Quick Start
This guide covers every FastestVPN feature:
- Getting Started — Create account and basic setup
- How to Use Device Compatibility — Connect on any platform
- How to Use Smart Tunneling — Route specific apps through VPN
- How to Use Simultaneous Connections — Protect up to 10 devices at once
- How to Use DNS Leak Prevention — Keep your real IP hidden
- How to Use Internet Kill Switch — Block traffic if VPN drops
- How to Use Multiple Protocols — Pick the right speed and security balance
- How to Use AES 256-Bit Encryption — Lock down your data
- How to Use Unlimited Bandwidth — Stream and download without caps
Time needed: 5 minutes per feature
Also in this guide: Pro Tips | Common Mistakes | Troubleshooting | Pricing | Alternatives
Why Trust This Guide
I’ve used FastestVPN for over a year and tested every feature covered here. This how to use FastestVPN tutorial comes from real hands-on experience — not marketing fluff or vendor screenshots.
FastestVPN is one of the most affordable 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.
FastestVPN Tutorial
This complete FastestVPN tutorial walks you through every feature step by step, from initial setup to advanced tips that will make you a power user.
FastestVPN
Protect all your devices with military-grade encryption for as little as $0.83 per month. FastestVPN offers a lifetime plan for just $40 — the best deal in the VPN market. Try it with a 31-day money-back guarantee.
Getting Started with FastestVPN
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 FastestVPN’s website.
Click “Get FastestVPN” or “Buy Now.”
Choose a plan and enter your email address.
Complete payment with credit card, PayPal, or crypto.
✓ Checkpoint: Check your inbox for login credentials.
Step 2: Download the App
FastestVPN supports Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Fire TV.
Download the app from the website or your device’s app store.
Run the installer and follow the on-screen prompts.
Here’s what the dashboard looks like:
✓ Checkpoint: You should see the main dashboard with a connect button.
Step 3: Connect to Your First Server
Log in with your username and password.
Click “Smart Connect” to auto-select the fastest server.
Or pick a country manually from the server list.
✅ Done: You’re ready to use any feature below.
How to Use FastestVPN Device Compatibility
Device Compatibility lets you run FastestVPN on 20+ device types.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch Device Compatibility in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Check Your Device
FastestVPN works on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux.
It also supports Fire TV Stick, Roku, Xbox, PS4, and smart TVs.
Step 2: Install on Your Platform
For desktop, download the installer from FastestVPN’s website.
For mobile, search “FastestVPN” in your app store.
For Fire TV, enable Developer Options first, then sideload the APK.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see FastestVPN installed on your device.
Step 3: Configure Router for Unsupported Devices
For devices without an app, set up VPN on your router.
Log into your router’s admin panel.
Enter FastestVPN’s server addresses using L2TP or OpenVPN.
✅ Result: Every device in your home is now protected by FastestVPN.
💡 Pro Tip: Use router setup to protect smart home devices that don’t support VPN apps natively.
How to Use FastestVPN Smart Tunneling
Smart Tunneling lets you route specific apps through the VPN while others use your regular connection.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch Smart Tunneling in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Open Settings
Launch FastestVPN and go to the Settings menu.
Find the “Smart Tunneling” or “Split Tunneling” option.
Step 2: Select Apps to Tunnel
Toggle on Smart Tunneling.
Choose which apps go through the VPN tunnel.
Leave banking and local apps on your regular connection.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see selected apps listed in the tunnel.
Step 3: Connect and Verify
Hit connect and test both tunneled and non-tunneled apps.
Tunneled apps should show your VPN IP address.
Non-tunneled apps should show your real IP address.
✅ Result: You now have split routing — VPN where you need it, speed where you don’t.
💡 Pro Tip: Smart Tunneling is available on Windows and Android only. Mac and iOS don’t support this feature yet.
How to Use FastestVPN Simultaneous Connections
Simultaneous Connections lets you protect up to 10 devices under one account.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch Simultaneous Connections in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Install on Multiple Devices
Download FastestVPN on each device you want to protect.
Use the same login credentials on every device.
Step 2: Connect All Devices
Open FastestVPN on each device and tap connect.
