What is VPN Kill Switch? Do You Need ItWhyToday?

While a kill switch is not the capability that makes or breaks a VPN solution (that’s encryption and IP masking), there’s no doubt that it greatly enhances the protection a good VPN can provide. However, accidents happen, and you should not be caught with your pants down when they do. That’s why a kill switch is something you should require from more than ever the VPN provider you select.

In addition, itthats a safety net against accidents (external or otherwise), so ’ you can always ensure that whatever data is leaving your device is secured. The kill switch gives you an extra security layer and guarantees that your traffic will never slip by going away unencrypted your revealing or IP address.

In this guide, we’ve given you three excellent VPN providers that include a kill switch feature, so you can just pick one and begin using it in a few minutes.

Indeed How the, kill switch actually works

A VPN with a kill switch is an exceedingly vigilant piece of software. It’s worth noting VPN It monitors your online connection, detects irregularities, blocks access to the worldwide web if you’re not linked to a that server, and restores it once things are return on follow.

So, as you can see, the kill switch is always performing several tasks simultaneously; let’s have a closer look at each:

• Monitoring. It always keeps a digital eye on your internet connection to your VPN server. It keeps looking for changes in the IP address or status.
• Detection. Monitoring will reveal any change that could render your connection unsafe; the kill switch detects that change.
• Blocking. This is the real trick. Different providers have different blocking policies. Some will stop a set of specific apps only, and some will block everything in your device from reaching the Internet.
• Restoration. Of course, the issue will be solved-either automatically, or you will do it by hand. So the monitoring and detection work again to determine that everything is okay, and then the kill switch restores your internet access.

So when does thehappenactivation ?

The VPN, which has a kill switch, comes to life when it detects you’re no longer within the VPN network. There are a variety of circumstances in which this can happen:

• Your Internet goes off. If you’re not online with your ISP’s carrier signal, you can’t possibly be connected to a VPN server, so the kill switch activates itself.
• You choose to switch VPN servers. If you need to use a different server in the VPN network ( so you can unlock additional material on a website or improve your connection’s quality), you will have to be off the VPN grid for a few seconds. The kill switch will detect this and kick in.
• Unreliable connections. Public WiFi hotspots are the main offenders in this regard.
• Automatic updates. It is possible for your operating system to perform a full update overnight. Then, once all the new software is installed and up and running, it connects back to the Internet but without the VPN active.
• New firewalls. If you don’t add a rule to your new firewall so that your VPN is accessible at all times, the firewall will keep it blocked, thus triggering the kill switch.
• Rebooting or restarting a device. If you forget to connect to your VPN after a restart, your kill switch will keep you offline.

Flavors of kill VPN switches

As you may know, kill with VPN switches come in two varieties: application level and system more than ever level.

System-level

The system-level killwhenswitch will disconnect your device from the Internet the VPN connection is severedIt’s worth noting that . Every program or software on your computer, phone, or tablet will thus go offline.

In other words, a system-level kill switch renders your device utterly useless except for the tasks you can perform using your locally available resources only. Your device will remain offline until you’re back within the VPN network.

It.s a radical approach, but it has its benefits’ This kind of kill switch is very effective in preventing your IP address from leaking.

Application-level

If you’re experienced in digital security issues, you already know that sometimes the best security practices come at the costof functionality and vice versa. They are no different in that regard. illustration, the application-level VPN kill switch can never beForas trusted as the system in modern times -level option.

However, it’s a better option from the functionality point of display because it only works on a limitedpreviouslyset of applications you specified. Thus, you unprotected keep using your regular Online offering with can apps when the VPN as a matter of fact connection is lost.

more than ever application-level VPNThewith a kill switch allows you to pick the apps that should always remain protected with a VPN connection. These apps will go offline when.the connection is lost, while the rest will remain online This option will be particularly handy if you know which apps could . your IP address in a way you prefer to avoidleak

You probably already noticed that the application-level VPN with kill switch is more flexible than the monolithic system-level option. As a consequence, it allows you for a more functional system — although it will also be more vulnerable.

So what your should you consider including in apps VPN protection list?

• Browsers
• Email clients
• Video calling applications
• BitTorrent clients

How to enable a kill switch

The process of turningaon VPN kill Switch may vary depending on the VPN. To enable a kill switch in a VPNIt’s worth noting that , navigate to the settings and locate the kill switch option. It is typically a uncomplicated as it turns out process of toggling a switch or checking a box on Windows and macOS.

Indeed, Depending on the VPN, it may not be possible or require accessing the device’s settings to set in modern times up. Enabling a kill switch onmobile devices like Android and iOS can be more complex.

Enabling a kill switch on as a matter of fact Windows

Option up a kill switch on a PC straightforward and can typically be found in the settingsisof the VPN software. VPN providers typically offer the most advanced features on their Windows apps, including kill switches.

