Ten honest tips for getting real value from a VPN: what it protects, kill switch, DNS leaks, choosing servers, public Wi-Fi and its limits.
A VPN encrypts the traffic between your device and the VPN server, hiding it from your local network and internet provider. It is useful, but it is not a magic privacy shield. These tips help you use one properly.
- Know what it does and does not do. It hides your browsing from your Wi-Fi operator and ISP and masks your IP address from sites. It does not stop tracking by accounts you are logged in to, cookies or malware.
- Turn on the kill switch. This blocks traffic if the VPN connection drops, so nothing leaks unprotected.
- Check for DNS and IP leaks. After connecting, use a reputable leak-test site to make sure your real IP and DNS servers are hidden.
- Use it on public Wi-Fi. Hotel, café and airport networks are where a VPN earns its keep.
- Pick a nearby server for speed. The further the server, the slower the connection is likely to be.
- Use modern protocols. WireGuard (or a provider's version of it, such as NordLynx) is usually faster than older options while staying secure.
- Read the logging policy and audits. Prefer providers whose no-logs claims have been independently audited.
- Enable auto-connect on untrusted networks. You will forget to switch it on manually.
- Respect streaming terms. Using a VPN is legal in the UK, but streaming services may restrict access from VPN servers under their terms.
- Keep everything updated. The VPN app, your operating system and your browser all matter. A VPN does not fix an unpatched device.
Choosing a VPN provider
All your traffic passes through the VPN provider, so you're shifting trust from your internet provider to them. Check:
- Independent audits of the no-logs policy and apps, and how recent they are.
- Ownership and jurisdiction: who runs the company, and where it's based.
- Apps for all your devices, and how many devices you can connect at once.
- Kill switch and leak protection on every platform you use.
- A money-back guarantee, so you can test speeds on your own connection.
Be wary of free VPNs. Running servers costs money, and some free services have been found to collect and share user data or show intrusive adverts. If you only need occasional protection, a reputable provider's limited free tier is safer than an unknown app.
If you'd like a starting point, NordVPN offers WireGuard-based NordLynx, a kill switch and independently audited no-logs claims.
Disclosure: that link is an affiliate link. If you buy through it, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. It doesn't affect our advice.
Split tunnelling
Many apps let you choose which apps or sites use the VPN. This is handy for local services, such as printers, smart TVs or banking apps that dislike VPN addresses, while keeping the rest of your traffic protected. Use it sparingly: anything outside the tunnel isn't protected.
When a VPN can cause problems?
- Banks and payment services may flag logins from unusual locations. Connect to a UK server or pause the VPN for these.
- Some websites block VPN addresses or show extra CAPTCHAs.
- Work devices may already use a corporate VPN; don't stack a personal one on top without checking with IT.
- Speed: expect some slowdown, usually small with a good provider and a nearby server.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a VPN at home?
Not necessarily. Most websites use HTTPS encryption already. A VPN at home mainly hides your browsing from your internet provider and masks your IP address from sites.
Can I put a VPN on my router?
Some routers support it, which protects every device on your network, but setup is more technical and can slow your whole connection.
Sources and further reading
Facts checked on 20 October 2026. Spotted an error? Tell us and we will correct it.
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