You can connect up to 10 devices at the same time.
Each device can use a different server location.
✓ Checkpoint: All devices should show a connected status.
Step 3: Add More Connections if Needed
Need more than 10 devices?
Purchase extra connection slots at $4 per month each.
Or set up FastestVPN on your router to cover unlimited devices.
✅ Result: Your entire household is now protected with one FastestVPN account.
💡 Pro Tip: Router setup counts as just one connection but covers every device on your network.
How to Use FastestVPN DNS Leak Prevention
DNS Leak Prevention lets you keep your browsing activity hidden from your ISP.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch DNS Leak Prevention in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Connect to Any Server
Open FastestVPN and connect to your preferred server.
DNS leak protection activates automatically when you connect.
Step 2: Run a DNS Leak Test
Visit FastestVPN’s DNS leak test page on their website.
You can also use any third-party DNS leak test site.
The test should show only VPN server IP addresses.
✓ Checkpoint: Your real IP address should not appear in the results.
Step 3: Check WebRTC Leak Protection
Also test for WebRTC leaks using FastestVPN’s checker tool.
WebRTC leaks can expose your real IP even with VPN on.
If a leak shows, disable WebRTC in your browser settings.
✅ Result: Your DNS queries are fully encrypted inside the VPN tunnel.
💡 Pro Tip: Run a DNS leak test every time you switch servers to make sure protection is active.
How to Use FastestVPN Live Chat
Live Chat lets you get instant help from FastestVPN’s support team.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch Live Chat in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Visit the Support Page
Go to FastestVPN’s website and look for the chat icon.
It usually appears in the bottom-right corner of any page.
Step 2: Start a Chat Session
Click the chat bubble and type your question.
Support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
You can also email support if chat is unavailable.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see a live agent respond within a few minutes.
Step 3: Use the Knowledge Base
For setup guides, visit FastestVPN’s knowledge base section.
It has step-by-step tutorials for every supported platform.
Most common issues are answered there without waiting for chat.
✅ Result: You’ve got direct access to help whenever you need it.
💡 Pro Tip: Include your device type and OS version when chatting — it speeds up troubleshooting.
How to Use FastestVPN Internet Kill Switch
Internet Kill Switch lets you block all internet traffic if the VPN connection drops.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch Internet Kill Switch in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Open Settings
Launch FastestVPN and navigate to Settings.
Look for the “Internet Kill Switch” toggle.
Step 2: Enable Kill Switch
Toggle the Kill Switch to ON.
This ensures no data leaks if your VPN drops unexpectedly.
Your internet will pause until the VPN reconnects.
✓ Checkpoint: The Kill Switch indicator should show as active.
Step 3: Test the Kill Switch
Disconnect your VPN manually while browsing.
Your browser should stop loading all pages instantly.
Reconnect the VPN and browsing resumes automatically.
✅ Result: Your real IP address will never leak, even during VPN drops.
💡 Pro Tip: Always keep Kill Switch enabled, especially on public Wi-Fi networks.
How to Use FastestVPN Multiple Protocols
Multiple Protocols lets you switch between WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2, and more.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch Multiple Protocols in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Open Protocol Settings
Go to FastestVPN Settings and find the Protocol section.
You’ll see a list of available VPN protocols.
Step 2: Choose Your Protocol
Select WireGuard for the fastest speeds.
Pick OpenVPN for the best security and firewall bypassing.
Use IKEv2 for mobile devices that switch between Wi-Fi and data.
✓ Checkpoint: Your chosen protocol should appear as active in Settings.
Step 3: Reconnect to Apply
Disconnect from your current server.
Reconnect to activate the new protocol.
Run a speed test to see the difference.
✅ Result: You’ve picked the ideal protocol for your use case.
💡 Pro Tip: WireGuard gives the best speed. Use OpenVPN TCP if WireGuard is blocked on your network.
How to Use FastestVPN AES 256-Bit Encryption
AES 256-Bit Encryption lets you secure all your internet traffic with military-grade protection.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch AES 256-Bit Encryption in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Understand What It Does
AES 256-bit is the same encryption standard used by governments.
