How to Download Surfshark VPN on PC?
Last updated
Last updated
In an era where internet privacy is increasingly at risk, using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) has become essential. VPNs help safeguard your data, protect your identity, and allow you to access content freely by bypassing geo-restrictions. Surfshark VPN is a popular choice among users because of its robust security features, user-friendly interface, and affordable pricing. If you’re looking to download and install Surfshark VPN on your PC, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process step-by-step.
Before diving into the downloading process, it’s important to understand why Surfshark VPN is a great option for PC users:
Strong Security: Surfshark uses AES-256 encryption, which is the gold standard in data protection, ensuring your internet traffic is completely encrypted.
No-Logs Policy: Surfshark does not keep any records of your online activities, providing you with true privacy.
Wide Server Network: It has thousands of servers worldwide, allowing you to choose your virtual location and bypass restrictions.
Fast Speeds: Powered by WireGuard and other modern protocols, Surfshark ensures your browsing and streaming experience is smooth and buffer-free.
Unlimited Devices: One Surfshark subscription covers unlimited devices, meaning you can protect not just your PC but other devices as well.
Additional Features: CleanWeb (blocks ads and malware), MultiHop (double VPN), kill switch, and split tunneling make Surfshark a powerful VPN solution.
Before you download Surfshark VPN, make sure your PC meets the minimum system requirements:
Operating System: Surfshark supports Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10, and 11.
Processor: Any standard modern processor will suffice.
RAM: At least 2GB of RAM is recommended.
Storage: Minimum of 100MB free disk space for installation.
Internet Connection: A stable internet connection for downloading and using the VPN.
Admin Rights: You need administrator privileges to install software on your PC.
Prior to downloading Surfshark VPN, prepare your PC to ensure a smooth installation:
Close any previously running VPN software to avoid conflicts.
Check that your Windows operating system is updated.
Make sure you have an active internet connection.
If you haven’t already, consider creating a Surfshark account by visiting their official website from your browser.
Launch your preferred web browser on your PC such as Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Firefox, or Opera.
Type in the official Surfshark website address in the address bar and press Enter.
Remember to download the VPN only from the official source to avoid malware or scams.
On the Surfshark homepage, look for the Apps or Downloads section.
Click on it to access the list of available Surfshark apps.
Select Windows as your platform to get the correct installer for your PC.
Click the Download button for Windows.
The installer file, usually named something like SurfsharkSetup.exe, will begin downloading to your PC.
Depending on your internet speed, this may take a few seconds to a few minutes.
Once the download is complete, open your Downloads folder or the folder where your browser saves downloaded files.
Find the Surfshark installer file (SurfsharkSetup.exe).
Double-click the downloaded installer file to start the installation.
If Windows prompts you with a User Account Control (UAC) window asking permission to make changes to your device, click Yes to proceed.
The installation wizard will open. Follow the on-screen instructions:
Read and accept the license agreement.
Choose your preferred installation folder or use the default path.
Click Install to begin the installation process.
Wait for the installation to complete.
Once done, click Finish to close the wizard and launch Surfshark VPN.
If Surfshark does not open automatically after installation, locate the Surfshark icon on your desktop or in the Start menu and double-click to launch it.
Upon opening, you will be prompted to log in.
Enter the email and password you used to sign up for Surfshark.
If you do not have an account, you can sign up directly from the app or through the website.
Once logged in, you will see the Surfshark interface with a Quick Connect button.
Click Quick Connect to automatically connect to the fastest server available near your location.
Alternatively, you can manually select a server by clicking the Locations tab and choosing the country or city of your choice.
After connecting, you will notice the VPN icon in your system tray indicating an active VPN connection.
Surfshark offers various features to enhance your VPN experience on your PC:
Kill Switch: Enables you to cut off internet access if the VPN connection drops to prevent data leakage.
CleanWeb: Blocks ads, trackers, and malware while browsing.
MultiHop: Connect via two VPN servers for extra privacy.
Whitelister (Split Tunneling): Allows you to choose which apps or websites bypass the VPN.
Auto-Connect: Automatically connects the VPN when your PC starts or when you join unsecured networks.
VPN Protocols: You can switch between WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 depending on your preference for speed or security.
Access these options from the Settings or Preferences menu within the app.
To ensure Surfshark is working correctly, open your web browser.
Visit an IP address checking website to verify your IP address has changed.
This confirms that your internet traffic is being routed through the VPN.
You can also test your connection speed using an online speed test to see the impact of VPN use.
Regularly check for updates within the Surfshark app or allow automatic updates.
Keeping your VPN updated ensures you have the latest security features and bug fixes.
Verify that you have administrative rights.
Restart your PC and try again.
Temporarily disable antivirus software if it is blocking the installer.
Switch to a different server location.
Change the VPN protocol from the settings.
Restart the Surfshark app or your PC.
Check your credentials and internet connection.
Reset your password if necessary.
Ensure your subscription is active.
Choose servers closer to your physical location.
Use the WireGuard protocol for faster speeds.
Close bandwidth-heavy applications running in the background.
Always Use VPN on Public Wi-Fi: This protects your data on insecure networks.
Enable the Kill Switch: Protect yourself from accidental data leaks if the VPN disconnects.
Explore MultiHop: For users needing the highest privacy, connecting through two servers adds an extra layer of security.
Use Split Tunneling: When you want some applications or websites to use your regular connection without VPN, this feature is very helpful.
Protect Multiple Devices: Surfshark allows unlimited simultaneous connections on multiple devices with a single account.
Downloading and installing Surfshark VPN on your PC is a straightforward process that significantly boosts your online privacy and security. This guide has walked you through every step, from system preparation and download to installation, login, and configuration.
By following this guide, you will be able to secure your PC’s internet connection, access geo-restricted content, and browse the web anonymously. Surfshark’s powerful features and easy-to-use interface make it an excellent VPN choice for Windows users of all levels.