How to Setup L2TP/IPsec VPN on Chromebook - Complete Guide

Prerequisites

Before setting up L2TP/IPsec VPN on your Chromebook, ensure you have:

• An active TorGuard VPN subscription
• Your VPN username and password (found in the TorGuard member's area)
• A Chromebook with an active internet connection
• Access to your TorGuard server list

Why Use L2TP/IPsec on Chromebook?

L2TP/IPsec is a built-in VPN protocol on Chrome OS that provides:

• Strong Security: IPsec encryption protects your data
• Wide Compatibility: Works on all Chromebook models
• Easy Setup: No additional apps required
• Stable Connection: Reliable for everyday use

Step-by-Step Configuration Guide

Step 1: Access Your Chromebook Settings

1. Sign in to your Chromebook if you haven't already
2. Click the status area (system tray) at the bottom-right corner of your screen
3. Look for the area showing the time, WiFi icon, and your account picture
4. Click on the gear icon to open Settings

Step 2: Navigate to Network Settings

1. In the Settings menu, locate the "Network" section
2. You'll see your current internet connection status here
3. Click on "Add connection"
4. From the dropdown menu, select "Add private network"

Step 3: Configure Your VPN Connection

In the VPN configuration dialog, enter the following information:

1. Server hostname:
   • Enter your preferred TorGuard server address
   • Find server addresses in your TorGuard server list
   • Example: ny.east.usa.torguardvpnaccess.com
2. Service name:
   • Enter a memorable name like "TorGuard VPN" or "TorGuard L2TP"
   • This helps you identify the connection later
3. Provider type:
   • Select "L2TP/IPsec + Pre-shared key"
4. Pre-shared key:
   • Enter: torguard
   • This is the standard pre-shared key for all TorGuard L2TP connections
5. Username:
   • Enter your TorGuard VPN username
   • Find this in your member's area
6. Password:
   • Enter your TorGuard VPN password
   • You can update this in your account settings if needed

Step 4: Save and Connect

1. Double-check all entered information for accuracy
2. Click "Connect" to save and establish the VPN connection
3. You'll see a VPN icon in your status area when connected
4. The connection status will show as "Connected" in your network settings

Verifying Your Connection

After connecting, verify your VPN is working properly:

1. Visit TorGuard's IP check tool
2. Confirm your IP address has changed to the VPN server location
3. Check for any DNS leaks using our DNS leak test

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Connection Fails Immediately

• Check credentials: Ensure you're using VPN service credentials, not website login
• Verify server address: Try a different server from your server list
• Pre-shared key: Confirm you entered "torguard" (all lowercase)

Connection Drops Frequently

• Try connecting to a server geographically closer to you
• Check your internet connection stability
• Consider using OpenVPN instead for better stability

Slow Connection Speeds

• Connect to a less crowded server
• Choose a server in your region for better performance
• Consider upgrading to a dedicated IP for consistent speeds

Managing Your VPN Connection

To Disconnect:

1. Click the status area
2. Click on your VPN connection name
3. Select "Disconnect"

To Reconnect:

1. Click the status area
2. Select your saved VPN connection
3. It will connect automatically using saved credentials

To Remove the VPN:

1. Go to Settings → Network
2. Find your VPN connection
3. Click the three-dot menu
4. Select "Forget"

Advanced Tips

Multiple VPN Profiles

You can create multiple VPN profiles for different servers:

• Set up connections to servers in different countries
• Create profiles for specific use cases (streaming, general browsing, etc.)
• Name them descriptively (e.g., "TorGuard US", "TorGuard UK")

Automatic Connection

While Chromebook doesn't support automatic VPN connection on startup, you can:

• Pin the VPN to your shelf for quick access
• Use keyboard shortcuts to quickly access network settings
• Consider using the TorGuard Chrome extension for browser-only protection

Alternative VPN Options for Chromebook

If L2TP/IPsec doesn't meet your needs, consider:

• OpenVPN for Android: Install from Google Play Store on compatible Chromebooks
• TorGuard Chrome Extension: Browser-based proxy protection
• WireGuard: Available through Android app on newer Chromebooks