How to Set up a VPN on an iPhone or iPad
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Today’s VPNs (virtual private networks) allow for many different types of benefits like extra security when traveling, safer data sharing, and so on. But before you can start taking advantage of a VPN, you might be wondering, how do I get a VPN on my iPhone or iPad? Is it difficult? Do I have to change any settings?
To help out those downloading their first VPN for iOS, we’re going to go through the necessary steps to get a VPN up and running on your iPhone or iPad device.
Choose a VPN and Create an Account
First, you need to pick out a VPN service that you like. There are many, many VPN services out there, both free and with monthly charges (usually only a few dollars a month). The big difference is that paid VPNs are generally more careful with your data and tend to have a lot more servers worldwide. Free VPNs can be rather sketchy.
Find a VPN that you like and that has good reviews. Make sure you check that the VPN works on iOS (most will, so this isn’t a large concern), and see what the limits are for mobile device use – this usually varies anywhere from one mobile device allowed to up to 10, based on the service and plan. Speed, jurisdiction and bandwidth limits are also important.
When you’re ready, choose the plan you need, create an account, and arrange payment options if necessary.
Download the VPN’s App
Your VPN will feature an app that you can download to your iPhone or iPad. You should be able to find a link to download the app on the VPN’s website, but you can also search the App Store for the specific app if you prefer to download it that way.
- Using your mobile device, simply download the app and open it up.
- The app will begin by asking you for the account login information that you just created.
- Input your login information to move to the next step.
Follow the VPN’s Instructions and Start Browsing
Your VPN will now walk you through some important setup procedures. This can vary based on the VPN that you’re using, but common steps include:
- Permission to set up VPN: This usually requires a passcode or Face ID.
- Grant additional permissions: The app (or iOS) will often require some additional permissions to configure the VPN, access your network, add VPN capabilities to Siri, etc.
- Choose a country to connect to: Unless you are trying to get past regional restrictions, you can choose whatever country or server you want although your choice may affect internet speeds. You can always change it later.
Your VPN should now be up and running! Feel free to browse the web as you’d like with the browser of your choice. Many more advanced VPNs will offer additional services yourself can try out, or may run automated processes in the background to make your browsing experience more private or enjoyable.
Change your VPN as Needed
If you want to switch VPNs or turn a VPN off, iOS makes it very easy. Head to Settings, go to General and look for the section that says VPN. Your available VPNs (if you use more than one) should all be here, ready for maintenance. If you don’t have a VPN yet, you can also configure a VPN from this screen, although you’ll need a lot of information about the VPN server, so using the app is a much easier path.
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