How to Use Mullvad VPN Like a Pro (2026 Guide)

Quick Start

This guide covers every Mullvad VPN feature:

• Commencer — Create account and basic setup
• How to Use Mullvad VPN Connection — Connect to secure servers worldwide
• How to Use Browser Extension — Protect your browser traffic instantly
• How to Use VPN Traffic Hiding — Hide that you’re using a VPN
• How to Use Encrypted DNS — Block trackers and ads at the DNS level
• How to Use Mullvad Browser — Browse with anti-fingerprinting protection
• How to Use Anonymous Account Generation — Sign up without personal info

Time needed: 5 minutes per feature

Also in this guide: Pro Tips | Common Mistakes | Dépannage | Tarification | Alternatives

Why Trust This Guide

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

Mullvad VPN is one of the most privacy-focused 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.

Mullvad VPN Tutorial

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

Premiers pas avec Mullvad VPN

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

It takes about 3 minutes.

Now let’s walk through each step.

Step 1: Generate Your Account Number

Go to mullvad.net and click “Generate account.”

Mullvad creates a random 16-digit number immédiatement.

No email or password needed — just this number.

✓ Checkpoint: Save your 16-digit account number somewhere safe.

Step 2: Add Time to Your Account

Click “Add time” on the account page.

Choose a payment method like card, crypto, or cash.

Here’s what the account page looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: You should see active time on your account.

Step 3: Download and Install the App

Download Mullvad for Windows, macOS, Linux, Androïde, or iOS.

Open the app and enter your 16-digit account number.

The app connects to a server automatically.

How to Use Mullvad VPN Connection

Mullvad VPN Connection lets you encrypt your internet traffic through secure servers worldwide.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See Mullvad VPN Connection in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open the Mullvad App

Launch the Mullvad VPN app on your device.

You’ll see a large “Connect” button on the main screen.

Step 2: Select a Server Location

Tap “Switch location” to pick a country and city.

Mullvad has 700+ servers in 49 countries.

Here’s what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: You should see a green “Connected” status.

Step 3: Verify Your Connection

Visit Mullvad’s connection check page to confirm protection.

It shows your new IP address and connection status.

How to Use Mullvad VPN Browser Extension

Extension de navigateur lets you control your VPN connection directly from your browser toolbar.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Browser Extension in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Install the Extension

Open Firefox or a compatible browser.

Search for “Mullvad Browser Extension” in the add-ons store.

Click “Add to Browser” and confirm the install.

Step 2: Connect Through the Extension

Click the Mullvad icon in your browser toolbar.

The extension shows your connection status and server location.

Here’s what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: The extension icon should turn green when connected.

Step 3: Switch Servers from the Browser

Use the extension dropdown to change server locations.

No need to open the main app for quick switches.

How to Use Mullvad VPN Traffic Hiding

VPN Traffic Hiding lets you disguise VPN traffic so firewalls can’t detect or block it.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See VPN Traffic Hiding in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open VPN Settings

Click the gear icon in the top-right corner of the app.

Navigate to “VPN settings” in the menu.

Step 2: Enable Obfuscation

Find the “Obfuscation” or “Anti-censorship” settings section.

Toggle it on and select your preferred method.

Mullvad supports Shadowsocks and other bridge protocols.

✓ Checkpoint: You should see “Obfuscation: On” in your settings.

Step 3: Reconnect to a Server

Disconnect and reconnect to apply the new settings.

Your VPN traffic now looks like regular HTTPS traffic.

How to Use Mullvad VPN Encrypted DNS

DNS chiffré lets you block ads, trackers, and malware at the DNS level.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See Encrypted DNS in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open VPN Settings

Click the gear icon and go to “VPN settings.”

Scroll down to the “DNS content blockers” section.

Step 2: Enable DNS Content Blockers

Toggle on the blockers you want: Ads, Trackers, Malware.

You can enable all three for maximum protection.

