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How to Use ExpressVPN for Beginners (2026)

by | Last updated Feb 15, 2026

Quick Start

This guide covers every ExpressVPN feature:

Time needed: 5 minutes per feature

Also in this guide: Pro Tips | Common Mistakes | Troubleshooting | Pricing | Alternatives

Why Trust This Guide

I’ve used ExpressVPN for over two years and tested every feature covered here. This tutorial comes from real hands-on experience — not marketing fluff or vendor screenshots.

how to use expressvpn

ExpressVPN is one of the most powerful VPN tools available today.

But most users only scratch the surface of what it can do.

This guide shows you how to use every major feature.

Step by step, with screenshots and pro tips.

ExpressVPN Tutorial

This complete ExpressVPN tutorial walks you through every feature step by step, from initial setup to advanced tips that will make you a power user.

ExpressVPN

Protect your privacy with 3,000+ servers in 105 countries. ExpressVPN gives you military-grade encryption, blazing-fast Lightway protocol, and a verified no-logs policy. Try free for 30 days — money-back guaranteed.

Getting Started with ExpressVPN

Before using any feature, complete this one-time setup.

It takes about 3 minutes.

Now let’s walk through each step.

Step 1: Create Your Account

Go to ExpressVPN’s website.

Click “Get ExpressVPN” or “Start Free Trial.”

Choose your plan: Basic, Advanced, or Pro.

Enter your email and create a password.

Checkpoint: Check your inbox for a confirmation email.

Step 2: Download the App

ExpressVPN has apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.

Download the app for your device from the website.

Log in with your new account credentials.

Here’s what the dashboard looks like:

ExpressVPN Top Benefits

Checkpoint: You should see the main dashboard with the power button.

Step 3: Connect to Your First Server

Click the big power button to connect.

ExpressVPN picks the best server using Smart Location.

Or choose a specific country from the server list.

✅ Done: You’re ready to use any feature below.

How to Use ExpressVPN Ad Blocker

Ad Blocker lets you remove annoying ads and pop-ups from every website you visit.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See Ad Blocker in action:

ExpressVPN Ad Blocker

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open Settings

Click the menu icon (three lines) in the ExpressVPN app.

Select “Settings” from the dropdown menu.

Step 2: Enable Ad Blocker

Go to the “Protection” or “Advanced Protection” tab.

Toggle on “Block Ads” to activate it.

Checkpoint: You should see the toggle turn green.

Step 3: Browse Without Ads

Connect to any VPN server and open your browser.

Ads will be blocked across all websites automatically.

✅ Result: You can now browse the web without intrusive ads or pop-ups.

💡 Pro Tip: The Ad Blocker works at the DNS level, so it blocks ads in apps too — not just your browser.

How to Use ExpressVPN Dedicated IP

Dedicated IP lets you get your own private, static IP address that only you use.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See Dedicated IP in action:

ExpressVPN Dedicated IP

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Check Your Plan

Dedicated IP is included with the Pro plan.

Upgrade to Pro if you’re on Basic or Advanced.

Step 2: Activate Your Dedicated IP

Open the ExpressVPN app and go to Settings.

Find the “Dedicated IP” section and choose your location.

Checkpoint: You should see your assigned static IP address displayed.

Step 3: Connect Using Your Dedicated IP

Select your Dedicated IP server from the server list.

Click connect and your traffic routes through your private IP.

✅ Result: You now have a personal IP that stays the same every time you connect.

💡 Pro Tip: A dedicated IP avoids CAPTCHAs on banking sites and prevents shared-IP blocks on streaming services.

How to Use ExpressVPN Threat Manager

Threat Manager lets you block connections to malicious websites and known trackers.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See Threat Manager in action:

ExpressVPN Threat Manager

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open Protection Settings

Go to Settings in the ExpressVPN app.

Navigate to the “Protection” or “Advanced Protection” section.

Step 2: Turn On Threat Manager

Toggle on “Block Malicious Sites” and “Block Trackers.”

ExpressVPN updates its threat database regularly.

Checkpoint: Both toggles should show as enabled in green.

Step 3: Browse Safely

Connect to any server and browse normally.

Threat Manager works silently in the background.

✅ Result: Malicious sites and trackers are now blocked before they reach your device.

💡 Pro Tip: Threat Manager blocks threats at the network level, so it protects all apps on your device — not just your browser.