It scrambles your data so nobody can read it in transit.
Step 2: Verify Encryption Is Active
Connect to any FastestVPN server — encryption is always on.
There’s no toggle to disable it.
Check your protocol setting to confirm AES 256-bit is in use.
✓ Checkpoint: Your connection details should show AES-256 encryption.
Step 3: Use Double VPN for Extra Security
For maximum protection, enable D-VPN (Double VPN).
This routes your traffic through two encrypted servers.
Choose from four available D-VPN routes in the server list.
✅ Result: All your internet traffic is encrypted and unreadable to third parties.
💡 Pro Tip: Double VPN slows your speed. Only use it when handling sensitive data or on public networks.
How to Use FastestVPN Unlimited Bandwidth
Unlimited Bandwidth lets you stream, download, and browse without any data caps.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch Unlimited Bandwidth in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Pick a Streaming Server
Open FastestVPN and browse the server list.
Look for servers labeled “Streaming” for the best experience.
Step 2: Connect and Start Streaming
Select a streaming-ready server in your target country.
Open Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, or any streaming service.
There are no data limits — stream as much as you want.
✓ Checkpoint: Your stream should load without buffering on a decent connection.
Step 3: Use P2P Servers for Torrenting
Switch to a P2P-ready server for file sharing.
FastestVPN allows torrenting with no bandwidth throttling.
Your ISP won’t see your download activity through the encrypted tunnel.
✅ Result: You now have unlimited, uncapped internet through FastestVPN.
💡 Pro Tip: Use WireGuard protocol with streaming servers for the fastest possible video quality.
FastestVPN Pro Tips and Shortcuts
After testing FastestVPN for over a year, here are my best tips.
Keyboard Shortcuts
| Action | Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Quick Connect | Click “Smart Connect” button |
| Change Server | Click server name in main screen |
| Toggle Kill Switch | Settings → Internet Kill Switch |
| Switch Protocol | Settings → Protocol → Select |
Hidden Features Most People Miss
- Ad Blocker: FastestVPN includes a built-in ad blocker and anti-malware tool. Enable it in Settings to block ads across all apps.
- PassHulk Password Manager: Every plan includes a free 1-year subscription to PassHulk. Activate it from your account dashboard.
- NAT Firewall: FastestVPN adds an extra firewall layer that blocks unsolicited inbound traffic. It’s on by default — no setup needed.
FastestVPN Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake #1: Using the Wrong Protocol for Streaming
❌ Wrong: Keeping OpenVPN as your default protocol when streaming video.
✅ Right: Switch to WireGuard before streaming for much faster speeds.
Mistake #2: Connecting to Distant Servers
❌ Wrong: Manually picking a server on the other side of the world.
✅ Right: Use Smart Connect or pick a server close to your location for best speed.
Mistake #3: Forgetting to Enable Kill Switch
❌ Wrong: Browsing without Kill Switch and risking IP leaks during disconnections.
✅ Right: Always turn on Kill Switch in Settings before connecting.
FastestVPN Troubleshooting
Problem: VPN Won’t Connect
Cause: Your firewall or antivirus may be blocking the VPN connection.
Fix: Add FastestVPN to your firewall’s allowlist. Try switching protocols from WireGuard to OpenVPN TCP.
Problem: Slow Speeds on Certain Servers
Cause: Server congestion or connecting to a server far from your location.
Fix: Use Smart Connect to find the fastest server. Switch to WireGuard protocol for better speed.
Problem: Streaming Service Detects VPN
Cause: The streaming platform has flagged the server’s IP address.
Fix: Switch to a different server in the same country. Use servers labeled “Streaming” for best results.
📌 Note: If none of these fix your issue, contact FastestVPN support via 24/7 live chat.
What is FastestVPN?
FastestVPN is a VPN service that encrypts your internet connection and hides your IP address.
Think of it like a private tunnel between your device and the internet.
