To set up a VPN on Windows 10, select Start > Settings > Network & Internet > VPN > Add a VPN connection. Choose Windows (built-in), enter a connection name and the server address from your VPN provider or workplace, pick the VPN type and sign-in info, and select Save. Then select the network icon on the taskbar, pick the VPN, and select Connect.
Applies to: Windows 10. Checked against Microsoft Support on September 26, 2026.
You need the server address and sign-in details from whoever runs the VPN, such as your company, school, or VPN service. Many VPN services also offer their own app, which sets this up for you.
Add a VPN connection
- Select Start > Settings > Network & Internet > VPN.
- Select Add a VPN connection.
- For VPN provider, choose Windows (built-in).
- Enter a Connection name you’ll recognize, and the Server name or address.
- Choose the VPN type your provider uses, or leave it on Automatic.
- Choose the Type of sign-in info, such as User name and password or Certificate, and fill in any details.
- Select Save.
Which VPN type should I pick?
Use the type your provider or IT team gives you. If they say any type works:
- IKEv2: fast and reconnects well when a laptop switches networks.
- SSTP: uses the same port as secure websites, so it works on networks that block other VPNs.
- L2TP/IPsec: needs a pre-shared key or certificate from your provider.
- PPTP: old and much less secure. Avoid it unless nothing else is offered. Microsoft is also phasing out PPTP and L2TP in future versions of Windows Server.
Connect and disconnect
- Select the network icon on the taskbar.
- Select the VPN connection, then Connect. Enter your sign-in details if asked.
- To disconnect, select the VPN again and select Disconnect.
You can also connect from Settings > Network & Internet > VPN.
Edit or remove a VPN connection
In Settings > Network & Internet > VPN, select the connection. Select Advanced options > Edit to change the details, or Remove to delete it.
VPN settings worth checking
- In Settings > Network & Internet > VPN, turn off Allow VPN over metered networks if you want to avoid using mobile data.
- Turn off Allow VPN while roaming to stop it connecting over mobile networks abroad.
- If your provider uses a proxy, add it under the connection’s Advanced options.
Common VPN error codes
- Error 691: the user name or password is wrong. Check them, and check whether the account needs a domain name, such as COMPANY\name.
- Error 809: your network, router or firewall is blocking the VPN. Try another network, or ask your provider about SSTP.
- Error 868: Windows can’t find the server. Check the server address for typos.
- Connected, but websites don’t load: the VPN may not pass internet traffic. Ask your provider or IT team whether that’s expected.
Frequently asked questions
Does Windows 10 come with a free VPN service?
No. Windows 10 has a VPN client, which connects to a VPN server. You still need a server from your workplace or a VPN service.
The VPN won’t connect. What should I check?
Check the server address and VPN type with your provider, make sure your internet works without the VPN, and try again. If other connections are also failing, see how to reset network settings in Windows 10.
Can I use custom DNS with a VPN?
Usually the VPN sets its own DNS servers while connected. For your normal connection, see how to change DNS in Windows 10.
Do I need the built-in client if my VPN has an app?
No. A VPN service’s own app usually sets everything up and adds extra features, such as choosing a country. The built-in client is handy for work VPNs and providers without an app.
Some work VPNs sign in with a certificate. To see the certificates on your PC, see how to open Certificate Manager in Windows 10.
A VPN connection has its own proxy setting. For the rest of your PC, see how to change proxy settings in Windows 10.
On Windows 11, you can switch a VPN off from the taskbar. See how to turn off a VPN in Windows 11.
Microsoft’s guide is Connect to a VPN in Windows. More help is on our Windows Help & Guides page.
Related: How to install a certificate on Windows 10.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.