How to Use ExpressVPN Data Removal

Data Removal lets you wipe your personal info from data broker websites.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See Data Removal in action:

ExpressVPN Data Removal

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Access Data Removal

Open ExpressVPN and go to the Identity Defender section.

This feature is available on the Pro plan.

Step 2: Run a Data Scan

Enter your personal details like name, email, and address.

ExpressVPN scans data broker databases for your information.

Checkpoint: You should see a list of sites that have your data.

Step 3: Request Removal

Click “Remove” to send removal requests to each data broker.

ExpressVPN handles the entire process for you automatically.

✅ Result: Your personal data starts getting removed from broker sites within days.

💡 Pro Tip: Run data scans monthly because new brokers collect your info over time.

How to Use ExpressVPN Aircove Routers

Aircove Routers lets you protect every device in your home with one VPN connection.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See Aircove Routers in action:

ExpressVPN Aircove Routers

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Get an Aircove Router

Purchase the Aircove router from ExpressVPN’s website.

Pro plan members get up to 75% off the router price.

Step 2: Set Up the Router

Connect Aircove to your modem with the included cable.

Open the Aircove app and follow the setup wizard.

Log in with your ExpressVPN account to activate protection.

Checkpoint: The router dashboard should show “Protected” status.

Step 3: Assign Device Groups

Group devices by location or purpose in the dashboard.

Assign different VPN server locations to each group.

✅ Result: Every device connected to your Wi-Fi is now VPN-protected automatically.

💡 Pro Tip: Aircove protects smart TVs, gaming consoles, and IoT devices that can’t run VPN apps directly.

How to Use ExpressVPN High-Speed VPN

High-Speed VPN lets you connect to 3,000+ servers in 105 countries with minimal speed loss.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See High-Speed VPN in action:

How to use a VPN | ExpressVPN

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Select Your Protocol

Open the app and go to Settings, then “Protocol.”

Choose “Lightway” for the fastest connection speeds.

Step 2: Pick a Nearby Server

Use Smart Location or pick a server close to you.

Closer servers give faster speeds and lower latency.

Checkpoint: You should see a green “Connected” status with your chosen location.

Step 3: Test Your Speed

Use ExpressVPN’s built-in speed test to check performance.

Compare speeds across different servers to find the fastest one.

✅ Result: You’re connected to a fast VPN server with minimal speed loss for streaming and downloads.

💡 Pro Tip: Enable “Lightway Turbo” for even faster speeds — it uses multi-lane connections for heavy tasks like 4K streaming.

How to Use ExpressVPN Password Manager

Password Manager (ExpressVPN Keys) lets you store and autofill all your passwords securely.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See Password Manager in action:

ExpressVPN Keys: A simple, secure password manager

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open ExpressVPN Keys

Find “Keys” in the ExpressVPN app menu.

Available on Advanced and Pro plans.

Step 2: Create Your Master Password

Set a strong master password you’ll remember.

This is the only password you need to remember.

Checkpoint: You should see an empty vault ready for your first login.

Step 3: Add and Autofill Passwords

Import passwords from your browser or add them manually.

Keys autofills your credentials on websites and apps.

✅ Result: All your passwords are stored in one encrypted vault with autofill across devices.

💡 Pro Tip: Use the built-in password generator to create strong, unique passwords for every new account.

How to Use ExpressVPN Tracker Blocker

Tracker Blocker lets you stop websites and apps from tracking your online activity.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See Tracker Blocker in action:

How to BLOCK Trackers with ExpressVPN

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open Protection Settings

Go to Settings and find the “Protection” section.

Look for “Block Trackers” under Advanced Protection.

Step 2: Enable Tracker Blocking

Toggle on “Block Trackers” to activate the feature.

This prevents third-party trackers from following you online.

Checkpoint: The tracker blocking toggle should be active and green.

Step 3: Verify Tracking Is Blocked

Visit any website and check if tracking scripts are blocked.

ExpressVPN shows a count of blocked trackers in the app.

✅ Result: Websites can no longer build a profile of your browsing habits.

💡 Pro Tip: Combine Tracker Blocker with Ad Blocker for the most private browsing experience possible.

How to Use ExpressVPN Parental Controls

Parental Controls lets you block adult content and harmful websites for your kids.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See Parental Controls in action:

ExpressVPN Multiple Device: The Ultimate Guide to Family Protection

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open Content Filtering

Go to Settings and find the “Protection” section.

