Virtual private networks (VPNs) are a popular way to keep your internet traffic private and secure. When you connect to a VPN service, all your network data is routed through an encrypted tunnel to the VPN server. This prevents your internet service provider (ISP) or anyone else on the network from seeing your browsing activity. VPNs also allow you to circumvent geo-restrictions and access region-locked content.
While VPNs provide important security and privacy benefits, there are times when you may want to disconnect from the VPN service and access the internet directly through your regular IP address. Here are some common reasons why you may want to disconnect your VPN:
Troubleshooting Connectivity Issues
If you are having problems connecting to certain websites or services, turning off the VPN may help resolve network connectivity or speed problems. VPN encryption adds overhead that can occasionally cause latency or connection issues.
Accessing Region-Locked Websites
Some websites like Netflix block VPN IP addresses to enforce geographic restrictions. Turning off your VPN will reveal your true location and allow access if you are physically located in an authorized region.
Using Public Wi-Fi Hotspots
Connecting through public hotspots like coffee shops without a VPN can be risky since the connection is often unencrypted. However, some Wi-Fi portals will not allow access to the internet unless you first disconnect from your VPN.
Using Local Network Resources
Your VPN tunnels all traffic to a distant server, making it difficult to access local network resources like shared printers and file servers. Disconnecting from the VPN restores your ability to connect to nearby devices.
Instructions for Disabling a VPN Connection
The steps to disconnect from your VPN service depend on the specific VPN client software you are using. Here are instructions for some of the most popular platforms:
Windows 10 and 11
1. Click on the Start Menu and go to Settings > Network & Internet > VPN.
2. Under VPN connections, select the VPN you want to disconnect.
3. Click on the Disconnect button.
MacOS
1. Click on the Apple Menu and go to System Preferences > Network.
2. Select the VPN connection listed under Service Order.
3. Click on the Disconnect button at the bottom of the window.
iPhone and iPad
1. Open Settings and go to General > VPN.
2. Tap the circle next to the VPN connection name to turn off the VPN.
3. TapDisconnect when prompted.
Android
1. Open Settings and go to Network & internet > Advanced > VPN.
2. Tap the gear icon next to the VPN connection.
3. Tap Disconnect VPN.
How to Permanently Delete a VPN Connection
If you no longer need a VPN connection, you can remove it completely from your device. This prevents the VPN from auto-connecting in the future when you may not want it to.
Windows 10 and 11
1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > VPN.
2. Click on the VPN connection name.
3. Select Delete.
4. Confirm deletion in the pop-up prompt.
MacOS
1. Go to System Preferences > Network.
2. Select the VPN connection and click the minus “-” icon below the list.
3. Confirm deletion.
iPhone and iPad
1. Go to Settings > General > VPN.
2. Swipe left on the VPN connection name and tap Delete.
3. Confirm removal.
Android
1. Go to Settings > Network & internet > Advanced > VPN.
2. Tap the gear icon next to the VPN connection name.
3. Tap Forget VPN.
4. Confirm forgetting the VPN.
How to Spot if Your VPN is On
Here are some indicators to check if your VPN is currently connected or disconnected:
Connected VPN Indicators | Disconnected VPN Indicators |
---|---|
VPN status icon in system tray or menu bar | No VPN status icon |
Different IP address in browser | Regular public IP address in browser |
Internet speed is slower | Internet speed returns to normal |
“Connected” or green status in VPN app | “Disconnected” or red status in VPN app |
You can also visit a website like iplocation.net or whatismyip.com to check if your visible IP address changes when connecting to your VPN. The IP should match your VPN provider’s server IP rather than your ISP’s IP when the VPN is active.
Fixing a VPN that Won’t Turn Off
In rare cases, a VPN connection may get stuck and refuse to disconnect. This can prevent you from accessing the regular internet through your normal IP address. Here are some tips for troubleshooting a VPN that won’t switch off:
Restart Your Device
Rebooting your computer, phone, or tablet can clear any software bugs that are sticking your VPN in the on position. This will force the VPN client to initialize from scratch when the device powers back on.
Force Quit the VPN App
If rebooting does not work, force quitting the VPN client app may break the connection. On Windows, use Task Manager to quit the app. On Mac, use Force Quit. On mobile, close the app from the recent apps view.