Watch this quick overview:
It includes these key features:
- Device Compatibility: Works on 20+ platforms including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and routers
- Smart Tunneling: Route specific apps through VPN while others bypass it
- Simultaneous Connections: Protect up to 10 devices under one account
- DNS Leak Prevention: Keeps your browsing data hidden from ISPs and hackers
- Internet Kill Switch: Blocks all traffic if VPN drops to prevent IP leaks
- Multiple Protocols: Choose from WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2, and more
- AES 256-Bit Encryption: Military-grade encryption on every connection
- Unlimited Bandwidth: No data caps for streaming, downloading, or browsing
For a full review, see our FastestVPN review.
FastestVPN Pricing
Here’s what FastestVPN costs in 2026:
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Year + 1 Year Free | $0.83/mo | Best value for most users |
| 1 Month Plan | $5/mo | Testing before committing |
| Exclusive Lifetime Plan | $40 | Long-term users who want one payment forever |
Free trial: No free trial, but all plans include a 31-day money-back guarantee.
Money-back guarantee: 31 days on all subscription plans.
💰 Best Value: Exclusive Lifetime Plan — pay $40 once and never pay again. No other major VPN offers a lifetime deal this affordable.
FastestVPN vs Alternatives
How does FastestVPN compare? Here’s the competitive landscape:
| Tool | Best For | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| FastestVPN | Budget lifetime VPN | $0.83/mo | ⭐ 3.8 |
| NordVPN | Fastest speeds overall | $2.99/mo | ⭐ 4.5 |
| ExpressVPN | Best device support | $2.44/mo | ⭐ 4.6 |
| PureVPN | Large server network | $2.15/mo | ⭐ 4.0 |
| Surfshark | Unlimited connections | $1.99/mo | ⭐ 4.4 |
| ProtonVPN | Privacy-first free tier | $0/mo (free) | ⭐ 4.5 |
| CyberGhost | Streaming servers | $2.03/mo | ⭐ 4.2 |
| Private Internet Access | Unlimited devices | $2.03/mo | ⭐ 4.1 |
Quick picks:
- Best overall: NordVPN — fastest speeds with 9,000+ servers in 111 countries
- Best budget: FastestVPN — $40 lifetime plan is unbeatable on price
- Best for beginners: Surfshark — simple interface with unlimited connections
- Best for privacy: ProtonVPN — Swiss-based with a solid free tier
🎯 FastestVPN Alternatives
Looking for FastestVPN alternatives? Here are the top options:
- 🚀 NordVPN: Fastest VPN in 2026 with NordLynx protocol, 9,000+ servers, and five independent no-logs audits. Best for speed and security.
- 🌟 ExpressVPN: Premium VPN with servers in 105 countries, split tunneling on all platforms, and top-tier streaming support.
- 💰 PureVPN: Budget-friendly option with 6,000+ servers in 65+ countries and a dedicated IP add-on for business users.
- ⚡ SurfsharkVPN: Unlimited simultaneous connections with CleanWeb ad blocker and MultiHop double VPN routing.
- 🔒 ProtonVPN: Swiss-based privacy champion with a free tier, open-source apps, and Secure Core multi-hop servers.
- 🎨 PrivadoVPN: Free plan with 10GB monthly data and servers in 12 countries. Great starter VPN for casual users.
- 🔧 AdGuard VPN: Built-in ad blocking with VPN protection. Unique exclusion mode lets you choose which sites use VPN.
- 🏢 Virtual Shield: US-based VPN focused on simplicity. One-click connect with automatic server selection.
- ⭐ StrongVPN: Solid all-rounder with WireGuard support and servers in 30+ countries. Good for streaming.
- 🧠 AuraVPN: Family-focused VPN with identity theft protection and parental controls bundled in.
- 🎯 CyberGhost: Streaming-focused VPN with dedicated servers for Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and 30+ platforms.
- 💼 McAfee VPN: Bundled with McAfee antivirus for all-in-one device protection and secure browsing.
- 📊 Private Internet Access: Unlimited device connections with open-source apps and advanced configuration options.
- 🔥 Mysterium: Decentralized VPN powered by a peer-to-peer network for extra anonymity and censorship resistance.
- 👶 SafeShell VPN: Simple VPN with easy setup and strong encryption for beginners who want basic protection.