Look for “Block Adult Sites” or “Content Filtering.”

Step 2: Enable Content Blocking

Toggle on “Block Adult Sites” to filter harmful content.

This works on all devices connected through ExpressVPN.

Checkpoint: The content filter toggle should show as enabled.

Step 3: Set Up on Aircove (Optional)

For home-wide protection, enable it on your Aircove router.

Create a device group for kids and apply the content filter.

✅ Result: Inappropriate content is now blocked on all your children’s devices.

💡 Pro Tip: Use Aircove device groups to apply parental controls only to kids’ devices while adults browse freely.

How to Use ExpressVPN Identity Defender

Identity Defender lets you monitor your identity, get fraud alerts, and access ID theft insurance.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See Identity Defender in action:

Identity Defender: Stronger privacy for identity protection

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Access Identity Defender

Open the ExpressVPN app and find “Identity Defender.”

This feature is included with Advanced and Pro plans.

Step 2: Set Up Monitoring

Enter the personal details you want to monitor.

Add your email addresses, phone numbers, and SSN.

Checkpoint: You should see a monitoring dashboard with your protection status.

Step 3: Review Alerts and Reports

Check your dashboard for any breach or fraud alerts.

Pro plan users also get monthly credit reports.

✅ Result: Your identity is being monitored 24/7 with instant alerts for any suspicious activity.

💡 Pro Tip: Pro plan includes $1M identity theft insurance, so upgrade if you want full financial protection.

ExpressVPN Pro Tips and Shortcuts

After testing ExpressVPN for over two years, here are my best tips.

Keyboard Shortcuts

ActionShortcut
Quick ConnectCtrl + Shift + C (Windows) / Cmd + Shift + C (Mac)
Disconnect VPNCtrl + Shift + D (Windows) / Cmd + Shift + D (Mac)
Open SettingsCtrl + , (Windows) / Cmd + , (Mac)
Switch ServerCtrl + Shift + S (Windows) / Cmd + Shift + S (Mac)

Hidden Features Most People Miss

  • Split Tunneling: Choose which apps use the VPN and which connect directly — great for local banking while streaming foreign content.
  • MediaStreamer DNS: Set up DNS-based streaming on devices that can’t install VPN apps like older smart TVs and gaming consoles.
  • Network Lock Kill Switch: Keeps your data safe if the VPN drops — enable it in Settings to prevent any unprotected traffic leaks.

ExpressVPN Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Using the Wrong Protocol

❌ Wrong: Leaving the protocol on “Automatic” and never checking if Lightway is selected.

✅ Right: Manually set Lightway (UDP) for the fastest speeds and best battery life.

Mistake #2: Connecting to Distant Servers

❌ Wrong: Picking a server on the other side of the world for everyday browsing.

✅ Right: Use Smart Location or pick the nearest server for daily tasks to keep speeds high.

Mistake #3: Forgetting the Kill Switch

❌ Wrong: Browsing without Network Lock enabled, risking data leaks if the VPN drops.

✅ Right: Always enable Network Lock in Settings so your traffic stops if the VPN disconnects.

ExpressVPN Troubleshooting

Problem: VPN Won’t Connect

Cause: Your internet connection may be down or a firewall is blocking the VPN.

Fix: Check your internet first. Then switch protocols from Lightway to OpenVPN TCP. Restart the app if needed.

Problem: Slow Connection Speeds

Cause: You’re connected to a server that’s far away or overloaded.

Fix: Switch to a closer server using Smart Location. Make sure Lightway protocol is selected. Close background apps.

Problem: Streaming Service Blocked

Cause: The streaming service detected and blocked the VPN server IP.

Fix: Switch to a different server in the same country. Or try using a Dedicated IP (Pro plan) to avoid shared-IP blocks.

📌 Note: If none of these fix your issue, contact ExpressVPN support via 24/7 live chat.

What is ExpressVPN?

ExpressVPN is a VPN and online privacy tool that encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address.

Think of it like a private tunnel between your device and the internet that nobody can spy on.

Watch this quick overview:

ExpressVPN Review: Worth the Hype or Overrated?

