Windows 10 includes a built-in VPN client. If your work, school, or VPN provider gave you a server address, VPN type, and login, you can add the connection without installing another app.
This guide covers manual VPN setup in Windows 10. Many commercial VPN providers still work better through their own apps, especially for server switching and split tunneling.
Does This Affect You?
Use the built-in VPN client when you already have exact connection details. If you only subscribed to a consumer VPN service, try that provider’s app first unless you were told to configure Windows manually.
Add the VPN Connection
- Open Settings > Network & Internet > VPN.
- Click Add a VPN connection.
- Set VPN provider to Windows (built-in).
- Enter a recognizable connection name.
- Enter the server name or address you were given.
- Choose the VPN type, such as Automatic, IKEv2, SSTP, PPTP, or L2TP/IPsec, based on your provider’s instructions.
- Choose the sign-in method, usually username and password.
- Save the connection.
Connect and Disconnect
- Click the network icon in the taskbar or return to VPN settings.
- Select the VPN connection and click Connect.
- Enter credentials if prompted.
- Confirm the connection shows Connected.
- Use the same menu and click Disconnect when finished.
Fix a VPN That Will Not Connect
- Check the server address, VPN type, username, and password for typos.
- Confirm normal internet access works without the VPN.
- If VPN type is Automatic, try the specific protocol your provider supports.
- Temporarily check whether third-party antivirus or firewall software is blocking the connection, then turn protection back on.
- For work or school VPNs, ask IT to confirm your account and server details are still valid.
Useful VPN Settings
Connect Automatically
In the VPN connection advanced options, enable automatic connection if you want Windows to reconnect after restart or a dropped connection.
Mark as Metered
Use metered connection if the VPN runs over a hotspot or limited data plan so Windows and apps reduce background traffic.
Split Tunneling
The built-in Windows client is limited for excluding specific apps from the VPN. Use the provider’s dedicated app if you need split tunneling.
Sources
- Microsoft Support: Windows VPN connection setup
- Microsoft Support: Fix VPN connection problems in Windows
- Microsoft Learn: VPN profile options