You can set up a VPN on your iPhone or iPad in two ways: automatically via an iOS app or manually using a VPN protocol like OpenVPN or IKEv2.
Download the best VPN for iOS
Take control of your online privacy with our iOS app, risk-free for 30 days!
- Connect instantly with an easy-to-use iOS VPN app
- Browse with confidence with a strict no-logs policy
- Rated best overall VPN for iPhone by CNET
Widely trusted with 40M+ global app downloads, rewarded with 30+ recognition awards
Data as of 2026-03-26
Data as of 2026-03-26
How to set up an iOS VPN
1. Create an account
Pick a pricing plan and subscribe to Surfshark.
2. Install the app
Download the VPN for iPhone and other iOS devices on the App Store.
3. Connect and surf!
Connect to the fastest VPN server location for the best internet connection.
1. Get your credentials
Subscribe to Surfshark, get Surfshark’s service credentials, and download the files for your preferred server locations.
2. Install OpenVPN
Download the free OpenVPN Connect iOS app from the App Store and add your VPN configuration files.
3. Connect and surf!
Connect to the VPN with a secure connection using a reliable VPN protocol.
1. Get your credentials
Subscribe to Surfshark, get Surfshark’s service credentials, and find the right VPN server hostnames.
2. Install IKEv2 profile
Download the IKEv2 certificate in your Surfshark VPN app and install it.
3. Connect and surf!
Connect and enjoy encrypted online traffic with a trusted VPN protocol.
Check out the full guide on how to set up IKEv2 manually on iOS.
Note: For manual setup, you’ll need a device running iOS (iPhone or iPad) and an active Surfshark subscription.
Try Surfshark worry-free
Check out Surfshark with our VPN free trial and see if it’s the best iOS VPN for you.
You can also try our iOS app risk-free with our 30-day money-back guarantee. Simply subscribe through our website and explore everything Surfshark has to offer. If it’s not the right fit, cancel and request a full refund within 30 days.
Why use Surfshark for iOS?
RAM-based privacy
Protect your data with Surfshark’s RAM-only VPN server infrastructure. Your iPhone or iPad activity data is wiped off automatically whenever a server is turned off, keeping your privacy safe at all times.
Unlimited connections
One Surfshark subscription secures your iPhone, iPad, and any other compatible device you own. Protect your entire Apple ecosystem and more — all with Surfshark’s unlimited simultaneous connections.
Download an iOS VPN app on iPhone and iPad
A VPN app for your iPhone
A secure iPhone VPN keeps your browsing activity private and boosts your safety online, even on public Wi-Fi. iPhone users can also choose from WireGuard, OpenVPN, or IKEv2 VPN protocols, which are excellent options when using a VPN on your mobile device.
A VPN connection on your iPad
The best iPhone VPN apps should work just as smoothly on your iPad — and Surfshark does. Get a secure VPN connection, shield your personal data from your ISP (Internet Service Provider), mask your IP address, and stay safe from trackers and intrusive ads with an iPad VPN.
Surfshark’s iOS VPN app supports all iPad models, including iPad Pro, iPad Air, and iPad Mini.
Note: Surfshark supports all iPhones and iPads running iOS 17 or later with a 64-bit architecture (which is the standard for most modern devices).
Surfshark vs. free VPNs
For better privacy and an enhanced user experience, paid iOS VPNs, such as Surfshark, outperform free alternatives across the board.
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Free VPNs
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Surfshark VPN
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Data collection
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High: free providers often log your activity and share data with third parties
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Low: Surfshark follows a strict, independently verified no-logs policy
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Speed and bandwidth
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Restricted: free VPNs commonly limit speed and cap bandwidth
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Unlimited: Surfshark doesn’t limit speed or bandwidth
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Ads and trackers
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Common: free tools are known to inject ads or allow trackers
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Blocked: Surfshark’s Clean Web offers built-in ad and tracker blocking
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Customer support
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Limited: free services often have no live support and slow response times
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24/7: Surfshark provides round-the-clock support via live chat
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VPN servers and locations
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Few: free VPNs usually have very few servers that get overcrowded quickly
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Thousands: Surfshark offers 4,500+ high-speed servers in 100 countries
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Encryption
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Unreliable: free tools may use outdated, weak encryption standards
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Strong: Surfshark uses strong encryption for robust data and privacy protection
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We also have a detailed comparison of Surfshark vs. NordVPN vs. ExpressVPN for iPhone.