- 🚀 Oyster VPN: Affordable VPN with fast WireGuard connections and a focus on streaming and torrenting.
⚔️ FastestVPN Compared
Here’s how FastestVPN stacks up against each competitor:
- FastestVPN vs NordVPN: NordVPN wins on speed and server count. FastestVPN wins on price with its $40 lifetime plan.
- FastestVPN vs ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN has better device support and faster speeds. FastestVPN costs a fraction of the price.
- FastestVPN vs PureVPN: PureVPN offers more servers and dedicated IPs. FastestVPN is cheaper with its lifetime deal.
- FastestVPN vs SurfsharkVPN: Surfshark allows unlimited connections. FastestVPN limits you to 10 but costs less long-term.
- FastestVPN vs ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN has a free tier and open-source apps. FastestVPN beats it on lifetime pricing.
- FastestVPN vs PrivadoVPN: PrivadoVPN has a free plan with 10GB data. FastestVPN offers unlimited bandwidth on all plans.
- FastestVPN vs AdGuard VPN: AdGuard combines ad blocking with VPN. FastestVPN also blocks ads but adds more server locations.
- FastestVPN vs Virtual Shield: Virtual Shield is simpler but more expensive. FastestVPN offers better value across all plans.
- FastestVPN vs StrongVPN: StrongVPN has slightly better streaming support. FastestVPN wins on affordability.
- FastestVPN vs AuraVPN: AuraVPN bundles identity protection. FastestVPN focuses purely on VPN at a much lower price.
- FastestVPN vs CyberGhost: CyberGhost has 9,000+ servers and better streaming. FastestVPN allows more connections (10 vs 7).
- FastestVPN vs McAfee VPN: McAfee bundles antivirus with VPN. FastestVPN is standalone but far more affordable.
- FastestVPN vs Private Internet Access: PIA offers unlimited devices and open-source apps. FastestVPN has the cheaper lifetime deal.
- FastestVPN vs Mysterium: Mysterium is decentralized for extra anonymity. FastestVPN is easier to set up and use daily.
- FastestVPN vs SafeShell VPN: SafeShell is simpler for beginners. FastestVPN has more features and server locations.
- FastestVPN vs Oyster VPN: Oyster VPN focuses on streaming. FastestVPN offers a better lifetime deal with more features.
Start Using FastestVPN Now
You learned how to use every major FastestVPN feature:
- ✅ Device Compatibility
- ✅ Smart Tunneling
- ✅ Simultaneous Connections
- ✅ DNS Leak Prevention
- ✅ Internet Kill Switch
- ✅ Multiple Protocols
- ✅ AES 256-Bit Encryption
- ✅ Unlimited Bandwidth
Next step: Pick one feature and try it now.
Most people start with Device Compatibility.
It takes less than 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to connect FastestVPN?
Download the FastestVPN app for your device. Log in with your username and password. Click “Smart Connect” to auto-select the fastest server, or manually pick a country from the server list. The app connects in seconds.
How to use VPN for beginners?
Install the FastestVPN app on your device. Open it and sign in. Tap “Smart Connect” and the VPN does everything automatically. You don’t need any technical knowledge — it works right out of the box.
Is FastestVPN reliable?
FastestVPN is a reliable VPN for everyday use. It’s based in the Cayman Islands with strong privacy laws and has been independently audited by Altius IT to verify its no-logs policy. It uses AES 256-bit encryption and has 800+ servers in 49 countries.
How many servers does FastestVPN have?
FastestVPN has over 800 servers in 49 countries. That’s smaller than premium VPNs like NordVPN (9,000+) or CyberGhost (9,000+). However, it covers major regions including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Europe.
Does FastestVPN work with Netflix?
Yes, FastestVPN works with Netflix US, UK, and Canada. Use the streaming-labeled servers for best results. It also supports Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and 40+ other platforms. Some regions like Australia may be inconsistent.
English 
Spanish 
Chinese 
German 
French 
Arabic 
Russian 
Portuguese 
Japanese 
Korean 
Italian 
Turkish 
Dutch 
Polish 
Indonesian 
Thai 
Vietnamese 