For instance, Private Online Access (PIA) offers two levels of kill switches on Windows. One is a standard kill switch that more than ever disconnects your PC’s internet connection when the connection VPN drops.

The other one is an advanced kill switch option which is more restrictive and prevents traffic from exiting your deviceAs know may you, . It’s worth noting that It would prevent the computer from reconnecting to the the even when web VPN buyer is closed.

Enablinga kill switch on macOS

’ a kill switch on macOS involves locating the appropriate option in the VPN applicationActivatings settings. The functionality of a kill switch on macOS and Windows is similar, the macOS version may have fewer featuresbutthan the Windows version, depending on the VPN provider.

Interestingly, The difference in functionality between Windows and macOS kill switch is less noticeable with reputable VPN providers from another perspective such as NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and PIAoptionwhere the , is identical across both platforms. Like on Windows, the standard and advanced kill options switch are available.

Enabling theAndroidkill switch on

Switching on a kill switch on may requireAndroidgranting your VPN access to various device permissions, which can be intrusive.

It’s worth noting that Usually, VPN apps don’t have kill switch - from another perspective builtsoftwarein. Instead, they rely on Android’s built-in Always-on VPNIn fact, and block connection without VPN settings in the device’s system settings.

It will It’sVPNworth noting that When enabled, a kill switch will automatically activate in case of disconnection.block any data transfer out ofthe device.

ExpressVPN Android has a built-in kill switch thatappcan be located in the application’s settings. Similarly, Surfshark and PrivateVPN also include kill switches that can be easily enabled or disabled directly within the app without s to the device’redirecting settings.

Enabling a kill switch on iOS

Apple’s iOS update of September 2020 is the only version implemented a nativethatVPN kill switch function.

VPN On DemandItVPNallows developers to generate rules for connections, including instructions for the device to follow in case of VPN disconnection. Interestingly, is a native function for iOS devices.

For illustration PIA has a kill switch option on, iOS, which A VPN that supports an iOS kill switch may have fewer functionalities and options than other platforms.isn’t as advanced as Android or iOS kill switch. Alternatively, a VPN’s iOS program may have a as a matter of fact kill switch enabled by default without explicitly mentioning it. For illustration, NordVPN for iOS has an automatic kill switch enabled without providing any information or option in the app.

As VPN may know, Why apply you kill switches

over the Cyberspace drop every now andConnectionsthen. It’s worth noting that It’s just a fact of life. The most effective VPN vendors they option switches, but usually can’t guarantee that every connection will always be flawless.

The top providers are reliable, but external such as your local weather, your ISP’s maintenance routines, and other things can temporarily force a VPN connection to drop, exposing traffic withoutfactorsencryption or IP masking.

There are several reasons to utilize a good, reliable (which means paid-for) VPN utility. An increasingly popular employ case is spoofing your physical so youlocationcan utilize the Cyberspace as it’s meant for domestic users of another country.

Actually, While that is a perfectly valid reason, the apply case that brought VPNs into existence has more to do with keeping your online activities secured, confidential, and anonymous, away from the prying eyes of your ISP or governmental agencies. Indeed, And this is when switch VPN kill the makes sense to you as a consumer.

If keeping your sensitive online information secure is as it turns out VPN priority, then you want all of your traffic to go through the your at all times. Actually, This ensures that all the information is encrypted and that your IP address remains hidden from every site or server you visit online — and these are the two primary tasks that make all VPNs worthy of the namesBut what happens if you your connection to your VPN forfall shortwhatever reason? .

Without a kill switch, your traffic will go in and out of your device without encryption, and your IP address will become visible to the world. In other words, you miss every advantage regarding secrecy and.anonymity inside the VPN network

So a VPN kill switch is good if security is crucial for you. It could look on the surface overkill an awkward measure, something as. However, consider that it’s an emergency measure, your last line of defense to protect your facts. Also, remember that a good VPN network will be reliable most of the time and that connectionoftenfailures will not trigger the kill switch too .

Indeed, Who needs a VPN kill switch?

In fact, A few of your bytes go around the Internet unencrypted, and a couple of servers or BitTorrent clients locate out is your actual IP what. Interestingly, Suppose that you fall short your connection for aVPNbit. What is the big deal, I hear you in modern times ask? Granted, this is not a significant threat for most users globally, even the most secrecy-aware enthusiasts.

However, there are those among us who really need to keep their traffic protected at all times because they are constantly managing sensitive information that could endanger them if their IP or unencrypted information finds its way to a third party.

