If you’re wondering how to get Surfshark VPN up and running on your Windows computer, you’re in the right place! Adding Surfshark to your Windows device, whether it’s Windows 10 or Windows 11, is a straightforward process that beefs up your online security and privacy. Surfshark is a great choice because it’s super easy to use, and it comes packed with features like an automatic Kill Switch, ad blocking with CleanWeb, and flexible split tunneling they call it Bypasser. Plus, you can connect an unlimited number of devices with just one account, which is pretty sweet for a household or if you just have a ton of gadgets.

Setting up Surfshark on your Windows PC or laptop really helps you keep your online life private and secure. It encrypts your internet traffic, hides your real IP address, and even helps you access content that might be blocked in your region. It’s like putting on an invisibility cloak for your digital activities. In this guide, I’m going to walk you through everything, from downloading and installing the app to tweaking its advanced settings and even troubleshooting common hiccups. My goal is to make sure you feel totally comfortable and confident using Surfshark to protect your digital footprint.

Table of Contents

Adding Surfshark VPN to Windows: A Quick Start Guide

To get Surfshark VPN on your Windows device, the simplest way is to head over to the official Surfshark website or grab it from the Microsoft Store. Once you’ve downloaded the installer, just double-click it, follow the on-screen prompts, and the app will basically install itself. After that, log in with your account details, hit the “Quick Connect” button, and boom – you’re connected to the fastest available server, and your online activities are now shielded!

Why Bother with a VPN on Your Windows PC?

You might be thinking, “Do I really need a VPN on my Windows machine?” And honestly, the answer is a resounding yes! Our Windows PCs are often the hub of our digital lives. We use them for work, school, streaming, gaming, online banking, and so much more. Without a VPN, all that activity is potentially exposed.

Think about it: About Surfshark VPN

Privacy Protection: Your Internet Service Provider ISP can see everything you do online. Advertisers track your every click. A VPN like Surfshark encrypts your data, making it unreadable to snoopers, including your ISP. It’s like sending your data through a secret tunnel instead of an open road. Surfshark also boasts a strict no-logs policy, meaning they don’t track, collect, or share your online activities.
Security on Public Wi-Fi: Ever connect to public Wi-Fi at a cafe or airport? It’s super convenient, but also a hotspot for hackers. A VPN creates a secure, encrypted tunnel, protecting your data from anyone trying to snatch it.
Bypassing Geo-restrictions: Want to watch a show that’s only available in another country? Or access a website that’s blocked in your region? A VPN can make it look like you’re browsing from a different location, opening up a world of content.
Ad and Malware Blocking: With features like CleanWeb, Surfshark isn’t just a VPN. it’s a security suite that helps block annoying ads, trackers, and even malicious websites.
Protection for All Your Devices: One of the coolest things about Surfshark is its unlimited simultaneous connections. That means you can protect every Windows PC, laptop, phone, tablet, and any other compatible device in your home with just a single subscription. No more picking and choosing which devices get the VPN treatment!

Surfshark is a top contender in the VPN space, with an impressive network of over 3200 servers in 100 countries. This extensive network means you’ll almost always find a fast, reliable server no matter where you are or what you’re trying to access. Plus, with its headquarters in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Surfshark operates under strong privacy-friendly laws.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Install Surfshark VPN on Windows 10 & 11

Getting Surfshark on your Windows PC, whether it’s Windows 10 or the newer Windows 11, is a breeze. Seriously, it’s designed to be super user-friendly. Just follow these steps:

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1. Check Your Windows Version and download the right one if needed

Most modern Windows users will be on Windows 10 or 11, and Surfshark’s main app works perfectly for these. However, if you’re on an older version like Windows 7 or 8, or if you have a newer device with an ARM64 processor like some Surface laptops, you might need a specific version. Surfshark offers a legacy app for Windows 7/8/8.1 and a specific ARM64 version. For most, though, the standard app is what you’ll want.

2. Download the Surfshark App

You’ve got a couple of options here, both equally simple:

From the Official Surfshark Website: This is my go-to. Just open your web browser, navigate to the Surfshark website, and look for their “Apps & Tools” section or a prominent “Download VPN” button. Once you find the Windows app, click to download the .exe installation file.
From the Microsoft Store: If you prefer getting apps directly from Microsoft, you can open the Microsoft Store on your PC, search for “Surfshark,” and download it from there.