Independently verified Surfshark security:
third-party audits
These independent VPN security audits show that Surfshark’s security claims are backed by evidence. Deloitte provided two assurance reports (in 2023 and again in 2025) verifying that we don’t log user activity, while Cure53 confirmed the security of our server infrastructure. Rather than expecting our users to rely on promises alone, we’ve put our VPN security to the test with the industry’s most respected auditors.
No-logs policy assurance report (2025)
✓ No-activity-logs policy verified
✓ No IP address storage confirmed
✓ Privacy-relevant configuration settings checked
✓ Server infrastructure reviewed
(Available only for Surfshark users)
Security assessment (2025)
✓ Web, desktop, and mobile app security validated
✓ Protection against data leaks and unauthorized access verified
✓ Zero critical vulnerabilities found
✓ Browser extension and account security confirmed
Infrastructure security penetration test (2025)
✓ No critical vulnerabilities found
✓ No high-risk issues impacting user security identified
✓ Zero tested vulnerabilities leading to serious security threats
✓ Strong infrastructure protection against real-world attack scenarios
Surfshark security features
Encryption
Safeguard your data with AES-256-GCM, ChaCha20 and AEGIS-256X2 encryption, the same standards used by cybersecurity experts and governments worldwide.
Post-quantum protection
Future-proof your security online with Surfshark’s advanced post-quantum implementation on WireGuard, designed to resist potential threats from future quantum computers.
No-logs policy
Your browsing habits are your business, which is why Surfshark never tracks, collects, or shares your activity. Our no-logs policy has been independently verified by Deloitte, ensuring total transparency.
Jurisdiction
Based in the Netherlands, Surfshark operates in a favorable legal environment with no mandatory data retention laws. This jurisdiction allows us to uphold our strict no-logs policy with no interference.
Obfuscation
Obfuscation hides your data and makes it much harder to identify that you’re using a VPN. This technology helps you browse freely even in places that highly restrict internet usage.
RAM-only servers
Surfshark’s entire network runs on diskless, RAM-only servers that automatically wipe all data with every reboot. This hardware-level security ensures that no information can ever be physically retrieved from our servers.
Kill switch
Protect your data from accidental exposure with a kill switch — an automatic safety net that cuts your internet if the VPN connection drops. This ensures no unencrypted data leaves your device.
Double VPN
Boost your protection online by routing your traffic through two different VPN servers at once with Multi Hop. This process encrypts your connection twice, making it virtually impossible for anyone to trace your digital footprint.
Everlink
Experience a self-healing connection with Surfshark’s patented Everlink infrastructure that keeps your VPN stable. If a server requires maintenance, Everlink seamlessly switches you to a new one without interrupting your session.
DNS leak protection
Surfshark routes all your DNS (Domain Name System) requests through private, encrypted tunnels. This prevents Wi-Fi eavesdropping and your ISP from seeing which websites you visit, ensuring your browsing history stays private.
Split tunneling
Use Bypasser, Surfshark’s VPN split tunneling feature, to choose which apps and websites need VPN protection and which can access the internet directly without encryption — perfect for IP-sensitive services. iOS users can also add websites to Bypasser directly from Safari without any manual entry.
Rotating IP
Stay ahead of trackers by automatically changing your IP address every few minutes without disconnecting. This constant IP rotation makes it much harder for advertisers and data brokers to profile your online behavior.
More than a VPN
Get a complete cybersecurity suite including a built-in ad blocker, antivirus, and identity masking tools. From blocking malware to generating an alternative persona, Surfshark takes protecting your digital presence to another level.
See why millions trust Surfshark
Check out what users and tech experts around the world have to say about Surfshark.
