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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. Can I use one VPN for all my devices?
   Yes, most providers allow simultaneous connections across multiple platforms (Windows, Android, iOS, macOS).
5. 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..