How to Use Windscribe Step by Step — 2026 Tutorial

Quick Start

This guide covers every Windscribe feature:

• Iniziare — Create account and basic setup
• How to Use Block Trackers — Stop websites from tracking your activity
• How to Use Unblock Geo-Restricted Content — Access websites blocked in your region
• How to Use Basic VPN Protection — Encrypt all your internet traffic
• How to Use R.O.B.E.R.T. AD Blocker — Block ads and malware at the DNS level
• How to Use DNS Leak Test — Verify your VPN connection is secure
• How to Use Config Generators — Set up Windscribe on any device
• How to Use Static IP — Get a dedicated IP address
• How to Use Strongest Encryption — Max out your security settings
• How to Use Split Tunneling — Choose which apps use the VPN
• How to Use LAN Traffic — Access local network devices while connected

Time needed: 5 minutes per feature

Also in this guide: Pro Tips | Common Mistakes | Risoluzione dei problemi | Prezzi | Alternative

Why Trust This Guide

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

Windscribe 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.

Windscribe Tutorial

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

Getting Started with Windscribe

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 Windscribe’s website at windscribe.com.

Click “Download” or “Sign Up” in the top right.

Enter a username and password to create your account.

Add your email to get 10GB of free dati per month.

Without an email, you only get 2GB per month.

✓ Checkpoint: Controlla il tuo posta in arrivo for a confirmation email.

Step 2: Download or Access the App

Windscribe works on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS e Android.

Download the desktop app for full protection on your computer.

Install the browser extension for Chrome or Firefox too.

The desktop app protects all traffic on your computer.

The browser extension only protects traffic from your browser.

Log in with your new account.

Here’s what the dashboard looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: You should see the main dashboard with a power button.

Step 3: Complete Initial Setup

Choose your preferred server location from the list.

Click the power button to connect to the VPN.

The app turns blue when you’re connected.

Your device now has a new IP address and encrypted traffic.

How to Use Windscribe Block Trackers

Tracker di blocco lets you stop websites from following your activity online.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See Block Trackers in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open the Browser Extension

Click the Windscribe icon in your browser toolbar.

Make sure the extension is turned on and connected.

Step 2: Enable Tracker Blocking

Click the privacy settings icon in the extension panel.

Toggle “Block Trackers” to the on position.

The counter shows how many trackers are blocked per page.

✓ Checkpoint: You should see the tracker count increase as you navigare.

Step 3: Verify Tracking Protection

Visit any news website and check the tracker count.

Most popular sites try to load 20 to 50 trackers per page.

Windscribe blocks them all before they can load.

How to Use Windscribe to Unblock Geo-Restricted Content

Sblocca i contenuti con restrizioni geografiche lets you access websites and streaming services blocked in your country.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Unblock Geo-Restricted Content in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Choose Your Target Country

Open the Windscribe app and look at the server list.

Pick the country where the content you want is available.

For US Netflix, select a United States server.

Step 2: Connect to That Server

Click the server location to connect.

Wait for the connection to turn blue.

Your IP address now shows the selected country.

✓ Checkpoint: Your IP address should show the new country location.

Step 3: Access the Blocked Content

Open the streaming service or website in your browser.

Clear your cookies first if the site still shows local content.

The website now thinks you’re browsing from that country.

How to Use Windscribe Basic VPN Protection

Protezione VPN di base lets you encrypt all internet traffic on your device.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Basic VPN Protection in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open the Desktop App

Launch Windscribe from your desktop or system tray.

Sign in if you aren’t already logged in.

Step 2: Enable the Firewall

Click the firewall icon next to the power button.

Turn the firewall to “Always On” mode.

This prevents any data leaks if your VPN drops.

✓ Checkpoint: The firewall icon should glow when active.

Step 3: Connect to the VPN

Click the power button to connect.

Choose “Best Location” for the fastest server near you.

All your internet traffic is now encrypted and secured.

How to Use Windscribe R.O.B.E.R.T. AD Blocker

R.O.B.E.R.T. lets you block ads, malware, and tracking at the DNS level.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch R.O.B.E.R.T. in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open R.O.B.E.R.T. Settings

Log in to your Windscribe account on the website.

Go to “My Account” and click on “R.O.B.E.R.T.”

Step 2: Choose What to Block

Toggle on “Malware” to block dangerous websites.