3. Install the Surfshark App

Once the download is complete, you’ll find the Surfshark.Setup or similar name file in your Downloads folder:

Locate the Installer: Double-click on the downloaded .exe file.
Allow Changes: Your computer will probably ask if you “want to allow this app to make changes to your device.” Go ahead and click Yes. This is normal for any software installation.
Follow Prompts: The installation wizard will guide you. It’s usually a matter of clicking “Next,” agreeing to the license agreement, and selecting an installation folder the default is usually fine.
Automatic Launch: The installation typically finishes pretty quickly, and the Surfshark app will launch automatically once it’s done.

4. Log In to Your Account

When the app opens, you’ll see a login screen:

Enter Credentials: If you already have a Surfshark account, just type in your email address and password.
Sign Up If New: If this is your first time, you’ll need to sign up for a Surfshark subscription. They offer competitive pricing and a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it out risk-free. You can often sign up right through the app or by visiting their website.
Two-Factor Authentication Optional but Recommended: For extra security, I always recommend enabling two-factor authentication if Surfshark offers it, and they do!

5. Connect to the VPN

You’re almost there! Once you’re logged in, the Surfshark app dashboard will appear: Is Surfshark a Reliable VPN?

Quick Connect: The easiest way to get protected is by clicking the “Quick Connect” button. This feature automatically connects you to the fastest available server, which is usually the closest one to your physical location.
Choose a Server Location: If you need to connect to a specific country or city maybe for streaming geo-restricted content or just wanting to appear from a different region, click on the “Locations” tab on the left. You’ll see a list of countries, and often cities within those countries. Just click on your desired location to connect.
Confirm Connection: Once connected, the app will usually display a “Connected” or “Safe” status, along with your new virtual IP address and connection time.

And that’s it! You’ve successfully added Surfshark VPN to your Windows PC. Your internet traffic is now encrypted, and your online activities are private.

Navigating the Surfshark Desktop App: Features You’ll Love

The Surfshark app for Windows is designed to be intuitive, but it’s also packed with powerful features you’ll want to know about. Let’s explore some of the most useful ones:

Quick Connect and Server Selection

As I mentioned, the “Quick Connect” button is your go-to for instant protection. But don’t be afraid to explore the server list! Surfshark has a massive network of servers in 100 countries. You can: How to Cancel Proton VPN and Get Your Money Back (A Friendly Guide)

Favorite Servers: See a server you use often? Click the star icon next to it to add it to your favorites for quick access later.
Static IP Servers: If you need a consistent IP address for example, to access certain corporate resources or online services that might flag constantly changing IPs, Surfshark offers Static IP servers in select locations. You’ll share these IPs with others, but they remain the same for you each time you connect.
MultiHop Double VPN: For an extra layer of privacy and security, try MultiHop. This routes your traffic through two different VPN servers in two different countries, making it even harder to trace your online activity. Surfshark even lets you create custom MultiHop connections by picking your entry and exit locations.
Dedicated IP Servers: For an additional cost, you can get a Dedicated IP address. This is an exclusive IP that only you use, which can reduce CAPTCHAs and offer a more premium VPN experience.

Essential Security Features

Surfshark isn’t just about changing your location. it’s about robust security.

1. Kill Switch

The Kill Switch is a non-negotiable feature for any serious VPN user. It’s designed to protect your data from accidental exposure. How it works: if your VPN connection ever unexpectedly drops which can happen with any internet service, the Kill Switch automatically cuts off your internet access. This ensures that your real IP address and unencrypted data are never exposed, even for a split second, until the VPN connection is re-established.

How to Enable: In the Surfshark app, go to Settings > VPN settings, and you’ll find a toggle switch for the Kill Switch. Make sure it’s turned on it should be green. Surfshark’s Kill Switch is quite strict, blocking all internet traffic unless you’re actively connected to a VPN server, which is great for maximum security.

2. CleanWeb

Tired of annoying ads, pop-ups, and trackers following you around the internet? CleanWeb is your friend. This feature blocks ads, trackers, malware, and even phishing attempts directly within the Surfshark app.

How to Enable: Similar to the Kill Switch, you can enable CleanWeb by going to Settings > VPN settings and toggling the switch.
CleanWeb 2.0 Browser Extension: For even more comprehensive ad-blocking and additional features like data breach alerts and a cookie pop-up killer, consider installing the Surfshark browser extension. This offers what they call CleanWeb 2.0, which works seamlessly with your app.

