Microsoft is shutting down its Defender VPN service at the end of this month, leaving users with limited options to secure their internet connections.
The news may come as a relief to some, given that the 50GB data cap per calendar month and throttled speeds (256 Kbps) might have been seen as deterrents. However, Microsoft’s decision to remove the VPN feature is aimed at investing in new areas better aligned with customer needs.
The company cited its goal of ensuring users’ safety online and stated that it will focus on improving its features rather than maintaining a standalone VPN service. This move may force users to find alternative VPN providers that offer more flexibility.
Those using Windows, iOS, or macOS don’t need to take any action, as Defender VPN will stop working automatically. Android users, however, must manually remove the VPN profile from their device. Microsoft 365 subscribers in the US are still covered by credit monitoring and identity theft insurance.
This news follows Google’s decision to discontinue its own VPN service earlier this year, citing lack of demand.
Source: https://www.theregister.com/2025/02/03/microsoft_defender_vpn_killed_off