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VPN basics: what it is and how to start in minutes

New to VPNs? This is the no-jargon version — what a VPN actually does, and how to be up and running in about five minutes.

A
admin
Lead VPN Tester & Editor
Updated June 2026
6 min read Fact-checked

What a VPN actually does

A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and a server, then routes your traffic through it. Your data becomes unreadable on the network around you, and websites see the server’s location instead of yours.

Getting started

  1. 1
    Pick a provider

    Choose one of our tested VPNs and create an account.

  2. 2
    Install the app

    Add it to every device you use.

  3. 3
    Connect

    Tap one button to connect — that is it.


Good to know
You can stay connected all the time. Most apps reconnect automatically and barely touch your battery.

Where to go next

1
Proton VPN — Best overall
2
NordVPN — Best all-rounder
Compare the most private VPNs

VPN Runner is reader-supported. If you sign up for a VPN through a link on our site, we may earn a commission — at no extra cost to you. It never affects our ratings or rankings: we test every service the same way and pay for our own subscriptions.

A
admin
Lead VPN Tester & Editor

Tests real speeds and unblocking in the VPN Runner lab, and stands behind every recommendation in this guide.