

Android VPN apps appear as connection options in the network settings menu on your Chromebook. Download the VPN app of your choice, log in, and switch it on. The most comprehensive way to secure your Chromebook's web traffic is to use an Android VPN app on your Chromebook. However, this can also create confusion about what is and what isn't secure on your device. If you want to secure your web traffic but don't want your VPN to screw up your video streaming, you can protect the browser and use, say, an Android app for viewing Netflix that won't be piped through the VPN. Why wouldn't you go this easier route? The problem is that Chrome VPN extensions only secure your web browser traffic. In fact, we have an entire roundup of Chrome browser extensions to help you pick the right one, if this is the way you choose to go. Using a Chrome browser extension is probably the easiest way to secure your web traffic. Manual VPN installation is possible, but we don't recommend doing it because the process often involves using less-secure VPN protocols 1. You can use a Chrome browser extension or use an Android app. There are a couple of ways to get your Chromebook protected by a VPN. For more details, you should read our story, Why You Need a VPN, and How to Choose the Right One. Furthermore, your IP address is hidden, which means your location is, too.

You need a VPN because when it's active, anyone on the same network as you, anyone that can access that network's router, your ISP, and sneaky intelligence agents will all be kept in the dark. When you pass your internet traffic through that tunnel, you ensure it cannot be spied on in transit. A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between your Chromebook and a server operated by a VPN company. To explain why, we should explain briefly what a VPN is. The short answer is yes, you probably need one. It's still wise to add another layer of privacy protection in the form of a VPN, especially if you're using your Chromebook on a public Wi-Fi network. Installing malware on them is tricky, and wiping them to start over from scratch is a snap. Chromebooks-and all Chrome OS devices-have a lot going for them in terms of security.
