Overview
In case the VPN unexpectedly disconnects, Kill-Switch stops your device from accessing the internet. As soon as you are re-connected to the VPN server location, your internet traffic will be restored automatically.
This adds an additional layer of security to the VPN, by preventing any unwanted (private) information from leaking across your regular (public) network without your knowledge or permission.
Windows
This setting is only recommended for advanced users. In most cases, you do not need to adjust this option. However if you have a weak or unstable internet connection, Kill-Switch can help by blocking any unencrypted traffic before it reaches the other end.
This can happen if you lose internet access, or if your network changes while the VPN is active. Your network also disconnects when your computer enters Sleep/Hibernation mode, however this will not trigger the Kill-Switch.
Internet Kill-Switch
How to use the Kill-Switch on your Windows computer:
Open VirtualShield VPN and log in to your account, if you are not logged in already.
For more help logging in and connecting, see our support article.
Select the VPN tab, or navigate to Secure VPN from the Overview screen.
Click the Settings button near the top-right to open the VPN Settings panel.
Alternatively you can right-click theshield icon next to your clock, then select VPN Settings from the menu.
Toggle the Kill Switch option on or off, then click the back arrow to return to the VPN screen.
macOS
Mac works a little bit differently. The internet Kill-Switch will be activated automatically any time the VPN disconnects unexpectedly. If you're using a Mac computer, no further action is required.
You will also receive a notification on your device if this happens. Simply click thePower button to re-establish your network and the VPN connection.
Internet Kill-Switch
How to use the Kill-Switch on your on your Mac computer:
Open VirtualShield VPN and log in to your account, if you are not logged in already.
For more help logging in and connecting, see our support article.
In the Secure VPN section, click the slider icon to open the VPN Settings panel.
If you can't find this icon, click theclose button near the top-right to return to the Home screen.
The Kill-Switch option will be activated automatically, you can simply click the close button to return to the Home screen.
As long as the Kill-Switch appears Active when you open the app, it means you're fully protected.
iOS
iOS works a little bit differently. The internet Kill-Switch will be activated automatically any time the VPN disconnects unexpectedly. If you're using an iPhone/iPad, no further action is required.
You will also receive a notification on your device if this happens. Simply tap thePower button to re-establish your network and the VPN connection.
Internet Kill-Switch
How to use the Kill-Switch on your Apple iPhone/iPad:
Open VirtualShield VPN and log in to your account, if you are not logged in already.
For more help logging in and connecting, see our support article.
Tap the slider icon near the top-right to open the VPN Settings panel.
If you can't find this icon, tap theOverview icon near the bottom to return to the Home screen.
The Kill-Switch option will be activated automatically, you can simply tap the back arrow to return to the Home screen.
As long as the Kill-Switch appears Active when you open the app, it means you're fully protected.
Android
This setting is only recommended for advanced users. In most cases, you do not need to adjust this option. However if you have a weak or unstable internet connection, Kill-Switch can help by blocking any unencrypted traffic before it reaches the other end.
This can happen if you lose internet access, or if your network changes while the VPN is active. Your network also disconnects when your device enters Sleep/Hibernation mode, however this will not trigger the Kill-Switch.
Internet Kill-Switch
How to use the Kill-Switch on your Android phone/tablet:
Open VirtualShield VPN and log in to your account, if you are not logged in already.
For more help logging in and connecting, see our support article.
Tap the slider icon near the top-right to open the VPN Settings panel.
If you can't find this icon, tap theOverview icon near the bottom to return to the Home screen.
Select Connection Protection to expand the list of options.
Tap the gear icon next to VirtualShield in the list of VPN connections.
Toggle the Block connections without VPN option on or off, then tap the back arrow to return to the Home screen.
Common Questions
Why can't I find this option on my device?
It's possible you are using an older/legacy version of VirtualShield. Please try installing the latest version of the app and see if it solves your issue.
How can I prevent the VPN from disconnecting?
The first thing we recommend is enabling the Connect Automatically option. If used in combination with the Keep Alive on Sleep option, you will remain connected to the VPN at all times.
Why would the VPN disconnect in the first place?
This can happen for a number of reasons, including a weak or unstable connection, when your network changes, or when your device enters Sleep/Hibernation mode.