How to Turn Off VPN on Computer: A Complete Beginner’s Guide (2025 Edition)

To turn off VPN on your computer, use one of these quick steps depending on your device:

• Windows: Settings > Network & Internet > VPN > Disconnect
• macOS: System Settings > Network > VPN > Disconnect
• Linux: GNOME Settings > Network > VPN > Toggle Off, or run terminal command
• Android: Settings > Network & Internet > VPN > Disconnect
• iOS: Settings > General > VPN & Device Management > Toggle Off

These actions take less than 10 seconds.

Last year, while traveling, I needed to book a local train ticket in Italy. The site kept showing prices in German and wouldn’t let me pay. I was confused—until I realized my VPN was still routing traffic through Frankfurt. Turning it off solved everything in seconds. That small hiccup taught me a big lesson: knowing how to turn off VPN on computer is more useful than you’d expect, especially when dealing with regional settings and DNS conflicts.

What is DNS server , Learn how DNS impacts how websites load and why VPNs can sometimes interfere with accurate routing.

In this beginner-friendly guide, I’ll walk you through every method to safely disable your VPN, whether you’re troubleshooting, trying to access local content, or just want your full internet speed back. Let’s get started.

How to Turn Off VPN on Windows 10 and 11

VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a powerful tool for protecting your privacy and accessing restricted content. But there are situations when you may want to disable it—whether you’re troubleshooting network issues, experiencing slow speed, or switching servers.

What You Need to Prepare:

• Admin rights to access Control Panel or modify adapter settings
• Know if the VPN was installed via Windows Settings or a third-party app
• Access credentials for your VPN app, if used

In this detailed guide, you’ll learn how to turn off VPN on Windows 10 and 11, regardless of how it was installed: through Windows’ built-in settings, a manual configuration, or a third-party VPN app.

Method 1: Turn Off VPN via Windows Settings

This is the simplest method if you used the Windows built-in VPN feature.

Instructions:

Step 1: Click Start, then select Settings.

Step 2: Navigate to Network & Internet, then click VPN.

Find network & internet

Step 3: Under the VPN section, find your active VPN connection.

Find VPN connection

Step 4: Click the connection name, then click Disconnect.

Disconnect VPN on your computer

When to use this method:

• You set up the VPN manually using Windows options.
• You want a quick toggle without dealing with network adapters.

Note: This does not uninstall the VPN profile—it just disconnects it temporarily.

Method 2: Disable VPN Adapter via Control Panel

For users who configured VPN manually or through older protocols like PPTP/L2TP, this method gives you more control.

Instructions:

1. Open the Control Panel.
2. Go to Network and Sharing Center.
3. Click on Change adapter settings on the left-hand menu.
4. Right-click the VPN connection (usually labeled by its name or “WAN Miniport”).
5. Select Disable.

Disable VPN Adapter via Control Panel

Benefits of this method:

• Fully disables the virtual adapter associated with VPN.
• Useful for persistent or hidden VPN setups.

Reminder: You’ll need to manually re-enable the adapter if you want to reconnect.

Method 3: Turn Off VPN from Third-Party Apps

If you use services like NordVPN, Surfshark, or ExpressVPN, the easiest way to turn off the VPN is directly from the app itself.

Steps:

1. Launch the VPN application on your computer.
2. On the dashboard or home screen, locate the active connection.
3. Click the Disconnect, Turn Off, or Pause button depending on the app.

Examples:

• In most apps, this action is immediate and will return your network to its original state.
• If the app is set to auto-connect, make sure to disable that setting to prevent automatic reconnection.

Why use this method:

• Ideal if you’re using multiple servers or advanced configurations.
• Ensures clean disconnection without altering system settings.

Additional Considerations

Why turn off your VPN:

• To access websites or content that block VPN connections.
• To resolve internet speed issues caused by specific VPN servers. You may also want to understand What is network latency and how VPNs can affect ping, speed, and overall performance.
• To switch between different regions or VPN providers.

What to avoid:

• Disconnecting VPN without understanding its security impact.
• Leaving VPN running while troubleshooting local network issues.

After turning it off:

• Check your IP address if privacy is a concern.
• Reconnect once you’re done to continue browsing securely.