The default DNS address for WireGuard is 10.64.0.1.

✓ Checkpoint: Each blocker shows a green toggle when active.

Step 3: Test Your DNS Protection

Visit a site with ads to confirm they’re blocked.

Check Mullvad’s connection page to verify DNS settings.

How to Use Mullvad Browser

Mullvad Browser lets you browse with anti-fingerprinting protection built in.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See Mullvad Browser in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Download Mullvad Browser

Go to mullvad.net/en/browser and download for your OS.

It’s based on Firefox with Tor Browser privacy features.

Step 2: Launch and Browse Privately

Open the browser — it starts in privacy mode by default.

First-party isolation keeps cookies in separate jars automatically.

The “resist fingerprinting” feature is already enabled.

✓ Checkpoint: All users look identical to websites — no unique fingerprint.

Step 3: Pair with Mullvad VPN

Connect to Mullvad VPN before opening the browser.

This combines IP masking with anti-fingerprinting protection.

How to Use Mullvad VPN Anonymous Account Generation

Anonymous Account Generation lets you sign up without sharing any personal information.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See Anonymous Account Generation in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Visit the Mullvad Website

Go to mullvad.net and click “Generate account.”

One click creates your account — no forms to fill out.

Step 2: Save Your 16-Digit Number

Copy the 16-digit account number shown on screen.

This is your only login credential — there’s no password reset.

✓ Checkpoint: Your account number should be stored somewhere secure.

Step 3: Pay Anonymously

Choose cash, Bitcoin, or Monero for full anonymity.

Crypto payments get a 10% discount automatically.

Mullvad VPN Pro Tips and Shortcuts

After testing Mullvad VPN for over a year, here are my best tips.

Raccourcis clavier

Hidden Features Most People Miss

• DAITA Protection: Enable Defense Against AI Traffic Analysis in settings to scramble packet patterns and prevent AI surveillance.
• Quantum-Resistant Tunnels: Post-Quantum WireGuard is enabled by default on all platforms — your traffic is protected against future quantum computers.
• Multihop Connections: Route traffic through two servers in different countries for double encryption and extra anonymity.

Mullvad VPN Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Leaving Local Network Sharing On

Mistake #2: Not Enabling Lockdown Mode

Mistake #3: Forgetting to Save Your Account Number

Mullvad VPN Troubleshooting

Problem: VPN Won’t Connect

Cause: Firewall, antivirus, or ISP blocking the WireGuard protocol.

Réparer: Enable obfuscation in VPN settings. Try switching to a different server. Restart the app and try again.

Problem: Internet Blocked When VPN Disconnects

Cause: Lockdown mode is enabled, which blocks all internet without VPN.

Réparer: Reconnect to VPN, or disable Lockdown mode in settings if you need regular internet access.

Problem: Slow Connection Speeds

Cause: Connected to a distant server or a server under heavy load.

Réparer: Switch to a closer server location. Disable multihop if enabled. Make sure WireGuard protocol is selected.

📌 Note: If none of these fix your issue, contact Mullvad VPN support at support@mullvadvpn.net.

Qu'est-ce que Mullvad VPN ?

VPN Mullvad is a privacy-focused VPN tool that encrypts your internet traffic and hides your real IP address.

Think of it like a secret underground tunnel for your internet traffic that no one can see into.

Watch this quick overview:

It includes these key features:

• VPN Connection: Encrypt traffic through 700+ servers in 49 countries using WireGuard protocol.
• Extension de navigateur : Control your VPN connection from your browser toolbar without opening the app.
• VPN Traffic Hiding: Disguise VPN traffic with obfuscation so firewalls can’t block it.
• Encrypted DNS: Block ads, trackers, and malware at the DNS level with built-in content blockers.
• Mullvad Browser: Browse with anti-fingerprinting protection based on Firefox and Tor Browser technology.
• Anonymous Account Generation: Sign up with zero personal information using a random 16-digit number.

