How to Turn Off VPN

Are you wondering how to turn off the VPN? A virtual private network creates a private connection between devices over the Internet. It hides your IP address, identity, and location and could provide a security link by protecting your private data before it travels over the Internet. However, do you want to know how to deactivate it? This practical guide will show you the exact steps to disable your VPN software easily.

Why You Might Need to Turn Off Your VPN

Although using these services offers many advantages, there are several reasons why you might need to disable them. The most common is the need to access content only available in your location and improve connection speed, as some VPNs can slow down your Internet connection. Below, you will find the main reasons why you should deactivate it:

Common Scenarios

1. Illegal use in some countries: These applications are legal in almost all countries. However, their use is prohibited or restricted in Belarus, China, Iran, Iraq, North Korea, Oman, Russia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, and the United Arab Emirates, and you may risk heavy fines or even imprisonment.
2. Geographically restricted entertainment: These service providers cannot guarantee you access foreign streaming libraries and view content that is not usually available from your location without restrictions.
3. Unreliability of the service: A VPN does not guarantee anonymity, so if you want to enhance your online privacy, opting for a registered and reliable option is essential. Since all your traffic is routed through the provider's servers, it is a must to choose a reliable provider.
4. Connectivity and speed problems: It can slow down your Internet connection because VPNs consume bandwidth, which is essential for proper functioning. Data encryption and routing through remote servers can generate latency, contributing to slower connections.
5. Requires a paid subscription: Reliable and registered services generally require a paid subscription, which is essential to consider to avoid online security and privacy issues.

Risks and Benefits

Pros:

• Unrestricted content access: By deactivating the VPN, you can access services and content only available in your location, such as regional streaming platforms.
• Better speed and connectivity: You may experience a much faster connection and browsing by deactivating it.

Cons:

• Could compromise your privacy online: If you decide to disconnect your VPN, your IP address will be visible. Websites you visit will know your real IP address and location, which can increase the risk of online attacks, such as those caused by using public wi-fi.
• Geographical content restrictions: To access content that is not accessible in your country, you will need to use a virtual private network.

What Happens When You Turn Off a VPN?

Disabling the VPN has several implications for your Internet connection, online privacy and security, and access to specific content. For this reason, you may be recommended to turn off your VPN temporarily.

Impact on Privacy and Security

When using a VPN service, the VPN server masks your IP address. This makes it harder for websites, advertisers, or even your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to track your online browsing or determine your location.

Changes in Internet Speed and Access

Disabling your VPN could improve Internet speed since it can slow down your connection due to bandwidth consumption, data encryption, and routing.

Learn How to Turn VPN Off on Any Device

The steps to deactivate a VPN may vary depending on your operating system or application. Below are simple steps for each case.

General Steps

1. Open the application on your device by accessing your settings.
2. Look for the disconnect or disable option.
3. Pause your VPN connection by clicking on it.
4. Confirm the changes.

Turn Off your VPN on macOS

1. Select the Apple menu.
2. Go to macOS network settings.
3. Go to the left sidebar (you may need to scroll down to find the option).
4. Select your service and click the disconnect button.
5. Verify it is disabled in the menu bar.

How to disconnect from VPN on Windows

1. Go to your operating system settings.
2. Once there, select the Network & Internet section.
3. Go to the left sidebar.
4. Find and select the VPN option.
5. Click on it to disconnect it.
6. Here, you can also turn it back if you need to.

How do you turn off VPN on your iPhone and iPad (iOS device)

1. Go to the Settings app on your device.
2. Then, search for the General section.
3. Go to the VPN and device management section.
4. Deactivate the application.

Would you like to learn more about ad-free browsing on iPhone? Read on about our AdGuard iOS review.

How do I Turn Off my VPN on Android

1. Go to your phone's settings.
2. Select the Networks and Internet option.
3. There, select the VPN option.
4. Here, you will find the application you have downloaded.
5. Select it and deactivate it manually.

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How to Turn Off a VPN on Linux

1. On the desktop, click the wired connection arrows or the wi-fi logo.
2. Go to VPN Connections in the drop-down menu.
3. Click on the Disconnect option.

How to Disable VPN on Your Router

1. Open a web browser on your computer or laptop.
2. Type your router's IP address in the address bar (192.168.1.1).
3. Enter the administrator username and password.
4. Access the router's admin settings.
5. Click on the VPN or Advanced Settings section.
6. Look for the option to disable the VPN.
7. Click on the Apply option.