Summary

There are multiple ways to turn off a VPN on Windows 10 or 11:

• Use Windows Settings for quick disconnection.
• Go through Control Panel for deeper control of network adapters.
• Use your VPN app for the most user-friendly experience.

Choose the method that fits your setup and needs. Disabling your VPN properly ensures a smooth transition while maintaining control over your connection and privacy.

How to Turn Off VPN on Windows 10/11

How to Turn Off VPN on macOS

Disabling a VPN on your Mac may be necessary when troubleshooting network issues, switching servers, or accessing local services that restrict VPN connections. This guide will walk you through two easy ways to turn off VPN on macOS, whether you’re using Ventura or older macOS versions.

What You Need to Prepare:

• Access to System Settings (Ventura) or System Preferences (Monterey and earlier)
• Ability to open your VPN provider’s app if using third-party services
• Admin rights to remove VPN configuration if needed

Method 1: Disconnect VPN via System Settings (macOS Ventura and Later)

macOS Ventura introduced a new System Settings layout. Follow these steps if you’re on Ventura or a newer version.

Steps:

1. Click the Apple Menu (top left corner).
2. Select System Settings.

System setting MacOs

1. Choose Network from the sidebar.
2. Scroll to find VPN in the list of network connections.
3. Select your active VPN profile.
4. Click Disconnect.

Disconnect VPN on MacOS

Tip: If you want to prevent automatic reconnection, you can remove the profile entirely by clicking the info button (i) and choosing “Remove Configuration.”

Method 1 (Alternative for Older macOS): System Preferences (Big Sur, Monterey, etc.)

If you’re using macOS Big Sur, Monterey, or earlier, use the following steps:

1. Open System Preferences.
2. Click on Network.
3. From the list on the left, choose the VPN connection.
4. Click Disconnect in the main pane.

When to use this method:

• You set up VPN manually using the macOS built-in network client.
• You prefer system-level control without relying on third-party apps.

Method 2: Disconnect VPN Using Third-Party VPN Apps

If you’re using a commercial VPN like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, or ProtonVPN, the easiest and most user-friendly way is through the VPN’s official app.

Steps:

1. Launch your VPN app from the Dock or Applications folder.
2. Locate the current connection status.
3. Click Disconnect, Stop, or toggle the switch to Off, depending on the provider.

Additional tip:
Some apps reconnect automatically on startup. Check your app settings to disable “Auto-connect” or “Launch at login” if you want full manual control.

Additional Tips: What to Do After You Turn Off VPN

• Check Your IP: Visit an IP-checking website to ensure your real IP is showing (confirm VPN is off).
• Re-enable When Done: If you’re done troubleshooting or testing, reconnect your VPN to maintain privacy.
• Be Aware of Public Wi-Fi: If you’re using public networks, disabling VPN may expose your data. Proceed with caution.

When Should You Turn Off VPN on macOS?

Turning off your VPN is safe in some cases, but it’s best done only when necessary. Here are common reasons:

• Accessing Local Services: Some streaming platforms or websites restrict access when using a VPN.
• Solving Connectivity Problems: VPNs can sometimes slow down or block local network traffic.
• Switching Locations: If you’re changing VPN servers, it’s best to disconnect first.

Summary

Here are the two main ways to turn off a VPN on macOS:

• Use System Settings (Ventura) or System Preferences (Monterey and earlier) to disable built-in VPN profiles.
• Use the VPN provider’s app to quickly disconnect without changing system settings.

Disabling your VPN is simple but must be done with awareness of the risks—especially on public Wi-Fi or if privacy is a priority.

How to Turn Off VPN on Linux (Ubuntu Example)

Disabling a VPN on Linux, especially Ubuntu, can be done in two ways: using the graphical user interface (GUI) or the command line. The method you choose depends on how your VPN is configured and your comfort with the Linux terminal.

What You Need to Prepare:

• Know if VPN is configured via GUI or command-line
• Ability to run “nmcli” or “systemctl” commands
• VPN connection name (as listed by NetworkManager)

Method 1: Disable VPN via GUI (Ubuntu GNOME Desktop)

This method works for users who set up their VPN through Ubuntu’s built-in network settings (typically with a .ovpn profile or integrated VPN configuration).

Steps:

1. Click on the top-right corner of your desktop and select Settings.
2. In the left sidebar, click on Network.

Find network settings

1. Scroll down to find the VPN section.
2. Locate your active VPN connection (typically marked with a green dot or status text).
3. Click the toggle switch to turn off the VPN.

Turn Off VPN on Linux

Additional Options:

• To prevent auto-reconnect, click the gear icon next to the VPN name and disable Automatically connect.
• To remove the VPN configuration entirely, select Remove Configuration.

Best for:

• Users with basic Ubuntu Desktop environments using GNOME.
• OpenVPN or L2TP configured via GUI.

Method 2: Disable VPN Using Terminal (Advanced Users)

For those running headless setups (like Ubuntu Server) or who prefer CLI, the nmcli command is the go-to

Basic Command: nmcli connection down <vpn-name>

Replace <vpn-name> with the name of your VPN connection as listed by NetworkManager.

Example: nmcli connection down my-vpn-europe

To List Available VPN Connections: nmcli connection show –active

This helps identify the exact connection name if you’re unsure.

Use case:

• • Managing VPN on remote servers via SSH.
  • Automating VPN disconnection via scripts.
  • Handling multiple VPN profiles.

Tip:
Some VPNs might use services like OpenVPN directly. In such cases, use: sudo systemctl stop openvpn-client@<config-name>.service

Where <config-name> is the filename of your .conf file (without the extension).

Important Notes After Disconnecting

• Verify Status: Run ip a or check nmcli connection show –active to ensure the VPN has been disconnected.
• Check IP Address: Visit a web-based IP checker to confirm your public IP has reverted to your ISP’s address.
• Restart Services if Needed: For apps requiring new routing rules (like browsers or ssh clients), a restart may help.

When Should You Turn Off VPN on Linux?

• Accessing Local Resources: Sometimes VPN blocks internal IPs or file shares.
• Speed Testing or Troubleshooting: VPN can interfere with speed or DNS.
• Changing Servers: You often need to disconnect before reconnecting to a new VPN endpoint.

Summary

To turn off VPN on Ubuntu:

• Use the GUI Settings for quick, beginner-friendly control.
• Use nmcli or systemctl commands for more precise or server-side management.

Always verify the VPN has truly stopped and remember to reconnect when you’re finished to maintain security and privacy.

How to Turn Off VPN on Mobile Devices

Turning off your VPN on mobile can help you access geo-restricted content, fix internet speed issues, or troubleshoot network conflicts. Whether you’re using built-in VPN settings or a third-party VPN app, here’s how to safely disable VPN on your smartphone or tablet.

How to Turn Off VPN on Android (Samsung, Pixel, and Other Devices)

There are two main ways to disconnect a VPN on Android: through system settings or via the VPN app itself.

What You Need to Prepare:

• Device with Android 11+ for latest UI
• Access to Settings or the installed VPN app
• Optionally disable “Always-on VPN” or other auto-connect features

Method 1: Turn Off VPN via Android Settings

Steps (for Android 11+ and Pixel UI):

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Network & Internet.
3. Tap VPN.

1. Choose the active VPN connection.
2. Tap Disconnect or toggle the switch off.

Tap Disconnect to turn off VPN

On Samsung devices:

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Connections > More connection settings > VPN.
3. Select your VPN, then tap Disconnect.

Pro Tip:
To prevent automatic reconnecting, tap the gear icon next to your VPN and disable Always-on VPN or Block connections without VPN if enabled.

Method 2: Turn Off VPN from App (e.g., NordVPN, Surfshark)

• Open your VPN app.

• Locate the connected status.

• Tap the Disconnect or Power Off button.

Use this method if:

• You installed a third-party VPN app.

• You use multiple VPN profiles or protocols (WireGuard, OpenVPN).

How to Turn Off VPN on iOS (iPhone and iPad)

Just like Android, you can disable VPN via the built-in settings or your app of choice.

