You may have noticed the Windows 10 VPN client if you use Windows 10 on your PC. Its name suggests that you don’t require a dedicated VPN service and can turn it on whenever you need extra safety and security. However, if you dig a bit further, you may be dissatisfied with what the built-in VPN client does for you.
While the built-in client may be sufficient for some, others will want more. Continue reading to learn all you need to know about the Windows 10 VPN and if it’s worth utilizing.
Looking at the bigger picture: What is the Windows VPN client?
As of January 2023, Windows remains the dominating desktop operating system, with over 74% of the market share. Although Windows 11 is the newest iteration, over a billion PCs worldwide are still running Windows 10. That’s a lot of devices without the protection they might not know they need.
The Windows 10 built-in VPN client isn’t precisely a VPN. You read ‘VPN client,’ assuming it will meet all your VPN requirements. On the other hand, the Windows 10 VPN software is not a standalone free VPN for Windows service. It’s desktop software that allows you to connect to a third-party VPN network independently.
To use the Windows 10 VPN app, you must still subscribe to a ‘real’ VPN provider. This does imply that you will not need to download any additional software, which will please some. However, are the features of the Windows 10 VPN worthwhile when you can get a different reliable VPN provider?
Why the Windows 10 VPN client isn’t the best choice
The client could be more user-friendly.
The built-in VPN client in Windows 10 could be better for everyone. It requires technical expertise because it questions you about protocol options and other aspects that most VPN service clients no longer inquire about. They’re significantly more user-friendly and intuitive than the Windows option. There’s also the issue of installing another software after signing up for a VPN service.
Given that you must subscribe to a VPN to utilize the Windows 10 option, most users may find using that company’s program easier. It is significantly simpler and more effective to use your preferred VPN program instead, as it is often better designed and far faster to use. Switching between servers will be faster, and the whole experience will be considerably smoother than using the Windows technique.
You need to set up connection profiles.
After you’ve connected your entire VPN service to the Windows 10 VPN client, the rest is easy. Unfortunately, there are some additional constraints.
To utilize it, you must first create a connection profile, and each profile can only have one server address and one connection protocol. If you often transfer between multiple servers using VPN, this instantly limits your possibilities unless you continually generate new accounts.
In some ways, it’s easier because you generally connect to the same few servers each time, but switching between the quickest servers is more complicated. However, it takes longer with the Windows 10 client than with a standard VPN program.
A dedicated VPN client has better incentives and features
The VPN client in Windows 10 is fundamental. When various VPN programs become more appealing, it is one of the more technical aspects of Windows. VPN service clients, at their most basic, provide maps that assist you in choosing which location server you wish to connect to, but they also include other capabilities that may be useful.
Depending on the VPN, this may be something critical, such as an incorporated kill switch, which cuts your connection if the VPN connection stops. These features are helpful for many users, and they come standard with the VPN program created with your VPN in mind. The Windows 10 client cannot compete in this regard.
Why you should use a dedicated VPN instead
Using a dedicated VPN means privacy. This is more about the notion that any present worries, but the reality is that it’s far too easy for the government, huge enterprises, or any other entity that obtains ISP data to follow and log your online activity. That may not be a significant issue for the average individual, but it may come into play in the future.
Even if you’re not afraid of being tracked, it’s worth investing in a VPN if you believe people should have unrestricted access to the internet without fear of government spying.
On-the-go security is also a significant problem. A VPN is strongly advised if you own a laptop and use it to access the internet in public places.
Connecting to WiFi in public places such as a coffee shop or a library might expose your device to hackers or allow your personal information to be compromised. Passwords, bank card numbers, and other sensitive details submitted while connecting to public WiFi might be readily hacked.
Conclusion
While Windows 10 has a built-in VPN client, it’s not all it is chalked up to be. Installing a dedicated VPN for your Windows device is best for guaranteed security and ease of use.
