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What is a mobile VPN?

A mobile VPN is a virtual private network designed to maintain a stable and secure connection on smartphones and tablets — even when switching between networks (like Wi‑Fi to mobile data).

A mobile VPN keeps your session alive during interruptions, allowing continuous protection while on the go. It’s essential for secure surfing and app usage over public hotspots, mobile networks, or spotty connections.

What is a mobile VPN?

Why use a mobile VPN?

Using a mobile VPN provides users with multiple practical benefits:

Protect your data on public Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi at cafés, airports, or hotels is often unsecured. A mobile VPN can encrypt your connection, helping reduce the risk of snooping and data theft.

Enhance your online privacy

Enhance your online privacy

By masking your IP (Internet Protocol) address and encrypting traffic, a VPN can help limit how much websites, apps, or internet providers can see about your activity.

Access your online services securely while abroad

Access your online services securely while abroad

When traveling, some apps or accounts may not work the same way. A VPN can help maintain a consistent, private connection to the services you normally use at home.

Avoid targeted ads and trackers

VPNs can reduce how much you’re tracked online, helping you avoid being followed by annoying ads or data-hungry third parties.

Prevent activity-based bandwidth throttling

Some providers slow down your connection based on what you’re doing. A VPN hides your activity, helping you avoid these slowdowns.

Secure all your mobile devices

Secure all your mobile devices

Whether it’s your phone, tablet, or an e-reader, a VPN helps protect every internet-enabled gadget in your pocket — not just your laptop — especially if you set it up on your home router.

Why Surfshark’s the best mobile VPN

Whether you need a VPN for iOS or Android, Surfshark’s got you covered.

Unlimited device coverage

Surfshark supports multiple device connections, so you can help protect all your phones, tablets, and other gadgets — without paying extra.

Fast, easy connections

With one tap of the Quick connect button, Surfshark can connect you to the fastest available server near your location — or your preferred country — helping you get online quickly and privately.

Increased control

Increased control

Surfshark’s Bypasser lets you choose which traffic should bypass the VPN. This can help you use certain services — like mobile banking — with your regular IP, while keeping the rest of your traffic encrypted.

Double protection

Double protection

Secure your connection with two VPN servers instead of one. Surfshark’s Multi Hop lets you route traffic through two countries for extra privacy. Choose a recommended pair or create your own combo.

Extra safety during connection drops

If your VPN connection unexpectedly drops, Surfshark’s kill switch can block internet access until the secure connection is restored — reducing the chance of accidental exposure.

Fewer ads and trackers

Surfshark’s Clean Web feature can help block ads, trackers, and known malicious sites, making your mobile browsing cleaner and potentially safer.

Optimized experience for mobile

Optimized experience for mobile

The Surfshark mobile app is designed to run smoothly in the background, with minimal battery use and an intuitive interface — making privacy easier to manage on the go.

GPS location override

Control how apps see your location with Surfshark’s override GPS location feature. It fakes your device’s location to help protect against background tracking. This feature is currently only available on Android.

Try Surfshark risk-free

Why not give Surfshark a try before you commit? Not only do we offer a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans purchased directly from our website, but now you can also get a 7-day free trial.

To get it on mobile:

  1. Download the Surfshark app to your iOS or Android device.
  2. Open the app and choose Start free trial.
  3. Create your account and select the 12-month option.
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Try Surfshark risk-free

How to set up a VPN on mobile devices

Get Surfshark

1. Get Surfshark

Pick a pricing plan and sign up.

Get the app

2. Get the app

Download the Surfshark VPN app from Google Play or get it from the App Store.

Connect to a server

3. Connect to a server

Hit Quick connect and enjoy a private, safe, and unrestricted internet.

WireGuard is a modern, streamlined VPN protocol designed specifically for speed, security, and simplicity. It’s now considered an industry standard.

If you can’t use the Surfshark app for any reason, you can manually configure WireGuard on:

OpenVPN is a well-established VPN protocol recognized for its extensive configurability and reliable performance.

If you can’t use the Surfshark app for any reason, you can manually configure OpenVPN on:

IKEv2 used to be a top choice for mobile thanks to its quick network switching. These days, WireGuard tends to outperform it.

If you can’t use the Surfshark app for any reason, you can manually configure OpenVPN on:

Should I use a free VPN for my phone?