What You Need to Prepare:

• Access to VPN configuration in Settings > VPN & Device Management
• Ability to open the VPN app if using third-party services
• Optionally remove VPN profile or turn off auto-connect

Method 1: Disable VPN via iOS Settings

Steps (iOS 15+):

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap General.
3. Scroll to and tap VPN & Device Management.

Find VPN & device management

1. Tap the VPN section.
2. Switch off the active VPN connection.

Switch off the active VPN connection.

On older iOS versions, you may find VPN directly in the main Settings screen.

Note:
iOS will automatically try to reconnect some VPN profiles unless you remove them or change auto-connect settings in the app.

Method 2: Disconnect via VPN App

1. Open the app (e.g., ProtonVPN, ExpressVPN).
2. Tap the Stop or Disconnect button.
3. Optional: Go to settings and disable Auto-connect on startup.

Things to Know After Turning Off VPN on Mobile

• Your IP address becomes visible to your ISP or apps unless you’re using private DNS or proxy.
• Some streaming services might behave differently based on your real location.
• VPN may reconnect automatically if Always-on or Kill Switch settings are enabled.
• On mobile data, VPNs might help avoid ISP throttling. Consider reconnecting when not troubleshooting.

When Should You Turn Off Mobile VPN?

• Accessing local banking apps or services that block VPNs.
• Using public Wi-Fi that restricts encrypted traffic.
• Troubleshooting connection drops or slow speeds.
• Switching between VPN servers or providers.

Summary

To turn off VPN on mobile devices:

• On Android: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > VPN or disconnect via the app.
• On iOS: Navigate to Settings > General > VPN & Device Management, or use the VPN app directly.

Choose the method that matches your setup. And remember to reconnect once you’re done to keep your data secure.

Troubleshooting: VPN Won’t Turn Off?

If your VPN refuses to disconnect or keeps reconnecting automatically, don’t worry—this is a common issue on Windows, macOS, and mobile devices. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you identify the cause and fix it, whether the problem lies in the app, network settings, or background processes.

Step 1: Confirm the VPN Is Still Active

Before troubleshooting, make sure your VPN is actually running.

How to check:

• Use an IP checker to verify your real IP is hidden.
• On Windows/macOS, go to network settings and see if the VPN is listed as active.
• On mobile, look for the VPN icon in the status bar.

If it’s still connected, proceed to the steps below.

Step 2: Restart Your Device

A simple reboot can resolve many temporary glitches.

• On Windows/macOS: Restart your computer to refresh all services and clear stuck processes.
• On Android/iOS: Turn off and back on your device.

Why it works: VPN adapters or system services can sometimes remain stuck in memory and won’t release until rebooted.

Step 3: Force Close the VPN App

Sometimes the VPN app crashes or hangs silently in the background.

How to force close:

• Windows: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager. Find the VPN process (e.g., nordvpn.exe) and click End Task.
• macOS: Use Activity Monitor, search for the app, and force quit.
• Android/iOS: Go to recent apps and swipe the VPN app away, or use App Info > Force Stop on Android.

Then reopen the app and manually disconnect.

Step 4: Disable Auto-Connect and Kill Switch Features

Some VPNs are designed to stay on at all costs—even after you try to turn them off.

Common auto-connect settings to check:

• Always-On VPN (Android)
• Auto-connect on startup (Windows/macOS apps)
• Kill Switch or Block internet when disconnected

Where to find these settings:
Inside the VPN app’s Settings > Connection or Preferences section.

Disable these features before retrying disconnection.

Step 5: Uninstall the VPN (If Needed)

As a last resort, uninstalling the VPN app will completely remove its connection hooks.

Steps:

• On Windows: Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps, select the VPN, and click Uninstall.
• On macOS: Move the VPN app to Trash and delete configuration profiles in System Settings > VPN.
• On Android/iOS: Long-press the app icon and choose Uninstall or Remove App.

Note: Some VPNs install background services or browser extensions—make sure those are removed too.

Extra Tips: Still Having Trouble?

• Check if your antivirus/firewall is forcing VPN use.
• Verify no third-party software is forcing traffic via VPN (e.g., Parental Controls, Company MDM).
• Use Safe Mode or Clean Boot to test for conflicts.

