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Setting up a VPN on iPhone takes a few minutes using your provider's official app. iOS asks you to approve a VPN configuration, and then you can connect from the app or Settings. Here's how to install it, which settings to turn on, and how to fix common problems.
Key takeaways
- Install from the App Store: use the provider's official app.
- Allow the VPN configuration: iOS asks you to approve adding a VPN profile.
- Turn on auto-connect for untrusted Wi-Fi and a kill switch if offered.
- Check it's working by looking for the VPN icon in the status bar or Control Center.
Install from the App Store
Use the provider's official app. Search for the provider by name and check the developer name matches. Avoid unknown free VPN apps with vague privacy policies.
Step by step: set up a VPN on iPhone
- Download your VPN provider's app from the App Store.
- Open the app and sign in, or subscribe.
- Tap Connect or choose a server, such as an Australian one.
- When iOS asks to Add VPN Configurations, tap Allow.
- Enter your iPhone passcode or use Face ID to confirm.
- Once connected, a VPN icon appears in the status bar or Control Center.
Allow the VPN configuration
iOS asks you to approve adding a VPN profile. This lets the app create a secure tunnel. You can see the configuration under Settings, then General, then VPN & Device Management, then VPN. You can switch the VPN on or off there, too.
Settings to turn on
Auto-connect on untrusted Wi-Fi and a kill switch if offered.
| Setting | What it does | Where to find it |
|---|---|---|
| Auto-connect | Connects automatically on untrusted networks | In the VPN app |
| Kill switch | Blocks internet if the VPN drops, where supported | In the VPN app |
| Protocol | Chooses the connection method, such as WireGuard or IKEv2 | In the VPN app |
| Connect On Demand | Keeps the VPN connecting automatically | Settings > General > VPN & Device Management > VPN, tap the info button |
Common problems and fixes
- Won't connect: switch servers, try another protocol, or restart your iPhone.
- Slow speeds: choose an Australian or nearby server. See why a VPN may slow your internet.
- Apps not working: some banking or streaming apps block VPNs. Disconnect briefly or use split tunnelling if offered.
- Battery drain: VPNs use some extra battery. Turn it off when you don't need it.
- VPN keeps disconnecting: check Connect On Demand settings and that the app has permission to run in the background.
Removing a VPN
To remove a VPN, delete the configuration under Settings, General, VPN & Device Management, then VPN, and delete the app. Cancel subscriptions under Settings, then your name, then Subscriptions.
When to use a VPN on iPhone
- On public Wi-Fi in cafes, airports and hotels. See VPNs on public Wi-Fi.
- When you want your mobile carrier or ISP not to see which sites you visit.
- When required for work.
Built-in iPhone privacy features
iCloud+ subscribers can use iCloud Private Relay, which hides your IP address and browsing in Safari. It's not a full VPN, as it only covers Safari and some unencrypted app traffic, and isn't available in every country. Safari also offers Hide IP address from trackers.
Refunds for App Store purchases
If you subscribed through the App Store, refunds go through Apple, not the VPN provider. Request one at reportaproblem.apple.com.
Using a VPN on mobile data
VPNs work on mobile data as well as Wi-Fi. On mobile data, your connection is already encrypted between your phone and your carrier, so a VPN mainly hides which sites you visit from your carrier. Expect slightly higher data use, since encryption adds a small overhead. If you're on a small data plan, keep an eye on usage in Settings, then Mobile Data.
Family members and multiple devices
Most VPN subscriptions allow several devices at once. Check your plan's device limit before installing it on family members' phones. Each person should use the official app, and children's devices may also benefit from Screen Time controls rather than a VPN.
Keeping your VPN app updated
Turn on automatic updates in Settings, then App Store, so your VPN app gets security fixes and iOS compatibility updates. After a major iOS update, open the VPN app and check it still connects properly.
Using a VPN for work
If your employer gives you a VPN for work, it may be installed through a management profile. Follow your employer's instructions and avoid running a personal VPN at the same time, as only one VPN can be active on iPhone at once.
Frequently asked questions
How do I set up a VPN on my iPhone?
Download your provider's app from the App Store, sign in, tap Connect, and allow iOS to add the VPN configuration.
Where are VPN settings on iPhone?
Go to Settings, then General, then VPN & Device Management, then VPN.
Is iCloud Private Relay a VPN?
Not exactly. It hides your IP address and browsing in Safari for iCloud+ subscribers, but doesn't cover all apps like a full VPN.
Why does my VPN keep disconnecting on iPhone?
Try another server or protocol, check Connect On Demand settings, and make sure the app is up to date.
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