To access the VPN service, users must download the Microsoft Defender app on a compatible device and activate its privacy protection function.
When the VPN is turned on, users will be connected to a Microsoft server that offers 50 gigabytes of monthly data usage. The app interface will show the time left until the data usage resets.
It is important to note that the language in the app might be different from the default language of the device, and there are limited options to customize it.
The interface is user-friendly, displaying the total and remaining data usage, days left until the next reset, and the visibility of your location. It will also alert users if they are on an insecure network and allow them to add trusted networks.
However, unlike premium VPN services, Microsoft’s solution does not include advanced features such as server selection, kill switch, or split tunneling.
Automatic split tunneling is available for specific services like YouTube, Netflix, and Spotify. The primary purpose of Microsoft’s VPN is to ensure secure connections, especially on public networks.
Microsoft gathers a limited amount of data, including the duration of VPN usage, active bandwidth, and identification of potentially harmful Wi-Fi hotspots to maintain user anonymity.
While Microsoft Defender Privacy Protection can be beneficial for Microsoft 365 subscribers, it may have limitations compared to other VPN providers. The VPN primarily focuses on securing internet connections, and the monthly data limit should be adequate for most users, with exemptions for certain websites.
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