How to Use ProtonVPN for Total Online Privacy in 2026

Quick Start

This guide covers every Proton VPN feature:

• Erste Schritte — Create account and basic setup
• How to Use Hide Your IP — Mask your real location in seconds
• How to Use NetShield Ad-Blocker — Block ads, trackers, and malware at DNS level
• How to Use Kill Switch — Prevent data leaks if your connection drops
• How to Use Split Tunneling — Choose which apps use the VPN
• How to Use Secure Core — Route traffic through privacy-friendly countries
• How to Use VPN Accelerator — Boost your connection speeds
• How to Use VPN Profiles — Save custom connection settings

Time needed: 5 minutes per feature

Also in this guide: Pro Tips | Common Mistakes | Fehlerbehebung | Preisgestaltung | Alternativen

Why Trust This Guide

I’ve used Proton VPN for over two years and tested every feature covered here. This tutorial comes from real hands-on experience — not marketing fluff or vendor screenshots.

Proton VPN is one of the most powerful VPN tools available today.

But most users only scratch the surface of what it can do.

This guide shows you how to use every major feature.

Step by step, with screenshots and pro tips.

Proton VPN Tutorial

This complete Proton VPN tutorial walks you through every feature step by step, from initial setup to advanced tips that will make you a power user.

Proton VPN

Protect your online privacy with Swiss-based encryption and 17,800+ servers in 129 countries. Proton VPN offers a free plan with unlimited Daten — no credit card needed to start.

TRY PROTON VPN NOW →

READ FULL REVIEW →

PROTON VPN ALTERNATIVES →

Getting Started with Proton VPN

Before using any feature, complete this one-time setup.

It takes about 3 minutes.

Watch this quick overview first:

Now let’s walk through each step.

Step 1: Create Your Account

Go to protonvpn.com and click “Get Proton Free” or “Get Proton VPN.”

Geben Sie Ihre E-Mail-Adresse ein und erstellen Sie ein sicheres Passwort.

You can also sign up with your existing Proton Mail account.

✓ Checkpoint: Überprüfen Sie Ihre Posteingang for a confirmation email from Proton.

Step 2: Download the App

Download Proton VPN for your device from the official website.

Windows und Mac users can download directly from protonvpn.com.

Mobile users can find it on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

Run the installer file and follow the on-screen prompts.

Here’s what the dashboard looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: You should see the main dashboard with a world map and server list.

Step 3: Complete Initial Setup

Log in with your Proton account credentials.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for extra security.

Click the Quick Connect button to test your first VPN connection.

How to Use Proton VPN Hide Your IP

Hide Your IP lets you mask your real IP address and location from websites.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Open the Server List

Launch Proton VPN and look at the Countries tab on the left.

You’ll see 129+ countries with servers you can connect to.

Step 2: Connect to a Server

Click the Quick Connect button for the fastest server near you.

Or pick a specific country from the server list.

Here’s what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: The map should show your new virtual location with a green “Connected” status.

Step 3: Verify Your New IP

Visit a site like whatismyip.com to confirm your IP changed.

Your real IP address is now hidden from every website you visit.

How to Use Proton VPN NetShield Ad-Blocker

NetShield Ad-Blocker lets you block ads, malware, and trackers at the DNS level.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Open Settings

Click the gear icon to open Proton VPN settings.

Navigate to the “Connection” or “Features” tab.

Step 2: Enable NetShield

Find the NetShield toggle and turn it on.

Choose your protection level: Block malware only, or block malware, ads, and trackers.

Here’s what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: You should see NetShield active with your chosen protection level.

Step 3: Browse Without Ads

Connect to any Proton VPN server and browse normally.

NetShield blocks threats before they reach your device.

How to Use Proton VPN Kill Switch

Not-Aus-Schalter lets you block all internet traffic if your VPN connection drops.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Open Connection Settings

Go to Settings and find the “Kill Switch” option under Connection.

The kill switch must be manually turned on after installing Proton VPN.

Step 2: Choose Your Kill Switch Mode

Select “Kill Switch” for standard protection when connected.

Or select “Permanent Kill Switch” to block internet even when VPN is off.

Here’s what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: You should see the kill switch toggle enabled in your settings.

Step 3: Test the Kill Switch

Connect to a VPN server, then manually disconnect.

Try opening a website — it should fail if the kill switch is working.

