Not exactly good news for subscribers Microsoft 365 Personal and Family. Microsoft announced that it will shut down the free VPN built into Microsoft Defender for subscribers Microsoft 365 Personal and Family later this month. The decision comes just days after the company raised subscription prices, meaning users will get fewer features despite the higher cost.
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The VPN feature was originally introduced in 2023 as part of the package Microsoft 365 and was promoted as a privacy-protecting solution, allowing users to browse safely on open, public networks. While it didn't offer the same functionality as dedicated VPN services, it was a convenient tool for millions of users. Microsoft 365However, Microsoft has announced that it will discontinue this service starting February 28, 2025.
“Our goal is to make sure you and your family stay safe online. We constantly evaluate the use and effectiveness of our features. As a result, we are removing the Privacy Shield feature and will invest in new areas that better align with user needs,” Microsoft explained in a support document confirming the change.
This decision is made in the context of a recent increase in prices for Microsoft 365, which increased the cost of Personal and Family subscriptions by $3 per month, the first price adjustment in a decade. Although the new subscription includes AI-powered features through Microsoft 365 Copilot, the fact that the free VPN is being removed can be considered a major disadvantage for users.
With the discontinuation of the Defender VPN service, users Microsoft 365 they only have a few weeks to find an alternative. Of course, this decision by Microsoft to drop the free VPN will make room for other players in the market.
The importance of Microsoft Defender in cybersecurity
Microsoft Defender plays a very important role in protecting users from cyber threats. This security software provides real-time protection against viruses, malware, phishing attacks, and other digital threats. One of the biggest advantages of Microsoft Defender is its native integration into operating systems. Windows, which allows for frequent updates and optimizations to counter new types of attacks. In addition, the solution benefits from advanced artificial intelligence and cloud-based technology that detects and blocks threats before they affect the user's device.
Microsoft Defender not only protects your files and personal data, but also offers features like parental controls, app monitoring, and protection against ransomware attacks. In a digital age where cyberattacks are increasingly sophisticated, a reliable security system like Microsoft Defender is essential for ensuring a safe online experience.
Why was free VPN so important?
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a basic tool for protecting your online privacy and security. It encrypts your internet connection, preventing hackers, internet service providers, or other entities from monitoring your online activity. VPNs are especially essential when users access public Wi-Fi networks, such as those in coffee shops, airports, or hotels, where the risks of data interception are high.
Related: What is VPN (Virtual Private Network) and why is it important?
In addition to security, a VPN also allows you to access geo-restricted content, providing freedom and flexibility in your internet usage. Whether it’s used for streaming, gaming, or secure browsing, a reliable VPN provides an extra layer of protection against surveillance and cyberattacks. Therefore, the removal of the VPN feature from Microsoft Defender forces users to look for alternatives that offer the same level of security and privacy.