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How to Change Location on PC: Step-by-Step Guide 

  • 17 December 2024
  • 9 mins read

Table of Content

Table of Contents

Changing location on a PC offers several benefits, from accessing geo-restricted content and bypassing regional restrictions to enhancing online privacy. 

In this guide, we’ll explore various methods to change your location on PC both manually and automatically with a VPN

Why Would You Want to Change Your Location on Your PC?

Here are some reasons why you might want to change your location on a PC:

  1. Access Blocked Content

Some websites or streaming services only show content in certain countries. Changing your location helps you watch or use things that are not available in your area.

  1. Stay Private

Changing your location can hide your real location, making it harder for websites to track you or show you targeted ads.

  1. Testing Websites or Apps

If you're a developer or tester, you might need to check how a website looks or works in different countries. Changing your location helps with that.

  1. Bypass Censorship

In some countries, websites or social media are blocked. Changing your location helps you access these blocked websites.

  1. Get Local Content

Changing your location can give you news, offers, or prices based on a specific country.

How to Change Location on Your PC

There are two primary methods to change your location on a PC:

Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A VPN masks your real location by encrypting your internet connection and routing your traffic through a server in a different location, making it appear as though you're browsing from that location. To use a VPN:

  1. Select a reliable VPN like PureVPN.
  2. Download the VPN app for your device.
  3. Open the VPN app and choose a server from the location you want to appear from.
  4. Click the connect button to establish the connection.

Once connected, your IP address will reflect the VPN server’s location, allowing you to access location-specific content and enhance your privacy online.

Set a Default Location

This option allows you to set a default location for Windows, apps, and services when your precise location isn't available. Here's how to do it:

  1. Open Start > Settings > Privacy & Security > Location.
  2. Under Default Location, click Set Default.
  3. The Windows Maps app will open. Follow the steps to select your desired location.

Benefits of Using a VPN

  • A VPN hides what you do online so no one like hackers, websites, or even your internet provider can track you.
  • When you use free Wi-Fi in places like cafes or airports, a VPN secures your connection and keeps hackers away.
  • It enables you to bypass geo-restrictions, granting access to websites or videos that are unavailable in your country.
  • Some internet providers slow down your speed for certain activities like streaming. A VPN hides your activity, so your speed stays fast.
  • VPN encrypts your data, rendering it unreadable even if intercepted by malicious actors.

Benefits of Using PureVPN for Changing Location on a PC

Budget-Friendly Pricing

  • PureVPN plans start at just $2.29 per month for a 2-year subscription.
  • Offers an affordable alternative to premium VPNs.

Extensive Server Network

  • Gain access to over 6,500 servers across 78+ countries.
  • Change your location easily to bypass geo-restrictions and access global content.

Multi-Device Connectivity

  • Connect up to 10 devices simultaneously with one subscription.
  • Perfect for households or individuals with multiple gadgets.

Split Tunneling Feature

  • Decide which apps use the VPN while others access the internet directly.
  • Optimize internet speed for specific tasks like streaming or browsing.

Flexible Plans

  • Choose from basic plans or advanced options with extra features.
  • Advanced features include DDoS protection, dedicated IPs, and more.

Enhanced Security

  • Protect your online privacy and secure your data from trackers.
  • Enjoy a safe browsing experience with strong encryption.

Common Issues When Changing Location and How to Fix Them

  1. Connection Keeps Dropping

Your VPN disconnects often, disrupting your work or browsing. Check your internet connection, and try switching to a different server.

  1. Slow Internet Speed

The Internet becomes slow after connecting to the VPN. Use servers closer to your actual location or enable split tunneling to speed up.

  1. Websites Still Show the Wrong Location

Some websites don’t update to your new location. Clear your browser’s cache and cookies, then reconnect to the VPN with a different server.

  1. Trouble Using VPN on Your PC

The VPN doesn’t work properly with your PC or operating system. Make sure your VPN app is updated and check that it’s compatible with your PC’s operating system.

  1. Login Issues on Some Accounts

Apps or websites flag your login as suspicious because of the new location. Use a server near your original location or complete the identity verification steps.tion change should work smoothly on your phone.re is updated. Sometimes, outdated firmware can cause compatibility issues with certain apps, including VPNs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Can I change my location on a PC without using a VPN?

    Plus

    Yes, you can set a default location in your PC settings, but it doesn't offer full privacy like a VPN.

  • Will changing my location on the PC slow down my internet speed?

    Plus

    Using a VPN can slightly slow down your speed, especially if the server is far. A closer server can help.

  • How can I ensure websites recognize my new location?

    Plus

    Clear your browser's cache and cookies, then reconnect to the VPN to reset any old location data.

  • Can I use a free VPN to change my location?

    Plus

    Free VPNs may be slower and less secure. A paid VPN like PureVPN offers better performance and privacy.

Wrapping Up!

Changing your location on your PC unlocks restricted content and protects your private data. Using a high-speed VPN, such as PureVPN, provides the easiest and safest way to do this. It lets you unlock global content while protecting your online activities and keeping you anonymous. Whether traveling, streaming, or browsing, a VPN offers more freedom and security.