How to Use a VPN on iPhone: Step-by-Step Guide

April 20, 2025

Using a VPN on your iPhone hides your IP address, encrypts your internet traffic, and protects your data from hackers. It also lets you access region-locked content and stay safe on public Wi-Fi. Here’s how to use a VPN on iPhone in 3 simple ways:

Download a VPN app (fastest method).
Set up manually (using server details).
Enable iCloud Private Relay (limited alternative).

Now, let’s break down each method step by step.

Why Use a VPN on Your iPhone?

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) acts like a secure tunnel for your internet activity. Here’s why it’s useful:

Privacy: Hides your browsing history from your internet provider.
Security: Encrypts passwords and bank details on public Wi-Fi.
Access: Unblocks streaming services, games, or websites restricted in your region.

For broader iPhone privacy tips, see our Ultimate iPhone Settings Guide.

How to Use a VPN on iPhone: 3 Methods

Method 1: Set Up a VPN Automatically Using an App

This is the easiest way to get started. Most VPN apps handle all the technical setup for you.

Step-by-Step Guide

Download a VPN App:
- Open the App Store and search for a VPN (e.g., NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or ProtonVPN).
- Tap Get or the cloud icon to install it.
Create an Account:
- Open the app and sign up (some offer free trials).
- Paid services usually provide faster speeds and better security.
Connect to a Server:
- Pick a server location (e.g., France, Japan, or the U.S.).
- Tap Allow when your iPhone asks to add VPN configurations.
- Enter your passcode if prompted.
Manage the VPN:
- Pause: Temporarily stop the VPN for 5 minutes, 30 minutes, or 2 hours.
- Disconnect: Turn it off completely via the app or Control Center(swipe down from the top-right corner).

Pro Tip: See our Ultimate iPhone Settings Guide to optimize other features!

Method 2: Manually Configure a VPN

Use this method if your VPN provider gives you server details (like an IP address and password).

Step-by-Step Guide

Go to Settings > General > VPN & Device Management > VPN.
Tap Add VPN Configuration.
Fill in these details (get them from your VPN provider):

Field	What to Enter
Type	Choose L2TP, IKEv2, or IPSec
Description	Name your VPN (e.g., “Work VPN”)
Server	Enter the server’s IP address
Account	Your VPN username
Password	Your VPN password
Secret	A key provided by your VPN service

Tap Done, then toggle the VPN On.

Free VPN Option: Use servers from vpngate.net. Copy a server’s IP address and set the account/password to “vpn.”

For more connectivity tips, explore Master iPhone Connectivity Settings.

Method 3: Use iCloud Private Relay (Limited Alternative)

iCloud Private Relay hides your IP address but isn’t a full VPN. Here’s how to enable it:

Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Private Relay.
Toggle Private Relay on.
Choose IP Address settings:
- Maintain General Location: Keeps your approximate location.
- Use Country/Time Zone: Masks your location broadly.

Limitations:

Can’t pick specific countries.
Only works in Safari.

Need help with Wi-Fi? Visit iPhone Wi-Fi Settings.

How to Check If Your VPN Is Working

Look for the VPN Icon: Swipe down from the top-right to open Control Center. A "VPN" label means it’s active.
Test Your IP Address:
- Open Safari and search “What is my IP address?”
- If the location matches your VPN server, it’s working!

How to Turn Off a VPN

Through the App: Open your VPN app and tap Disconnect.
Via Settings: Go to Settings > VPN and toggle it off.
Control Center: Swipe down from the top-right and tap the VPN icon.

Free vs. Paid VPNs: Which Should You Use?

Feature	Free VPN	Paid VPN
Speed	Slower (shared servers)	Faster (dedicated servers)
Ads	Frequent	None
Data Limits	Limited (e.g., 2GB/month)	Unlimited
Server Locations	Few options	50+ countries
Security	Basic encryption	Advanced encryption + malware blocking

Recommendation: Use free VPNs for light browsing (e.g., ProtonVPN). Paid options like NordVPN are better for streaming or sensitive tasks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can schools or workplaces block my VPN?
Yes, some networks restrict VPN access. If your connection fails, try switching protocols (like IKEv2) in manual settings or request permission from IT staff. For unblocked browsing, explore alternatives in our iPhone Wi-Fi Settingsguide.

2. Do VPNs slow down iPhone internet speeds?
Slight slowdowns can occur due to encryption. To optimize:

Choose nearby servers
Avoid peak-hour usage
Use WireGuard protocol (if supported)
Paid VPNs like NordVPN minimize speed loss.

3. Is iCloud Private Relay as secure as a VPN?
No. Private Relay only hides Safari browsing and lacks full-device encryption. For banking or public Wi-Fi, use a dedicated VPN. Boost security further with spam call blocking.

4. Why does my VPN disconnect unexpectedly?
Common fixes:

Update your VPN app/iOS
Switch connection protocols (e.g., IPSec → IKEv2)
Disable battery-saving modes
Enable "Auto-Reconnect" in your VPN app settings.

5. Can I use a VPN while traveling abroad?
Absolutely! VPNs help access home-country services (like Netflix). Connect before traveling to avoid regional blocks. For international connectivity tips, see iPhone Bluetooth and Wi-Fi guides.

Conclusion

Learning how to use a VPN on iPhone empowers you to take control of your privacy, security, and online freedom. Whether you choose an automatic app setup for streaming, manual configuration for work, or iCloud Private Relay for Safari-only protection, you can browse safely in under 3 minutes. For maximum security: