How to Use Mullvad VPN for Maximum Privacy in 2026

Worried about your online privacy?

Big companies and hackers are always trying to watch what you do.

It feels like someone is looking over your shoulder every time you browse.

This can make you feel unsafe and exposed.

But you don’t have to stay vulnerable.

Using a VPN is the best way to hide your data and stay private.

This guide will show you exactly how to use Mullvad.

It is a simple tool that keeps you safe.

Follow our easy steps to start browsing with peace of mind today.

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Mullvad Tutorial

Setting up Mullvad is a simple process that anyone can finish in just a few minutes.

You start by visiting their website to generate a random account number that keeps you private.

After getting your number, download the app and log in without using a personal email address.

Once the app is installed, just hit the connect button to enjoy a secure internet connection.

How to Use Mullvad VPN

The Mullvad VPN app is one of the easiest ways to keep your data private.

This guide explains how to set it up so you can browse very safely on any device.

By following a few steps, you will learn to use Mullvad VPN like a professional.

Step 1: Install and Log In

• Download the official Mullvad app for your computer or phone, then open it.
• Enter your 16-digit account number to access the service without a password.

Step 2: Pick Your Protocol and Server

• Go into the settings menu and select the WireGuard protocol for the fastest and most secure speeds.
• Pick a vpn server from the list of countries to change your location and hide your home address.

Step 3: Connect and Check DNS

• Click the big “Secure Connection” button to connect to Mullvad instantly.
• The app automatically handles your DNS requests to make sure your search history does not leak to your internet provider.

Step 4: Adjust Local Network Settings

• If you need to reach a printer on a different subnet or local network, turn on “Local Network Sharing” in the app.
• Check that your DNS is working correctly by visiting the Mullvad website and verifying that it shows your connection is secure.

How to Use Mullvad Browser

The Mullvad Browser is a special tool made to keep you from being tracked.

It works best when used alongside your Mullvad account and the VPN app.

This part of the guide will show you how to set it up for the best privacy.

Step 1: Install and Keep it Standard

• Download the browser from their official site and install it on your computer.
• Use the default window size and vpn settings because changing them can make your ip address easier for websites to find.

Step 2: Use Private Mode

• Make sure private browsing is enabled so that your history and cookies are deleted every time you close the app.
• The browser uses https for all websites to keep your connection encrypted and prevent it from being blocked or monitored.

Step 3: Connect and Proxy

• Once you are connected to the VPN, the browser uses a special proxy to add an extra layer of safety.
• This setup hides your real IP and sends your data through a secure tcp connection to a private DNS server.

Step 4: Handle Local Connections

• If you cannot reach a printer on your local subnet, check your app to see whether split tunneling is enabled.
• While the browser does not use OpenVPN, it works perfectly with the VPN app to keep every click private.

How to use a Browser Extension

The Mullvad extension is a handy tool that makes using the Mullvad ecosystem even better.

It is not a full VPN on its own, but it helps you manage your privacy right from your browser window.

You can easily add it to Firefox or other browsers to get more control over how you see websites.

Step 1: Install and Initial Setup

• Go to your browser’s web store to find the official extension and click the “Add” button to start the setup.
• You do not need to open a terminal or type a command to get it working; it installs like any other simple file.

Step 2: Access the Settings

• Look for the extension icon in your toolbar, then tap the gear icon to open the different features.
• If the extension shows an error or issue, make sure your main VPN app is up to date, then continue to the next step.

Step 3: Configure Privacy Features

• Use the extension to change your proxy settings so your real location isn’t leaking through the browser.
• You can turn on obfuscation settings here to help your traffic appear as normal web traffic if the VPN is being blocked.

Step 4: Check Your Status

• Look at the extension status bar to see whether your IP is hidden and whether your DNS is secure.
• You won’t need to reboot your computer, but you should check the port settings if you suspect a data leak.
• Remember that while the VPN app might use UDP, this extension works specifically within the browser GUI to keep you safe while surfing.

Alternatives to Mullvad

• NordVPN: Known for its vast server network and a wide array of security and privacy features.
• ExpressVPN: Praised for its consistently fast speeds and user-friendly applications across devices.
• PureVPN: Offers a significant number of servers and additional functionalities.
• SurfsharkVPN: Allows unlimited device connections and offers a good balance of features and price.
• ProtonVPN: Emphasizes strong security and privacy, based in Switzerland.
• PrivadoVPN: Offers a free tier with limited data and a strong focus on user privacy.
• AdGuard VPN: Integrates seamlessly with AdGuard’s ad and tracker blocking capabilities.
• Virtual Shield: Designed for simplicity and ease of use, making it good for beginners.
• StrongVPN: Known for its robust encryption and reliable server connections.
• FastestVPN: Provides affordable subscription options with decent connection speeds.
• AuraVPN: Includes identity theft protection alongside its VPN service.
• CyberGhost: Features user-friendly apps and specialized servers optimized for different online activities.
• McAfee: A basic VPN option often bundled with McAfee’s security software suite.
• Private Internet Access: A long-standing VPN provider with a strong focus on user privacy and customization options.
• Mysterium: Operates as a decentralized VPN utilizing a peer-to-peer network infrastructure.

Mullvad Compared

Conclusion

Staying private online is easy once you have everything set up correctly.

You have now learned every step needed to stay connected to Mullvad across all your devices.

This guide should make it clear how the VPN, browser, and extension all work together to hide your data.

You can now read any content or visit your favorite sites without feeling watched.

Check your app settings to ensure things run smoothly.

If you find you need more protection, you can always add the browser extension for extra safety.

Now enjoy a faster, more private web!

Frequently Asked Questions

More Facts about Mullvad

• You must pay for time before you can start using the Mullvad app.
• If you try to log in on a sixth device, the app will send you a warning because you can only use five at once.
• The app will show you clearly when your connection is safe and active.
• If your app is out of date, you will see a message on your screen that says “Update available.”
• You can turn on “Lockdown mode” using your computer’s command tool to keep your data safe before you even log in.
• On Mac computers, the app cannot always stop other apps from using the internet before the VPN starts.
• If you use Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL2), your real internet address may be exposed if the VPN is not fully connected.
• You do not need a username or password; you use a random 16-digit number to log in.
• To set up a GL.iNet router, you have to log into the router’s own settings page on the web.
• You need to type in your Mullvad account number to link your router to the service.
• The standard “internet phonebook” address (DNS) for WireGuard on Mullvad is 10.64.0.1.
• The app uses a specific data packet size called MTU, which is set to 1380 for WireGuard.
• Split tunneling lets you choose which apps will not use the VPN while the rest of your computer does.
• Mullvad lets you pay with cash by mail or with digital money like Bitcoin and Monero.
• You can turn on special settings to block annoying ads, trackers, and harmful software.
• Mullvad has rules to filter your internet traffic based on which connection method you choose.
• If you don’t want to use Mullvad’s settings, you can also use your own custom DNS server instead.
• Mullvad can turn off a type of internet connection called IPv6 to ensure your location stays hidden.
• To stop using the VPN, just click the big “Disconnect” button in the app.
• You can use Mullvad on almost any device, including Windows, Mac, Linux, Android phones, and iPhones.
• The app uses a fast and modern connection type called WireGuard.
• You can use “multihop” to bounce your connection through two different cities, making it even more private.
• When you are on public Wi-Fi, you should turn off “local network sharing” to keep other people from seeing your device.
• After you connect, you should use the Mullvad website to verify that your real address is hidden.
• The app lets you choose between two main connection types: WireGuard or OpenVPN.