Windscribe VPN 2.24.13 for Windows

Windscribe VPN 2.24.13 is the Windows client of Windscribe, a virtual private network provider run by Windscribe Limited. It encrypts your connection and sends it through a Windscribe server, and it can be used for free or with a paid plan. You can download Windscribe VPN for Windows from windscribe.com.

Overview

Windscribe earned a following among people who wanted to try a VPN without paying straight away. You can create an account without handing over much personal information and use the service at no cost, with a limited set of locations and a data allowance; paid plans remove those limits and add more servers. The desktop client is compact: a big connect button, a list of locations and a settings panel. Beyond the basic tunnel, it includes a firewall that blocks traffic outside the VPN, so nothing slips out if the connection drops, and options for choosing the protocol and port, which helps on networks that interfere with VPN traffic. Split tunnelling lets you send only certain apps through the VPN, which is useful when a banking app or a local printer refuses to work with it. The client is updated frequently; changes are published in the Windscribe changelog.

Installation and first connection

1. Download the Windows installer from the official download page.
2. Run it and allow Windows to install the VPN network components.
3. Sign in or create an account in the app.
4. Pick a location or use the automatic choice and click connect.
5. Open the settings and check that the firewall is on.

The installer is about 40.05 MB according to catalogue data.

Privacy and realistic expectations

A VPN moves trust from your internet provider to the VPN company. Read Windscribe's privacy policy to see what it records. A VPN does not stop tracking by accounts you are signed in to, and it does not protect against phishing or malware. Use it in line with the laws of your country and the rules of your workplace or school network.

When the connection fails

Hotel, airport and office networks sometimes block VPN traffic. In that case, change the protocol or port in the connection settings and try again, or pick a different location. If websites stop loading after you disconnect, check whether the firewall is set to stay on permanently.

Price

The client is free to download, and the free tier is usable without payment. Paid plans are sold on the official site; check the current terms there rather than on comparison sites, which often show old prices.

Pros and cons

• Pro: usable free tier.
• Pro: firewall against leaks when the connection drops.
• Pro: protocol, port and split tunnelling options.
• Con: the free tier has limited locations and data.
• Con: settings can feel technical to beginners.

Alternatives

Other VPN clients for Windows in our listings include Proton VPN, Mullvad VPN, TunnelBear, Hotspot Shield, NordVPN, Surfshark and ExpressVPN. OpenVPN Connect is the client for your own or your company's OpenVPN server.