Getting Started
Quickly learn the basics of Proton VPN and how to use it.
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Installation & Setup
Detailed guides for installing and configuring Proton VPN on all platforms.
Account Management
Manage your Proton VPN account, subscription, and personal information.
Connection Issues
Troubleshoot common VPN connection problems.
Feature Guides
Detailed instructions on Proton VPN features and how to use them.
Billing
Learn about payments, refunds, and subscription management.
Quick Start Guide
Just a few simple steps to start protecting your online privacy with Proton VPN.
Create a Free Account
Visit the registration page, enter your email address, and set a password. No credit card or payment information needed — the free plan is forever free. After registration, you'll receive a confirmation email. Click the confirmation link to activate your account.
Download the App
Go to the download page and choose the app for your device. Proton VPN supports all major platforms including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Download and install the app, then sign in with your account credentials.
Connect to a Server
Open the Proton VPN app and click the "Quick Connect" button to automatically connect to the fastest server. You can also manually select a server in a specific country or city. Once connected, the app will display a green "Connected" status.
Browse Securely
Once connected, all your internet traffic is transmitted through an encrypted tunnel. You can browse the web and use apps normally while enjoying privacy protection. For additional features like NetShield and Secure Core, enable them in the app settings.
Popular Questions
What devices and operating systems does Proton VPN support?
Proton VPN supports the following platforms and devices:
- Windows: Windows 10 and Windows 11
- macOS: macOS 11 (Big Sur) and above, supporting Apple Silicon and Intel
- Linux: Ubuntu 20.04+, Fedora 36+, Debian 11+, Arch Linux
- Android: Android 8.0 and above
- iOS: iOS 15 and above (iPhone and iPad)
- ChromeOS: Supported via Android app
- Android TV: Dedicated TV app
- Routers: Routers supporting WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols
For devices without native apps, you can also connect manually using WireGuard or OpenVPN configuration files.
What are the limitations of the free plan?
The free plan provides basic VPN privacy protection with the following limitations:
- Only 1 device can be connected simultaneously
- Can only connect to servers in Japan, the US, and the Netherlands (3 countries)
- Medium-speed connections (not high-speed)
- NetShield blocker not available
- Secure Core architecture not available
- Streaming unlock and P2P downloading not supported
The free plan's no-logs policy, AES-256 encryption, and Kill Switch core security features are identical to the paid plans.
How do I unlock Netflix and other streaming content?
To unlock streaming content, you need to upgrade to the Plus or Unlimited plan. After upgrading:
- Open the Proton VPN app
- In the server list, select a server in a country that supports streaming (servers marked with a "streaming" icon)
- After connecting, open Netflix or other streaming apps to watch
If a specific server can't unlock content, try switching to another server in the same country. We continuously optimize streaming servers for the best compatibility.
What should I do if the connection is slow?
If you're experiencing slow VPN connection speeds, try these solutions:
- Switch servers: Choosing a server closer to your physical location usually provides faster speeds.
- Switch protocols: In the app settings, switch to WireGuard protocol, which is typically 30-60% faster than OpenVPN.
- Disable unnecessary features: If you don't need Secure Core or Tor over VPN, disabling these features can improve speed.
- Check your base connection: Confirm your regular internet speed is normal. VPN speed cannot exceed your base bandwidth.
- Avoid peak hours: During evening peak hours, server load may be higher. Try switching to a less loaded server.
- Upgrade to Plus: Free users share medium-speed servers. Upgrade to Plus for 10 Gbps high-speed connections.
How do I request a refund?
If you're unsatisfied within 30 days of subscribing, you can request a full refund:
- Log in to your Proton account
- Go to "Settings" → "Subscription Management"
- Select the "Request Refund" option
- Follow the prompts to complete the refund request
The refund will be returned to your original payment method within 5-10 business days. Each account can use the money-back guarantee once. If you encounter any issues, please contact our customer support team.
Can't Find Your Answer?
Our support team is always ready to help. Contact us through the following channels.
Ready to Get Started?
Create a free account and protect your online privacy today.