How to Configure VPN on an iPhone

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Updated August 16, 2022

If you are new to the world of private networks, you may wonder how to configure a VPN on an iPhone. Many of the best VPNs, after all, are designed for mobile use, iPhones included. So what are the benefits of using a VPN with your smartphone, and how do you get one going on an iPhone? Keep reading to find out.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • VPNs are great for PCs but are also a handy tool for smartphone users, iPhones included.
  • There are many VPN connections and VPN providers to choose from on the App Store, such as NordVPN and SurfShark.
  • Configure your Virtual Private Network on the VPN settings page, under “General,” “VPN,” and “Add VPN Configuration.”

Why Use a VPN on Your iPhone?

Many of the same benefits to PC users are available to smartphone users when installing and using a VPN if you are looking for the best VPN for gaming, for instance. Using a VPN with a smartphone translates to increased privacy, better encryption, and the ability to access geo-restricted content. You can also do all this once you’ve learned how to change a VPN on an iPhone.

Insider Tip

No matter which you choose, be sure to read the fine print before allowing any VPN provider to access your bank account.

In short, if you want maximum privacy on the Internet, go with an iPhone VPN service and afterward conduct a VyprVPN review.

How to Configure a VPN for an iPhone

This process differs slightly depending on which VPN you choose, but most steps are nearly identical, as iPhones offer nearly identical specifications.

STEP 1 Choose Your Provider

  1. There are a number of decent providers that have apps on the Apple App Store.
  2. These include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and SurfShark, among many others.
  3. Choose the one that fits your desires and download the app.
  4. Sign up for the service and pay whatever fee is associated with this particular VPN.

STEP 2 Manually Configure the VPN

  1. Some VPN services will do this for you, so read the fine print.
  2. If your VPN will handle configuration duties, skip this step.
  3. Otherwise, head into your settings page and look for “General” and “VPN.”
  4. Choose “Add VPN Configuration” and have multiple items of information ready, all of which should be available via the VPN.
  5. This information includes remote ID, server name, username, password, and potentially more, depending on the VPN.

STEP 3 Test it Out

  1. Head into the VPN app and look for the all-clear. It should let you know that the VPN is working and you are good to go.
  2. You can test it out by manually changing your location and trying to log into an American search engine or streaming service. It should automatically reroute you to your chosen virtual location.

STAT: A VPN lets you browse the internet privately and bypass geo-blocks that prevent you from accessing particular pieces of content, such as Netflix shows, that are only available in certain countries. (source)

VPN Configuration on Apple iPhone FAQs

What is a VPN?

A VPN server, or virtual private network, encrypts network data on mobile devices, such as the server address, to increase online privacy when using a public Wi-Fi network or in many other instances.

Why and when to use a VPN on an iPhone?

There are many reasons to use a VPN on an iPhone, such as when entering a public network or when you want to mask your IP address.

How to choose a VPN provider?

Before going for that manual configuration to change up the IP address, choose a provider based on personal preferences. Some providers are designed for mobile devices, for instance, while others offer an extra layer of security.
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