Summary

If your VPN won’t turn off, try these steps in order:

1. Confirm it’s still active (via IP check).
2. Restart your device.
3. Force close the app.
4. Disable auto-connect and kill switch settings.
5. Uninstall the VPN as a last resort.

By following this troubleshooting process, you can safely regain control of your connection without compromising system stability or security.

When Should You Turn Off a VPN?

• To access region-locked local content (e.g., banking sites).
• During software installations or troubleshooting.
• When using trusted networks (like at home).

Warning: Turning off your VPN exposes your real IP address. Use caution when on public Wi-Fi.

Best Practices to Manage VPN Use (Without Turning It Off)

Split Tunneling

Route only selected apps through the VPN while others use your regular connection. Ideal for apps like banking or streaming services that require local access.

VPN Scheduling

Set automatic connect/disconnect times to simplify usage and enhance security. Great for balancing privacy and performance.

Set automatic connect

Use App-Specific Exclusions

In many premium VPNs, you can exclude certain apps from the VPN tunnel to reduce friction and improve connectivity.

VPN Behavior by OS

Operating System	Built-in VPN Control	Third-Party VPN App Support	Auto-Reconnect Settings	Terminal/Advanced Control
Windows 10/11	Yes	Yes	Yes	Limited (via PowerShell)
macOS Ventura+	Yes	Yes	Yes	Limited (Terminal profiles)
Linux (Ubuntu)	Yes (GUI & CLI)	Yes	Varies by client	Full via Terminal
Android	Yes	Yes	Yes	App-controlled only
iOS	Yes	Yes	Yes	No terminal access

 

FAQs: More You Should Know About How to Turn Off VPN on Computer

Q1: Is it safe to turn off VPN on a computer?

A: Yes, it’s generally safe if you’re connected to a trusted home or workplace network. But if you’re using public Wi-Fi (like in cafes, airports, or hotels), disabling your VPN can expose your data to cyber threats.

Expert tip: If you need to turn off VPN in public, make sure websites use HTTPS and avoid entering passwords or financial information.

Q2: Will disabling VPN affect streaming services like Netflix or Hulu?

A: Yes. Turning off VPN means your real geographic location becomes visible, which can block access to geo-restricted content. Streaming services may limit or change the content available based on your country.

Solution: Reconnect your VPN and select a server in the country you want to access content from.

Q3: Do I have to uninstall VPN software to disable it?

A: No. You do not need to uninstall your VPN to disable it. You can simply:

• Disconnect the VPN through your system settings.
• Or open your VPN app and click Disconnect.

Only uninstall the VPN app if:

• You’re switching to a different VPN provider.
• The app keeps auto-connecting despite settings changes.

Q4: How do I stop VPN from turning on automatically at startup?

A: Most VPN apps allow you to control auto-start behavior.

Steps:

• Open the VPN app → Settings > Startup or Connection.
• Disable options like:
  • “Auto-connect”
  • “Always-on VPN”
  • “Launch VPN on system start”

Platform-specific tips:

• Windows: Use Task Manager > Startup tab
• macOS: System Settings > Users & Groups > Login Items
• Android: Network Settings > VPN > Gear icon > Turn off “Always-on VPN”
• iOS: Go to Settings > VPN & Device Management → Remove or disable VPN profile

Real-Life Scenarios: When It Makes Sense to Turn Off Your VPN

Sometimes, keeping your VPN on can cause more harm than good—at least temporarily. Here are real-world examples of when users had to disable their VPN, and what happened next.

Case 1: Online Gaming – Reduced Lag and Smoother Matchmaking

User: Peter, 23, a competitive gamer in California
Issue: He noticed high ping spikes and slow matchmaking while playing Call of Duty Warzone with VPN active.
Action: Peter disabled the VPN and restarted his router.
Result:

• Ping dropped from 180ms to 45ms.
• Matchmaking paired him with local servers.
• Voice chat also improved with less delay.

Takeaway: Most gaming servers auto-match by IP location. VPNs can cause routing mismatches or latency jumps—turning it off can improve your gaming edge.

