How to Setup a VPN Connection in Windows 7

As Windows 7 has just been launched, many VPN services did not update their setup pages to explain how to set up a VPN connection on this latest OS from Microsoft. Learn how to set up Windows 7 VPN.

One of my readers asked me about this issue, but as I do not have Windows 7 installed on my computer, I’ve searched for a tutorial on Windows7Hacker.com.

How to setup Windows 7 VPN – PPTP

Step 1.  Open Network and Sharing Center from Control Panel

Step 2. Choose Set up a new connection or network.

Step 3. In the next window, choose to Use my Internet Connection (VPN)

Step 4. Type in the address in either domain name or IP address.

You should receive this information from the VPN service provider. Next, name the connection in the destination name box. Then click Next.

Step 5. In the next window, enter your username and password for the VPN access.

And click Create. You’re all set if you see the next window as below.

Step 6. To launch it, simply click the small network icon on the system tray at the bottom right corner.

Further, pick the connection we just created from the popup list, and Connect.

PPTP VPN alternatives

The PPTP VPN protocol is not the safest choice when it comes to security. It is well known that PPTP was cracked and it is rather unsafe to use it. Fortunately, there are better alternatives. You may either use SSTP, L2TP or OpenVPN.

The simplest way to use a Windows 7 VPN is to download the VPN apps from top VPN providers. These apps not only that simplify the connection (just click on a button, and the connection is automatically set up), but also offer the option to switch between different VPN protocols. Thus, you may choose that one that fits your need best.

You may find below a list of VPN services that I recommend: