How to use the open-source Proton VPN browser extension

Proton VPN/ZDNET

VPNs are all the fad as a result of they assist secure your internet traffic. They do that work by masquerading your IP deal with and site and encrypting your visitors. 

It is necessary to notice that the majority browser-based VPN extensions solely work together with your internet browser visitors. In different phrases, they do not encrypt your e mail, messages, or anything that is not acquired or despatched from inside your internet browser.

Additionally: The best VPN services: Expert tested

That is an necessary distinction as a result of not everybody restricts their desktop utilization to an online browser. Nonetheless, if the net browser is the app you utilize for networking, and also you wish to get probably the most out of your safety, a VPN must be thought of a should.

Proton affords one of many easiest-to-use VPN options as a result of their internet extension is excellent. As soon as the extension is put in, you’ll be able to allow a fast connection or choose which nation you wish to use because the masqueraded location. You possibly can select from an enormous listing of nations and even use your browser to look at tv from different nations (akin to exhibits from the UK’s Channel 4).

Additionally: The best VPN services for iPhone and iPad (yes, you need to use one)

Even higher, Proton VPN options Swiss privacy, does not save any exercise logs, and is open supply (so it is clear).

However how do you utilize the Proton VPN browser extension? Let me present you.

Methods to use the Proton VPN browser extension

What you may want: To make this work, you may want both a Chromium or Firefox-based web browser and a Proton VPN account. Understand that Proton doesn’t provide a free plan for the VPN, so you may must pay for both a one-month plan ($9.99/month), a one-year plan ($4.99/month), or a two-year plan ($4.99/month). Discover out extra from the official Proton VPN pricing page. As soon as you’ve got arrange your account and have your browser prepared, it is time to set up.

From the Proton VPN web page in your internet retailer of alternative, click on the Add button and, when prompted, permit the set up. As soon as the extension is put in, you’ll be able to shut the net retailer web page.

The Proton VPN listing in the Chrome Web Store.

You possibly can set up the Proton VPN extension on Opera from throughout the Chrome Net Retailer.

Screenshot by Jack Wallen/ZDNET

To make the Proton VPN extension simpler to make use of, I like to recommend pinning the extension icon to your browser toolbar. 

Additionally: Proton VPN review (2024): A very solid VPN with robust leak protection

For instance, in a Chrome-based browser akin to Opera, click on the 3-D dice icon (on Firefox, it is a puzzle piece) after which click on the pin icon related to Proton VPN. This step will add the Proton VPN icon to the browser toolbar for straightforward entry.

The Opera extension menu.

I extremely suggest pinning the extension for simpler entry.

Screenshot by Jack Wallen/ZDNET

Click on the Proton VPN icon in your browser taskbar after which click on the Signal In button. You may be prompted in your Proton VPN username and password.

The Proton VPN sign in drop-down.

You possibly can both register to an present account or create a brand new one.

Screenshot by Jack Wallen/ZDNET

Click on the Proton VPN icon once more. This time, you’ll be able to hit Fast Join (which can join you to a random VPN server related to a random nation) or find and click on your nation of alternative. Use the search characteristic if you happen to do not discover town or nation you need.

Additionally: The best VPNs for streaming your favorite shows and sports

As soon as related, you may see a inexperienced lock related to the Proton VPN icon. Your whole visitors will now seem to emanate out of your nation of alternative and also will be encrypted.

The Proton connect drop-down.

Select your nation from the listing or go together with a Fast Connection choice.

Screenshot by Jack Wallen/ZDNET

Simply bear in mind to click on the Proton VPN icon when completed, after which click on Disconnect.

Additionally: How we test VPNs in 2024

The Proton VPN browser extension is a superb choice if you happen to’re in search of extra safety to guard your community visitors. It is simple to make use of and some of the dependable VPNs in the marketplace.

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