Toggle on “Ads” to remove ads from every website.

Toggle on “Trackers” to stop online tracking.

You can also block social networks, gambling, and adult sites.

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

Step 3: Add Custom Rules

Scroll down to the custom rules section.

Add specific domains you want to block or allow.

Click “Save” to apply your custom rules.

How to Use Windscribe DNS Leak Test

DNS Leak Test lets you check if your VPN connection is truly secure.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch DNS Leak Test in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Connect to Any Server

Open Windscribe and connect to your preferred server.

Wait until the connection is fully established.

Step 2: Run the DNS Leak Test

Visit the Windscribe DNS leak test page on their website.

Click “Run Test” and wait a few seconds for results.

The test checks if your DNS requests are leaking outside the VPN.

✓ Checkpoint: The test results page should show only Windscribe DNS servers.

Step 3: Review Your Results

If all DNS requests go through Windscribe, you’re safe.

If you see your ISP’s DNS servers, there’s a leak.

Enable the Windscribe firewall to fix any leaks.

How to Use Windscribe Config Generators

Config Generators lets you create configuration files to set up Windscribe on routers and other dispositivi.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Config Generatori in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Access the Config Generator

Log in to your Windscribe account on the website.

Navigate to “My Account” then “Config Generators.”

Step 2: Select Your Protocol and Location

Choose your VPN protocol (OpenVPN, IKEv2, or WireGuard).

Select the server location you want to connect to.

Pick the port number that works best for your network.

✓ Checkpoint: You should see a download button for your config file.

Step 3: Download and Install the Config

Click “Download” to save the configuration file.

Copy the username and password shown on the page.

Import the file into your router or device settings.

How to Use Windscribe Static IP

Static IP lets you get a dedicated IP address that stays the same every time you connect.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Static IP in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Purchase a Static IP

Go to your Windscribe account settings.

Navigate to the Static IP section.

Choose the country and city for your static IP.

Step 2: Activate Your Static IP

Complete the purchase and your static IP activates right away.

The new IP appears in your server list with a special icon.

✓ Checkpoint: You should see your dedicated IP listed in the app.

Step 3: Connect to Your Static IP

Select the static IP server from your location list.

Click connect and your IP stays the same every session.

This IP is only used by you and no one else.

How to Use Windscribe Strongest Encryption

Strongest Encryption lets you max out your sicurezza with military-grade encryption settings.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Strongest Encryption in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open Connection Settings

Click the three-line menu icon in the Windscribe app.

Select “Preferences” then “Connection” tab.

Step 2: Select the Strongest Protocol

Choose “OpenVPN” as your VPN protocol for max encryption.

Windscribe uses AES-256 cipher with SHA512 authentication.

This is the same encryption level used by governments.

✓ Checkpoint: The protocol should show “OpenVPN” in the connection tab.

Step 3: Enable Full Security Features

Turn on the firewall to prevent any data leaks.

Enable “Always On” mode so the firewall starts at boot.

Your connection now uses the strongest encryption available.

How to Use Windscribe Split Tunneling

Tunnel diviso lets you choose which apps go through the VPN and which don’t.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Split Tunneling in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open Split Tunneling Settings

Go to Windscribe Preferences and select “Connection.”

Find the “Split Tunneling” option and toggle it on.

Step 2: Choose Your Mode

Select “Exclusive” to only VPN certain apps.

Or select “Inclusive” to VPN everything except chosen apps.

Add the apps you want to include or exclude from the list.

✓ Checkpoint: Your selected apps should appear in the split tunnel list.

Step 3: Test Your Configuration

Connect to the VPN and open a tunneled app.

Check if that app shows your VPN IP address.

Then open a non-tunneled app and confirm it uses your real IP.

How to Use Windscribe LAN Traffic

LAN Traffic lets you access local network devices like printers while the VPN is active.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch LAN Traffic in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open Network Settings

Go to Windscribe Preferences and select “Connection.”

Find the “Allow LAN Traffic” option in the settings list.

Step 2: Enable LAN Traffic

Toggle “Allow LAN Traffic” to the on position.

This lets your device talk to other devices on your local network.

Your VPN connection stays active and encrypted.

✓ Checkpoint: The LAN Traffic toggle should show as enabled.

