- The configuration of a VPN en Windows 11 allows you to protect your privacy and improve security when browsing.
- There are manual and automatic methods for adding and managing VPN connections, suitable for both inexperienced and advanced users.
- Correct selection of settings, protocols, and authentication ensures efficient and stable access to networks and services, whether professional or personal.
Nowadays, having a secure and private connection is essential, whether you are browsing for work or searching forprivacy in your daily life. Windows 11 offers very powerful built-in options that allow you to manage everything directly from the operating system to configure a VPN.
If ever you wondered How to set up your own VPN from scratch on Windows 11Whether you're looking for a solution to your digital security needs, what benefits it can bring, or simply want to improve your digital security, this article is for you. Here you'll find a comprehensive explanation tailored to all levels, from basic concepts to advanced details of manual or automatic configuration.
What is a VPN and why should you use it on Windows 11?
VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. This technology creates a encrypted tunnel between your computer and the Internet, reinforcing the Privacy and security of your personal data against threats or trackers. When you access a public Wi-Fi network, such as in a coffee shop, a VPN is the barrier essential between your data and other people's eyes.
The main reasons to use a VPN on your Windows 11 PC are as follows:
- Privacy Protection: Your data circulates encrypted, making it difficult for third parties or cybercriminals to intercept it.
- Anonymity while browsing: You change your real IP to that of the VPN server, hiding your location and making it difficult to track you.
- Access to restricted resources: You can connect to services or content that are only available from certain regions or internal company networks.
- Security on public connections: Especially recommended on open Wi-Fi networks, where unprotected exposure poses a risk.
Additionally, a home VPN also allows you to create a private network between devices, making it easy to share files and resources securely, even remotely.
Methods to set up a VPN on Windows 11
In Windows 11 you have two main ways to set up your VPN: the automatic method, which is simpler and recommended for most users, and the manual method, which offers complete control over each parameter.
Automatic method: using official applications
The simplest way is to install an app from a reliable VPN provider.. These apps They are usually available in the Microsoft Store or on the vendor's website, and they make the whole process easier:
- Download and install the official VPN client from your favorite provider (X-VPN, NordVPN, etc.).
- Log in with your credentials or create an account.
- Select the desired server, protocol type and security options. You can usually change the location, choose servers optimized for streaming, games or downloads, and customize features like encryption or ad blocking.
- Connect with the touch of a buttonThe app manages all the parameters, establishing the connection in seconds.
This method is ideal if you want to enjoy all the benefits of a VPN quickly and easily, while also taking advantage of extra features like firewalls, dark web monitoring, and multiple locations.
Manual Method: Setting Up VPN from Scratch on Windows 11
If you prefer full control over your settings, or need to connect to a corporate or university network, Windows 11 lets you create VPN profiles directly from the system settings.
Basic steps to set up your own VPN connection in Windows 11:
- Open the start menu and go to Settings.
- Go to 'Network & Internet' and select the VPN section.
- Click 'Add a VPN connection'.
- Complete the fields with the information provided by your supplier or company:
- VPN Provider: Choose 'Windows (built-in)'.
- Connection name: Add an identifying name ('My Personal VPN', 'Business VPN', etc.).
- Server address: Enter the IP or domain of the VPN server.
- VPN Type: Select the appropriate protocol (PPTP, L2TP/IPsec, SSTP, or IKEv2).
- Credential Type: Specify whether you will use a username/password, certificate, smart card, or another method.
- Enter your login details if necessary.
- Save your settings and, if necessary, adjust the 'Advanced Options' to modify aspects such as proxy or remote gateway.
This process allows you to customize your connection and is valid for both personal and professional use. You can limit access, define specific rules, or modify parameters as needed.
How to connect and manage your VPN on Windows 11
Once you've created your VPN profile, connecting is easy:
- Click the network icon in the taskbar (bottom right corner).
- Select the VPN you configured from the connections list.
- Click 'Connect'. If a username and password are required, enter the necessary information.
- You'll see a successful connection when the 'Connected' prompt appears under the VPN name.
To verify that everything is working correctly, the blue shield in the taskbar confirms that the VPN is active. You can also check the status from the VPN section in Settings.
Advanced Settings: Options, Settings, and Professional Uses
Windows 11 allows you to adjust the VPN for specific cases, especially in business environments:
- License and Device Management: supports VPN in all its major editions and can be managed from tools such as Microsoft Intune.
- Configuration profiles for companies: define centralized parameters, manage certificates, and authenticate using smart cards or EAP certificates.
- Advanced features of 'Always On': Automatically turn on VPN when you log in, switch networks, or wake your device.
- Application of traffic rules and filtering: make only certain apps use the VPN or set specific routes based on IP or ports.
- DNS and proxy settings: specify DNS servers, split tunneling routes, and custom proxies.
- Split Tunneling: allows only traffic destined for corporate resources to pass through the VPN, while the rest uses the normal connection.
Set up your own VPN server at home from Windows 11
To create a home VPN server and access your network or share resources, follow these advanced steps:
- Access the classic Control Panel and under 'Network and Sharing Center' select 'Change adapter settings'.
- Press F10 to display the hidden menu and select 'File' > 'New Incoming Connection'.
- Choose or create the user account for the VPN.
- Select 'Via the Internet' to allow external access.
- Adjust the protocols and IP range for the clients. They should be in the same range as your local network.
- Open port 1723 on your router, pointing to your local IP.
- Allows the 'Routing and Remote Access' application in the Firewall Windows Defender, enabling both public and private networks.
For a complete guide on how to set up a home VPN, also check out our section on Configure Active Directory on Windows Server and other related resources.
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