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How to Change Location on Laptop in 2024

  • 30 November 2024
  • 8 mins read

Table of Content

Table of Contents

Changing your laptop’s location can be beneficial for many reasons. Whether it’s to access geo-restricted content, protect your private data, or simply explore the internet as if you're in a different country, knowing how to change your location can enhance your online experience. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through simple steps and methods to help you seamlessly switch your location with added security and privacy benefits. 

How to Change Your Laptop Location

There are a few ways to change your laptop’s location, each suited to different needs. Here are the most effective methods:

1. Use a VPN

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is the easiest and most reliable way to change your location. A VPN routes your internet connection through a server in a location of your choice, hiding your real IP address, and making it appear as though you’re browsing from the selected region.

  1. Choose a high-speed VPN service like PureVPN.
  2. Download and install the VPN app on your laptop.
  3. Select the country or city you want to appear in.
  4. Click Connect and start browsing as if you’re in the selected location.

2. Manually Changing Location Settings

If you’re not ready to use a VPN, you can manually change your location on your laptop. While this method is not as effective as a VPN for bypassing restrictions, it works for certain basic needs.

Windows:

To set a default location on your Windows 10 or 11 device, follow these steps:

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Go to the Privacy & Security section.
  3. Under this section, click on Location.
  4. Turn on Location Services if it’s off.
  5. Scroll down to set a Default Location for your device.

Mac:

  1. Click on the Apple logo in the top left corner of your screen.
  2. Choose System Preferences.
  3. In the System Preferences window, click on Privacy & Security.
  4. Scroll down and click on Location Services.
  5. Make sure Location Services is turned on, allowing apps to use your location.
  6. You'll see a list of apps that can use your location. You can choose which apps can access your location by checking or unchecking the boxes.

However, macOS doesn't allow you to manually set a specific default location. It determines your location automatically using WiFi and Bluetooth data. If it's showing the wrong location, you can reset it by clicking the Reset button under System Services.

Why Change Your Laptop’s Location?

  1. Access Geo-Restricted Content

Unlock and enjoy websites like American Netflix and BBC iPlayer that are available in specific regions.

  1. Enhance Online Privacy

Hide your real location, which makes it harder for websites, advertisers, or even hackers to track you.

  1. Bypass Government Censorship

You can connect to a country server to get around online surveillance and unwanted censorship. 

  1. Better Online Shopping Deals

You can see a big difference in prices for products based on the location you are in. 

What are the Benefits of Using a VPN?

  • Encrypt your internet traffic, protecting you from hackers and prying eyes.
  • Get access to region-locked streaming platforms, websites, and apps.
  • Prevent ISP throttling and unwanted lags by changing your IP address.
  • Pick and choose 6,500 country servers from 80+ locations worldwide.

Why Choose PureVPN for Changing Your Location?

  • Offers servers in over 78+ countries, giving you plenty of location options.
  • Enjoy seamless browsing and streaming without buffering and ISP throttling.
  • Supports Windows, mobile devices, macOS, Apple TV, and multiple devices.
  • Prevent snoopers from tracking and stealing your personal information. 

Common Issues When Changing Location and How to Fix Them

Changing your location can sometimes cause a few problems, but here’s how to fix them:

  1. VPN Not Connecting

If your VPN isn’t working, make sure your internet is stable. Try restarting the VPN app or choosing a different server location.

  1. Websites Detecting Your Real Location

If websites are showing your real location, try clearing your browser’s cookies and cache, or use private/incognito mode to hide your location.

  1. Slow Internet Speed

If your internet is slow, switch to a different VPN server or check your connection speed to see if that’s causing the problem.es: Google provides a variety of location-based services, such as Google Assistant, Google Photos, and Google Now.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Can I change my laptop’s location without a VPN?

    Plus

    Yes, you can manually change your location in your laptop’s settings. However, this method won’t hide your privacy or help you access blocked content like a VPN.

  • How can I check if my location has changed?

    Plus

    You can check your new location from this tool and see if it is working or not. If it shows the location you chose, your change was successful.

  • Will changing my location affect my online accounts?

    Plus

    Sometimes, changing your location may make websites ask for extra verification, like an email or phone check, to confirm it's you.

  • Can I change my location on mobile devices too?

    Plus

    Yes, you can change your location on mobile devices by using location settings or a VPN app. The process is similar to changing your location on a laptop.

Wrapping Up!

Changing your laptop’s location can unlock new content and protect your privacy. Whether you use a VPN or adjust your settings, a VPN is the easiest and safest choice. Give PureVPN a try for a simple, secure, and unrestricted online experience!