Step 3: Test Local Access

Try printing to a network printer or accessing a shared drive.

Your local devices should work while the VPN stays connected.

Internet traffic still goes through the encrypted VPN tunnel.

Windscribe Pro Tips and Shortcuts

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

Scorciatoie da tastiera

Action	Shortcut
Quick Connect/Disconnect	Ctrl + Shift + W
Open Windscribe App	Click system tray icon
Switch Server Location	Right-click tray → Locations
Toggle Firewall	Click firewall icon in app

Hidden Features Most People Miss

• Cruise Control: Automatically picks the fastest server near you. Enable it in Preferences for the best speed without manual selection.
• ScribeForce Teams: Manage multiple VPN accounts from one dashboard. Perfect for piccole imprese that need centralized billing.
• Inoltro delle porte: Available on select servers. Great for gaming, torrenting, or hosting services behind the VPN.

Windscribe Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Not Adding Your Email to the Free Account

Mistake #2: Forgetting to Enable the Firewall

Mistake #3: Using Only the Browser Extension

Windscribe Troubleshooting

Problem: VPN Won’t Connect

Cause: Your network may block VPN protocols, or your login info is incorrect.

Aggiustare: Verify your username and password. Try switching protocols from IKEv2 to OpenVPN or WireGuard. If on a restricted network, try “Stealth” mode.

Problem: Slow Internet Speed While Connected

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

Aggiustare: Switch to a closer server location. Use the “Best Location” option or try WireGuard protocol for faster speeds.

Problem: Streaming Service Still Shows Local Content

Cause: Cached cookies or browser data reveal your real location.

Aggiustare: Clear all cookies and cache. Close the browser completely. Connect to the VPN first, then reopen the browser and visit the streaming site.

📌 Nota: If none of these fix your issue, contact Windscribe support via their email ticket system.

Che cos'è Windscribe?

Windscribe is a VPN and privacy tool that encrypts your internet traffic and blocks ads, trackers, and malware.

Think of it like a private tunnel for your internet connection that also cleans up the web as you browse.

Watch this quick overview:

It includes these key features:

• Block Trackers: Stops websites from following your browsing activity across the internet.
• Unblock Geo-Restricted Content: Access streaming and websites blocked in your region.
• Basic VPN Protection: Encrypts all your internet traffic with one click.
• R.O.B.E.R.T. AD Blocker: Blocks ads and malware at the DNS level on all devices.
• DNS Leak Test: Checks that your VPN connection is truly secure.
• Config Generators: Creates setup files for routers and unsupported devices.
• Static IP: Gives you a fixed IP address that stays the same.
• Strongest Encryption: AES-256 with 4096-bit RSA key for max security.
• Tunnel diviso: Choose which apps use the VPN and which don’t.
• LAN Traffic: Access local devices like printers while the VPN is active.

For a full review, see our Windscribe review.

Prezzi di Windscribe

Here’s what Windscribe costs in 2026:

Piano	Prezzo	Ideale per
Costruisci un piano	Costume	Users who only need specific server locations ($1/location/month)
Piano annuale	$ 5,75/mese	Best value for full access to all servers and features
Piano mensile	$ 9,00/mese	Short-term users who want flexibility without a long commitment

Piano gratuito: Yes — 10GB per month with email confirmation, 2GB without.

Garanzia di rimborso: 3-day refund policy on paid plans.

💰 Best Value: Yearly Plan at $5.75/month — gives you unlimited data, all server locations in 69+ countries, and every Pro feature at 36% off the monthly price.

Windscribe vs Alternatives

How does Windscribe compare? Here’s the competitive landscape:

Attrezzo	Ideale per	Prezzo	Rating
Windscribe	Free VPN with built-in ad blocker	$5.75/mo	⭐ 4.3
NordVPN	Overall speed and security	$2.99/mo	⭐ 4.5
ExpressVPN	Fastest connections worldwide	$2.44/mo	⭐ 4.6
PureVPN	Budget-friendly with many servers	$2.15/mo	⭐ 4.0
Surfshark	Unlimited devices on one plan	$1.99/mo	⭐ 4.4
ProtonVPN	Privacy-first with free tier	$2.99/mo	⭐ 4.5
CyberGhost	Streaming and torrenting	$2.03/mo	⭐ 4.2
Accesso Internet privato	Customizable encryption settings	$2.03/mo	⭐ 4.3

Quick picks:

• Best overall: NordVPN — Top speeds, strong security, and a massive server network.
• Best budget: Surfshark — Under $2/month with unlimited device connections.
• Best for beginners: Windscribe — Generous free plan and easy-to-use apps.
• Best for privacy: ProtonVPN — Swiss-based with strong no-logs policy.