It includes these key features:

  • Ad Blocker: Removes ads and pop-ups from websites and apps
  • Dedicated IP: Gives you a private, static IP address for banking and streaming
  • Threat Manager: Blocks malicious websites and known trackers automatically
  • Data Removal: Removes your personal info from data broker websites
  • Aircove Routers: Protects your entire home network with built-in VPN
  • High-Speed VPN: 3,000+ servers in 105 countries with Lightway protocol
  • Password Manager: Stores and autofills passwords across all your devices
  • Tracker Blocker: Prevents websites from building a profile on you
  • Parental Controls: Blocks adult content on kids’ devices
  • Identity Defender: Monitors your identity and provides theft insurance

For a full review, see our ExpressVPN review.

ExpressVPN homepage

ExpressVPN Pricing

Here’s what ExpressVPN costs in 2026:

PlanPriceBest For
Basic$2.44/moSolo users who want a fast, private VPN connection
Advanced$3.14/moUsers who want VPN plus password manager and ad blocking
Pro$5.24/moPower users who need dedicated IP and identity protection

Free trial: Yes — 7-day free trial on mobile apps, plus 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans.

Money-back guarantee: Yes — 30-day full refund, no questions asked.

ExpressVPN pricing

💰 Best Value: Advanced plan — it gives you VPN, password manager, identity alerts, and ad blocking for just $0.70 more than Basic.

ExpressVPN vs Alternatives

How does ExpressVPN compare? Here’s the competitive landscape:

Watch this comparison:

Best ExpressVPN Alternatives? Find out now!
ToolBest ForPriceRating
ExpressVPNSpeed and privacy$2.44/mo⭐ 4.6
NordVPNAll-round security$2.99/mo⭐ 4.5
PureVPNBudget-friendly VPN$2.15/mo⭐ 4.0
SurfsharkUnlimited devices$1.99/mo⭐ 4.4
ProtonVPNFree tier and privacy$0.00/mo⭐ 4.5
CyberGhostStreaming and torrenting$2.03/mo⭐ 4.2
Private Internet AccessCustomizable settings$2.03/mo⭐ 4.1
FastestVPNLifetime deals$0.83/mo⭐ 3.8

Quick picks:

  • Best overall: ExpressVPN — fastest speeds and most third-party audits in the industry
  • Best budget: Surfshark — unlimited devices at $1.99/mo with solid features
  • Best for beginners: NordVPN — easy-to-use apps with strong security defaults
  • Best for streaming: CyberGhost — servers built for Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+

🎯 ExpressVPN Alternatives

Looking for ExpressVPN alternatives? Here are the top options:

  • 🚀 NordVPN: Biggest server network with 6,400+ servers, Threat Protection Pro, and double VPN for extra security.
  • 💰 PureVPN: Affordable VPN with dedicated IPs, port forwarding, and strong DNS leak protection starting at $2.15/mo.
  • 🎨 Surfshark: Unlimited device connections, CleanWeb ad blocker, and MultiHop double VPN for under $2/mo.
  • ProtonVPN: Free tier with no data limits, Swiss privacy laws, and open-source apps with audited no-logs policy.
  • 🔒 PrivadoVPN: Swiss-based VPN with a generous 10GB free plan and zero-log policy for privacy-focused users.
  • 🧠 AdGuard VPN: Built-in ad blocker and DNS filtering with a unique protocol that disguises VPN traffic as regular HTTPS.
  • 👶 Virtual Shield: Easy setup with antivirus, identity monitoring, and ad blocking bundled into one simple app.
  • 🏢 StrongVPN: No-frills VPN with WireGuard support and straightforward pricing with no confusing tiers.
  • 🔧 FastestVPN: Lifetime plans starting at $40 total with AES-256 encryption and servers in 95+ locations.
  • 🌟 AuraVPN: All-in-one identity theft protection with VPN, antivirus, credit monitoring, and password manager.
  • CyberGhost: Dedicated streaming servers for Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu with a generous 45-day refund policy.
  • 🎯 McAfee VPN: VPN bundled with full antivirus and identity theft protection — great if you want one security suite.
  • 💼 Private Internet Access: Highly customizable VPN with open-source apps, SOCKS5 proxy, and ad/malware blocking built in.
  • 📊 Mysterium: Decentralized VPN powered by a peer-to-peer network using residential IPs for extra anonymity.
  • 🔥 SafeShell VPN: Rising VPN with fast servers and strong encryption for users who want a fresh alternative.
  • 🛡️ Oyster VPN: Simple and affordable VPN with WireGuard protocol and a strict no-logs policy for basic privacy needs.

For the full list, see our ExpressVPN alternatives guide.

