VPN basics
What people using a VPN for the first time often ask.
What a VPN does
When you go online, the networks your connection passes through can see which sites you visit: the Wi-Fi at a hotel or school, and your network provider.
With the VPN on, your phone or computer encrypts the connection and sends it to Vessel's server first, which then connects to the site. The networks along the way only see that you connected to Vessel, not where you went next. Sites see the location of Vessel's server, and if you sign in to an account, they still know it is you.
Everyday use
Messaging, banking and Gmail
Most apps and sites work as usual. A few services, seeing a connection from another country, ask for an extra check, such as a text message code or a confirmation that it is really you. Just follow the prompts.
Streaming
Streaming services such as Netflix, Disney+ and HBO usually block VPN servers, so videos may not play while Vessel is on, and Vessel cannot be used to watch another country's catalogue. Turn the VPN off while you stream, and back on afterwards. On Android you can leave streaming apps out of the VPN.
Can I send only some apps through the VPN?
When to keep it on, and speed
Keep it on when you use Wi-Fi at a café, hotel or school, and when you travel. It is usually a little slower than without it, and the battery difference is small. At home or on a network you trust, turn it off whenever you like.
Checking that it works
Once the switch in AmneziaWG is on, open the connection check and press the button to confirm that your traffic goes through Vessel's server.
Getting ready for a trip
- Before you leave, install AmneziaWG, create the device and test the connection at home. In some places the app stores do not have it, and the network may block it
- If you will use both a phone and a laptop, create a device for each
- Keep your account number in a password manager, or write it on paper and put it somewhere safe
- While abroad, open vessel.anoni.net in a browser once while connected to Vessel to extend your devices by 30 days
- Rules on using VPNs differ by country, so check the rules at your destination before you go
When it will not connect
- Try another network, for example mobile data instead of Wi-Fi
- Make sure AmneziaWG is updated to the latest version
- Check the status page to see whether the node is working
- If it still fails, tell us on the feedback page. Someone reads every message
If you cannot reach the Vessel site, write to [email protected], or find us in the community's Matrix room.
Whether others can tell it is a VPN
Vessel disguises its connections, so ordinary network equipment has a hard time recognising them as a VPN, but equipment that analyses traffic closely may still tell. What it can learn is that you connected to Vessel's server, not where you went or what you sent. If you are at risk and need anonymity, use Tor Browser.
What Vessel handles
While you are connected, Vessel's server handles the sites you connect to, but cannot see what HTTPS encrypts, such as messages and passwords, and keeps no record of your connections.