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A VPN is a valuable tool for protecting your privacy, but there are times when turning it off might be the better choice. Its encrypted connection can sometimes disrupt important activities like schoolwork, VoIP calls, or access to certain networks. Understanding when to disable your VPN can help you avoid issues like connectivity problems or even being locked out of systems. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the scenarios where switching off your VPN makes sense—and show you how to do it when needed.
5 Reasons to Disable Your VPN
There’s no definitive rule for when you should switch a VPN off, but there are some scenarios where you might need to, like the five examples I detail below.
One rule of thumb is to toggle your service off if it is interfering with an important task or activity. Of course, keep in mind that your data won’t be encrypted while it is switched off.
1. When You Need to Troubleshoot Connection Issues
I recommend disabling your VPN whenever you encounter network issues. Running a VPN while you try to fix your connection will only add more variables to the mix while you're trying to figure out if the problem is you, your ISP, or something else. It’s best to shut it off as a first step since it could be the issue.
2. To Access Online School Systems
Schools often restrict VPNs, especially if you are partaking in a monitored exam or using a locked-down browser. Some institutions may monitor your connection, and you could get accused of dishonesty if you access assignments in a manner that goes against your school’s code of conduct. It’s better to avoid that risk and turn your VPN off when working on school or university systems.
3. When You Use Online Banking
Banks may block your access or flag you for fraud if you access your account when using a VPN. This is because your bank tracks your behavior to prevent fraudsters from getting a hold of your account. Suddenly appearing to be halfway around the world when you log in could trip detection algorithms, resulting in a headache for you and the bank.
4. To Work Remotely
Some remote systems don’t play well with VPNs. Your work may already have built-in security, and these tools often block users who appear suspicious. Unless your job specifically assigns you a VPN (and most companies that care about security already have an in-house, customized VPN they provide employees), it is best to avoid using one. Otherwise, you may find yourself in hot water when IT detects irregular activity from your connection.
5. When Streaming Content, Playing Games, and Downloading Large Files
Accessing streaming services like Netflix with a VPN can be hit or miss. If switching servers doesn’t do the trick, then you may need to disable it while you watch your shows. The same goes for online video games. Some games don’t function properly while you’re connected. It also may be worth switching it off if you need to download large files, as your performance will be impacted even when using the fastest VPNs
How to Disable Your VPN
The simplest way to switch your VPN connection off is through the source application. There should be a large connection button that you can toggle on or off. In most cases, the home screen will display a grayed-out button or a red background if the VPN is off.
However, you don’t have to interact with the app at all if you’d prefer not to. Sometimes the app can crash or otherwise stop functioning, so it’s good to know where to find the right settings in a pinch. With that in mind, here are simplified instructions for disabling your VPN across a range of operating systems and devices.
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Windows 11
Windows makes it easy to configure your network settings. If you’re still on Windows 10, don't worry; the steps below will be the same.
Navigate to the Windows start menu and select the gear icon labeled Settings.
Click the Network & Internet menu on the left-hand side.
On the right-hand side, click on the tab labeled VPN.
Look for your VPN in the connection list and toggle it on or off as needed.
macOS
macOS has a built-in VPN manager that's a breeze to configure.
Navigate to the System Settings menu.
Select the Network tab.
Your active macOS VPN connections will be listed here, and you can manage them as necessary.
Android
Android VPNs can be switched on and off with just a few taps. While your phone may have settings in slightly different places, the steps below will be largely the same across devices.
Go to your Settings menu.
Scroll down and tap on the Network & Internet section.
Tap on the VPN section.
Select your VPN to manage it.
iOS/iPadOS
Settings are fairly similar across the iPhone and iPad, so the steps below will lead you to the right place regardless of device.
Navigate to the Settings menu.
Tap on the tab labeled General.
Go to VPN & Device Management.
Select VPN
Toggle the switch to manage your iOS VPN.
ChromeOS
VPNs have come a long way on ChromeOS. It’s easier than ever to alter your network settings as you see fit.
Click on the system tray at the bottom-right of the screen.
Select the VPN key icon.
From there, you can toggle your ChromeOS VPN on and off.
linux
Given the sheer number of linux distros, the steps below may not apply to yours. That said, some terminal commands will work everywhere. When in doubt, consult your OS’s support page for distro-specific information.
Open up the terminal.
The command you need will vary depending on the VPN you are using, but I’ll include two examples below (when in doubt, consult your service’s support page):
sudo VPNNAME disconnect
sudo VPNNAME --stop
If using a linux instance with a graphical user interface (GUI), navigate to your network manager and toggle the VPNs listed there.
Web Browsers
The steps below are for Chromium browsers, but the process is similar on Firefox and Edge. For the latter two, you will need to click on either the three-dot menu for Edge or the three-bar icon for Firefox instead of the puzzle piece icon.
Select the puzzle piece icon in the top-right corner of your browser window.
Click on manage extensions.
You can now toggle your extension-based VPNs here.
Smart TVs
Every smart TV brand is going to be slightly different, and there may even be differences among models from the same company. Here's what you should generally look for.
Navigate to your smart TV’s settings menu.
Depending on your TV, you will have to go to either the apps or network settings menu.
Select your VPN app in the proper menu.
Choose the disconnect or log out option that appears.
Routers
Proceed with caution here! If you didn’t manually configure your VPN on your router, then you don’t need to go fiddling around in its settings. It’s possible to damage your device if you aren’t careful.
Check your router for its IP address (it is often on the bottom or back of the device).
Plug that address into your browser’s search bar and log in with your admin credentials (the password should also be listed on your router).
The exact location varies depending on your router, but you’ll need to navigate to the VPN settings menu.
Disable your router VPN and restart the router.