For a full review, see our Mullvad VPN review.

Tarifs du VPN Mullvad

Here’s what Mullvad VPN costs in 2026:

Essai gratuit : No free trial, but Mullvad offers a 14-day money-back guarantee.

Garantie de remboursement : Yes, 14 days (except cash payments).

💰 Best Value: Pay with cryptocurrency to get a 10% discount — the price hasn’t changed since 2009.

Mullvad VPN vs Alternatives

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

Quick picks:

• Best overall: NordVPN — Great balance of privacy, speed, and streaming support.
• Best budget: Surfshark — Unlimited devices starting at $1.99/month.
• Best for beginners: CyberGhost — Simple interface with dedicated streaming servers.
• Best for privacy: Mullvad VPN — No email required and anonymous payment options.

🎯 Mullvad VPN Alternatives

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

• 🚀 NordVPN : 8,900+ servers in 127 countries with fast speeds, streaming support, and strong encryption for all-around use.
• ⚡ ExpressVPN : Premium VPN with the proprietary Lightway protocol, excellent speeds, and access to every major streaming platform.
• 💰 PureVPN : Budget-friendly option with 6,000+ servers and strong multi-year pricing starting at just $2.15/month.
• 🌟 Surfshark : Unlimited device connections with CleanWeb ad blocker and fast WireGuard speeds at a low monthly cost.
• 🔒 ProtonVPN : Privacy-first VPN from the ProtonMail team with a solid free plan and Secure Core multi-hop servers.
• 🎨 PrivadoVPN: Swiss-based VPN with a free plan offering 10GB/month and strong no-logs privacy for casual users.
• 🧠 VPN AdGuard: Combines VPN protection with built-in ad and tracker blocking using a unique proprietary protocol.
• 🏢 Bouclier virtuel: US-based VPN focused on simplicity with automatic server selection and always-on protection.
• 🔧 StrongVPN: Reliable VPN with WireGuard support and a good selection of server locations for everyday browsing.
• 🔥 FastestVPN: Lifetime plans starting at $40 make this the best option for long-term savings on a budget.
• ⭐ AuraVPN: Family-focused VPN with identity theft protection and parental controls bundled into every plan.
• 👶 CyberGhost : Beginner-friendly VPN with dedicated streaming and gaming servers in 100+ countries.
• 💼 McAfee VPN : Bundled with McAfee’s antivirus suite for users who want all-in-one security protection.
• 📊 Accès Internet privé : Open-source VPN with 35,000+ servers and fully customizable encryption settings.
• 🎯 Mysterium: Decentralized VPN built on blockchain technology for censorship-resistant private browsing.
• 🛡️ SafeShell VPN: Lightweight VPN with fast connections designed for bypassing geo-restrictions on streaming content.
• 🐚 VPN Oyster : Affordable VPN with a clean interface and solid speeds for casual browsing and light streaming use.

For the full list, see our Mullvad VPN alternatives guide.

⚔️ Mullvad VPN Compared

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

• Mullvad VPN vs NordVPN: NordVPN wins on server count and streaming, but Mullvad offers stronger anonymity with no-email signup.
• Mullvad VPN vs ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN has faster speeds and better streaming access, while Mullvad excels in privacy-first features.
• Mullvad VPN vs PureVPN: PureVPN is cheaper long-term with more servers, but Mullvad’s no-logs policy and audits are superior.
• Mullvad VPN vs Surfshark: Surfshark offers unlimited devices and lower prices, while Mullvad provides deeper privacy protections.
• Mullvad VPN vs ProtonVPN: Both are privacy-focused, but ProtonVPN has more servers and a free tier while Mullvad has simpler pricing.
• Mullvad VPN vs PrivadoVPN: PrivadoVPN has a free plan but less transparency, while Mullvad offers audited no-logs and open-source apps.
• Mullvad VPN vs AdGuard VPN: AdGuard bundles ad blocking natively, while Mullvad offers more advanced privacy features like DAITA and multihop.
• Mullvad VPN vs Virtual Shield: Virtual Shield is simpler to use, but Mullvad offers far more advanced security and privacy options.
• Mullvad VPN vs StrongVPN: StrongVPN is solid for basic use, but Mullvad’s anonymous accounts and quantum-resistant tunnels are superior.
• Mullvad VPN vs FastestVPN: FastestVPN wins on lifetime pricing, but Mullvad has much stronger privacy credentials and audited infrastructure.
• Mullvad VPN vs AuraVPN: Aura bundles identity protection for families, while Mullvad is better for individual privacy-focused users.
• Mullvad VPN vs CyberGhost: CyberGhost has dedicated streaming servers and more locations, but Mullvad’s privacy protections run deeper.
• Mullvad VPN vs McAfee VPN: McAfee bundles antivirus with its VPN, while Mullvad focuses purely on VPN privacy with no bloatware.
• Mullvad VPN vs Private Internet Access: PIA has more servers and is open-source too, but Mullvad’s anonymous signup gives it a privacy edge.
• Mullvad VPN vs Mysterium: Mysterium uses decentralized nodes for censorship resistance, while Mullvad offers more consistent speeds and proven infrastructure.
• Mullvad VPN vs SafeShell VPN: SafeShell is good for streaming access, but Mullvad’s audited no-logs policy and advanced features outperform it.
• Mullvad VPN vs Oyster VPN: Oyster VPN is affordable for casual use, but Mullvad offers far stronger encryption and privacy protections.

Start Using Mullvad VPN Now

You learned how to use every major Mullvad VPN feature:

• ✅ VPN Connection
• ✅ Browser Extension
• ✅ VPN Traffic Hiding
• ✅ Encrypted DNS
• ✅ Mullvad Browser
• ✅ Anonymous Account Generation

Next step: Pick one feature and try it now.

Most people start with VPN Connection.

It takes less than 5 minutes.

Foire aux questions

How to know if Mullvad VPN is working?

Visit Mullvad’s connection check page at mullvad.net/check. It shows whether your connection is protected and displays your current IP address. If you see a green status with a Mullvad IP, your VPN is working correctly.

How does Mullvad VPN work?

Mullvad encrypts your internet traffic using the WireGuard protocol and routes it through one of its 700+ servers worldwide. This hides your real IP address and prevents your ISP, hackers, or anyone else from seeing what you do online. The built-in kill switch blocks all traffic if the VPN drops.

How to use Mullvad VPN on phone?

Download the Mullvad app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android). Enter your 16-digit account number to log in. Tap “Connect” to start protecting your phone’s internet traffic. The mobile app has the same features as the desktop version.

Can you change location with Mullvad VPN?

Yes. Tap “Switch location” in the app to choose from servers in 49 countries. You can select a specific country and city. Mullvad connects you to a server in that location, giving you an IP address from that region.

Is Mullvad VPN really anonymous?

Mullvad is one of the most anonymous VPN services available. It doesn’t require an email, name, or any personal data to sign up. You can pay with cash, Bitcoin, or Monero for full anonymity. Independent audits have confirmed its strict no-logs policy.

Why is Mullvad VPN not connecting?

Common causes include firewall interference, ISP blocking, or an expired account. First, check that your account has active time. Then try enabling obfuscation in VPN settings. If that doesn’t work, switch to a different server location or restart the app.

How much does Mullvad VPN cost per month?

Mullvad costs €5 per month (about $5.50 USD). The price is the same whether you pay monthly, yearly, or for a full decade. There are no tiered plans — every user gets all features. Crypto payments receive a 10% discount.

Is Mullvad faster than NordVPN?

NordVPN is generally faster in speed tests due to its larger server network of 8,900+ servers. Mullvad offers solid speeds with WireGuard, but NordVPN has more servers and its proprietary NordLynx protocol gives it a speed advantage in most regions.