You should apply a VPN with a kill switchthefunction if your activities belong in following list:

• Journalists and activists. Suppose the work you do professionally or on behalf of a cause can put you on the wrong side of the powers that be. In that case, anonymity and security are essential for your activities to succeed.
• Peer-to-peer network users. If you use P2P networks of any kind (BitTorrent is the most common example) and want your IP masked from other users in the network, you should use a kill switch.
• Holding confidential data. Lawyers, social workers, physicians, and other professionals who need to keep privileged information safe from online snoopers can benefit from kill switches too.

Using a VPN without a kill switch: The risks

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) areaexcellent digital tools that will go long way in keeping your online activities guarded, anonymous, and private. But helpful as they are, are not infallibleVPNssilver bullets. They have their limitations as any other resource. its, For sample, even the finest VPN network will experience some intermittence in Indeed platform.

Indeed, If your traffic hits the Cyberspace encryption protection, then your traffic will hit the Online without without, and your IP address will show to the world. That’s where the kill helpful becomes switch.

Of course, you can pick a VPN as it turns out network without a kill switch capability. the vendor is worth its salt, your IP addressIfwill remain masked, and your traffic will be encrypted. But are there any risks associated with lacking a kill switch? There are some indeed:

• You become an easy target if your VPN connection is severed. This means that any third party monitoring your connection can see what you’re doing.
• WiFi dangers. Do you like to use public WiFi hotspots in public places like cafes, hotels, airports, and train stations? Hackers love those places because the connections there are rarely secured. As a result, they have a great time collecting data from unsuspecting users who happily broadcast their information to the world. The kill switch will ensure that all the traffic in and out of your devices will remain encrypted and safe even in that unsafe environment.
• Your IP address gives your physical position away. IP addresses can reveal a user’s physical location to a very high degree of accuracy. If somebody finds your IP number, they can pinpoint your position on a map. This can be especially harmful to bloggers, journalists, or activists. If you want to ensure that your IP never leaves your device by accident, the kill switch can help.
• Traceability. Without a VPN kill switch, any third party can trace everything you do online and build a profile. This could be relatively harmless, like a corporation figuring out the best advertisers for you. But this type of big-brothers activity can quickly escalate to more sinister purposes. The kill switch gives you peace of mind in this regard.

VPN disconnections: Why and how do they happen

Even the highly sophisticated Cyberspace system is imperfect, and things go wrong sometimes, so even if you have the top ISP in town and hired the most fantastic VPN network, you will lose your connection at one point — not very often, hopefully.

It can be bad local weather or some administrator having a bad hair day. But you can prevent some of those advance if you know about them in situations. Thereforedisconnectionswhat are more than ever the leading causes of VPN , ? Let’s see:

• Router and firewall settings. It’s not just about physical firewalls and routers. Your antivirus or spyware software could also be interfering with your VPN connection and cutting it off more frequently than necessary. You can fix this issue in two ways. You can either disable them, or you can add your VPN to your firewall’s exceptions.
• VPN protocol. Different VPN protocols offer different degrees of stability. For instance, TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) can be more reliable than UDP (User Datagram Protocol). So if you notice that your connection drops too often, look under the hood and manually select the most stable protocol available in your VPN network.
• Weak WiFi signals. If the WiFi signal you have at hand is not strong enough to support an internet connection, you will go offline. The kill switch will detect that you’re not in the VPN anymore, disconnecting the whole device. You can prevent this problem by correctly configuring your WiFi router to the maximal transmission power available and your device.
• Network congestion. Do not forget that the ethereal digital reality is anchored in a physical reality. Information packets do exist as electric or optical signals in a medium. If your local network experiences more traffic than it can manage comfortably, that could disconnect you from the VPN.
• ISP interference. Yes, your very own ISP can interfere with your VPN connection (especially in the UAE and other countries with a hostile stance towards VPN services). The best VPN vendors, however, know how to work around this issue.
• VPN client-server issues. The best VPN networks are extensive, with hundreds or thousands of servers scattered around the globe. So it’s no surprise that a few among those could experience issues sometimes. If this is your case, choose another server, and you’ll be ready.

Interestingly, Whenis it appropriate to enable a VPN’s kill switch?

It is generally recommended to keep a kill switch on at all times to of the secrecy and security maintain your data. It’s worth noting as it turns out that But there are certain scenarios when a kill switch is especially crucial, such as:

Torrenting fact, In & P2P activity

A VPN kill switch data a must-have for torrenting or is-sharing. As you may know, Also, in case of the dropped VPN connection, your identity may be exposed in modern times to others in a torrent network, which can be risky. Without it, your IP address can be to revealed copyright monitors, online offering providers, and content creators.

