The Windows VPN app version 3.17.0 is no longer supported. To improve your experience, Malwarebytes now combines VPN features with our Security app, allowing you to manage both in one application.
To keep using your VPN subscription, please download our Desktop Security app. For instructions on how to purchase, install, and activate the new app, refer to our Desktop Security Quick Start Guide.
On the Settings section of VPN, you can update the app, check your subscription expiration date and make configurations. To view Settings, click the cog icon at the top-right of the application.
The following settings are displayed in the VPN for Windows.
Overview of the VPN general tab
- Auto launch: determines if the VPN application automatically opens when you turn on your Windows device. To have the application automatically connect to a privacy server, toggle Auto connect ON. By default, the Auto launch toggle is switched ON.
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Auto connect: lets you choose when you want the VPN to connect automatically. The two options are switched off by default.
- When app is launched: Switch on this toggle if you want the VPN to connect automatically to a server when connected on a trusted network.
- When connecting to untrusted networks: Switch on this toggle to auto-connect the VPN when you join a public or untrusted network.
- Dark mode: lets you choose between light or dark themes for the VPN. By default, this toggle is OFF. Click this toggle OFF if you prefer the VPN to display with dark text over a light background. Click this toggle ON if you prefer the VPN to display with light text over a dark background.
- Language: By default, the language is set to the one you chose during the installation. To change, click the drop-down arrow to choose a language.
Overview of the VPN network tab
- Trust local devices: determines if other devices on your home network can share data directly with your Windows device, such as a home printer. If you use a mobile or laptop device, we recommend you turn this toggle OFF. If you are using a desktop device on your trusted home network, you can leave this toggle ON. By default, this toggle is ON.
- Connection mode: allows you to tunnel your connection through two servers, instead of one. This adds an additional layer of privacy to your online activity, but may slow connection speed. To configure this setting, see Connection mode in the VPN for Windows.
- Alternate DNS: protects you from data leaks and data logging from third-party servers. Choosing a different Domain Name System (DNS) means that you will not use the VPN's DNS server. We do not recommend setting an alternate DNS server unless you know and trust the new IP address. Click Edit to enter an alternate DNS server.
- Connection rules: controls which items require the VPN to be on to access them or which items are routed around the VPN when it's on. To configure this setting, see Connection rules in the VPN for Windows.
- Kill switch: If you lose your VPN connection, the Kill switch stops internet traffic from entering and leaving your device. With the kill switch on, you cannot connect to the Internet unless the VPN is connected. The VPN automatically turns on the Auto launch and Auto connect in your Settings. By default, this toggle is disabled. When enabled, the VPN locks your information from being exposed.
- Tunnel driver: We recommend not changing your tunnel driver from the default. If you make changes and need help, contact support.
Overview of the About tab
- Product Information: shows your VPN software version. Below, a blue Check for updates button displays. Click this button to update to the latest app version. An orange dot on the cog icon also indicates when an update is available. Click it to go to the Settings where you can update the VPN.
- Subscription: shows the expiration date for your VPN subscription.
- Activate a new device: Click this option to install the VPN on other Windows, Mac, iOS, or Android devices using a QR code or download link.
- View product information and support: takes you to the VPN guide in your web browser.