A news not exactly good for Microsoft 365 staff and family subscribers. Microsoft has announced that it will close the free VPN integrated in Microsoft Defender for Microsoft 365 Personal and Family subscribers at the end of this month. This decision comes just a few days after the company has increased subscription prices, which means that users will have fewer features, despite higher costs.
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The VPN function was initially introduced in 2023 as part of the Microsoft 365 package and was promoted as a privacy protection solution, allowing users to safely sail on open, public networks. Although it did not offer the same features as dedicated VPN services, it was a convenient tool for millions of Microsoft 365 users. However, Microsoft has announced that it will interrupt this service starting February 28, 2025.
“Our goal is to make sure that you and your family remain safe online. We constantly evaluate the use and efficiency of our functions. Therefore, we eliminate the characteristic of Privacy Protection and we will invest in new areas to better align the needs of the users”, Microsoft explained in a assistance document confirming the change.
This decision is made in the context of a recent price increase for Microsoft 365, which increased the cost of personal and family subscriptions by $ 3 per month, being the first price adjustment of the last decade. Although the new subscription includes functions based on artificial intelligence through Microsoft 365 co-pilot, the fact that the free VPN is eliminated can be considered a major disadvantage for users.
With the stop of the VPN Defender Service, Microsoft 365 users only have a few weeks to find an alternative. Of course, this decision made by Microsoft to give up the free VPN will make room for other players on the market.
Microsoft Defender importance in cyber security
Microsoft Defender plays a very important role in the protection of users against 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 in Windows systems, which allows frequent updates and optimizations to counteract new types of attacks. In addition, the solution benefits from advanced technology based on artificial intelligence and cloud, which detects and blocks threats before they affect the user's device.
Microsoft Defender not only protects files and personal data, but also offers functions such as parental control, app monitoring and ransomware attack protection. In a digital era where cyber attacks are increasingly sophisticated, a reliable security system such as Microsoft Defender is essential to ensure a safe experience in the online environment.
Why was the free VPN so important
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a basic tool for protecting the confidentiality and security. It encrypts the internet connection, preventing hackers, internet providers or other entities to monitor the user's online activity. VPN is essential especially when users access public Wi-Fi networks, such as cafes, 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 access to geographically restricted content, offering freedom and flexibility in the use of the Internet. Whether it is used for streaming, gaming or secure navigation, a reliable VPN offers an additional layer of protection against surveillance and cyber attacks. Therefore, the elimination of the VPN function from Microsoft Defender forces users to look for alternatives to offer them the same level of security and privacy.
