VPN Setup Guide

Why use a VPN on open WiFi?

When you connect to an open (unencrypted) WiFi network—like at a coffee shop, airport, or hotel—anyone nearby can potentially see your network traffic. While HTTPS protects individual websites, a VPN encrypts all your traffic, hiding even which sites you visit.

Network Weather warns you when you're on an open network without VPN protection. Here's how to fix that in under 3 minutes.

Option 1: Cloudflare WARP (Free, Recommended)

Cloudflare WARP is a free, fast VPN that's easy to set up. It uses the modern WireGuard protocol for minimal battery impact and low latency.

Step 1: Download

Visit one.one.one.one and click "Download" for your platform (macOS, Windows, iOS, or Android).

Step 2: Install and open

Run the installer and open the app. On macOS, you'll see a small "1.1.1.1" icon in your menu bar.

Step 3: Enable WARP

Click the menu bar icon and toggle WARP on. That's it—your traffic is now encrypted.

The free tier is all most people need. WARP+ ($4.99/month) offers faster routing but isn't required for security.

Option 2: Other VPN services

If you already have a VPN through work or a subscription service, use that instead:

• 1Password includes a VPN if you have a 1Password subscription
• Tailscale is excellent for connecting your own devices securely (free for personal use)
• ProtonVPN offers a free tier with servers in 3 countries
• NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and similar paid services work well too

The key is having something enabled when you're on untrusted networks.

When to use a VPN

Definitely use a VPN:

• Coffee shops, airports, hotels, and other public WiFi
• Any network labeled "Open" or "None" in Network Weather
• Networks you don't control or trust

Usually not necessary:

• Your home network (assuming WPA2/WPA3 encryption)
• Your workplace network (likely already secured)
• Mobile data (cellular networks are encrypted)

Verifying it's working

Once your VPN is enabled, Network Weather will:

• Show "VPN" as a segment in your network topology
• Stop warning about open network security (your traffic is now encrypted)
• Display your VPN provider and exit location

If you still see security warnings after enabling your VPN, make sure it's fully connected—some VPNs take a few seconds to establish the tunnel.