If you use an iPhone, you might want to consider the benefits of employing a VPN. A Virtual Private Network, or VPN, establishes a secure connection by routing your internet activity through a remote server, thereby concealing your public IP address. This encryption process scrambles your online traffic and protects your personal information from prying eyes, including ISPs and various online entities.
When you’re connected to a public Wi-Fi network, a VPN enhances your privacy, as it masks your browsing history from the hotspot’s Internet Service Provider. Furthermore, a VPN enables you to bypass regional restrictions, granting access to content that may not be available in your current location. For instance, if you’re in another country but want to stream American Netflix, a VPN can make it appear as though you’re still in the U.S. It can also help improve streaming quality by eliminating throttling on cellular data.
Whether you’re concerned about privacy, traveling abroad, or seeking to avoid mobile data slowdowns, having a VPN on your iPhone is advantageous. Below, you’ll find a complete guide on choosing and setting up a VPN that fits your needs.
How to Easily Set Up a VPN on Your iPhone
Installing a VPN app on your iPhone is straightforward. Here’s a quick guide to help you get started:
- Open the App Store on your device.
- Tap the Search bar at the top, type in the VPN app you wish to use, and then hit Search.
- Tap Get next to the VPN provider’s name to download it onto your iPhone.
- Launch the VPN application you just downloaded.
- Sign in if you already have an account. If you’re new, create an account and select a plan that suits your budget. Keep an eye out for free trials too.
- Select a location from the server list and connect to the VPN server.
- When connecting for the first time, you’ll be prompted to install a new VPN profile on your iPhone. Accept this request by tapping Allow and entering your passcode.
Once connected, explore your VPN app’s settings to see what features it offers. Many VPNs support multiple devices, so you can also secure your iPad, computer, and other gadgets.
If you prefer quick access to toggle your VPN on or off, navigate to Settings > VPN instead of going through the app.
Manually Setting Up Your VPN
If you’re given specific connection details by your employer or a self-hosted server, you can manually add a VPN configuration without needing an app. Here’s how:
- Go to Settings > General > VPN & Device Management > VPN > Add VPN Configuration.
- Select the IKEv2 VPN protocol, which is generally preferred for iOS due to its speed and reliability.
- Input the description, server, remote ID, and local ID if needed.
- Enter authentication details according to your provider’s specifications.
- Tap the blue check mark (in iOS 26) or Done (in earlier versions) at the top right, and then toggle the VPN on from the same menu or the Control Center.
For work or educational institutions, you might also be able to sign in through your email address if your IT department supports it.
Choosing the Right VPN for Your iPhone
With a plethora of VPN options available—both free and premium—your choice will depend on your specific needs and budget. Here are some of the standout VPNs for iPhones:
NordVPN is the fastest VPN service for iOS. At $13 monthly, or $60 for the first year, it’s a cost-effective option for long-term use. It offers an intuitive interface for easy connection to various servers, enhancing user experience significantly.
Surfshark offers excellent value without sacrificing privacy features. At about $15 a month or $60 for two years, you’ll find it to be a competitive option, particularly thanks to features like ad blockers and IP rotation.
While free VPNs often compromise security or speed, Proton VPN stands out as a worthy option. Its free tier is limited, allowing only one device and no server choice, but the premium plan offers robust features for those who need more flexibility.
In summary, while free VPNs exist, investing in a reliable premium solution is usually a better move, especially if you prioritize privacy. Many premium VPNs also provide trial periods or money-back guarantees, allowing you to test them risk-free for a limited time.