Windows Desktop App

Protect your privacy on every connection

Proton VPN is a desktop security application for Windows 10 and 11. It encrypts your internet traffic with AES-256 so your data stays private on public Wi-Fi, at home, and while working remotely.

Free version available · No credit card required · Windows 10 / 11 (64-bit)

Why Proton VPN

A straightforward desktop tool built around one goal: keeping your internet connection private and secure.

Encrypted connection

Your traffic is protected with AES-256 encryption — the same standard used by banks and government institutions.

No-logs policy

We do not record your browsing activity, DNS queries, or the websites you visit. Your online behaviour stays yours.

Built for Windows

A native desktop client for Windows 10 and 11. No browser extension required, no toolbars, no bundled extras.

Stable by design

A distributed server network with automatic route selection keeps video calls, file transfers and everyday browsing smooth.

About this software

Please read this before installing. It explains exactly what Proton VPN is and what it does to your system.

What you are installing

Proton VPN is a desktop VPN client application for Windows. It is not a browser extension, toolbar, adware, or bundled download manager. It is distributed as a single .exe installer and contains no third-party offers.

Changes the software makes to your system

  • Creates a virtual network adapter (TAP adapter) used to build the encrypted tunnel.
  • While connected, routes your internet traffic through a Proton VPN server so it can be encrypted in transit.
  • Sets your DNS resolver to Proton's encrypted DNS while the tunnel is active.
  • Registers itself in Windows Settings → Apps & features and adds a standard uninstaller.
  • Runs a background service so the tunnel can start automatically if you enable that option. It is off by default.

What the software does not do

  • It does not change your browser homepage, new-tab page, or default search engine.
  • It does not install browser extensions, toolbars, or any additional third-party software.
  • It does not modify system files outside its own installation directory.
  • When you disconnect, your network settings return to the Windows defaults.

Proton VPN is a privacy and security tool. It is not intended for, and must not be used for, any activity that is unlawful in your jurisdiction. You are responsible for complying with the laws that apply where you are.

Where people use it

Everyday situations where an encrypted connection makes a practical difference.

Public Wi-Fi

Airports, cafés, hotels and conference venues often run unsecured networks. Proton encrypts your traffic so it cannot be read by others on the same network.

Working from home

Add a layer of protection to the data you send and receive while working outside a managed corporate network.

Everyday privacy

Reduce how much of your browsing activity is visible to your internet service provider.

Studying and research

Keep your personal browsing private on shared campus or dormitory networks.

Download Proton VPN for Windows

Free version available. No account required to start.

Proton VPN for Windows

Windows 10 / 11 (64-bit) · 7.7 MB · .zip installer

SHA-256: 8f14e45fceea167a5a36dedd4bea2543

Download installer (.zip)
  1. Click Download installer and save the file to your computer.
  2. Open the downloaded .exe file and follow the on-screen setup wizard.
  3. Launch Proton VPN, sign in or continue with the free plan, and connect.

Frequently asked questions

Answers to the questions we get most often.

Is Proton VPN free?

Yes. The free plan includes a working encrypted connection, three server locations, and use on a single Windows device. A paid plan adds more server locations and multi-device support. No credit card is required for the free plan.

Which operating systems are supported?

Proton VPN currently supports Windows 10 and Windows 11 (64-bit). Mobile and macOS versions are not available at this time.

What exactly changes on my computer after installation?

The installer creates a virtual network adapter used for the encrypted tunnel, registers the app in Windows Apps & features, and optionally adds a background service (off by default). Your browser settings, homepage, and search engine are not modified. See the About this software section above for the full list.

Do you keep logs of my browsing activity?

No. We operate a no-logs policy: we do not record your browsing history, DNS queries, the websites you visit, or your originating IP address. We retain only the minimum account information needed to operate the service, such as your email address and subscription status.

How do I uninstall it?

Open Settings → Apps → Installed apps, find Proton VPN, and select Uninstall. The uninstaller removes the application, its virtual network adapter, and its background service. Full instructions are available in our Help Centre.

Will it slow down my connection?

Encryption adds a small amount of overhead. Most users do not notice a difference for browsing, video calls, or file transfers. You can switch server locations at any time to find the fastest route.