How to Use PureVPN: Complete Feature Guide (2026)

Quick Start

This guide covers every PureVPN feature:

• Getting Started — Create account and basic setup
• How to Use Dark Web Monitoring — Get alerts when your data is exposed
• How to Use Password Manager — Store and sync passwords securely
• How to Use DNS Leak Protection — Stop DNS requests from leaking
• How to Use Internet Kill Switch — Block traffic if VPN drops
• How to Use Data Brokers Removal — Remove your info from data brokers
• How to Use IP Leak Prevention — Keep your real IP hidden
• How to Use Dedicated IP VPN — Get your own static IP address
• How to Use VPN Chrome Extension — Protect your browser traffic

Time needed: 5 minutes per feature

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

Why Trust This Guide

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

PureVPN 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.

PureVPN Tutorial

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

PureVPN

Protect your online privacy with 6,500+ servers across 70+ countries. PureVPN bundles VPN, dark web monitoring, and a password manager into one app. Plans start at $2.15/month with a 31-day money-back guarantee.

TRY PUREVPN NOW →

READ FULL REVIEW →

PUREVPN ALTERNATIVES →

Getting Started with PureVPN

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 PureVPN’s website at purevpn.com.

Click “Get PureVPN” or “Start Now.”

Choose a plan and enter your email address.

Complete payment with credit card, PayPal, or crypto.

✓ Checkpoint: Check your inbox for a confirmation email with login details.

Step 2: Download the PureVPN App

PureVPN supports Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux.

Download the app for your device from the PureVPN website.

You can also find it in the App Store or Google Play.

Log in with your new account credentials.

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

Click the large connect button on the dashboard.

PureVPN will auto-select the fastest server near you.

To pick a specific country, tap the location icon.

Browse 6,500+ servers across 70+ countries.

How to Use PureVPN Dark Web Monitoring

Dark Web Monitoring lets you get instant alerts when your personal data appears on the dark web.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See Dark Web Monitoring in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open the Security Dashboard

Launch the PureVPN app on your device.

Navigate to the “Security” or “Privacy” tab.

Find the Dark Web Monitoring section.

Step 2: Add Your Email Addresses

Click “Add Email” and enter the email you want monitored.

You can add multiple email addresses for full coverage.

PureVPN will scan known dark web databases for matches.

✓ Checkpoint: You should see a scan progress bar or results summary.

Step 3: Review Alerts and Take Action

Check the results for any exposed credentials.

Change passwords immediately for any flagged accounts.

Enable notifications for future breach alerts.

How to Use PureVPN Password Manager

Password Manager lets you store, generate, and sync passwords across all your devices securely.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See Password Manager in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Access PureKeep

Open PureVPN and navigate to the PureKeep section.

Create a master password you won’t forget.

This master password encrypts all stored credentials.

Step 2: Import or Add Passwords

Click “Add New” to save a login manually.

Enter the website URL, username, and password.

You can also import passwords from your browser.

✓ Checkpoint: You should see your saved logins listed in the vault.

Step 3: Generate Strong Passwords

Use the built-in password generator for new accounts.

Set the length and character types you need.

PureKeep auto-fills saved passwords on websites.

How to Use PureVPN DNS Leak Protection

DNS Leak Protection lets you prevent your DNS requests from bypassing the VPN tunnel.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See DNS Leak Protection in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open VPN Settings

Launch PureVPN and click the gear icon for Settings.

Navigate to the “Privacy” or “Security” tab.

Step 2: Enable DNS Leak Protection

Find the “DNS Leak Protection” toggle.

Switch it to ON.

PureVPN will now route all DNS queries through its secure servers.

✓ Checkpoint: The toggle should appear green or active.

Step 3: Test for DNS Leaks

Visit a DNS leak test website like dnsleaktest.com.

Run the extended test while connected to PureVPN.

Confirm that only PureVPN’s DNS servers appear.

How to Use PureVPN Internet Kill Switch

Internet Kill Switch lets you automatically block all internet traffic if the VPN connection drops.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See Internet Kill Switch in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open PureVPN Settings

Launch PureVPN and go to Settings.

Look for the “Kill Switch” option under the General tab.

