

Updated · Jun 09, 2023
Deyan has been fascinated by technology his whole life. From the first Tetris game all the way to Fa... | See full bio
A kill switch is a safety feature designed to turn off a machine in case of an emergency. It’s the last resort option, as it may damage the machinery.
Kill switches don’t just come in physical form. They may be incorporated into apps like software virtual private networks (VPNs).
So, what is a VPN kill switch, how does it differ from its tangible counterpart, and how does it work? Read on to get your biggest questions about it answered.
Also known as Network Lock or Internet Kill Switch, a VPN connection kill switch disconnect your device from the internet when your VPN connection fails.
When available, you may be able to control it and enable it only when you want. Keeping it disabled allows you to connect your device to the internet even when your VPN is out. It’s convenient but risky.
The connection kill switch feature blocks your computer, tablet, or phone from sending IP (Internet Protocol) and DNS (Domain Name System) traffic when your VPN is not working.
As a result, it prevents your real IP address and DNS queries from leaking out, helping preserve your anonymity online by forcing you to go offline.
Here’s the trick behind the magic.
As mentioned, VPN kill switches can target the whole device or select apps only.
So, how does a kill switch work on a limited number of programs? It will prompt you to select the apps you want to keep from accessing the internet when your VPN isn’t available. At the same time, it won’t block the internet for the rest of the programs.
If your VPN has a built-in internet disconnect switch, it may be activated by default. But don’t assume that it is, for your VPN may crash or its connection may weaken without warning. So, check the settings first.
The main difference between active and passive kill switch VPN protocols is the reaction time.
An active kill switch protocol turns on only after learning that the VPN service is already disconnected and relaying the information to the device.
A passive kill switch protocol, on the other hand, cuts off your device ASAP. It immediately keeps the device from transmitting data online the second it stops receiving signals from the VPN server.
Both kill switch VPN protocols can get the job done, but passive ones are more secure.
Even the best VPNs can disconnect from the hardware they’re concealing. These are the most common reasons:
Either way, double-check your username and password. If you’re still having difficulty logging into your account, check its status. Maybe it’s inactive because your free trial has expired or your premium license has lapsed.
Check for updates to ensure that you have the right iteration of the software. If you can’t upgrade it from the settings, uninstall it and download the latest version.
The solution to the first is to disable filtering through your device’s TCP/IP properties page. The workaround for the latter is to try a different VPN protocol.
Consider using L2TP/IPSec if you’re connected through OpenVPN, or vice-versa. If PPTP is part of the selection, consider it if either of the first two fails to fix the issue.
Close the unnecessary active apps and find out whether you have some running in the background.
But if your antivirus software sees your VPN as a harmful program, it may interfere.
Figure out how to configure your antivirus in a way that won’t interrupt VPN connectivity to avoid triggering its internet cut-off switch.
Not all VPNs have that feature.
But worry not.
There are third-party kill switch apps up for grabs! Still though, getting a VPN with one included is way more practical.
Below are the VPN services with kill switches we vouch for.
ExpressVPN calls its kill switch as Network Lock. It’s a standard feature for this VPN’s apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, and routers.
ExpressVPN doesn’t have the same kill switch for Android. But its Network Protection can temporarily block internet traffic, third parties can’t intercept, nor can they use it to identify you.
The difference between ExpressVPN’s Network Protection and Network Lock is that the former offers an option to restore unprotected internet connectivity with one click.
NordVPN’s automatic Kill Switch can implement network lock to the entire system or specific apps.
This provider’s VPN Kill Switch Windows version supports both system-wide and app-level network lock. NordVPN’s apps for iOS, Linux, macOS (IKE version) and Android version 8.0 or onward can only do system-wide network. The app for macOS (OpenVPN version) can target certain desktop programs.
PIA’s kill switch wastes no time to cut off your electronics’ internet connection the second it detects a problem with the VPN service. This feature is available for desktop and iOS- and Android-powered devices.
Like other VPN kill switches, Ivacy’s internet kill switch patches the moment of vulnerability as the VPN service is reconnecting. Although available in both Ivacy apps for Windows and Android, it’s automatically enabled in the latter only.
Kill switch hasn’t been VeePN’s strongest security feature. But the company has taken user feedback to heart. It has successfully fixed its major problems. The feature is available in VeePN’s desktop and mobile apps.
A kill switch is an important feature every VPN needs. It’s the only thing that can address a potential traffic data leak when the connection is down.
If your chosen service doesn’t have one, we strongly suggest getting a third-party kill switch software.
After all, safety first, right?
Deyan Georgiev
Deyan has been fascinated by technology his whole life. From the first Tetris game all the way to Falcon Heavy. Working for TechJury is like a dream come true, combining both his passions – writing and technology. In his free time (which is pretty scarce, thanks to his three kids), Deyan enjoys traveling and exploring new places. Always with a few chargers and a couple of gadgets in the backpack. He makes mean dizzying Island Paradise cocktails too.
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