Microsoft Edge is expanding with a free VPN and some Windows fans can already use the tool. Will it replace classic VPN services from now on?
Microsoft gives the Edge browser a free VPN, which should rather be called a secure network. The tool, which is still in the test phase, is already available for selected Windows computers. It is activated with a toggle switch in the browser settings.
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In addition to an encrypted Internet connection to protect against online threats and tracking protection, the Secure Network obfuscates your IP to make targeted advertising and tracking of your IP more difficult. Included is one gigabyte of free traffic per month.
To use this, you must be logged in with your Microsoft account. Microsoft also does not describe the new function on its own website as a VPN, but as a secure network. The reason: Classic VPNs offer system-wide protection and anonymity, Microsoft’s Secure Network is only used in Edge browsers.
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The Secure Network is not managed by Microsoft itself, but by the US provider Cloudflare. Due to the restrictions mentioned, you still need a full-fledged VPN under Windows for comprehensive system protection. Nevertheless, the new feature should greatly improve anonymity and security, at least in the Edge browser.
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