How to Use Proton VPN Split Tunneling

Split-Tunneling lets you choose which apps go through the VPN tunnel.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Open Split Tunneling Settings

Go to Settings and find the “Split Tunneling” option.

Toggle it on to enable the feature.

Step 2: Select Apps to Exclude

Add apps that should bypass the VPN, like banking apps or local services.

Or choose apps that must always use the VPN for extra protection.

Here’s what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: Your selected apps should appear in the exclude or include list.

Step 3: Connect and Test

Connect to a VPN server and open an excluded app.

The excluded app will use your regular internet while everything else stays encrypted.

How to Use Proton VPN Secure Core

Secure Core lets you route traffic through hardened servers in Switzerland, Iceland, or Sweden.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Secure Core in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Find Secure Core Servers

Open the Countries tab and look for the Secure Core toggle at the top.

This feature requires a paid Proton VPN plan.

Step 2: Enable Secure Core

Toggle Secure Core on to see available double-hop server routes.

Each route shows the privacy-friendly country your traffic passes through first.

Here’s what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: You should see double-hop routes like “Switzerland → US” in the server list.

Step 3: Connect to a Secure Core Server

Pick a route and click Connect.

Your traffic now passes through two encrypted servers before reaching the internet.

How to Use Proton VPN VPN Accelerator

VPN Accelerator lets you boost connection speeds by up to 400% on distant servers.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch VPN Accelerator in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open Connection Settings

Go to Settings and navigate to the Connection tab.

Look for the “VPN Accelerator” toggle option.

Step 2: Enable VPN Accelerator

Toggle VPN Accelerator to “On” to activate the speed boost.

This feature works automatically in the background once enabled.

✓ Checkpoint: The VPN Accelerator toggle should show as enabled in your settings.

Step 3: Test Your Speeds

Connect to a distant server and run a speed test at speedtest.net.

Compare results with VPN Accelerator on vs off to see the difference.

How to Use Proton VPN VPN Profiles

VPN Profiles lets you save custom connection settings for one-click access.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Open the Profiles Tab

Click the “Profiles” tab in the Proton VPN sidebar.

You’ll see any existing profiles and the option to create new ones.

Step 2: Create a New Profile

Click “Create Profile” and give it a name like “Streaming US” or “Work Secure.”

Choose your country, server type, and protocol settings.

✓ Checkpoint: Your new profile should appear in the Profiles tab with your custom settings.

Step 3: Connect Using Your Profile

Click any saved profile to connect sofort with those settings.

No more searching for the same server every time you connect.

Proton VPN Pro Tips and Shortcuts

After testing Proton VPN for over two years, here are my best tips.

Tastenkombinationen

Hidden Features Most People Miss

• Stealth Protocol: Disguises VPN traffic as regular HTTPS to bypass restrictive networks and deep packet inspection.
• Portweiterleitung: Available on P2P servers for faster torrent downloads — enable it in the Windows or Linux app settings.
• Custom DNS: Set your own DNS servers for extra privacy under Settings → Connection → Custom DNS.

Proton VPN Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Connecting to the Farthest Server

Mistake #2: Forgetting to Enable the Kill Switch

Mistake #3: Using OpenVPN When WireGuard Is Available

Proton VPN Troubleshooting

Problem: VPN Won’t Connect

Cause: Firewall or antivirus software may be blocking the VPN connection.

Fix: Add Proton VPN to your firewall whitelist. Try switching protocols from WireGuard to OpenVPN or use the Stealth protocol.

Problem: Slow Speeds After Connecting

Cause: You may be connected to a distant or overloaded server.

Fix: Switch to a closer server with a lower load percentage. Enable VPN Accelerator and use WireGuard protocol for best speeds.

Problem: Streaming Service Not Working

Cause: The streaming service may have blocked the server IP you’re using.

Fix: Disconnect and reconnect to get a new IP. Try a different server in the same country. Make sure you’re on a paid plan — free servers don’t support streaming.

📌 Notiz: If none of these fix your issue, contact Proton VPN support via live chat (paid users) or email at support@protonvpn.com.

Was ist Proton VPN?

Proton VPN is a VPN tool that encrypts your internet connection and hides your IP address.

Think of it like a private tunnel between your device and the internet that nobody can see into.

