Microsoft adds free built-in VPN to its Edge browser

Dimapur, May 1 (EMN): In a move to improve security and privacy, Microsoft on Friday announced that it is adding a free built-in virtual private network (VPN) service to its Edge browser.

In a blog post, the company revealed that it will be adding a Cloudflare-powered VPN service to its Edge browser and the feature will be rolled out to the public in the coming weeks.

“Online entities can use your location and IP address for profiling and sending you targeted ads. Microsoft Edge Secure Network lets you browse with a virtual IP address that masks your IP and replaces your geolocation with a similar regional address to make it more difficult for online trackers to follow you as you browse,” the company wrote.

The company is calling the feature “Microsoft Edge Secure Network” and it claims that it will “help you protect your device and sensitive data as you browse.”

However, there is a catch to the “free” service. First, you will need a Microsoft account. Secondly, data use is limited to only 1GB per month.

You can enable the feature by heading over to Settings and more, and clicking on Secure Network.

At this point, the user will be prompted to sign in with their Microsoft account or create a Microsoft account. After that, a solid shield icon will appear in the browser frame to indicate that Microsoft’s Edge Secure Network is enabled. The icon will disappear when the user closes the browser.

Keep in mind that the feature is still in early access which Microsoft calls “preview stage.” According to the company, preview features are services that are in development and are made available on a “preview” basis so users can get early access and send them feedback.