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Mobile VPN

Protect your phone with a fast mobile VPN

From 0 0 /mo.

+ mo. EXTRA

Shield your phone’s internet traffic on public Wi-Fi
Mask your IP address on iOS and Android devices
Browse with enhanced privacy on mobile networks

Get Surfshark

30-day money-back guarantee

Phone showing VPN Connected screen next to iOS and Android badges and a cursor pointing at crossed-out eye.

What is a mobile VPN?

A mobile VPN (Virtual Private Network) is an app you install on your phone or tablet to keep your browsing more private on Wi-Fi or mobile data, especially when you’re on the go.

A VPN makes data unreadable to others by encrypting your network connection and keeps your physical location private by routing your connection through a remote VPN server, masking your IP (Internet Protocol) address in the process.

This security layer stays active whether you’re on a public hotspot or cellular data, helping you keep your personal information safe while using your favorite mobile apps.

Hand holding smartphone with checkmarked shield on the screen.

Why use a mobile VPN?

Using a VPN on your mobile devices provides numerous practical benefits:

Safer browsing on public Wi-Fi

When you log on to Wi-Fi at a café, airport, or hotel, a VPN protects your connection to prevent others on the same network from seeing what you’re doing.

More secure app activity

A VPN service isn’t just for web browsers. Protect the data sent and received by all your mobile apps, from streaming services to social media platforms.

Increased online privacy

A VPN masks your IP address, so websites, apps, and ISPs (Internet Service Providers) have a much harder time linking your browsing data back to you.

Shielded mobile banking

A VPN for mobile encrypts sensitive details, such as your bank account login credentials, so you can use your banking or shopping apps with greater peace of mind.

Greater access to home content

Many online services often block foreign IP addresses. If you’re traveling abroad, a VPN facilitates uninterrupted access to your favorite sites and streaming services from back home.

Reduced mobile tracking

By masking your IP address, a VPN makes it harder for advertisers and websites to track your online activity and show you targeted ads on your iPhone or Android phone.

Disclaimer: Please note that using Surfshark services for any illegal activities is strictly forbidden and violates our Terms of Service. Make sure that any use of Surfshark services for your particular activities conforms to all relevant laws and regulations, including those of any service providers and websites you access using Surfshark.

How to set up a VPN on mobile devices

1. Create an account

Pick a pricing plan and get a Surfshark subscription.

2. Download the app

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

3. Connect

Tap Quick-connect and enjoy a more private, secure, and accessible internet.

WireGuard is a modern, streamlined VPN protocol designed specifically for speed, security, and simplicity.

Outside the Surfshark VPN app, you can manually configure WireGuard on:

Android
iOS

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

Outside the Surfshark VPN app, you can manually configure OpenVPN on:

Android
iOS

IKEv2 used to be a top VPN protocol for mobile thanks to its quick network switching, but WireGuard now tends to outperform it.

Outside the Surfshark VPN app, you can manually configure IKEv2 on:

Android
iOS

Why Surfshark is the best mobile VPN

Surfshark is built to be light, fast, and easy to use. Whether you need a VPN for iOS or Android, Surfshark’s security features optimize the mobile experience.

Multi-device coverage

Unlike many VPN services, Surfshark supports unlimited simultaneous connections. Protect all your mobile devices and other gadgets with just one account.

High-speed connections

Independent tests have found Surfshark to be the fastest VPN around. Browse, stream, and use your favorite mobile apps with less slowdown.

One-tap experience

Hit our VPN app’s Quick-connect button to get a private connection on the fastest available server in your preferred location with a single tap.

Ad and tracker blocking

Surfshark’s Clean Web feature helps block ads, trackers, and known malicious sites. Browse without distractions while saving on mobile data.

Automatic kill switch

If your VPN connection drops for any reason, our kill switch instantly cuts off internet access until the secure tunnel is restored, limiting accidental data exposure.

GPS location override

Our Android-exclusive GPS override matches your GPS location to your VPN servers. Reduce background tracking and control how apps see where you are.

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:

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

Get Surfshark

Should I use a free VPN for my phone?

While free VPNs are available for mobile devices, they often come with practical trade-offs that can affect your overall experience. Providing a reliable service costs money, so free VPNs usually manage costs in ways that might frustrate users:

Speed and data limits: to save on VPN server costs, many free options limit browsing speed or data use;
Frequent ads: you may encounter constant ads with a free VPN, which can be intrusive and slow down your phone;
Tracking for profit: some free VPN apps may track your browsing habits and sell this data to advertisers.

For a smoother experience on your mobile devices, a paid service like Surfshark offers unlimited data, no ad interruptions, and the fastest VPN available.