⚔️ ExpressVPN Compared

Here’s how ExpressVPN stacks up against each competitor:

  • ExpressVPN vs NordVPN: NordVPN has more servers (6,400+) and is cheaper, but ExpressVPN has faster Lightway protocol and more audits.
  • ExpressVPN vs PureVPN: PureVPN costs less and offers port forwarding, but ExpressVPN wins on speed, privacy audits, and app quality.
  • ExpressVPN vs Surfshark: Surfshark allows unlimited devices and costs less, but ExpressVPN delivers faster speeds and better reliability.
  • ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN has a free tier and Swiss privacy, but ExpressVPN offers more server locations and faster performance.
  • ExpressVPN vs PrivadoVPN: PrivadoVPN has a solid free plan, but ExpressVPN has far more servers, better speeds, and advanced features.
  • ExpressVPN vs AdGuard VPN: AdGuard excels at ad blocking, but ExpressVPN is faster, has more servers, and offers a complete privacy suite.
  • ExpressVPN vs Virtual Shield: Virtual Shield bundles antivirus, but ExpressVPN has better VPN performance and more server locations globally.
  • ExpressVPN vs StrongVPN: StrongVPN keeps it simple, but ExpressVPN offers more features, faster servers, and better streaming support.
  • ExpressVPN vs FastestVPN: FastestVPN has lifetime deals, but ExpressVPN delivers much faster speeds and proven no-logs audits.
  • ExpressVPN vs AuraVPN: Aura bundles identity protection, but ExpressVPN now includes similar features with better VPN core performance.
  • ExpressVPN vs CyberGhost: CyberGhost has streaming-specific servers, but ExpressVPN is faster and works with more streaming platforms.
  • ExpressVPN vs McAfee VPN: McAfee bundles antivirus, but ExpressVPN is a far superior VPN with better speeds and privacy protections.
  • ExpressVPN vs Private Internet Access: PIA is more customizable and cheaper, but ExpressVPN is easier to use with faster server speeds.
  • ExpressVPN vs Mysterium: Mysterium uses decentralized IPs, but ExpressVPN is more reliable, faster, and easier for everyday users.
  • ExpressVPN vs SafeShell VPN: SafeShell is a newer option, but ExpressVPN has proven reliability, more audits, and a larger server network.
  • ExpressVPN vs Oyster VPN: Oyster is affordable and simple, but ExpressVPN offers many more features and better speed performance overall.

Start Using ExpressVPN Now

You learned how to use every major ExpressVPN feature:

  • ✅ Ad Blocker
  • ✅ Dedicated IP
  • ✅ Threat Manager
  • ✅ Data Removal
  • ✅ Aircove Routers
  • ✅ High-Speed VPN
  • ✅ Password Manager
  • ✅ Tracker Blocker
  • ✅ Parental Controls
  • ✅ Identity Defender

Next step: Pick one feature and try it now.

Most people start with High-Speed VPN.

It takes less than 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use ExpressVPN effectively?

Connect to the nearest server using Smart Location for the best speeds. Enable Network Lock (kill switch) in Settings to prevent data leaks. Use Lightway protocol for the fastest, most stable connection. Enable Advanced Protection to block ads, trackers, and malicious sites while browsing.

How to use ExpressVPN for streaming?

Open the ExpressVPN app and connect to a server in the country whose content you want to watch. For example, connect to a US server for Netflix US or a UK server for BBC iPlayer. ExpressVPN works with 100+ streaming platforms. If a stream is blocked, try switching to a different server in the same country.

Is ExpressVPN completely free?

No, ExpressVPN is a paid service. Plans start at $2.44/mo on the 2-year Basic plan. However, you can try it risk-free with a 7-day free trial on mobile or the 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans. You won’t be charged if you cancel within these periods.

Should I leave ExpressVPN on all the time?

Yes, keeping ExpressVPN connected at all times gives you the best protection. It encrypts all your traffic, blocks trackers, and hides your IP address. The Lightway protocol is designed to use minimal battery, so leaving it on won’t drain your device. Turn it off only if a specific app or website requires your real IP.

How do I know if my ExpressVPN is working?

Check the app — it shows “Connected” with a green indicator when active. You can also visit a site like whatismyip.com to confirm your IP address matches the VPN server location. ExpressVPN also has a built-in IP checker. If your real IP shows instead of the VPN IP, reconnect or switch servers.

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