If a VPN doesn’t cost anything, chances are it’s making money in ways that put your privacy or performance at risk.

At best, you’re stuck with constant ads and frustrating speed limits. At worst, your data could be logged, sold, or exposed to security risks. Many free VPNs simply don’t have the resources to offer modern encryption, reliable connections, or a stable experience.

If you care about your mobile security and want a VPN that puts your privacy first, a paid service like Surfshark is the better choice — offering unlimited bandwidth, strong encryption, and keeping no activity logs.

Should I use a free VPN for my phone?

Exploring the best mobile VPN services

Having trouble making a decision? You can read more about Surfshark in this comprehensive review. Also, check out our detailed comparison to other well-known VPN providers.

Exploring the best mobile VPN services

Testimonials proving excellence

At Surfshark, we strive to offer a hassle-free experience for all our users. But don’t just take our word for it — here’s what the world has to say about us.

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.
“Surfshark is a highly polished and powerful VPN that competes with the very best premium providers, all while offering a seriously tempting price point.”
“Surfshark is one of the best VPN services, comes crammed with features, runs on almost anything, and has some of the best download speeds around.”
“Surfshark is an excellent, well-rounded virtual private network that consistently ranks as one of CNET’s best VPNs.”
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!

MRWHOSETHEBOSS 20.2M subscribers

When I am traveling, I use Surfshark to access the internet quickly and securely, works like a treat in China.

SAM CHUI 3.61M subscribers

We love Surfshark because it is an easy-to-use app that you can download on all your devices.

MAX & OCCY 265K subscribers
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.”

Open in Reddit

“I’ve been using Surfshark for 4 years on Android and ChromeOS with zero issues, it’s an absolute bargain”

Open in Reddit

“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..”

Open in Reddit
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.
FT 1000: Europe’s Fastest Growing Companies 2024

FT 1000: Europe’s Fastest Growing Companies 2024

Tech Advisor Editors’ Choice 2024

Tech Advisor Editors’ Choice 2024

TechRadar Recommended 2024

TechRadar Recommended 2024

Surfshark Antivirus AV-TEST Top Product 2024

Surfshark Antivirus AV-TEST Top Product 2024

Independent’s Editor’s Choice Best Value VPN 2023

Independent’s Editor’s Choice Best Value VPN 2023

Independent audits

To ensure transparency and trust, Surfshark has had its services independently audited by reputable third-party firms.

Cure53 has validated the security and reliability of our servers, as well as our browser extensions.

Deloitte has independently verified our no-logs policy, confirming that Surfshark neither stores nor shares user data.

Our Antivirus has been certified by AV-Test, receiving top scores for protection, performance, and usability.

Successfully passing these audits reflects our commitment to providing top-tier cybersecurity products you can trust.

Independent audits

Get Surfshark for every device you own

Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections, which means you can protect all your devices at the same time. Don’t limit your VPN use to Android — download our app on all your devices and stay private whenever you go online.

Set up a VPN for all your devices at once, including smart TVs, Nintendo SwitchXboxPlayStationOculus Quest, and Apple Vision Pro with Surfshark VPN on your router.

Made for mobile privacy

Get a VPN that’s lightweight, battery-friendly, and built to protect your phone on the go

Get Surfshark
30-day money-back guarantee
Made for mobile privacy

Frequently asked questions

Mobile VPNs encrypt your internet connection on your phone, protecting your data from hackers, trackers, and insecure networks. They also help maintain privacy when you’re using public Wi-Fi or traveling abroad.

The best mobile VPN depends on your needs, such as speed, ease of use, and privacy features. Look for one with a no-logs policy, strong encryption, and a reliable app for your device’s operating system.

The safest VPNs for Android offer audited no-logs policies, strong encryption standards (like AES-256), and features like a kill switch. Options with independent security audits and open-source apps can provide added peace of mind.

Yes, some free mobile VPNs are available, but they often come with limitations like slower speeds, data caps, or fewer security features. For better privacy and performance, a trusted paid VPN is usually recommended.

Some phones, especially those running newer versions of Android or iOS, include basic VPN settings and support for protocols like IKEv2 or WireGuard. A few manufacturers also offer built-in VPN services or partnerships with VPN providers.

Yes, a VPN can protect your connection whether you’re on Wi-Fi or cellular data. It encrypts all internet traffic from your device, regardless of the network type.

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