Microsoft Retires Free VPN in Microsoft 365: Alternatives and Implications

Microsoft has announced that its free VPN (Virtual Private Network) included with Microsoft 365 subscriptions will be retired as of February 28, 2025, leaving users in search of alternative solutions to secure their online sessions. For those who relied on this built-in feature to safeguard their internet connections, this change might feel like a curveball—but let’s discuss what’s happening, why it’s happening, and, more importantly, what you can do about it.

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The VPN That Wasn't Meant to Last​

Microsoft introduced its VPN capability as part of Microsoft Defender for Microsoft 365 Personal and Family subscribers. This service, rolled out gradually in 2023 and 2024, provided a free VPN option with modest capabilities:

• 50GB cap per month: While not unlimited, this was sufficient for casual activities requiring secure connections.
• Cross-platform support: It worked on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
• Wi-Fi safety alerts: Notifies users when connecting to unsafe networks.
• Trusted networks setting: Enables users to whitelist safer networks for convenience.

While certainly useful, it wasn’t geared to compete with other robust VPN services on the market. The writing may have been on the wall for a feature that, although convenient, was unlikely to be a core part of Microsoft’s broader strategies in data security and feature alignment.
According to Microsoft’s statement, the reason for the discontinuation boils down to providing features that better fit customers’ needs. The company stated:

"Our goal is to ensure you and your family remain safer online. We routinely evaluate the usage and effectiveness of our features. As such, we are removing the privacy protection feature and will invest in new areas that will better align to customer needs."

In other words, Microsoft Defender will continue to focus on identity theft protection, device security, and credit monitoring services, rather than maintaining this modest VPN tool.

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What Should You Do?​

1. Remove the Old VPN Profile (Android Users Only):
For Android users, there’s a maintenance task you’ll need to perform:

• Head to your Android settings and search for "VPN."
• Locate the Microsoft Defender VPN profile.
• Select the info icon and remove the profile.

2. Consider a VPN Alternative:
If you’ve been using Microsoft’s VPN, now is the perfect time to compare other market options packed with more features and extensive capabilities.

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Top VPN Alternatives to Consider​

Here are a few widely regarded VPNs to replace Microsoft 365's retired tool. These provide not just internet safety, but also additional features tailored to modern online privacy needs:

1. ExpressVPN​

• Why it stands out: Fast speeds, excellent streaming support, and strong encryption standards.
• Features: 3,000+ servers in 94 countries, split tunneling, and a no-logs policy.
• Price: Around $12.95/month, though discounts are often available for longer-term commitments.

2. NordVPN​

• Why it stands out: Industry-leading encryption, privacy protection, and robust unblocking for region-locked content.
• Features: Over 5,000 servers in 60 countries, DoubleVPN for extra security, and SmartPlay for streaming.
• Price: About $11.95/month or as low as $3.71/month with multi-year plans.

3. Surfshark​

• Why it stands out: Affordable pricing without compromising on features. Ideal for families due to unlimited device connections.
• Features: CleanWeb (ad and tracker blocker), multi-hop connections, and servers in 100 countries.
• Price: Starts at $2.49/month with a two-year plan.

4. CyberGhost​

• Why it stands out: Simple setup for beginners and excellent for entertainment streaming.
• Features: Optimized servers for streaming, torrenting, and public Wi-Fi privacy. Available in 91 countries.
• Price: Around $2.19/month with a two-year subscription.

5. Proton VPN​

• Why it stands out: Strong emphasis on privacy with a free tier and no logs.
• Features: Secure Core servers for added anonymity, support for 63 countries, and excellent speeds for a free account.
• Price: Free tier or $4.99/month for the premium version.

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Rising Microsoft 365 Subscription Costs and Copilot Controversy​

In addition to the retirement of its VPN, Microsoft 365 plans are also getting more expensive:

• Microsoft 365 Personal: Previously $69.99/year ($6.99/month), now $99.99/year ($9.99/month).
• Microsoft 365 Family: Previously $99.99/year ($9.99/month), now $129.99/year ($12.99/month).

These price hikes coincide with Microsoft's aggressive push to integrate AI via Copilot into its apps like Word, Excel, and more. While Copilot might excite some with its ability to assist in document drafting or data analysis, others are unhappy about paying more for features they may not use.
Pro Tip for Budget-Conscious Users:
You can opt-out of Copilot and revert to a "classic" subscription model at the lower price—so act before your renewal hits if you’re not keen on the additional charge.

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Broader Implications for Windows and Beyond​

The discontinuation of Microsoft’s VPN reflects larger industry trends. As tech companies shift focus to AI, cloud services, and advanced identity protection, sometimes features that don’t align with these long-term goals are culled.
For Windows users, this highlights the increasing importance of building your own suite of preferred tools and services. Whether that's a standalone VPN, open-source productivity tools, or enhanced cybersecurity platforms, relying solely on baked-in solutions from Microsoft or other OS vendors might not always be future-proof.

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Key Takeaways:​

• Microsoft is dropping its free VPN service on February 28, 2025—start looking for an alternative now.
• Android users should remove the Microsoft Defender VPN profile to avoid leftover configurations.
• Pricing increases for Microsoft 365 Personal and Family subscriptions are tied to AI-powered Copilot's rollout. Review your subscription to avoid paying for features you don’t need.
• Whether you need privacy tools or productivity services, this change serves as a wake-up call to research and customize your tech stack.

Jump into the conversation—what’s your go-to VPN service? Is Microsoft’s price hike justified? Discuss below!

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Source: ZDNET Microsoft 365 is dumping its VPN - try these alternatives instead