN: Step-by-Step for All Users
1. Choose the Right VPN Provider
Before installing anything, decide between:
- Paid VPNs – Better security, speed, and features
- Free VPNs – Limited capabilities but good for beginners
(Keyword: Get a VPN for free)
Tip: Research VPN services like VPN Gate (a free project from Japan) or try freemium models offered by premium providers.
2. How to Get a VPN on Android
- Go to Google Play Store
- Search for your chosen VPN app
- Download and install
- Open the app and connect to a server location
3. How to Get a VPN on Windows 10
There are two ways:
Option A: Install a VPN Client
- Download from your VPN provider’s website
- Install and run the application
- Sign in and connect.
Option B: Manual Setup
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet > VPN
- Click “Add a VPN connection”
- Fill in details like VPN server address (free or paid)
How Much Is a VPN?
Most premium VPNs range from $2 to $12 per month, depending on:
- Number of devices supported
- Server locations
- Bandwidth limits
Popular options:
- ExpressVPN
- NordVPN
- ProtonVPN
- Surfshark
Free VPNs exist, but they often include ads, bandwidth limits, and questionable data practices.
Advanced Options: VPN Gate and Server Address Free Tools
If you’re a more technical user, VPN Gate offers an open-source method of connecting to free public VPN servers.
Steps:
- Visit VPN Gate’s public relay server list
- Note the server address
- Configure it in your OS or OpenVPN client
This is useful for countries with heavy censorship or for educational purposes.
Key Features to Look for in a VPN
When evaluating VPNs, prioritize:
- Encryption: AES-256 is industry standard
- No-log Policy: Ensures your activities aren’t stored
- Speed: Look for minimal speed drop
- Ease of Use: Friendly interface
- Customer Support: 24/7 chat is ideal
Common Use Cases for VPNs
- Remote workers: Protect company data
- Travelers: Access home content abroad
- Gamers: Bypass game throttling
- Streaming fans: Watch Netflix, BBC iPlayer, etc., from anywhere
Troubleshooting VPN Issues
- Can’t connect? Try a different server
- Slow speed? Switch protocols (e.g., OpenVPN → WireGuard)
- Website blocked VPNs? Use obfuscation servers
Final Thoughts: Securing Your Online World
Getting a VPN is one of the easiest and smartest moves you can make to protect your online identity and access the open internet securely.
Whether you’re a tech-savvy CEO or just someone browsing in a coffee shop, learning how to get a VPN empowers you to take control of your digital privacy.
✅ Take the Next Step in Cyber Protection
Ready to secure your entire enterprise network or personal browsing experience?
👉 Request a Demo with Xcitium and explore enterprise-grade cybersecurity solutions tailored for your business needs.
📌 FAQ: How to Get a VPN
- Can I get a VPN for free?
Yes, some services offer limited free plans, but for reliable speed and security, a paid VPN is recommended. - How do I get a VPN server address for free?
VPN Gate and some forums list free server addresses. Use with OpenVPN or manually configure. - Is VPN Gate safe to use?
VPN Gate is a research project and generally safe but lacks the privacy guarantee of no-log commercial VPNs. - Can I use one VPN for all my devices?
Yes, most providers allow simultaneous connections across multiple platforms (Windows, Android, iOS, macOS). - What’s the easiest way to get a VPN on Android?
Download from the Google Play Store, install the app, sign in, and connect to a server..