3. Bypasser Split Tunneling

Sometimes you don’t want all your internet traffic to go through the VPN. Maybe you need to access a local network device, or a banking app requires your real location, or a specific game runs slower with the VPN. That’s where Bypasser, Surfshark’s split tunneling feature, comes in handy. It allows you to choose which apps or websites will bypass the VPN and connect directly to the internet, while the rest of your traffic remains encrypted.

How to Use: Go to Features > Bypasser in the Surfshark app. You’ll typically have two options:
- Bypass VPN: Select apps or websites that should connect directly, without VPN protection.
- Route via VPN: On Windows, this usually applies to apps only Choose specific apps whose traffic should always go through the VPN, even if other settings would normally bypass it.

Advanced VPN Settings

Digging a little deeper into the settings can customize your Surfshark experience even further. How to Cancel Free VPN App Subscriptions and Trials

1. VPN Protocols

VPN protocols are the rules that define how your VPN connection is established and secured. Surfshark offers a few excellent options:

WireGuard: Often the fastest protocol, known for its lightweight code and high-speed connections without sacrificing security. If you’re looking for speed, this is usually your best bet.
OpenVPN: A highly secure and open-source protocol, widely trusted by security experts. It’s a bit heavier than WireGuard but offers excellent security and is supported by many routers. If you’re having connection issues or prioritize maximum security, give OpenVPN especially UDP a try.
IKEv2: Another fast and secure protocol, particularly stable for mobile devices as it handles network changes like switching from Wi-Fi to mobile data very well.
How to Change: Surfshark usually picks the “Recommended” best protocol for you automatically. But if you’re experiencing issues or want to experiment, go to Settings > VPN settings > Protocol and try switching between them. VPN to Stop Ads: Your Ultimate Guide to an Ad-Free Online World

2. Auto-connect

This feature ensures you’re always protected. You can set Surfshark to:

Launch on Startup: The app will open automatically when your Windows PC starts.
Auto-connect: It will automatically connect to a VPN server you can specify which one, like the fastest or a specific location as soon as the app launches or when you join an unsecured network.
How to Enable: You’ll find these options under Settings > VPN settings > Connectivity.

3. IP Rotator

This is a unique and pretty cool feature from Surfshark. When enabled, it periodically changes your VPN IP address within the same connected location without disconnecting you. This makes it even harder for anyone to track your online activities or build a profile of your browsing habits, adding another layer of anonymity. How to Easily Cancel, Disable, or Remove AdBlock VPN (A Full Guide)

How to Enable: Look for the IP Rotator option within your VPN settings or features tab.

4. NoBorders Mode

If you’re in a region with strict internet censorship or on a network that tries to block VPN traffic like some school or work networks, NoBorders mode can help. It’s designed to let you connect to Surfshark servers even in restrictive environments.

How to Enable: This feature is usually found under Settings > VPN settings.

Troubleshooting Common Surfshark Issues on Windows

Even the best VPNs can sometimes have hiccups. If your Surfshark VPN isn’t connecting or acting strange on your Windows PC, don’t sweat it. Here are some common fixes you can try:

Restart the App and Your PC: This might sound basic, but seriously, it fixes a surprising number of tech problems. Close the Surfshark app completely, restart your computer, and then try connecting again.
Try a Different Server: The server you’re trying to connect to might be overloaded or experiencing temporary issues. Go to the “Locations” tab and try connecting to a different server, preferably one nearby or in a different city. Surfshark’s app often shows server load, so pick one that’s less crowded.
Change Your VPN Protocol: As we discussed, different protocols perform differently. If you’re having trouble, go to Settings > VPN settings > Protocol and switch from the default often WireGuard to OpenVPN UDP is usually a good choice for stability and bypassing restrictions or IKEv2. Test each one to see if it resolves the issue.
Update or Reinstall the Surfshark App: An outdated app can sometimes lead to connectivity problems. Make sure your Surfshark app is always the latest version. If it is, try a full reinstall: uninstall the app, restart your PC, then download and install a fresh copy from the official website.
Disable Interfering Applications: Other software on your PC can sometimes clash with your VPN.
- Other VPNs: If you have another VPN installed, even if it’s not running, it can cause conflicts. Uninstall any other VPN clients.
- Firewalls & Antivirus: Your firewall or antivirus software might be blocking Surfshark. Temporarily disable them just long enough to test the VPN connection or add Surfshark to their trusted/allowed applications list.
- File Sharing Apps: Some file-sharing or network-intensive applications can occasionally interfere.
Set Custom DNS: Sometimes, your ISP’s default DNS settings can be unstable. You can try setting custom DNS servers on your Windows device. Surfshark often recommends its own private DNS servers for enhanced security.
Disable IPv6: Surfshark currently doesn’t support IPv6. Having IPv6 enabled on your network can sometimes cause connection issues. Disabling it on your Windows device might help.
Reset Network Settings: Windows has a built-in network reset tool that can fix underlying network problems. In the Surfshark app, you might find a “Reset Network” option under Settings > Get Help > Troubleshooting Tools. If not, you can do this through Windows settings search for “Network reset”.
Check Your Internet Connection: Make sure your basic internet connection is working without the VPN. Try connecting to a different Wi-Fi network or using an Ethernet cable if possible to rule out local network issues.
Contact Surfshark Support: If you’ve tried all these steps and are still stuck, don’t hesitate to reach out to Surfshark’s 24/7 customer support. They’re usually very responsive and can provide personalized assistance.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Windows versions does Surfshark support?

Surfshark proudly supports a wide range of Windows operating systems, including Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, and Windows 11. They also offer a dedicated app for devices running on ARM64 processors and a legacy app for older Windows versions, ensuring most users can get protected.

Can I install Surfshark on my Windows laptop and my desktop PC with one subscription?

Absolutely! One of Surfshark’s standout features is its allowance for unlimited simultaneous connections. This means you can install and use Surfshark on your Windows laptop, desktop PC, smartphone, tablet, and any other compatible device, all under a single subscription. It’s perfect for securing your entire household.

How do I know if Surfshark VPN is working correctly on my Windows computer?

Once you connect to a server in the Surfshark app, the main dashboard will typically display a “Connected” or “Safe” status, along with your new virtual IP address and the server location. To double-check, you can open a web browser and visit a website like “whatismyip.com” or “iplocation.net”. If the displayed IP address and location match the Surfshark server you’re connected to, then your VPN is working as it should be.

What is the “Bypasser” feature in Surfshark, and how do I use it on Windows?

Bypasser is Surfshark’s name for its split tunneling feature. It lets you decide which applications or websites on your Windows device will use the VPN connection and which will bypass it to connect directly to the internet. You can find it under the “Features” section in the Surfshark app. From there, you can choose to “Bypass VPN” for certain apps/websites they’ll use your regular internet or, for apps, even “Route via VPN” they’ll always use the VPN. How Many Clients Does NordVPN Support? Unpacking Users, Devices, and Servers

What are VPN protocols, and which one should I use on my Windows PC?

VPN protocols are the underlying technologies that dictate how your VPN connection is formed, encrypted, and transmitted. Surfshark offers industry-standard protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2.

WireGuard is generally recommended for its speed and efficiency.
OpenVPN is a solid, secure choice if you prioritize maximum compatibility or encounter connection issues with WireGuard.
IKEv2 is known for its stability, especially when switching networks.
The Surfshark app usually selects the best protocol automatically, but you can manually change it in Settings > VPN settings > Protocol if you’re troubleshooting or want to experiment.

Why is my Surfshark VPN slow on Windows, and what can I do?

Several factors can affect VPN speed. First, try connecting to a different server, especially one closer to your physical location, as distance can impact speed. Also, check the server load within the app and pick a less crowded one. Experiment with different VPN protocols. WireGuard is often the fastest. Ensure your internet connection is stable without the VPN. Lastly, temporary disabling features like CleanWeb or Bypasser and any other interfering applications like firewalls or other VPNs can sometimes improve performance.

Can I use Surfshark with my router to protect all devices, including my Windows PC?

Yes, you can! While the Surfshark app is great for individual Windows devices, installing Surfshark on a compatible router extends VPN protection to all devices connected to that router, including your Windows PC, smart TVs, gaming consoles, and more. This is particularly useful for devices that don’t natively support VPN apps. Surfshark provides detailed guides on their website for setting this up, often involving OpenVPN configuration files.

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