The reviews highlighted in this section were selected from publicly available posts on social media platforms. They reflect the opinions of individual users at the time of posting and may not represent the full range of our product features and qualities.
The reviews quoted on this page have been published by media outlets associated with Surfshark through affiliate partnerships. Their recommendations are based on their own independent research and insights to ensure value for the readers.
I have been using Surfshark since I got it and I love it!
When I am traveling, I use Surfshark to access the internet quickly and securely, works like a treat in China.
We love Surfshark because it is an easy-to-use app that you can download on all your devices.
The reviews quoted on this page have been published by media outlets associated with Surfshark through affiliate partnerships. Their recommendations are based on their own independent research and insights to ensure value for the readers.
“This is my first year and I absolutely love it. The fact I can have a good antivirus, great VPN, and incognito for like $120 a year is great.”
“I’ve been using Surfshark for 4 years on Android and ChromeOS with zero issues, it’s an absolute bargain”
“I’ve had it for 3 years and just renewed it for the next 2 years. I never have any issues with it and get my full internet speed…”
The reviews highlighted in this section were selected from publicly available posts on social media platforms. They reflect the opinions of individual users at the time of posting and may not represent the full range of our product features and qualities.
Stay iSafe on iOS
Secure your device with the best VPN for iPhone
Frequently asked questions
What is a VPN on iOS?
An iOS VPN protects your data when connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi, helps you connect to your local services when traveling abroad, and keeps your iPhone and iPad activities private.
Does iOS have a built-in VPN?
No, iOS devices don’t have a built-in VPN, but they can still support VPNs. You can use a VPN on an iOS device by downloading a VPN app from the App Store or our website and connecting to a VPN server.
Do I need a VPN on my iPhone and iPad?
Yes, having a VPN on your iPhone and iPad is a good idea. By masking your IP address and encrypting your internet connection, a VPN increases your safety on Wi-Fi and mobile networks, making it vital for private, more secure internet use.
Is it safe to use a VPN on an iPhone?
Yes, using a reputable VPN on an iPhone is generally safe. iOS supports secure VPN protocols, and trusted apps add an extra layer of encrypted protection, especially on public Wi-Fi. Just choose a well-reviewed provider — for example, CNET highlights Surfshark as the best VPN for iPhones — and avoid unknown or free VPNs with unclear privacy practices.
Which iOS VPN app offers the best privacy and security features?
A secure iOS VPN requires strong encryption, an audited no-logs policy, modern protocols, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection to safeguard data on public Wi-Fi. Surfshark delivers all of these features on iPhone and iPad, making it a great example of a private and secure VPN app.
How does the Surfshark VPN app protect your privacy on iPhone and iPad?
Surfshark protects iOS privacy by encrypting internet traffic and masking your real IP address. On public Wi-Fi, it prevents data eavesdropping and DNS leaks by routing queries through private channels. An independently audited no-logs policy ensures browsing activity isn’t recorded. Surfshark combines strong encryption, IP masking, and private DNS on iPhone for comprehensive mobile security.
Does Surfshark support split tunneling on iOS and macOS?
Yes, Surfshark supports split tunneling on iOS and macOS — named “a rarity among VPN providers” by CNET, as this feature is usually available on Windows and Android only.
Should I use a free VPN for iOS?
No, you shouldn’t use a free VPN for iOS. It’s best to avoid free VPNs, as they usually limit speed, data usage, device connections, and the number of available servers. Using a free VPN may also expose your personal data, as many free iPhone apps sell user data.
A free VPN for iOS usually lacks the resources to provide high-quality service, so the best VPN for iOS or any other operating system is a trusted paid VPN.
Does a VPN slow down iPhones?
A VPN may slightly reduce your iPhone connectivity speeds. Encryption, server distance, and server load all contribute. However, a high-quality VPN like Surfshark minimizes slowdowns, so you likely won’t feel any noticeable speed reduction.
Which VPN protocol is best for iOS?
WireGuard is generally considered the best VPN protocol for iOS, as it’s both fast and secure. If unavailable, IKEv2 is a good choice due to its native iOS support. OpenVPN is also a secure option, but it can be slower.
