Microsoft 365 to Shut Down Its Free VPN

Microsoft 365 is set to discontinue its free VPN feature by February 28, 2025. The feature, part of the Microsoft Defender app, provided encryption for internet traffic and concealed IP addresses to enhance user privacy. However, due to low usage and effectiveness, the tech giant has decided to phase it out.

Key Reasons for Discontinuation

Microsoft’s decision comes amid a broader evaluation of its feature usage and effectiveness. The VPN service, launched in 2023, was limited by a 50GB monthly data cap and automatic local region connections, making it unsuitable for bypassing geo-restrictions. Additionally, certain applications like WhatsApp, YouTube, and Netflix were automatically excluded from VPN tunneling on both Android and iOS.

Microsoft plans to redirect resources into new areas that better align with customer needs while maintaining other Defender features such as identity theft protection and credit monitoring in the US.

Impact and Next Steps for Users

As Microsoft phases out its VPN, users on Windows, macOS, and iOS won’t need to take any action – the feature will cease to function automatically. However, Android users will need to manually remove the VPN profile from their devices.

This move follows similar decisions by other tech giants, such as Google, which ended its Google One VPN service due to low demand in 2024. As Microsoft bids farewell to its VPN service, users are encouraged to explore alternative VPN services that offer more robust features and flexibility.

For those seeking a new VPN, options like ExpressVPN are recommended for their privacy features and fast connection speeds. Alternatively, free VPN services such as PrivadoVPN and Proton VPN are noted for their security.

Are you affected by the discontinuation of Microsoft’s VPN service? What alternative solutions are you considering? Share your thoughts in the comments below.