🎯 Windscribe Alternatives

Looking for Windscribe alternatives? Here are the top options:

• 🚀 NordVPN: Industry leader with 6,400+ servers in 111 countries. Best for speed, streaming, and overall security.
• 💰 ExpressVPN: Premium VPN with the fastest global speeds. Excellent for travelers and heavy streaming users.
• 🎨 PureVPN: Affordable option with 6,500+ servers. Great for users who want wide server coverage at a low price.
• ⚡ Surfshark: Budget king with unlimited device connections. Perfect for families and households with many devices.
• 🔒 ProtonVPN: Swiss-based VPN with a strong free tier. Top choice for privacy-focused users who want no-logs protection.
• 🧠 PrivadoVPN: Switzerland-based with 10GB free monthly data. Good alternative for budget users who want strong privacy laws.
• 👶 AdGuard VPN: Combines VPN with a powerful ad blocker. Ideal for users who want clean browsing without extra software.
• 🏢 Scudo virtuale: US-based VPN focused on simplicity. Best for non-technical users who want one-click protection.
• 🔧 StrongVPN: Reliable VPN with WireGuard support and no data caps. Solid pick for users who want a dependable no-frills VPN.
• 🌟 FastestVPN: Lifetime plans starting at $40. Best value for users who want to pay once and get VPN access forever.
• ⭐ AuraVPN: Bundled with identity theft protection and credit monitoring. Great for users who want all-in-one digital security.
• 🎯 CyberGhost: Huge server network with dedicated streaming servers. Best for Netflix, Hulu, and other platform unblocking.
• 💼 McAfee VPN: Bundled with McAfee antivirus. Good for users who already utilizzare McAfee and want VPN included in their suite.
• 📊 Accesso Internet privato: Huge server network of 35,000+ servers. Best for advanced users who want deep customization options.
• 🔥 Mistero: Decentralized VPN powered by blockchain. Ideal for users who want a peer-to-peer privacy network.
• 🛡️ SafeShell VPN: Speed-focused VPN with dedicated streaming servers. Great for users who want fast streaming performance.
• 🌊 Oyster VPN: Simple and affordable VPN service. Good for casual users who want basic privacy at a low price.

For the full list, see our Alternative a Windscribe guide.

⚔️ Windscribe Compared

Here’s how Windscribe stacks up against each competitor:

• Windscribe contro NordVPN: NordVPN wins on speed and server count. Windscribe wins on the free tier and built-in ad blocker.
• Windscribe contro ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN is faster but costs more. Windscribe offers better value with its free plan and Build A Plan option.
• Windscribe contro PureVPN: PureVPN has more servers at a lower price. Windscribe has a stronger free tier and R.O.B.E.R.T. ad blocking.
• Windscribe vs Surfshark: Surfshark is cheaper with unlimited devices. Both offer unlimited device support, but Windscribe’s free plan is more generous.
• Windscribe contro ProtonVPN: Both offer strong free tiers. ProtonVPN has more free server locations while Windscribe gives more free data.
• Windscribe contro PrivadoVPN: Both are privacy-focused with free plans. Windscribe has more features and a better ad blocker built in.
• Windscribe vs AdGuard VPN: Both block ads, but AdGuard focuses only on ad blocking while Windscribe offers a full VPN suite.
• Windscribe vs Virtual Shield: Virtual Shield is simpler but more expensive. Windscribe offers more features and a free plan.
• Windscribe contro StrongVPN: StrongVPN has no free tier. Windscribe wins on flexibility with its Build A Plan and free options.
• Windscribe contro FastestVPN: FastestVPN has a lifetime plan. Windscribe has better apps and a more reliable ad blocker.
• Windscribe vs AuraVPN: Aura bundles identity protection. Windscribe is a better pure VPN with more server locations and features.
• Windscribe contro CyberGhost: CyberGhost has dedicated streaming servers. Windscribe offers more flexibility with its custom plan option.
• Windscribe contro McAfee VPN: McAfee VPN comes with antivirus. Windscribe is a much better standalone VPN with more features.
• Windscribe vs Private Internet Access: PIA has far more servers. Windscribe has better ad blocking and a more generous free tier.
• Windscribe contro Mysterium: Mysterium is decentralized and unique. Windscribe is more reliable and easier to use for everyday VPN needs.
• Windscribe vs SafeShell VPN: SafeShell focuses on streaming speed. Windscribe offers a stronger all-around feature set with better privacy tools.
• Windscribe vs Oyster VPN: Oyster is simpler and cheaper. Windscribe has more features, more servers, and a much better free plan.