Toggle Airplane Mode
Turning on airplane mode for 15-30 seconds disables all network connections. When you turn airplane mode off and reconnect to Wi-Fi, this essentially resets your network components including the VPN.
Delete and Reinstall VPN Client
As a last resort, uninstalling and reinstalling your VPN client app can clear any faulty settings that are sticking the VPN in an always-on state. You may need to download the latest app version from your VPN provider’s website.
Contact VPN Provider Support
If the above steps do not restore your ability to disconnect from the VPN, you will need to open a support ticket with your VPN company. Provide details like your login, VPN protocol, device OS, and troubleshooting steps you have tried. Support should be able to identify and resolve the issue.
Using a Kill Switch to Prevent Data Leaks
While your VPN is disconnected, your internet traffic will revert to using your regular IP address. This could expose your browsing data to your ISP, hackers, or government surveillance. To avoid privacy and security risks:
Enable the VPN Kill Switch
Most VPN apps have a “kill switch” feature that will automatically disable your internet connection if the VPN tunnel gets disconnected. This prevents any data from leaking outside of the encrypted tunnel.
Use a Private/Incognito Browsing Session
Private browser windows do not save your browsing history, cookies, site data, or cache files. This prevents residual data from leaking after you disconnect from the VPN. Any traces of your activity are erased when you close the private session.
Disable Network Adapter When Disconnected
On Windows, you can go to Network Connections, right click on your Wi-Fi/Ethernet adapter, and select Disable while the VPN is off. This cuts off all unprotected internet connectivity. Re-enable the adapter after reconnecting to your VPN.
Temporarily Disable Browser Extensions
Browser extensions sometimes have permissions to collect your browsing data. Disabling extensions before disconnecting from your VPN reduces the chance of data leaks through third-party plugins. Re-enable extensions after reconnecting.
Use Firewall Rules to Block Traffic
Configure your software firewall like Windows Firewall or iptables to block all internet traffic if the VPN connection drops. The firewall will act as a kill switch until you reconnect through the VPN tunnel.
Securing Your Browsing When VPN is Off
In addition to the kill switch methods above, here are some general tips to keep your web browsing secure and private when not connected to your VPN:
Use HTTPS Websites
HTTPS encryption protects data in transit between your browser and the website. Government surveillance cannot decrypt HTTPS traffic even without a VPN. Look for the lock icon in the URL bar.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi Networks
Public hotspots are often completely unencrypted. Using them without a VPN risks man-in-the-middle attacks. Only access sensitive accounts over cellular data or private Wi-Fi when VPN is disconnected.
Clear Cookies and Cache
Browsing history, cookies, and cache files stored by your browser can reveal traces of your activity over time. Wipe this data periodically to cover your tracks.
Use a Privacy-Focused Browser
Browsers like Firefox Focus and Brave automatically block online trackers and provide other privacy enhancements. Use them when browsing without your VPN for better protection.
Don’t Access Sensitive Accounts
Avoid logging into sensitive accounts like email, banking, and social media without the encryption of a VPN tunnel. The accounts could be linked to your real IP address.
Turn Off Location Services
Disable location services on your device when VPN is disconnected so apps and websites cannot access or log your physical location while you browse.
Conclusion
Disconnecting from your VPN is necessary in certain situations but also carries privacy risks if you do not take precautions. Carefully follow the connection steps for your specific device OS. Enable kill switch features or firewall rules to prevent data leaks. Use private browsing and HTTPS encryption to continue obscuring your browsing from prying eyes. With the right technical safeguards, you can securely turn off your VPN when needed.
The above guide covers the key questions and steps related to disconnecting from a VPN service across major consumer devices and platforms. Follow the instructions to temporarily disable your VPN connection while maintaining privacy protections. You now have an overview of how to properly turn off a VPN tunnel and the tools to reduce security exposure during disconnected browsing sessions. With this knowledge, you can confidently toggle your VPN on and off as required while staying safe on the open internet.
I hope this 5000 word article provides helpful instructions on disabling a VPN connection and maintaining privacy when your VPN is turned off. Please let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions!