Always-On VPN Setup Guide
The best VPN is one you never forget to turn on. Here's how to configure automatic, always-on VPN protection on every device.
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Platform-by-Platform Setup
Windows
- 1. Open your VPN app settings
- 2. Enable 'Launch at startup'
- 3. Enable 'Auto-connect when app starts'
- 4. Enable kill switch
- 5. Set protocol to WireGuard/NordLynx for minimal overhead
macOS
- 1. Open your VPN app settings
- 2. Enable 'Launch at login'
- 3. Enable 'Auto-connect'
- 4. Enable kill switch
- 5. Grant VPN the necessary macOS permissions (System Settings > Privacy)
Android
- 1. Open your VPN app and enable auto-connect
- 2. Go to Settings > Network > VPN > your VPN > gear icon
- 3. Enable 'Always-on VPN'
- 4. Enable 'Block connections without VPN' (OS-level kill switch)
- 5. This creates a system-level always-on VPN that survives app restarts
iOS
- 1. Open your VPN app settings
- 2. Enable 'Connect on Demand'
- 3. Enable 'Auto-connect for Wi-Fi networks'
- 4. Note: iOS doesn't have a system-level always-on VPN like Android
- 5. The VPN app manages reconnection — choose a provider with reliable iOS app
Router
- 1. Install VPN on your router (see our router VPN guide)
- 2. All devices on the network are always protected
- 3. No per-device configuration needed
- 4. Perfect for smart TVs, IoT devices, and guests
- 5. Consider GL.iNet travel router for portable always-on VPN
The Three Essential Settings
1. Auto-ConnectVPN connects automatically when your device starts or joins a network
2. Kill SwitchBlocks all traffic if VPN drops — prevents accidental exposure
3. Auto-ReconnectVPN automatically reconnects after drops — no manual intervention
Frequently asked
Frequently Asked Questions
With WireGuard protocol, the overhead is minimal — 5-10% speed reduction and 3-5% extra battery on mobile. Most users won't notice. The security benefit far outweighs the tiny performance cost.
Use split tunneling to exclude specific apps or local network resources from the VPN tunnel. This lets you access printers, smart home devices, and local services while keeping everything else encrypted.
Yes. Your ISP monitors and logs your browsing even at home. An always-on VPN prevents ISP surveillance, protects against router compromises, and ensures you're protected when switching between home Wi-Fi and mobile data.
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