Start Using Windscribe Now

You learned how to use every major Windscribe feature:

• ✅ Block Trackers
• ✅ Unblock Geo-Restricted Content
• ✅ Basic VPN Protection
• ✅ R.O.B.E.R.T. AD Blocker
• ✅ DNS Leak Test
• ✅ Config Generators
• ✅ Static IP
• ✅ Strongest Encryption
• ✅ Split Tunneling
• ✅ LAN Traffic

Next step: Pick one feature and try it now.

Most people start with Basic VPN Protection.

It takes less than 5 minutes.

Domande frequenti

How do I use my Windscribe VPN?

Download the Windscribe app for your device and create a free account. Open the app, pick a server location, and click the power button to connect. Once connected, all your internet traffic is encrypted and your IP address changes to the server’s location. You can disconnect anytime by clicking the power button again.

How do I know if Windscribe is working?

When Windscribe is active, the app turns blue and shows your new IP address. You can also run Windscribe’s built-in DNS leak test to verify your connection is secure. Visit any IP verificatore website to confirm your IP matches the VPN server location. If the firewall icon is active, your traffic is fully protected.

Does Windscribe VPN change your location?

Yes, Windscribe changes your virtual location by assigning you an IP address from the server country you connect to. Websites and services see this new IP and think you’re browsing from that location. This lets you access geo-restricted content from other countries. Your physical location doesn’t change, only your online location.

What is the best setting for Windscribe?

For most users, the best setup is WireGuard protocol with the firewall set to “Always On.” WireGuard gives you the fastest speeds while staying secure. Turn on R.O.B.E.R.T. to block ads and malware. If you need maximum security over speed, switch to OpenVPN with AES-256 encryption instead.

How to use Windscribe VPN on iPhone?

Download Windscribe from the App Store and create an account. Open the app, allow VPN configuration when prompted, and pick a server. Tap the power button to connect. Your iPhone now routes all traffic through the encrypted VPN. You can also enable R.O.B.E.R.T. from the app to block ads on your phone.

Windscribe è una buona VPN?

Windscribe is a strong VPN choice, especially for users who want a generous free plan. It offers 10GB of free data per month, unlimited device connections, and built-in ad blocking with R.O.B.E.R.T. The paid Pro plan unlocks 69+ countries and faster servers. It’s not the fastest VPN available but offers excellent value for the price.

Is Windscribe VPN totally free?

Windscribe offers a free plan with up to 10GB of monthly data when you confirm your email. Without email, you get 2GB per month. The free plan includes access to servers in 10+ countries and all security features. For unlimited data and access to all 69+ server countries, you need a paid Pro plan starting at $5.75 per month.

Quanto costa Windscribe?

Windscribe has three pricing options. The free plan costs nothing with 10GB monthly data. The monthly Pro plan is $9.00 per month. The yearly Pro plan is $5.75 per month billed at $69 per year. There’s also a Build A Plan option starting at $1 per month per server location with a $3 minimum.

Is Windscribe 100% safe?

Windscribe is a safe and trustworthy VPN. It uses AES-256 encryption, has a strict no-logs policy, and is based in Canada. The company does not collect or sell user data, even for free users. Windscribe’s firewall feature acts as a kill switch to prevent data leaks. No VPN can guarantee 100% safety, but Windscribe follows strong security practices.

What are the pros and cons of Windscribe?

Pros include a generous 10GB free plan, unlimited device connections, built-in R.O.B.E.R.T. ad blocker, and a flexible Build A Plan pricing option. Cons include a smaller server network than top competitors, no live chat support (email only), and speeds that can be inconsistent on the free tier. The 3-day refund window is also shorter than most VPNs.