How To Set Up A VPN For Windows 10

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can be used to extend a private network across a public network. VPNs are often used to help users access data remotely while outside of the private network coverage. The use of a VPN allows users to access, send and receive information they would not otherwise have access to.

This article is designed to help you set up a Virtual Private Network while using Windows 10. Please see our knowledgebase for information about setting up a Virtual Private Network on another operating system.

Setting up a Virtual Private Network with Windows 10

Step 1: Accessing network settings

With your computer booted and running, click Start at the bottom left-hand corner of your screen. The Start button should appear as a Windows icon. From the Start menu, click the Network and Internet icon. Within the Network and Internet page, click VPN. From within the VPN page, click Add a VPN Connection.

Step 2: Enter VPN information

You should now see a screen with fields available for you to input your VPN information. Enter the following information: Name, VPN address, VPN type (either PPTP or L2TP), username and password.

Step 3: Change settings

Click Change adapter settings from within the VPN page. Next, click the VPN that you are aiming to establish, and select Change settings of this connection. From within this page, click the Security tab. Change the following settings you see in the list below:

1. Type of VPN: Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol with IPsec (L2TP/IPSec)
2. Allow these Protocols: Radio button selected
3. Challenge Handshake Authentication Protocol (CHAP): Checked
4. Microsoft CHAP Version 2 (MS-CHAP v2): Checked

Step 4: Final touches

Click on the Advanced Settings. Within this page, locate the Key field. Enter your preshared key into the space for authentication. Make sure that the button is filled for the Use preshared key for authentication. Click OK to save these settings. Click OK to confirm the changes. Finalise your VPN connection by clicking Connect.

You have now successfully set up a VPN within Windows 10. As always, please contact our expert technical support staff if you have any questions or comments about this process.