E ExpressVPN

How to connect to VPN server on ExpressVPN

beginner 8 min read Updated 2026-03-18
Quick Answer

To connect to an ExpressVPN server, open the ExpressVPN app, sign in with your credentials, select a server location from the list, and click the power button to establish the connection. The process takes just a few seconds once you're logged in.

Try ExpressVPN Full ExpressVPN Review

Prerequisites

  • Active ExpressVPN subscription
  • ExpressVPN app installed on your device
  • Stable internet connection
  • Valid ExpressVPN account credentials

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Launch the ExpressVPN app

Open the ExpressVPN application on your device by clicking the ExpressVPN icon on your desktop, taskbar, or applications folder. Wait for the app to fully load and display the main interface.
Pin the ExpressVPN app to your taskbar or dock for quick access
2

Sign in to your account

If not already signed in, enter your ExpressVPN email address and password in the login fields. Click Sign In to authenticate. You can also use the activation code from your ExpressVPN account dashboard by clicking Enter activation code instead.
Enable 'Remember me' to avoid signing in repeatedly on trusted devices
3

Choose a server location

Click the Choose Location button or the three dots (...) next to the current location. Browse through the server list organized by regions: Recommended, All Locations, Recent, and Favorites. Select your desired server location by clicking on it.
Use 'Smart Location' for automatic selection of the fastest server for your location
4

Connect to the VPN server

Click the large Power Button (circular button) in the center of the app to initiate the connection. The button will turn from gray to green, and you'll see Connected status along with your new IP address and location.
The connection process typically takes 5-15 seconds depending on your internet speed
5

Verify your connection

Once connected, the app will display Connected status with a green power button. You can verify your connection by checking the displayed IP address and location in the app, or visit a website like whatismyipaddress.com to confirm your IP has changed.
6

Manage your connection

To disconnect, click the green Power Button again. To change servers while connected, simply select a new location and the app will automatically switch. Use the Settings menu (gear icon) to configure auto-connect, kill switch, and protocol preferences.
Enable the kill switch in settings to protect your privacy if the VPN connection drops

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

Connection fails or times out

Try connecting to a different server location, check your internet connection, or restart the ExpressVPN app. If issues persist, try changing the protocol in Settings > Protocol to Automatic or Lightway.

Slow internet speed after connecting

Select a server closer to your physical location from the Recommended list, or try the Smart Location feature. You can also change the protocol to Lightway for better performance.

Can't access certain websites or services

Try connecting to a different server location, particularly servers in countries where the service is available. For streaming services, use ExpressVPN's recommended servers for specific platforms found in the location list.

App won't start or crashes frequently

Restart your device, ensure you have the latest version of ExpressVPN installed, and check that your firewall or antivirus isn't blocking the application. Try running the app as administrator on Windows or granting necessary permissions on mobile devices.

Prices mentioned in this guide are pulled from current plan data and may change. Always verify on the official ExpressVPN website before purchasing.
Visit ExpressVPN View ExpressVPN Pricing