Using a VPN with Chrome just makes sense. Here's how to do it

Here's how to set up a VPN Chrome extension, which providers are available, and whether free Chrome VPN solutions are secure.

- FLORIAN KASTNER

Anyone who logs into a public Wi-Fi network or surfs the internet without protection quickly runs the risk of exposing their data. A VPN for Chrome can help and allows you to surf the web securely and anonymously—directly via the Google Chrome browser without having to install any additional software.

But how does a Chrome VPN differ from other VPN services, which providers are recommended, and how secure are the free solutions? We explain.

WHAT MAKES A CHROME VPN DIFFERENT FROM OTHER VPN PROVIDERS?

A Chrome VPN, or more precisely a VPN Chrome extension, only protects the data traffic in the browser, while a classic VPN app encrypts all of the device's internet traffic. This means a VPN Chrome extension is quicker and easier to install, but offers less security.

A free Chrome VPN, in particular, can harbor data protection risks, as some providers track user data or display advertising. If you want comprehensive protection for all online activities, you should use a full-fledged VPN software instead. You can find a comparison of the best VPN services here (fave.co/3FtTTMs).

WHAT IS A CHROME VPN EXTENSION?

A Chrome VPN extension is a small add-on that is installed via the Chrome Web Store. With a VPN for Chrome, you can bypass geoblocking and anonymize data traffic in the browser, but the protection remains limited to Chrome.

How do I install a Chrome VPN extension via the Chrome Web Store?

1. Start Google Chrome and open the Chrome Web Store (fave.co/4ixFjXU).

2. Enter Chrome VPN, Chrome VPN Extension, or the name of a specific VPN provider (such as CyberGhost VPN, NordVPN) in the search field.

3. Click on the desired VPN Chrome extension and select Add.

3. Confirm the installation by clicking on “Add extension.” After installation, the VPN icon appears to the right of the address bar.