Free VPN on Windows 11? Here's How

Method 1: Using Built-in Windows 11 VPN Feature with VPN Gate
📌 This method uses a feature already built directly into Windows 11 for setting up a free VPN connection.
⚙️ Configuration requires navigating to Settings $\rightarrow$ Network and Internet $\rightarrow$ VPN $\rightarrow$ Add VPN, and setting the username/password to the lowercase word "VPN".
🌐 Free server details are obtained from VPN Gate (vpngate.net), which provides a live list showing server location, speed, uptime, and connection quality.
⚠️ Be aware that VPN Gate servers are volunteer-run; if a connection slows or drops, users must manually select a new server from the list.

Method 2: Using a Dedicated Application (Hotspot Shield VPN)
🖥️ This method offers a simpler experience using a dedicated app found in the Microsoft Store.
🆓 The recommended application, Hotspot Shield VPN, offers a free tier suitable for basic use and has a solid reputation.
🖱️ Installation involves searching for "VPN" in the Store, installing Hotspot Shield, selecting the basic free plan, and clicking the "Connect" button.
🔒 The application automatically selects the best server and establishes an encrypted connection without manual IP configuration.

Key Points & Insights
➡️ The built-in Windows method requires manual configuration using credentials derived from the VPN Gate public server list.
➡️ Hotspot Shield VPN (Method 2) provides instant connection via an app interface, bypassing manual system setting changes.
➡️ Confirming VPN functionality involves searching "what is my IP address" to verify the displayed location matches the selected VPN server location (e.g., Japan or US).
➡️ For the built-in setup, the required credentials for username and password are both "vpn" (lowercase).

📸 Video summarized with SummaryTube.com on Mar 16, 2026, 08:00 UTC