Step 2: Enable the Kill Switch

Toggle the Internet Kill Switch to ON.

This blocks all outgoing traffic when the VPN disconnects.

Your real IP address stays hidden no matter what.

Here’s what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: The Kill Switch toggle should show as active in Settings.

Step 3: Test the Kill Switch

Connect to any PureVPN server.

Manually disconnect the VPN while loading a webpage.

The page should fail to load, proving the Kill Switch works.

How to Use PureVPN Data Brokers Removal

Data Brokers Removal lets you find and remove your personal information from data broker websites.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See Data Brokers Removal in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open Remove My Data

Go to PureVPN’s dashboard and find “Remove My Data.”

This feature scans data broker sites for your info.

Step 2: Enter Your Personal Details

Add your name, email address, and phone number.

PureVPN searches known data broker databases for matches.

Results show which brokers hold your personal data.

✓ Checkpoint: You should see a list of data brokers with your exposed information.

Step 3: Request Data Removal

Click “Remove” next to each data broker listing.

PureVPN sends removal requests on your behalf.

Track the status of each removal request in your dashboard.

How to Use PureVPN IP Leak Prevention

IP Leak Prevention lets you stop your real IP address from leaking through WebRTC or IPv6.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See IP Leak Prevention in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Access Security Settings

Open PureVPN and navigate to the Settings panel.

Find the IP leak protection options under Security.

Step 2: Enable IPv6 and WebRTC Protection

Toggle “IPv6 Leak Protection” to ON.

Enable “WebRTC Leak Protection” as well.

Both settings prevent your real IP from leaking via browser protocols.

✓ Checkpoint: Both toggles should show as active.

Step 3: Verify Your IP Is Hidden

Visit ipleak.net while connected to PureVPN.

Confirm the displayed IP matches PureVPN’s server, not yours.

Check that WebRTC shows no local IP leaks.

How to Use PureVPN Dedicated IP VPN

Dedicated IP VPN lets you get a static IP address that only you use for consistent online access.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See Dedicated IP VPN in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Purchase the Dedicated IP Add-On

Log into your PureVPN account on the website.

Navigate to Subscriptions or Add-Ons.

Select “Dedicated IP” and choose your country.

Step 2: Connect to Your Dedicated IP

Open the PureVPN app after purchasing.

Look for the “Dedicated IP” option in the server list.

Click it to connect to your personal static IP address.

✓ Checkpoint: Your IP should remain the same every time you connect.

Step 3: Whitelist Your Dedicated IP

Add your dedicated IP to banking and work platforms.

This prevents security lockouts from changing IP addresses.

Use it for remote work access and sensitive logins.

How to Use PureVPN Chrome Extension

VPN Chrome Extension lets you protect your browser traffic without running the full desktop app.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See the Chrome Extension in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Install the Extension

Open the Chrome Web Store in your browser.

Search for “PureVPN” and click “Add to Chrome.”

Confirm the installation when prompted.

Step 2: Log In and Connect

Click the PureVPN icon in your Chrome toolbar.

Enter your PureVPN username and password.

Select a server location and click Connect.

✓ Checkpoint: The extension icon should turn green when connected.

Step 3: Enable Tracker Blocker

Open the extension settings inside the popup.

Enable the built-in Tracker Blocker feature.

This blocks third-party web trackers while you browse.

PureVPN Pro Tips and Shortcuts

After testing PureVPN for over a year, here are my best tips.

Keyboard Shortcuts

Hidden Features Most People Miss

• Split Tunneling: Route only specific apps through the VPN while others use your local connection. Available on Windows and Android under Settings.
• WireGuard Protocol: Switch to WireGuard in protocol settings for faster speeds and better encryption. It’s the best choice for streaming.
• Streaming Shortcuts: Create quick-connect shortcuts for specific streaming services that auto-select the best server for that platform.

PureVPN Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Using the Wrong VPN Protocol

Mistake #2: Forgetting to Enable the Kill Switch

Mistake #3: Connecting to Distant Servers

PureVPN Troubleshooting

Problem: VPN Connection Keeps Dropping

Cause: Unstable internet connection or firewall blocking VPN traffic.

