In a surprising move, Microsoft has announced that it will discontinue its free VPN service included in Microsoft 365. This change will take effect on February 28, 2025, leaving users searching for alternative ways to protect their online privacy. Microsoft cited low adoption rates and a shift in focus toward other security solutions as the main reasons for ending the feature.
What does this mean for users who relied on Microsoft’s built-in VPN? Let’s break it down.
Why Is Microsoft 365 Removing Its Free VPN?
Microsoft’s free VPN service was introduced as part of Edge Secure Network, a built-in security feature in the Microsoft Edge browser. Despite its potential benefits, it never gained widespread popularity.
Here are the key reasons behind its removal:
- Low User Adoption: Many users were unaware of the VPN or chose third-party alternatives.
- Limited Features: The VPN had a 1GB monthly data cap, making it impractical for heavy users.
- Focus on Other Security Tools: Microsoft is prioritizing enterprise-level security solutions over consumer VPN services.
A Microsoft spokesperson stated:
“While the VPN feature offered privacy benefits, we found that most users preferred dedicated VPN services with more flexibility and better speeds.”
What Happens Next for Microsoft 365 Users?
If you’ve been using the Microsoft 365 VPN, you’ll need to switch to an alternative before February 28, 2025. After this date:
❌ The free VPN feature will no longer be available.
❌ There will be no built-in VPN support in Microsoft Edge.
✅ Microsoft will continue improving Windows Defender and other security tools.
Microsoft has not announced a replacement, meaning users must rely on third-party VPN providers for online privacy.
Best VPN Alternatives for Microsoft 365 Users
If you’re looking for a secure and reliable VPN, here are some top alternatives:
| VPN Service | Key Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | High-speed servers, strong encryption | From $3.49/month |
| ExpressVPN | No-logs policy, works with streaming services | From $6.67/month |
| Surfshark | Unlimited devices, budget-friendly | From $2.49/month |
| ProtonVPN | Free plan available, open-source | Free or $4.99/month |
These services provide better data privacy, speed, and unlimited usage compared to Microsoft’s limited VPN.
How This Compares to Other Browsers
Microsoft Edge’s VPN removal puts it behind competitors like Opera, which still offers a built-in VPN for free. Meanwhile, Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox rely on extensions for VPN functionality.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Browser | Built-in VPN? | Security Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Microsoft Edge | ❌ No (removed) | Windows Defender integration |
| Google Chrome | ❌ No | Relies on third-party VPN extensions |
| Mozilla Firefox | ❌ No | Focuses on tracking prevention |
| Opera | ✅ Yes | Free unlimited VPN |
This decision could push privacy-conscious users toward Opera or third-party VPN services.
Conclusion
Microsoft’s decision to remove its free VPN from Microsoft 365 may disappoint some users, but it reflects a shift toward specialized security tools. If you relied on the service, it’s time to switch to a dedicated VPN provider to maintain online privacy.
Want a VPN with better features and unlimited bandwidth? Consider switching to NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or ProtonVPN for enhanced security and reliability.