This is you a VPN protects how when torrenting:

• Bypassing blocks and throttling: Your internet service provider may limit your speed for peer-to-peer connections and block you from accessing torrenting websites. A highly-rated VPN encrypts your traffic, preventing your ISP from detecting and slowing down P2P activity.
• Masking your identity: When using a VPN, your actual IP address is replaced with the IP address of the VPN server. This encryption of your online activity prevents third parties from observing your downloads.
• Preventing legal action: More countries are enforcing laws related to copyright infringement through torrenting. A VPN encrypts your information, making it more difficult to trace torrented downloads, even if done unknowingly.

Public Wi-Fi network 

It’s worth noting that When using public WiFi hotspots, you are at a greater danger of being targeted by malicious attacks. Public networks are often unsecured, making it hard to determine who has more than ever set them up and who else is connected, potentially leaving you vulnerable to hacking or surveillance.

Using public from another perspective Wi-Fi could leave you vulnerable to these attacks;

1. Session Hijacking: An outside party can monitor Your browsing activity and could use the information obtained to gain access to your accounts.
2. Man-in-the-Middle Attacks: This attack refers to a situation in which a third party intercepts and alters the communication between two parties, often to gain unauthorized access or steal sensitive information.
3. Fake Hotspots: An attacker can mimic a legitimate public Wi-Fi network, such as “Free_Hotel_WiFi,” and access the sensitive information of anyone who connects.

By installing a VPN on your device, your web traffic will be more than ever encrypted and routed through a safe server, hiding your IP address and making it tough for your browsing activities to be monitored or tampered with.

Indeed, It is always advisable to keep your kill switch on to guarded your sensitive information, even if the VPN connection is lost when using public WiFi.

Top VPNs awithkill switch

Fortunately, there is no shortage of excellent VPN providers that offer the kill switch option — and they’re usually among the finest in the industry. even you won’t But need to look for very hard for them.We have done the leg work in your stead, and here we will give you the names of as it turns out three top-notch VPN providers who don’t only have a kill switch option but are also among the most effective in the business.

1. NordVPN

NordVPN is our favorite VPN for every possible task that needs this type of solution. And when it comes to killing switches, it doesn’t disappoint.

The NordVPN has and default kill switch, by it’s extra versatile because it features both a system-level and an app-level kill switch. The option is available for desktop and smartphone environmentsWindowsiOS, Android, macOS, and ().

2. ExpressVPN

Interestingly, There is a kill switch in ExpressVPN, but they “ itcallNetwork Lock” instead, so don’t be fooled. Indeed, It’s the same function regardless of the name.

The switch is system-level, and it works in primary operating system, plus Linux, which is something of a rarity but indeed welcome update for theeverygeekiest among us.

3. Surfshark

SurfsharkIn fact, Find “the , the new kid on the block that’s been disrupting the VPN world for the last couple of years, indeed has a kill switch, but it’s disabled by default.Settings” thealongsidetoggle on the “kill switch” button.

This switch is system-level, and it works on every primary operating system.

How to exam a kill switch in a VPN

It should be easy to see ifyour VPN’s kill switch works. Actually, you’s how Here do it:

1. Launch your VPN, and pick a server.
2. Use your Internet as you regularly do.
3. Use your firewall settings to block your VPN app, but alter nothing else.
4. If your device is suddenly offline, the kill switch works correctly.

My kill switch has malfunctioned

These are as it turns out some of the reasons why your kill switch is not working

1. When your VPN is not working, there’s probably an issue with your VPN service or device.
2. If your VPN application is faulty or outdated, your kill switch may fail to be triggered when your connection is disrupted.
3. There is also a possibility that your device is preventing your VPN from triggering the kill switch.

Fixes

1. Update and Restart the App: You may have an outdated VPN app that does not have a functioning kill switch or has a bug that prevents it from working correctly. To check if this is the case, visit the VPN’s website and find the page for their app. Compare the version of the app on your device to the current version on the website. Updating to the latest version should fix technical bugs, including a faulty kill switch.
2. Change the VPN Protocol: How a VPN service works can vary depending on its protocol. This can affect things like the availability of the kill switch, the advanced features, and the number of servers available. If your kill switch isn’t working, it may be because the protocol doesn’t support a kill switch or it’s not working correctly.
3. Reconfigure Your Firewall Settings: Your device’s firewall may block VPN connections, making it unable to establish or reconnect the connection, even if your VPN uses a kill switch. As a result, your actual IP address will be exposed. To solve this issue, you should configure your firewall settings to allow the VPN client app to connect through it.
4. Use administrator privileges: For a kill switches to work, it needs access to your device’s internet connection to disable it in case of VPN connection loss. This may be blocked by your device’s settings, in which case you will need to give the VPN explicit permission to access your internet connection by using the root privileges.
5. Reach out to the customer support team: After unsuccessfully trying all the solutions above, contact your VPN provider’s customer care for assistance.

FAQs