How to activate and use the built-in VPN in Brave.

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Introduction

Brave is well known for its privacy-first browser features, and among its offerings is a built-in VPN service that helps secure your internet connection, mask your IP address and protect your data on unsecured networks. Whether you’re on a mobile device or desktop, activating and using Brave’s integrated VPN is straightforward. This article provides a step-by-step guide to enable, configure and optimize the VPN in Brave, along with troubleshooting tips and a feature comparison.

Requirements and Availability

Before you begin, ensure you meet the following requirements:

  • Brave Version: Version 1.47 or later on desktop, latest Brave iOS/Android build.
  • Operating System:
    • iOS 14.0 or later
    • Android 8.0 or later
    • Windows 10 (64-bit) or macOS 10.15 (Catalina) and newer
  • Subscription:
    • Mobile (iOS/Android): Monthly or annual plan through Apple/Google app stores.
    • Desktop: Brave Firewall VPN subscription (US only at launch).
  • Network Access: Internet connection to download and activate the VPN service.

Activating the Built-in VPN

On Mobile (iOS and Android)

Step 1: Open Brave Browser

Launch the Brave app on your device. Make sure it’s updated via the App Store or Google Play Store.

Step 2: Navigate to VPN Settings

Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines or dots) at the bottom or top of the screen, then select Settings gt Brave VPN Firewall.

Step 3: Subscribe and Sign In

Choose your preferred plan (monthly or annual). You’ll be prompted to confirm the purchase via your Apple ID or Google account. Once purchased, Brave will automatically sign you in.

Step 4: Enable the VPN

Toggle the VPN switch to On. Grant the necessary permissions for VPN configurations on your device.

Step 5: Select a Server Location

Tap Server Location and choose your desired country or region. Brave will establish a secure tunnel through that location.

On Desktop (Windows and macOS)

Step 1: Open Brave and Access Settings

Launch Brave, click the three-line menu (≡) in the upper-right corner, then select Settings.

Step 2: Go to Brave Firewall VPN

In the left sidebar, choose Privacy and security, then click Brave Firewall VPN.

Step 3: Purchase or Sign In

Click Subscribe or Sign In if you already have an active subscription. Enter your credentials to authenticate.

Step 4: Toggle the VPN On

Switch the VPN slider to On. You may be prompted to install a small helper application. Follow the installer’s instructions.

Step 5: Choose Your Virtual Location

Within the VPN section, click Location and pick the region that best suits your needs (streaming, privacy, performance).

How to Use the VPN

Connecting and Disconnecting

  • To connect, simply toggle the VPN switch to On.
  • To disconnect, toggle it back to Off.
  • When connected, an icon (key or shield) appears in the browser UI or status bar.

Choosing a Server Location

  • Default (Fastest): Automatically selects the nearest, least-loaded server.
  • Specific Region: Manually pick from available countries for geo-spoofing or to access region-locked content.

Managing VPN Settings

  • Auto-connect on Unsecured Wi-Fi: Enable this option to secure yourself automatically on public hotspots.
  • Split Tunneling (Desktop only): Exclude specific websites or applications from the VPN tunnel for local access.
  • Notification Preferences: Choose whether you see pop-ups when VPN connects or disconnects.

Feature Comparison

Feature Mobile VPN Desktop VPN
Platform iOS, Android Windows, macOS
Encryption WireGuard WireGuard
Split Tunneling No Yes
Server Locations 30 Countries 30 Countries
Subscription Required Yes Yes
Auto-connect on Wi-Fi Yes Yes

Troubleshooting and Tips

  • Unable to Connect: Ensure your network allows VPN connections. Try switching Wi-Fi networks or using cellular data.
  • Slow Speeds: Switch to a different server location or use the Fastest default setting.
  • Subscription Issues: Verify your in-app purchase receipt in the App Store/Google Play or visit Brave Support.
  • App Crashes: Update Brave to the latest version and reboot your device.
  • Split Tunneling Not Working (Desktop): Check your exclusion list and ensure the helper app is running.

Conclusion

Brave’s built-in VPN delivers a seamless, privacy-focused browsing experience without needing third-party applications. By following the steps above, you can easily activate, customize and troubleshoot the VPN on both mobile and desktop platforms. Protect your data, maintain anonymity and browse the web securely with confidence using Brave’s integrated VPN service.

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