Microsoft Edge has recently upgraded its built-in Cloudflare VPN, known as the ‘Edge Secure Network,’ offering users 5GB of free data, a significant increase from the previously provided 1GB. This enhancement is part of Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to improving online security and user experience. The Microsoft Edge free VPN encrypts internet connections and secures data against potential online threats, such as hacking attempts.
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Microsoft Edge Free VPN: A Secure Browsing Experience
The Edge Secure Network utilizes Cloudflare’s routing to encrypt users’ internet connections, ensuring a secure browsing experience. This feature has been in development for nearly a year and is now rolling out to more users in the stable version of Microsoft Edge.
By routing traffic through an encrypted tunnel, the Edge Secure Network creates a secure connection, allowing access to all URLs securely, even those served over an insecure HTTP connection. This encryption makes it more challenging for attackers to obtain users’ browsing data.
While the Edge Secure Network doesn’t replace all VPN functions, such as selecting a preferred location or enabling blocked streaming content, it does provide the ability to access Torrent sites blocked by the ISP.
Increased Data Limit: From 1GB to 5GB
The increase in data limit from 1GB to 5GB is a welcome change for modern browsing needs. The previous 1GB limit was considered insufficient, but the new 5GB quota offers a more comfortable level for users.
This change was confirmed in the updated Microsoft Edge Support documentation, reflecting the commitment to enhancing the user experience with the Microsoft Edge free VPN.
Requirements and Functionality
To use the Edge Secure Network, users must sign in with their Microsoft account. This sign-in is necessary to monitor the monthly Secure Network data usage, crucial for providing the free 5GB service and determining when the data limit has been reached.
Importantly, Microsoft ensures that the user’s Microsoft account identity is not shared with the service provider (Cloudflare) during a Secure Network connection.
Upon signing into Microsoft Edge, sync will also be activated, making browsing data accessible across all signed-in versions of Microsoft Edge. This sync includes browsing history, favorites, settings, form fill data, passwords, extensions, open tabs, and collections.
It’s worth noting that Edge VPN is not an always-on solution. Microsoft positions it as an extra security measure for visiting unsecured HTTP websites or connecting to open Wi-Fi networks. For users requiring more extensive VPN functionality, a dedicated VPN service with unlimited traffic may be a better option.
Conclusion
The enhancement of Microsoft Edge’s built-in Cloudflare VPN with 5GB of free data marks a significant step in providing users with a secure and improved browsing experience. The Microsoft Edge free VPN offers essential encryption and security features, making it a valuable tool for everyday browsing.
While it may not replace the need for a dedicated VPN service for some users, the Edge Secure Network’s increased data limit and secure connection capabilities position it as a valuable addition to Microsoft Edge’s suite of features.
With online security becoming an ever-growing concern, the Microsoft Edge free VPN serves as a testament to Microsoft’s dedication to protecting user data and enhancing the online experience.
Source : neowin