The configuration for disabling a VPN in your router's admin settings varies depending on its model and brand.

How to Disconnect a VPN Using the App Settings

In addition to the above methods, you can disconnect the VPN using the application or the system settings, which allows you to pause it more straightforwardly.

Using the App Settings

Most applications have a visible option to disconnect them. To do so, follow the steps below:

1. Open your application.
2. Select the button to disconnect it without uninstalling it.

Using System Settings

On some devices, you can deactivate the VPN directly from the system settings (as mentioned above for the different operating systems).

1. Go to your operating system settings.
2. Find the Network or Connections section.
3. Look for the VPN settings.
4. Select to turn it off.

How to Completely Remove a VPN from Your Device

Removing VPN from macOS

1. On your Mac, select the Apple menu.
2. Go to System Settings.
3. Click on your application in the sidebar (you may also need to scroll down).
4. Click Remove.
5. Confirm that you want to remove it.

Uninstalling VPN on Windows

1. Go to the Settings application in Windows.
2. Find the Network & Internet section.
3. Find your application in the left-hand menu.
4. Click Remove to delete your application.

How to Remove VPN on iPhone (iOS)

1. Go to the Settings app on your device.
2. Then, look for the General section.
3. Go to the VPN and device management section.
4. Select the option to Delete it.

Removing VPN from Android Devices

1. Go to your phone's settings.
2. Select the Networks & Internet option.
3. There, select the VPN section.
4. Select the option to Delete manually.

Why Stands Free AdBlocker is a Great Alternative

Stands Free AdBlocker by StandsApp is an excellent alternative for blocking advertisements on the Internet. But do ad blockers work like VPNs? Which one is more recommendable to use online? Although an ad blocker and a VPN are different tools with different purposes, both can work as complements to improve your Internet experience.

While an ad blocker acts at the browser level, offering more granular control to block advertising, a VPN acts at the network level by encrypting all your Internet traffic. Below, we learn more about the benefits of using an ad blocker to enhance browsing.

Advantages of Stands Free AdBlocker

Stands Free AdBlocker provides more localized control by blocking advertising on the pages you visit, preventing them from loading these elements before you access the website. If internet speed is one of the reasons why you want to deactivate your virtual private network, using an ad blocker can improve this issue associated with traditional VPNs.

A 100% Free Solution

Stands Free Ad Blocker is a free alternative with no paid subscriptions. So, if you are considering uninstalling your VPN due to the extra cost, you won't have to worry about spending another penny using a reliable ad blocker like Stands.

Functionalities Against Advertising Risks

Because Stands Free AdBlocker blocks advertising-related elements, it can also help reduce your chances of encountering advertisements containing malicious code. Although Stands does not offer traffic encryption, anti-tracker, or anti-virus features, it is an excellent alternative if you are looking for ad-free and distraction-free browsing.

User-Friendly Interface and Accessibility

Stands Free AdBlocker's interface is designed to be intuitive and easy to navigate for all types of users. It allows users to access all its features without complications or complex manuals.

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Final Thoughts

Disabling a virtual private network may be necessary in various situations; however, before doing so, it is essential to consider the implications for your privacy, security, and online accessibility. On the other hand, if you want a more personalized browsing experience, Stands is here to help. Ready to say goodbye to online distractions?

Would you like to know more about the best adblockers in the market? Discover the best between AdGuard Pro vs Free.

FAQ

What Happens If I Turn Off My VPN?

Disabling your virtual private network exposes your real IP address, can diminish your online privacy, and affects access to certain restricted content in your geographic area.

How do I Turn Off VPN on My Router?

You can disable a VPN on your router by accessing the device settings and turning off the VPN option. However, the configuration for disabling a VPN on a router may vary depending on the specific model and firmware it uses.

Why Is My Virtual Private Network Not Turning Off?

If you cannot turn off your VPN, it may be an issue with the application or device settings. Your VPN may be set to connect automatically whenever you connect to a new network. Verify this setting and turn it off if needed.

How to Disable the service and verify it is Turned Off?

You can check if your VPN is disabled by verifying your IP address through websites such as WhatIsMyIP or IPLocation. You can also go to your settings to confirm it is disabled; however, the steps may vary depending on the device.

Does Turning Off a VPN Improve Internet Speed?

In many cases, disabling your virtual private network can improve the speed of your Internet connection, as it removes the encryption and tunnels used by VPNs.