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VPN Guide • Updated for 2026

Proton VPN Setup Guide: Privacy Posture & Settings That Matter

How to configure Proton VPN for a stronger privacy posture — what to enable, what to skip, and the trade-offs to expect.
Time: 5–10 min Difficulty: Intermediate Watch: speed vs privacy
Jump to setup ↓ Proton VPN review Methodology Affiliate Disclosure
Quick setup (TL;DR)
  • Install Proton VPN from the official site or app store.
  • Sign in and choose a Plus or Secure Core server if privacy matters.
  • Enable Kill Switch (and consider Permanent Kill Switch).
  • Use WireGuard or OpenVPN depending on your network.
  • Accept slower speeds when using privacy-first features.

What you need before you start

  • A Proton account (free or paid)
  • Proton VPN app for your device
  • Admin access for desktop installs

Privacy note: Proton VPN’s design prioritizes transparency and jurisdictional caution over raw speed.

Step-by-step Proton VPN setup

Step 1 — Install and sign in

  • Download Proton VPN for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, or Linux.
  • Sign in with your Proton account.

Step 2 — Choose the right server type

  • Free servers: basic protection, limited locations.
  • Plus servers: better performance and location choice.
  • Secure Core: routes traffic through privacy-friendly countries first.

Secure Core improves privacy posture but often reduces speed. This is an intentional trade-off.

Step 3 — Enable Kill Switch

  • Go to Settings → Connection.
  • Enable Kill Switch.
  • Optionally enable Permanent Kill Switch (advanced).

Step 4 — Select protocol

  • WireGuard: best balance for most users.
  • OpenVPN: useful on restrictive networks.

Step 5 — Verify connection

  • Confirm IP address change.
  • Run DNS and IP leak tests.

Optional features — when to use them

  • Secure Core: Use when privacy matters more than speed.
  • NetShield: Reduces trackers and malicious domains.
  • Tor over VPN: For advanced threat models only.

Common mistakes (and fixes)

  1. Expecting fast speeds with Secure Core: choose Plus servers instead.
  2. Ignoring Kill Switch: increases leak risk.
  3. Overusing Permanent Kill Switch: can break connectivity if misused.
  4. Assuming “no-logs” equals anonymity: accounts still identify you.
  5. Using free servers for sensitive tasks: upgrade if privacy matters.

Reality check

  • Proton VPN emphasizes trust, audits, and jurisdiction.
  • Privacy features reduce risk but do not eliminate tracking.
  • Higher privacy settings usually mean lower speeds.

If convenience and speed matter more than privacy posture, a mainstream VPN may feel easier.

What to do next

FAQ

  • Is Secure Core always better? No — it improves privacy but reduces speed.
  • Should I use Permanent Kill Switch? Only if you understand the trade-offs.
  • Is Proton VPN good for beginners? It’s usable, but less “set-and-forget.”
  • Does Proton VPN make me anonymous? No — it reduces exposure, not identity tracking.
  • Is the free plan safe? Yes, but limited in performance and locations.

Bottom line

Proton VPN is best when privacy posture and trust signals matter more than speed or simplicity. Use Secure Core and strong kill switch settings when needed — and accept the trade-offs intentionally.

Read full Proton VPN review Best VPNs for Privacy (2026)
Methodology • Affiliate disclosure