Watch this quick overview:

It includes these key features:

• Hide Your IP: Masks your real IP address and location from websites and trackers.
• NetShield Ad-Blocker: Blocks ads, malware, and trackers at the DNS level before they reach your device.
• Not-Aus-Schalter: Cuts your internet connection if the VPN drops to prevent data leaks.
• Split-Tunneling: Routes only selected apps through the VPN while others use your normal connection.
• Sicherer Kern: Routes traffic through privacy-friendly countries for extra encryption.
• VPN Accelerator: Boosts speeds by up to 400% on long-distance connections.
• VPN Profiles: Saves custom connection presets for one-click access.

For a full review, see our Proton VPN-Testbericht.

Proton VPN Pricing

Here’s what Proton VPN costs in 2026:

Kostenlose Testversion: Yes — Proton VPN Free gives you unlimited bandwidth with no time limit or credit card needed.

Geld-zurück-Garantie: Yes — 30-day prorated money-back guarantee on all paid plans.

💰 Best Value: Plus plan at $2.99/month (2-year deal) — you get every VPN feature at the lowest price per month.

Proton VPN vs Alternatives

How does Proton VPN compare? Here’s the competitive landscape:

Quick picks:

• Best overall: NordVPN — fastest speeds with top-tier security features
• Best budget: Surfshark — unlimited devices starting at $1.99/month
• Best for beginners: CyberGhost — simple one-click interface with preset server profiles
• Best for privacy: Proton VPN — Swiss-based, open-source, and audited no-logs policy

🎯 Proton VPN Alternatives

Looking for Proton VPN alternatives? Here are the top options:

• 🚀 NordVPN: Fastest speeds with 6,400+ servers, Threat Protection, and double VPN. Best for power users who want speed and security.
• 💰 ExpressVPN: Premium VPN with servers in 105 countries and the Lightway protocol. Top pick for streaming and global access.
• 🎨 PureVPN: Affordable VPN with 6,500+ servers in 78+ countries. Strong option for users who need lots of server locations.
• ⚡ Surfshark: Budget-friendly VPN with unlimited device connections starting at $1.99/month. Great for families and multi-device households.
• 🔒 PrivadoVPN: Swiss-based VPN with a solid free tier offering 10GB monthly data. Good privacy-focused alternative to Proton’s free plan.
• 🧠 AdGuard VPN: VPN with built-in ad blocking at the core. Best for users who want ad-free browsing without extra extensions.
• 👶 Virtueller Schild: Simple VPN designed for non-technical users. Easy setup and clean interface for everyday privacy protection.
• 🏢 StrongVPN: No-frills VPN with WireGuard support and 950+ servers. Solid choice for basic VPN needs at a fair price.
• 🔧 FastestVPN: Lifetime plan available for a one-time payment of $40. Best budget pick for users wanting long-term savings.
• 🌟 Aura VPN: Family-focused security suite with VPN, identity theft protection, and parental controls in one package.
• ⭐ CyberGhost: Beginner-friendly VPN with 11,000+ servers and dedicated streaming profiles. One-click connection for easy use.
• 🎯 McAfee VPN: Antivirus and VPN combo for users who want all-in-one security. Built into the McAfee security suite.
• 💼 Privater Internetzugang: Highly customizable VPN with open-source apps and 35,000+ servers. Best for tech-savvy users.
• 📊 Mysterium: Decentralized VPN powered by a peer-to-peer network. Unique option for users who want a non-corporate VPN.
• 🔥 SafeShell VPN: Newer VPN focused on bypassing geo-restrictions with fast servers. Growing option for streaming fans.
• 🛡️ Oyster VPN: Simple and affordable VPN with strong encryption and a no-logs policy. Good for basic privacy needs.

For the full list, see our Proton VPN-Alternativen guide.

⚔️ Proton VPN Compared

Here’s how Proton VPN stacks up against each competitor:

