What is a VPN kill switch?

A VPN kill switch is a security feature that protects your IP address and data in the event that your VPN connection drops. Depending on the VPN settings, it disconnects the whole device or specific apps from the internet until the VPN connection is restored.

Using a kill switch is essential for privacy-conscious users who want to ensure their data stays private at all times. It’s also crucial for political activists and journalists working in countries with restrictive governments.

In this article, I’ll help you understand what a VPN kill switch is and how it works, using clear and simple language.

How does a VPN kill switch work?

A VPN kill switch monitors your VPN connection and temporarily shuts down your internet connection if it detects any issues. It activates when you experience an unstable internet connection, the VPN server fails, or a firewall or antivirus blocks your VPN app.

Here’s a simple but detailed explanation of how it works:

1. The kill switch monitors your VPN connection for any irregularities, like IP address changes.
2. The kill switch detects that the VPN connection has dropped.
3. The feature then blocks internet access for the entire system or specific apps, depending on your settings.
4. When the VPN reconnects, the kill switch restores your internet connection.

How to turn on a kill switch?

How to turn on a VPN kill switch depends on the exact VPN service you’re using. Still, the process is very similar, so you won’t have trouble finding the feature. Here’s how to turn on a kill switch:

1. Choose a reliable VPN. I’ll use NordVPN as an example.
2. Download and install the VPN app on your computer or phone.
3. Open the VPN app and go to “Settings.”
   
4. Head to the “Kill Switch” section and toggle on the feature.
   
5. That’s it – browse without fearing data leaks.

When does a kill switch activate?

The VPN kill switch activates when there’s a disruption with your internet connection, when software blocks the VPN, or when the VPN server fails. Here are the main cases when a kill switch may activate:

• Unstable internet connection. If a kill switch detects that your internet connection is disrupted or the Wi-Fi connection is weak, the VPN risks unexpectedly disconnecting.
• Firewall blocks. Some firewalls may block VPN apps, which can trigger the kill switch. It’s best to add the VPN to the exception list.
• Antivirus blocks. Some antivirus programs may also detect the VPN app and block it, which would activate the kill switch. However, they usually let you set exceptions, so add the VPN app to prevent disruptions.
• VPN server switch. If a VPN takes longer to switch servers, the kill switch may activate until the VPN establishes a secure connection again.
• VPN failure. While uncommon with reputable VPNs, some services may experience a server timeout. This would activate the kill switch until you connect to a working VPN server.

Why use a VPN kill switch?

Without a VPN kill switch, your data or IP address could be accidentally exposed. Let’s review the main benefits of using a kill switch.

Additional privacy protection

A kill switch ensures that your information doesn’t leak if the VPN connection is interrupted. This is especially important for journalists or political activists who are residing in countries with restrictive governments. This feature ensures your location or identity isn’t revealed and protects you from surveillance.

Data leak protection

If you’re using a VPN for work, a kill switch ensures that the sensitive data you handle is always encrypted. It will block access to the internet, so no hacker or other third party can intercept your data.

Public Wi-Fi protection

If you’re entering sensitive data online, like social media passwords, while connected to public Wi-Fi or other unsecured networks, then turn on the kill switch. If the connection accidentally drops, threat actors could use this opportunity to steal your credentials.

Types of VPN kill switches

VPNs offer two types of a kill switch – one that blocks all internet traffic and another that only blocks specific apps. Here’s how they differ:

• System-level kill switch. Most VPNs offer a system-level kill switch, which shuts down all internet traffic if the VPN drops. It’s a more reliable option since no apps can access the internet until the VPN is connected.
• App-level kill switch. Some VPNs also offer an app-level kill switch, which blocks internet access for specific apps. It’s a useful feature when you want to ensure privacy on specific apps without interrupting your whole browsing experience.

VPNs that offer a kill switch

Having a kill switch has become an industry standard that most VPNs offer, whether at the system level, app level, or both. Here are some VPNs and their kill switch options:

Most VPNs offer a kill switch on all major devices, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. NordVPN is one of the few VPNs that offers an app-level kill switch, allowing you to select which apps get turned off if the VPN connection drops.

Meanwhile, Proton VPN offers a unique feature that other VPNs don’t offer – a permanent kill switch. It’s available on Windows, Linux, and Android apps and blocks internet traffic at all times until you connect to a VPN.

Are there drawbacks for using a kill switch?

Using a VPN kill switch is crucial for ensuring your data doesn’t accidentally leak due to VPN or internet disruptions. However, there are small drawbacks to consider before enabling it.

If a kill switch activates, it will disconnect you from the internet and disrupt whatever you were doing. While it’s not a big issue if you’re browsing, it can be important if you’re in a video call meeting, downloading a large file, or in the middle of a gaming match.

If you often perform tasks that require no interruptions, it’s better to choose a VPN that offers an app-level kill switch. This way, only the apps that you don’t want to leak your IP address and data will be disconnected from the internet.