Best VPNs for Windows 7

The best thing in a VPN is that even if the settings for the setup might change with different operation systems or OS versions, the encryption protocols remain the same. This allows you to enjoy high customization regardless the device you are using. Virtual Private Networks commonly utilize three protocols. PPTP and L2TP are known to be a built-in network types that come as standard with every Windows system. Thus you just need to configure your system’s settings to connect to a VPN server. The OpenVPN is the rifest choices for desktops, but might need a separate client to run it. When it comes to setting up a VPN, you have two options before you. If you have chosen a truly professional service, they probably present you with their very own program that does all the preparations for you automatically. But sometimes a VPN lacks this feature, and you need to do it on your own.

Don’t fret even if the odds are against you, and you are forced to manually set up your VPN! There is nothing to be damaged permanently, and you can always give it another go. Most providers prepared themselves for this situation, and they either provide a step-by-step tutorial, or the customer support tells you the details. Still, we are also eager to show you how it’s done.

PPTP and L2TP-IPSec

In case you want to establish a PPTP or L2TP protocol, you can do it by manually configuring the Windows dialer. Here are the steps:

1. Log into your account at the provider’s website, head to the respective menu detailing the setup, and download the offered dialer component. It’s often marked with the VPN’s name.
2. Open the one you are more interested in. It will show you the main aspects of the protocol, including the basic location it will connect to. Navigate to the Properties Menu, and then the Security section. It’s important to check Microsoft CHAP Version 2 (MS-Chap v2) .
3. Sometimes the system asks for a pre-shared authentication code. You can enter it within the Security menu by clicking on Advanced Settings.
4. Press ok until you get back to the main menu. Set the location to a different on if necessary.
5. Hit Connect.
6. When you are finished with the VPN session, click Hang Up.

OpenVPN

Luckily for you, OpenVPN comes with an open-source client that makes the installation much-much easier for you.

1. After downloading and installing the client program, head to the VPN’s website, log in, and download their config files. This is a zip archive containing all possible server locations.
2. Double click on a country’s config file, or drag it to the interface of the OpenVPN client to activate it. A button will appear, marking the location. Double click on it, and enter your account details if necessary.
3. After successfully completing this task, the client will automatically connect you to the desired VPN proxy.
4. When finished, just hit Disconnect.

If you are interested in a VPN service, we present you with some recommendations. All three are competent in their field, not to mention all of them come with their own program. You find more reviews from our experts at Best Reviews.