Microsoft Edge Introduces “Get VPN for Free” Button to Attract Windows 11 Users

Testing the Microsoft Edge Secure Network VPN: An Overview

The Microsoft Edge Secure Network VPN feature is currently undergoing testing on the Edge Canary channel, allowing select users to experience enhanced privacy while browsing the internet. As users navigate the online landscape, this new feature is being hailed as an innovative solution to combat issues like IP address tracking and unwanted geolocation disclosure.

What is the Edge Secure Network VPN?

Users accessing the Secure Network hub in Edge receive notifications prompting them to try out a complimentary VPN service linked to their Microsoft Account. This will help shield their online identity from potential invasive tracking activities. If you are part of the Edge Canary channel, look out for the Secure Network button in the browser toolbar.

However, early adopter feedback highlights some issues; for instance, user Leopeva64 has reported the Secure Network button remains unresponsive. This could indicate a temporary bug associated with the ongoing testing phase.

Microsoft Edge browser secure network VPN

Why Now? The Rationale Behind the Launch

Given the escalating requirements for securing online activities, Microsoft seems well-positioned to reintroduce this free VPN service. During initial testing in 2022, it was discovered that the Edge VPN utilized Cloudflare to encrypt users’ IP addresses. This form of protection enables users to access web pages hosted on non-secure domains, including those featuring expired HTTPS certificates, thereby enhancing user security online.

When activated, the Edge VPN prevents Internet Service Providers (ISPs) from tracking users’ browsing data by masking the actual IP address behind one provided by Cloudflare. This not only promotes privacy but also adds another layer of security when surfing the web.

Limitations: The Inability to Spoof Geolocation

During previous tests, it was noted that the Microsoft Edge Secure Network VPN lacks the capability to spoof geolocation, a feature commonly offered by traditional VPN services. Users looking for regional bypasses to access geo-restricted content may find themselves disappointed.

Edge Secure Network hands on — Image Courtesy: WindowsLatest.com

When traditional VPNs are activated, users often have the option to select a virtual location that differs from their actual geographic position. However, with the Edge Secure Network, only the device’s IP can be masked; your actual regional location remains visible, making it impossible to navigate around geo-restrictions.

The Future: Will Geolocation Spoofing Be Added?

As of now, there’s no clarity on whether Microsoft plans to enhance the Edge Secure Network VPN by integrating geolocation spoofing. The marketing strategy promoting this feature as a free VPN appears to be a tactic to entice more users to adopt Microsoft Edge, despite the fact that the service may not be a comprehensive VPN by conventional standards.

Have you had the chance to test the Edge Secure Network? It’s important to note that this feature is not universally available in all regions, so your experience may vary.

For additional insights on the Secure Network feature and VPN technology, consider viewing more in-depth resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How does the Edge Secure Network VPN enhance my online privacy?

The Edge Secure Network VPN masks your real IP address using Cloudflare’s service, preventing ISPs from monitoring your browsing activities and providing a layer of protection when accessing unsecured websites.

2. Can the Edge Secure Network VPN bypass geo-restrictions?

Unfortunately, no. The current iteration of the Edge Secure Network VPN does not offer geolocation spoofing, meaning users cannot access content restricted to specific regions.

3. Is the Edge Secure Network VPN available globally?

No, the feature is still in testing and is not yet available in all regions. Users in the Edge Canary channel may be part of the testing phase, but broader deployment has not been announced.

Source & Images