Case 2: Accessing a Bank Website – IP Block Avoided

User: Laura, 35, digital marketer from Florida
Issue: She couldn’t log into her U.S.-based bank account while abroad using a VPN connected to Europe.
Error Message: “Access denied. Suspicious login attempt detected.”
Action: She turned off the VPN and retried login using her real IP.
Result: Logged in immediately.
Security Note: Some banks use GeoIP filtering to block foreign access—even if it’s you.

Takeaway: If you’re abroad or using a non-local VPN server, your bank might flag the session as a fraud risk. Temporarily turning off VPN can solve access issues, but reconnect afterward.

Case 3: Software Activation – VPN Blocked Updates

User: David, IT engineer in Texas
Issue: His Windows machine failed to complete activation and update downloads while connected to a UK VPN server.
Error Code: 0x80072EFE
Action: Disabled VPN, flushed DNS cache, and restarted the Windows Update service.
Result: System activated within 5 minutes and downloaded pending updates.Takeaway: Some software (Windows, Adobe, antivirus) uses region-based licensing or requires IP transparency. VPNs can interfere with update servers or licensing checks.

Bonus Case: Streaming Platform Buffering

User: Amanda, movie lover in Singapore
Issue: While trying to watch Disney+ U.S. content via VPN, buffering was constant.
Action: Switched VPN servers twice—no change.
Solution: Disabled VPN and used local catalog instead.
Result: Immediate improvement in speed and resolution (from 480p to 1080p).

Takeaway: Streaming platforms often throttle VPN IPs or serve content via lower-bandwidth routing. If quality matters more than content selection, try going local.

Expert Tip: Use VPN Scheduling and Split Tunneling Instead of Disabling It Entirely

Turning off your VPN manually every time can be inconvenient—and even risky if you forget to turn it back on. Instead, consider these two smarter alternatives that give you more control while maintaining security:

Option 1: Split Tunneling – Route Only What You Need Outside VPN

What it is:
Split tunneling allows you to exclude specific apps or websites from using the VPN, while everything else stays protected.

Use case examples:

• Let your online banking app bypass the VPN for local IP access.
• Stream Netflix from your real location while keeping email and browser traffic secure through VPN.

How to enable:

• Windows/macOS: Most premium VPN apps like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, or Surfshark have a “Split Tunneling” feature under Settings > Advanced or Network.
• Mobile (Android/iOS): Look for App Exclusions or Bypass List in the VPN app settings.

Pro tip: Use this if only one or two apps need to operate outside the VPN tunnel. It’s safer than turning off VPN entirely.

Option 2: Schedule VPN Use – Automate When VPN Turns On or Off

What it is:
VPN scheduling lets you set specific time windows when your VPN should automatically connect or disconnect.

Common use cases:

• Automatically connect to VPN during work hours (e.g., 9 AM to 6 PM).
• Disable VPN overnight to save battery on mobile or avoid interfering with scheduled downloads.

How to set it up:

• Windows/macOS: Use task automation tools like Task Scheduler (Windows) or Automator/Launchd (macOS) combined with command-line control (e.g., nordvpn connect).
• Some VPN apps offer native scheduling (check in Preferences > Automation).
• Android users can use third-party tools like Tasker or macrodroid.

Pro tip: Scheduling is ideal if your VPN habits are time-based rather than app-specific. It ensures you never forget to reconnect for sensitive activities.

Why This Matters

• Security preserved: You still stay protected where it matters most.
• Better performance: Local apps and updates run smoothly outside the tunnel.
• Reduced friction: No need to remember to toggle VPN on/off manually.

Conclusion: Now You Know How

Disabling your VPN is no longer a mystery. In this guide, you’ve learned:

• How to turn off VPN on computer across major platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, and even mobile.

• When it’s safe to disconnect, and what to watch out for.

• Troubleshooting tips if your VPN won’t turn off properly.

Key reminder:
Turning off your VPN exposes your real IP and online activity. Always reconnect after you’re done troubleshooting or accessing restricted content—especially on public Wi-Fi.

What’s Next?

Want more tips on digital privacy and tech troubleshooting?

Visit Softbuzz to explore:

• Top-rated VPN reviews

• Step-by-step software guides

• Cybersecurity tips for everyday users

Or dive into our Software category for detailed tutorials on essential apps, troubleshooting tools, and productivity boosters that keep your digital life smooth and secure.