VPN kill switch: ExpressVPN Network LockVPN kill switch: Put your trust in Network Lock
Network Lock is the ExpressVPN kill switch. It keeps your data safe even if your VPN connection drops, blocking all internet traffic until protection is restored.
Even when the power flickers, you change Wi-Fi networks, or your computer goes to sleep, your network remains secure. It’s a default feature on ExpressVPN apps for Windows, Mac, Linux, and routers.
What is a VPN kill switch?
A VPN protects your privacy and lets you browse securely. But what if your VPN connection gets interrupted? Your browser and other apps won’t warn you that you are connecting without protection. That’s where a VPN kill switch comes in.
If your VPN drops, the kill switch disables all internet traffic and also prevents any data from leaving your device unprotected. This proactive measure shields your IP address and other sensitive information, defending against threats that can compromise your data security even without interruptions in the VPN connection. Once your VPN connection is restored, your secure internet access resumes.
Why do I need
a VPN kill switch?
If you need a VPN, you need a kill switch. A kill switch guarantees that your device won’t leak your IP address or location or send any of your data unencrypted. This protects your identity and communications from being observed or intercepted.
Network Lock, the ExpressVPN kill switch, keeps your internet traffic from ever escaping outside the encrypted VPN tunnel, so your information is always safe.
Network Lock: How it works
Network Lock goes beyond most kill switches by being proactive rather than reactive.
Robust firewall rules
Network Lock begins with a “block everything” firewall rule on all desktop platforms. A second rule then allows only VPN-routed traffic. These rules stay active through the entire connection cycle, including during reconnects and disruptions, ensuring consistent protection.
Comprehensive traffic management
Network Lock covers all types of network traffic—IPv4, IPv6, and DNS requests—to prevent any data from leaking outside the VPN tunnel. This total coverage ensures your personal information and activities remain private, even amid network instability or when switching Wi-Fi networks.
Is Network Lock automatic?
Indeed it is! Network Lock is enabled by default. As long as you do not disable it, your internet traffic will automatically be blocked if the VPN drops or your network is disrupted. This proactive measure safeguards against interrupted connections and prevents any off-VPN traffic from leaking out, serving as an essential form of leak protection. When the VPN connection is back up, you’ll be unblocked and back in action in just moments.
Windows and Mac users can turn off Network Lock in a few clicks. For Linux, it only takes a couple of commands. (Turning off Network Lock is not recommended, and it cannot be disabled on the ExpressVPN app for routers.)
ExpressVPN apps
with Network Lock
App for routers
When you secure your router with ExpressVPN, Network Lock ensures that every device connected to that router stays protected, unless you exclude that device with split tunneling. Devices that are set “No VPN” or “MediaStreamer” will not be affected by Network Lock.
Apps for Mac and Windows
Network Lock keeps your laptops and desktops secure no matter where you are. The ExpressVPN kill switch safeguards your privacy even when your internet connection is in flux. And the default setting keeps Network Lock from interfering with local devices, like printers.
App for Linux
Breathe easy when your Linux computers are using ExpressVPN, no matter where you are. Network Lock works seamlessly with the ExpressVPN browser extensions, and you’ll get on-screen notifications whenever Network Lock engages—same as with the apps for Mac and Windows.
Network Protection
for Android and iOS
On Android, ExpressVPN offers a feature similar to a kill switch, accessible through the Android system settings. However, it's important to note that this setting may not provide complete leak protection, particularly in split tunneling configurations or when accessing local devices. To block internet access when your VPN connection drops while preserving access to local devices and split tunneling, keep the setting under Network Protection in its default position, toggled on.
On iOS, you can also enhance your data security by keeping the setting under Network Protection toggled on. This default position will block internet access whenever the VPN connection is interrupted, but it may disrupt features like media casting and Personal Hotspots.
Get the best VPN kill switch and protect yourself
If you need a VPN with a kill switch that never lets you down, go with ExpressVPN.
Try it now, totally risk-free. If you’re not satisfied with Network Lock, contact Support and get a full refund within 30 days. It’s that simple.