What is Google One VPN and how does it secure browsing?
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(Pocket-lint) – You might have heard that the new Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro will get VPN by Google One and you might be wondering what it is. Previously exclusive to those on Google One’s 2TB or larger plans, all you’ll need now is one of Google’s latest phones. Here’s everything you need to know about the Mobile VPN service, including how it works and how to activate it on your phone. It works on both Android and iOS devices, if you are a Google One subscriber.
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What is VPN by Google One?
VPN by Google One is a mobile VPN service. It is accessible from the Google One application on Android or iOS.
It’s an extra layer of protection that lets you encrypt your online activity, no matter what app or browser you’re using. You can browse, stream and download content with a secure and private connection and won’t have to worry about hackers on unsecured networks (like public Wi-Fi) intercepting your sensitive information. Google said that Google One VPN is “backed by its ‘best-in-class’ network architecture” and has released extensive information on how its VPN service works to ensure you have a fast and secure internet connection for your apps and apps. services.
How does Google One’s VPN service work?
Google has published a comprehensive white paper on Google One VPN, which explains in detail how its VPN service works. We recommend that you read it if you want to know more.
But the TL;DR version is this: On your device, when you use your web browser and apps, they can share your information online.
For example, your online activity may be viewed by your network provider and the sites you visit may track you based on your IP address. Google notes that some sites and apps use outdated, weak, or no encryption. This means that while in transit, your unsecured data can be intercepted or modified by hackers, which obviously exposes you to privacy and security risks.
But if you enable a VPN, your online data is protected, as it travels through a heavily encrypted tunnel. The VPN by Google One tunnel is operated by Google and maintained by its “secure global servers”. Again, read Google’s whitepaper to find out how secure their servers are. Google has stated that it will never use the VPN connection to track, record or sell your browsing activity. The company promises its systems have “advanced security built-in” that ensures no one is using the VPN to link your online activity to your identity. Google has made its client libraries open access and said its end-to-end systems have been independently audited.
Either way, to allow websites to display the correct content for your region, Google One VPN will assign you an IP address based on your current country. But websites cannot use this IP address to determine your precise location.
Do you need a subscription to Google One to use your VPN?
Yes, although Google recently announced that its VPN will be free for all Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro users later this year. Currently, the VPN is available to those who subscribe to the 2TB (or higher) Google One plan in certain countries. The 2TB plan costs $9.99 per month in the US. For more on Google One, what it is and how much it costs, see our separate guide.
Peace of mind when you go online
Later in the year, the #Pixel7 and the 7 Pro will be the only phones with VPN by Google One at no additional cost. ¹#MadeByGoogle
¹See image for more information pic.twitter.com/P7lzyoMdek-
Made by Google (@madebygoogle) October 6, 2022
How to Activate Google One VPN
To activate VPN by Google One, just tap on the Google One app.
- Open the Google One app on your Android or iOS device.
- Make sure you’re signed in to your Google account.
- At the bottom of the Google One app, tap Benefits.
- Find the VPN benefit and tap Show details.
- Enable the Enable VPN option.
For added security, you can set your phone to only use the Internet when VPN is on. If your VPN is disconnected, internet access is blocked until the VPN reconnects.
- Open the Google One app.
- At the bottom, tap Benefits.
- Find the VPN benefit and tap Show details.
- Tap Manage VPN Settings.
- Enable the Block internet if VPN disconnects option.
- If your device restarts, the VPN tries to reconnect automatically.
- Before it reconnects, your internet connection is not blocked or protected.
- Once the VPN is reconnected, you will see a key at the top of your screen.
You can disable this setting at any time in your VPN settings.
Do you need additional help? Visit Google’s support page for VPN by Google One.
How to add VPN by Google One to your quick settings?
You can add VPN by Google to your Android device’s quick settings for even easier access.
- At the top of your screen, swipe down twice.
- At the bottom left, tap Edit.
- Touch and hold the VPN by Google One option.
- Then drag the parameter to where you want it
- To add a setting, drag it up from “Hold and drag to add tiles”.
- To remove a setting, drag it down to “Drag here to remove”.
What devices can use Google One VPN?
Google One VPN is available in the Google One app for Android and iOS devices.
Where is Google One VPN available?
Le VPN by Google One is available in certain countries/regions: Austria, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, South Korea, Spain , Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Kingdom and United States. If you have enabled VPN by Google One and your home country or region is supported, the VPN service will still work when traveling abroad.
Written by Maggie Tillman.
