⚠️ Why Kill Switch Is Critical
VPN connections can drop unexpectedly—network switches, server issues, app crashes. Without kill switch, your device instantly reverts to your real IP address. If you're torrenting, your IP gets exposed to the swarm. If you're browsing privately, your ISP sees everything.
How Kill Switch Works
❌ Without Kill Switch
- • VPN disconnects
- • Traffic flows through normal ISP
- • Real IP exposed immediately
- • May not notice for minutes/hours
✓ With Kill Switch
- • VPN disconnects
- • All internet traffic blocked
- • Real IP never exposed
- • Traffic resumes when VPN reconnects
Who Needs Kill Switch
📥 Torrent Users
Absolutely essential. Your IP is visible to every peer in the swarm. One disconnect without kill switch = exposed.
🔒 Privacy-Focused Users
If you're using VPN for privacy, a momentary disconnect defeats the purpose. Kill switch ensures consistent protection.
💼 Remote Workers
Handling sensitive data? Kill switch prevents accidental exposure if VPN drops during work.
How to Enable Kill Switch
NordVPN
Settings → Kill Switch → Toggle On
Two options: Internet Kill Switch (blocks all traffic) or App Kill Switch (closes specific apps)
Surfshark
Settings → VPN Settings → Kill Switch → Enable
VPNs with Kill Switch
NordVPN
Kill Switch on All Platforms
Surfshark
Kill Switch Included
Never Expose Your IP
Kill switch is your safety net. Both VPNs include it on all platforms. 30-day money-back guarantee.