Fix: Switch to a different VPN protocol in Settings. Try WireGuard or IKEv2 first. If that fails, change your DNS to 8.8.8.8 and restart the app.

Problem: Slow Speeds While Connected

Cause: Connected to an overloaded or distant server.

Fix: Switch to a server closer to your location. Enable WireGuard protocol for the fastest speeds. Close background apps using bandwidth.

Problem: Streaming Service Not Working

Cause: The streaming platform detected and blocked your VPN IP.

Fix: Disconnect and reconnect to get a new IP. Try a different server in the same country. Clear your browser cache before trying again.

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

What is PureVPN?

PureVPN is a VPN and online privacy tool that protects your internet connection and hides your real IP address.

Think of it like a secure tunnel between your device and the internet that nobody can see into.

Watch this quick overview:

It includes these key features:

• Dark Web Monitoring: Scans for your data on the dark web and sends real-time alerts.
• Password Manager: Stores and syncs all your passwords with military-grade encryption.
• DNS Leak Protection: Prevents DNS requests from leaking outside the VPN tunnel.
• Internet Kill Switch: Cuts internet access instantly if the VPN disconnects.
• Data Brokers Removal: Finds and removes your personal data from data broker sites.
• IP Leak Prevention: Blocks WebRTC and IPv6 leaks to keep your real IP hidden.
• Dedicated IP VPN: Gives you a personal static IP for consistent access.
• VPN Chrome Extension: Encrypts browser traffic from a lightweight extension.

For a full review, see our PureVPN review.

PureVPN Pricing

Here’s what PureVPN costs in 2026:

Free trial: No free trial, but PureVPN offers a 31-day money-back guarantee.

Money-back guarantee: Yes, 31 days on all plans.

💰 Best Value: Plus plan at $3.15/month — you get the VPN plus PureKeep password manager and dark web monitoring for just $1 more than the base plan.

PureVPN vs Alternatives

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

Watch this comparison:

Quick picks:

• Best overall: NordVPN — fastest speeds, strongest encryption, and top-tier streaming access.
• Best budget: Surfshark — unlimited devices starting at $1.99/month.
• Best for beginners: PureVPN — simple interface with one-click connect and clear settings.
• Best for privacy: ProtonVPN — Swiss jurisdiction, free tier, and open-source apps.

🎯 PureVPN Alternatives

Looking for PureVPN alternatives? Here are the top options:

• 🚀 NordVPN: Industry-leading speeds with Threat Protection Pro, 6,400+ servers in 111 countries, and double VPN encryption.
• ⚡ ExpressVPN: Fastest VPN tested with Lightway protocol, trusted by millions, and works in 105 countries.
• 💰 SurfsharkVPN: Unlimited simultaneous connections starting at $1.99/month with CleanWeb ad blocker built in.
• 🔒 ProtonVPN: Swiss-based with a free tier, open-source apps, and Secure Core servers for maximum privacy.
• 🌟 PrivadoVPN: Generous 10GB free plan with zero-log policy and servers in 49 countries.
• 🧠 AdGuard VPN: Built by the ad-blocking experts. Combines VPN with powerful tracker blocking in one app.
• 🔧 Virtual Shield: All-in-one security suite with VPN, antivirus, identity monitoring, and ad blocking.
• 🏢 StrongVPN: Simple no-frills VPN with WireGuard support and 950+ servers for reliable connections.
• 🔥 FastestVPN: Lifetime plans available from $40. Great for users who want to pay once and forget.
• 👶 AuraVPN: Family-friendly with identity theft insurance, credit monitoring, and parental controls built in.
• 🎯 CyberGhost: 11,500+ servers with dedicated streaming and gaming profiles for one-click access.
• 💼 McAfee VPN: Bundled with McAfee antivirus for users who want VPN plus full device protection.
• 📊 Private Internet Access: Open-source VPN with proven no-logs policy and 35,000+ servers worldwide.
• ⭐ Mysterium: Decentralized VPN powered by residential IPs for undetectable browsing and access.
• 🎨 SafeShell VPN: Designed for streaming with ShellGuard encryption and multi-device support.
• 💎 Oyster VPN: New competitor with clean interface, fast WireGuard speeds, and affordable pricing.

