Getting Started with VPN Protection

Overview

This article explains in detail exactly what VirtualShield VPN is, and how it works under the hood. It also teaches you how to get started protecting all of your devices using VirtualShield.

Learn how to create a new account, and how to activate the VPN for the very first time. It doesn't matter which device you are using, this article applies to computers, cell phones, tablets, and more.


How does it work? Signing Up Activating Protection

In this section


Install the VPN app

First of all, congratulations on taking the first step to reclaim your online privacy. Not only will you be protected by our state-of-the-art VPN network, you can now rest assured use your devices with comfort and peace of mind, knowing that your data will be fully secure against the latest threats.

After signing up, the next step is to install the VirtualShield VPN app on all of your devices. Don't forget, your entire family will be covered under our new plans. No more restrictions, device limitations, or caps on your bandwidth. VirtualShield has gone UNLIMITED.

1

Start by visiting your Account Dashboard. Select  Apps from the navigation menu to download VPN protection for your device:

VPN Protection comes included with all of our new Basic/Plus/Ultimate plans. It doesn't matter which plan you choose.
2

Press the Download button next to your specific device, and follow the necessary steps to complete the installation.

3

That's it! The app will open automatically. You can also open it using the  shield icon on your Desktop or App Library, to log in and connect to our secure network.

See our support article for more info on how to install the VPN on each of your various devices.

Toggle Protection

Once the app is installed, it's time to sign in to your account and activate your protection. You will remain logged in permanently until you uninstall the app, or choose to sign out manually.

1

The first time you open the app, you will be prompted for your credentials. Enter your email address and password, then press Login.

Your password is CaSe-sensitive. If you use any capital letters or symbols, you must type it exactly the same in order to log in again.
2

After logging in, you will be presented with the  Home/Overview screen. This is where you can connect to and disconnect from the VirtualShield network.

You can also adjust your configuration settings and view your subscription details from this screen.
3

Your  current location will be displayed on this screen, it might say Fastest if you're not connected. You can change your location at any time by pressing this button.

See our support article for more info on how to connect to a specific location.
4

Now it's as simple as pressing the  Power button to toggle VPN protection. This button will appear green once you're connected.

If you're not connected to our network, this button will appear yellow in color.
5

That's it! You are now protected by VirtualShield. You can surf the web with full privacy, security and peace of mind, while being protected by our state-of-the-art network.

On computers, you will see a  shield icon in the Notification area next to your clock. On mobile devices, it will look like a  VPN or a  key icon.

What's next?

After installing the app and activating protection, the final step is to adjust your configuration settings and personalize the app to suit your needs. The articles below will help you get started.

1

You can Test your Protection at any time using this link. It doesn't matter which device you're using. This page will work on all of your various devices, computers, tablets, smart phones, and more.

This is the same information other websites, apps, and your Internet/Cellular provider can see. See our support article for more information.
2

Enable the State Selection option in your  VPN Settings to fine-tune your location and choose a specific state/region to connect to, in addition to the country.

Changing your location is entirely optional, it is not required in order to be protected. All of our VPN servers are fast, secure, and unlimited.
3

The Local Network Access option allows you to communicate with other wireless devices on your network (mouse/keyboard, gamepad, printer, etc.) while the VPN is active.

Disabling it provides an additional layer of security. However, you may not be able to access these devices until you disconnect.
4

If your plan includes Ad & Malware Blocking, you can enable it for another additional layer of protection. These exclusive servers will block harmful malware, intrusive ads/popups, and location trackers automatically.

If you do not have a Plus/One/Ultimate plan, contact us and we'll be happy to upgrade your subscription.
5

The Connect Automatically option will automatically reconnect to our servers any time you get disconnected unexpectedly. It will also detect when your network changes, and when your device wakes up from Sleep/Hibernation mode.

If used in combination with the Keep Alive on Sleep option, you will also remain connected when your device enters Sleep mode.
6

In case the VPN unexpectedly disconnects, Internet 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 setting is only recommended for advanced users. If something goes wrong, you may need to restore your internet connection manually.
7

You can customize VirtualShield to open automatically each time you power on or restart your device. This will help ensure that your data remains private, and you don't have to open the app every time you want to connect.

This option is enabled by default on desktop and laptop computers. On mobile devices, you may need to toggle it on manually.

Common Questions

?
How many devices can I use?
As of October 1st, 2021, VirtualShield now offers support for unlimited devices. Each user on an account, whether it's an Individual or a Family plan, gets unlimited devices. See our support article for more information.
?
I use a free VPN, am I still protected?
Yes and no. Free VPNs collect your information, and sell it to advertisers. This applies to many paid VPNs as well. Learn more about the difference between free VPNs and paid ones here.
?
I use a proxy server, do I still need a VPN?
A proxy will hide the data inside of your web browser, but it will not protect or encrypt the other apps running on your device. See our support article for more information.

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