How to Configure VPN Settings Securely in Windows 11

Learn to manually configure and manage secure VPN connections in Windows 11 settings to ensure data privacy and prevent connection leaks.

1. Navigate to the VPN settings menu. Open the Settings app by pressing Win + I. Navigate to Network & internet in the left sidebar, then select VPN from the main settings pane.
2. Add a new VPN connection. Click the Add VPN button. Select Windows (built-in) as the VPN provider. Enter a descriptive connection name, the server address provided by your service, and select the appropriate VPN type, such as L2TP/IPsec or IKEv2.
3. Enable the Kill Switch functionality. Within the same VPN settings menu, locate Advanced network settings. Select the VPN connection, click Advanced options, and ensure Block unauthorized access (Kill Switch) is toggled to On. This prevents your device from sending unencrypted data if the VPN connection drops.
4. Test the connection integrity. Return to the VPN menu and click Connect on your newly configured profile. Once connected, open your web browser and navigate to a DNS leak test site to confirm your traffic is routed through the VPN server and not your local ISP.
5. Manage VPN bypass settings. If you require local network access while using the VPN, ensure Split Tunneling is configured if your provider supports it. You can manage these rules in the Advanced options of your VPN profile by excluding specific local IP ranges from the tunnel.