• Proton VPN vs NordVPN: NordVPN wins on speed and customer support. Proton VPN wins on transparency and its free plan.
• Proton VPN vs ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN leads in streaming and global reach. Proton offers better privacy credentials and a free tier.
• Proton VPN vs PureVPN: PureVPN is cheaper on long-term plans. Proton has stronger privacy audits and open-source apps.
• Proton VPN vs Surfshark: Surfshark offers unlimited devices at a lower price. Proton has Secure Core and Swiss legal protection.
• Proton VPN vs PrivadoVPN: Both are Swiss-based. Proton has more servers and features, but PrivadoVPN has a decent free 10GB plan.
• Proton VPN vs AdGuard VPN: AdGuard has tighter ad-blocking built in. Proton offers more server locations and Secure Core protection.
• Proton VPN vs Virtual Shield: Virtual Shield is simpler to use. Proton is more feature-rich with better server coverage worldwide.
• Proton VPN vs StrongVPN: StrongVPN keeps things basic. Proton offers more advanced features and a genuinely usable free plan.
• Proton VPN vs FastestVPN: FastestVPN’s lifetime plan is a one-time cost. Proton has better security and more trusted privacy audits.
• Proton VPN vs Aura VPN: Aura bundles VPN with identity protection. Proton focuses purely on VPN privacy with better encryption.
• Proton VPN vs CyberGhost: CyberGhost has more servers and streaming profiles. Proton wins on privacy transparency and its free tier.
• Proton VPN vs McAfee VPN: McAfee bundles VPN with antivirus. Proton is a dedicated VPN with stronger privacy features.
• Proton VPN vs Private Internet Access: PIA has more servers and is more customizable. Proton has Swiss jurisdiction and Secure Core.
• Proton VPN vs Mysterium: Mysterium is decentralized and peer-to-peer. Proton has a traditional VPN setup with faster, more reliable speeds.
• Proton VPN vs SafeShell VPN: SafeShell focuses on geo-unblocking. Proton offers better all-around security and a proven track record.
• Proton VPN vs Oyster VPN: Oyster VPN is simpler and cheaper. Proton has more servers, better features, and stronger privacy protections.

Start Using Proton VPN Now

You learned how to use every major Proton VPN feature:

• ✅ Hide Your IP
• ✅ NetShield Ad-Blocker
• ✅ Kill Switch
• ✅ Split Tunneling
• ✅ Secure Core
• ✅ VPN Accelerator
• ✅ VPN Profiles

Next step: Pick one feature and try it now.

Most people start with Hide Your IP.

It takes less than 5 minutes.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

How do I use Proton VPN step by step?

Download the Proton VPN app from the official website or your device’s app store. Create an account, log in, and click Quick Connect to connect to the fastest available server. You can also pick a specific country from the server list for more control over your connection.

How does Proton VPN work?

Proton VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and a VPN server. All your internet traffic goes through this tunnel, hiding your real IP address. Websites only see the VPN server’s IP, not yours. Your internet provider can’t see what sites you visit.

Is Proton VPN free to use?

Yes, Proton VPN offers a free plan with unlimited data and no ads. The free plan connects to servers in 10 countries on one device at a time. You don’t need a credit card to start using the free version. Paid plans start at $2.99/month for extra features like streaming and 10 device connections.

Is Proton VPN safe or not?

Proton VPN is very safe. It’s based in Switzerland with strong privacy laws and has a strict no-logs policy that has been independently audited. All apps are open-source so anyone can inspect the code. It uses AES-256 encryption, the same standard used by governments and banks.

Can Proton VPN be detected?

Standard VPN connections can sometimes be detected by advanced firewalls. However, Proton VPN offers the Stealth protocol that disguises VPN traffic as regular HTTPS traffic. This makes it very hard for networks, ISPs, or governments to detect that you’re using a VPN.

How to set up Proton VPN on iPhone?

Open the Apple App Store and search for “Proton VPN.” Download and install the app, then sign in with your Proton account. Tap Quick Connect to connect to the fastest server. Allow the VPN configuration permission when your iPhone asks. You’re connected in under a minute.

How to know if Proton VPN is working?

Check the Proton VPN app — it should show a green “Connected” status with your new IP and server location. You can also visit whatismyip.com to verify your IP has changed. If the IP shown is different from your real IP and matches the VPN server location, the VPN is working.

Which is better NordVPN or Proton VPN?

Both are excellent VPNs. NordVPN is faster and has better customer support with 24/7 live chat. Proton VPN wins on privacy with Swiss jurisdiction, open-source apps, and a great free plan. Choose NordVPN for speed and streaming. Choose Proton VPN for maximum privacy and a solid free option.

Is Proton VPN good to use?

Yes, Proton VPN is one of the best VPNs in 2026. It has 17,800+ servers in 129 countries, strong AES-256 encryption, and an audited no-logs policy. The free plan offers unlimited data with no ads. Paid plans add streaming support, Secure Core, NetShield, and up to 10 device connections.

Is Proton VPN still free?

Yes, Proton VPN still offers a completely free plan in 2026. The free plan includes unlimited bandwidth, no data caps, no ads, and no time limits. Free users can connect to servers in 10 countries on one device. No credit card is required to sign up or use the free version.