How to use a VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi

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Secure ConfigMedium priority

About 20 minutes to complete

A VPN is a free or cheap app that scrambles your connection when you use public Wi-Fi in coffee shops, hotels, and airports. Without one, anyone else on the same network could potentially read your emails or login details.

Step-by-step guide

Choose a reputable VPN provider: Mullvad, ProtonVPN, or NordVPN have strong privacy track records. Avoid free VPNs. Many log and sell your data.
Install the VPN app on your phone and laptop.
Turn on the VPN every time you connect to a public Wi-Fi network, in a hotel, airport, café, or anywhere you do not control the network.
Check that the VPN is active before entering any login credentials or accessing banking apps on public Wi-Fi.
Your home broadband does not require a VPN. The risk applies specifically to public and shared networks.

5 steps

Why this matters

Public Wi-Fi networks in coffee shops, hotels, and airports are often unsecured. Without a VPN, anyone else on the same network could potentially intercept your login credentials, emails, and banking details. A VPN encrypts your connection so your data cannot be read in transit.

How to confirm it worked

The setting is saved and active on your device
You have tested it works before closing the page

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Want a device-specific walkthrough?

Android: Using a VPN on Android →
Windows: Using a VPN on Windows →

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