Advanced VPN Configuration
Manual setup, split tunneling, and advanced VPN settings.
Understanding VPN protocols
Modern VPNs support multiple protocols: WireGuard (fastest), OpenVPN (most compatible), and IKEv2 (good for mobile). WireGuard is recommended for most users due to its speed and security.
Configure split tunneling
Split tunneling lets you choose which apps use the VPN. This is useful for banking apps (which may block VPNs) or local network devices. Find this setting in your VPN's preferences.
Tip: Use split tunneling to exclude banking apps that may flag VPN connections as suspicious.
Set up custom DNS
Some VPNs let you use custom DNS servers instead of their own. You can use privacy-focused DNS like 1.1.1.1 (Cloudflare) or 9.9.9.9 (Quad9) for additional privacy layers.
Enable kill switch properly
Configure the kill switch to block all internet if the VPN disconnects. Some VPNs offer app-level kill switches that only block specific applications.
Manual OpenVPN configuration
For maximum control, you can manually configure OpenVPN. Download .ovpn files from your provider and import them into the OpenVPN client. This is useful for unsupported devices.
Port forwarding setup
Some VPNs support port forwarding for torrenting or hosting servers. Enable this in your VPN settings and note the assigned port for use in your applications.
Setup Complete!
Your VPN should now be configured and ready to use. If you encounter any issues, check the FAQ below or contact your VPN provider's support team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which VPN protocol should I use?
WireGuard is generally the best choice for speed and security. Use OpenVPN if WireGuard isn't available or you need maximum compatibility. IKEv2 is excellent for mobile devices.
Should I use my VPN's DNS or a third-party DNS?
Using your VPN's DNS is usually recommended as it prevents DNS leaks. Third-party DNS can be useful if you want additional filtering features like malware blocking.