For the full list, see our PureVPN alternatives guide.

⚔️ PureVPN Compared

Here’s how PureVPN stacks up against each competitor:

• PureVPN vs NordVPN: NordVPN wins on speed and server count. PureVPN wins on price and includes data broker removal.
• PureVPN vs ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN is faster and more polished. PureVPN is half the price with more bundled privacy tools.
• PureVPN vs SurfsharkVPN: Surfshark offers unlimited devices. PureVPN has dark web monitoring and data broker removal included.
• PureVPN vs ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN has a free tier and Swiss privacy laws. PureVPN offers more servers and cheaper paid plans.
• PureVPN vs PrivadoVPN: PrivadoVPN has a free 10GB plan. PureVPN has more servers and advanced features like dedicated IP.
• PureVPN vs AdGuard VPN: AdGuard excels at ad blocking. PureVPN offers a bigger server network and more privacy tools.
• PureVPN vs Virtual Shield: Virtual Shield bundles antivirus and identity protection. PureVPN is cheaper with more VPN servers.
• PureVPN vs StrongVPN: StrongVPN is simpler. PureVPN offers more features and better streaming access for a similar price.
• PureVPN vs FastestVPN: FastestVPN has lifetime plans. PureVPN has more servers and a stronger privacy tools bundle.
• PureVPN vs AuraVPN: Aura focuses on identity theft protection. PureVPN is far cheaper for basic VPN and privacy needs.
• PureVPN vs CyberGhost: CyberGhost has more servers and gaming profiles. PureVPN includes password manager and data removal.
• PureVPN vs McAfee VPN: McAfee bundles antivirus. PureVPN offers faster VPN speeds and more server locations.
• PureVPN vs Private Internet Access: PIA is open-source with more servers. PureVPN has dark web monitoring and data broker removal.
• PureVPN vs Mysterium: Mysterium uses decentralized nodes. PureVPN is easier to use with more consistent speeds.
• PureVPN vs SafeShell VPN: SafeShell focuses on streaming. PureVPN offers a more complete privacy and security suite.
• PureVPN vs Oyster VPN: Oyster is newer with fewer features. PureVPN has a larger server network and proven track record.

Start Using PureVPN Now

You learned how to use every major PureVPN feature:

• ✅ Dark Web Monitoring
• ✅ Password Manager
• ✅ DNS Leak Protection
• ✅ Internet Kill Switch
• ✅ Data Brokers Removal
• ✅ IP Leak Prevention
• ✅ Dedicated IP VPN
• ✅ VPN Chrome Extension

Next step: Pick one feature and try it now.

Most people start with the Internet Kill Switch.

It takes less than 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to use PureVPN for streaming?

Open PureVPN and connect to a server in the country whose content you want to watch. For Netflix US, pick a US server. For BBC iPlayer, pick a UK server. PureVPN works with Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and Hulu. If a server gets blocked, disconnect and try a different server in the same country.

How to use a VPN for beginners?

Download the PureVPN app, create an account, and click the connect button. That’s it for basic protection. The app auto-selects the best server and protocol for you. Once connected, all your internet traffic is encrypted and your real IP address is hidden from websites and trackers.

Is PureVPN a good VPN?

PureVPN is a solid choice for budget-conscious users. It offers 6,500+ servers in 70+ countries, a KPMG-audited no-logs policy, and bundled privacy tools like dark web monitoring and a password manager. Speeds are good with WireGuard, averaging around 394 Mbps. It’s not the fastest VPN, but it’s one of the best values.

Is PureVPN a Chinese company?

No. PureVPN was founded in Hong Kong in 2007 and has since moved its headquarters to the British Virgin Islands. The BVI location offers strong privacy protections and no mandatory data retention laws. PureVPN’s no-logs policy has been independently audited by KPMG to verify that user activity is not recorded.

How much does PureVPN cost?

PureVPN plans start at $2.15/month for the Standard plan on a long-term subscription. The Plus plan costs $3.15/month and the Max plan is $3.55/month. Monthly plans cost more. All plans include a 31-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free before committing.