Hand holding a cracked black shield labeled FREE VPN on a teal background.

Exploring the best mobile VPN services

Need a VPN, but having trouble making a decision? Read more about Surfshark in this comprehensive review, or check out our detailed VPN comparison and these head-to-head looks at leading VPN providers:

Hand pointing toward two checkmarked shields.

See why millions trust Surfshark

Check out what users and tech experts around the world have to say about Surfshark.

Teshir Jennifer

@memesfordigital

All the VPNs you mentioned are good. But Surfshark is the one I recommend in person for the best overall.

1:08 PM · Jul 28, 2024

Morgan Leggett

@YouBettaLeggett

I’ve had SurfShark for years. It’s amazing.

12:28 AM · Aug 14, 2024

Eakan

@eakangk

Trialling out @surfshark’s IP rotation. It is doing it pretty well. Seamless in the background.

3:20 PM · Oct 26, 2024

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

“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

FT 1000: Europe’s Fastest Growing Companies 2024

Tech Advisor Editors’ Choice 2024

TechRadar Recommended 2024

Surfshark Antivirus AV-TEST Top Product 2024

Independent’s Editor’s Choice Best Value VPN 2023

Surfshark supports the open internet

We partner with digital rights organizations to promote online freedom and keep the internet safe and accessible to all.

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

Read the full Deloitte report

(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

Read the full SecuRing report

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

Read the full SecuRing report

Get Surfshark for every device you own

Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections, so you can protect all your devices at once. Don’t limit your VPN use to mobile devices — download the app on all your devices and enjoy our security suite whenever you go online.

Windows macOS Linux Android iOS Chrome Firefox Edge Apple TV FireTV

You can also get a VPN connection on devices that don’t have native apps by setting up a VPN on your router. Going beyond mobile phones, you can protect your smart TV, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, PlayStation, Oculus Quest, Apple Vision Pro, and more.

FAQ

What do mobile VPNs do?

A mobile VPN protects your phone by encrypting your data and masking your real IP address. This keeps your web traffic, app use, and location more private while you use Wi-Fi or mobile data.

What’s the best mobile VPN for phones?

The best VPN for mobile depends on each user’s needs and experiences. The best VPN services for Android and iOS offer unlimited simultaneous connections on all your mobile phones and include helpful security features like split tunneling and a double VPN for multi-hop connections.

Surfshark is the fastest VPN on the market and lets users connect to a wide range of server locations. See how it compares to other VPN providers below:

Is there a free VPN for mobile?

Free mobile VPNs are available, but using them isn’t recommended. Free plans usually come with limits on speed and data, and they often rely on ads or tracking to stay free. This can slow down your phone and harm your privacy.

A paid VPN with a widespread server network is a better alternative, as these typically offer faster connections and stronger protection via a kill switch, split tunneling, and other security features.

Does a VPN work on mobile data?

Mobile VPN apps are designed to stay active whether you’re using a mobile data plan or a Wi-Fi hotspot. They can automatically connect in the background, keeping your internet traffic secure even when you’re away from home.

Does a VPN drain battery?

Running any app on your mobile device uses some power. Still, VPN apps like Surfshark are optimized to minimize battery drain, letting iOS and Android users stay protected for longer on a single charge.

Can I use a VPN on Android and iPhone?

Yes, mobile VPNs are available as easy-to-use apps for both iOS and Android devices, including smartphones as well as tablets. Leading VPN companies have their apps in the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

Protect your phone with a fast mobile VPN

What is a mobile VPN?

Why use a mobile VPN?

Safer browsing on public Wi-Fi

More secure app activity

Increased online privacy

Shielded mobile banking

Greater access to home content

Reduced mobile tracking

How to set up a VPN on mobile devices

1. Create an account

2. Download the app

3. Connect

Why Surfshark is the best mobile VPN

Multi-device coverage

High-speed connections

One-tap experience

Ad and tracker blocking

Automatic kill switch

GPS location override

Try Surfshark risk-free

Should I use a free VPN for my phone?

Exploring the best mobile VPN services

See why millions trust Surfshark

Surfshark supports the open internet

Independently verified Surfshark security:third-party audits

No-logs policy assurance report (2025)

Security assessment (2025)

Infrastructure security penetration test (2025)

Get Surfshark for every device you own

Upgrade your privacy with a mobile VPN

FAQ

What do mobile VPNs do?

What’s the best mobile VPN for phones?

Is there a free VPN for mobile?

Does a VPN work on mobile data?

Does a VPN drain battery?

Can I use a VPN on Android and iPhone?

Necessary

Analytical

Marketing

Necessary

Analytical

Marketing

VPN deal that Rocks

Independently verified Surfshark security:
third-party audits