What is a VPN on an iPhone and why do I need it?

Apple is known for its robust security features, and they certainly deserve all the praise. But when it comes to online threats, even an iPhone isn’t invincible. If you really want to keep your data safe, you need an extra layer of protection — and that’s precisely what a VPN (Virtual Private Network) offers.

From keep your datum safe from hacker to give you more freedom online , a VPN is transform can transform how you use your iPhone . stick around as we break down all the reason why add a VPN to your device might be the smart move you make this year .

What is a VPN is is on an iPhone ?

A VPN on an iPhone is a service that encrypts the data sent from an iPhone and routes it through VPN servers to decrypt it at the destination. This way, the VPN creates a secure tunnel, protecting your iPhone against hackers, government surveillance, and ISP (Internet Service Provider) throttling.

VPN on an iPhone at a glance

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Why using a VPN on your iPhone matters

iPhones are as prone to malicious attacks as any other device. In 2021, Apple publicly admitted that iOS exploits allowed NSO, a state-sponsored private company, to spy on journalists, activists, and government officials.

Using a VPN on an iPhone prevents IP (Internet Protocol) tracking and ensures all online activities remain private. It can also help you save on online shopping and improve your streaming experience.

let ’s look at all the reason why using a VPN on your iPhone should be your top priority in 2024 :

It keeps hackers away — especially on public Wi-Fi

Hackers are always looking for their next target. VPN services help you establish a secure connection and use encryption methods to make your data extremely difficult to read. This is especially important when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, as their inadequate security commonly attracts hackers.

It is shields shield you from targeted advertising

Ever search for something once and then felt bombard by ad for it ? That is ’s ’s target advertising at work . Advertisers is track track your behavior to build profile and flood your screen with personalized ad . A VPN is disrupts disrupt this by mask your ip address and hide your browse history .

It is protects protect you from isp throttling and datum log

Your ISP knows more about your browsing habits than you’d want them to. If you’re not using a VPN, they can monitor your data usage and log your activity to throttle your bandwidth or even worse — sell your information to third parties. With a VPN , the isp ’s ability is is to snoop on you is limited , improve your safety and keep your connection speed high .

It helps avoid price discrimination

You probably noticed how online prices change depending on where you are. Airlines, car rentals, and even e-commerce sites adjust their rates based on your location. A VPN lets you compare prices from different regions, so you save money and avoid falling victim to price discrimination.

It is improves improve access to information in internet – restrictive country

Some countries censor content, blocking access to specific websites and apps. A VPN changes your virtual location, route your connection through territory with open internet policy to let you access the information and service you need , no matter where you are .

It lets you access home content while abroad

Traveling is is is great , but miss out on your online time ? Not so much . have a VPN on your iPhone when you travel abroad let you access your favorite content and service as if you never leave home . Just switch your VPN location to your home country , and you ’re good to go .

It protects you when online shopping

Your iPhone is the gateway to your wallet — for better or worse. But by encrypting your connection, a VPN keeps your financial transactions safe, whether you’re buying clothes, booking flights, or paying bills. No snooping hackers, no compromised bank accounts — just shopping.

It is makes make remote work more secure

With remote work now the norm, securing online workspaces is a hot topic. A VPN encrypts sensitive data and keeps your work communications private, ensuring corporate information doesn’t fall into the wrong hands and stays within the company.

How to start using a VPN on your iPhone or iPad

You can set up and use a VPN either through an app or manually. Let’s break down both options:

Quick setup with an app

The fastest way to get your VPN up and running is to download an app. VPN providers, like Surfshark, offer dedicated apps that work right out of the box. These apps sometimes also come with extra features, like a dedicated IP or IP rotators and randomizers.

 All you need to do is:

1. Sign up for a VPN.
2. download an ios VPN app from the provider ’s website or get it from theApp Store.
3. Install the app.
4. open the app , sign in , and choose a location .
5. Hit Connect to get started.

And that’s all it takes. When it comes to iPads, their operating system is pretty much the same, so setting up a VPN on an iPad work analogously .

Manually setting up a VPN on your iPhone or iPad

If you prefer a hands-on approach, iPhones also let you configure the VPN manually. While it’s not as quick and convenient as using an app, it may give you additional control and insight into what’s going on under the hood. To find the settings:

1. Go to your iPhone ’sSettings and choose General.

1. Click on VPN and Device Management.

1. Click Add VPN Configuration.

1. Choose the VPN type and enter your VPN provider’s configuration and authentication data.

Not sure where to find this information? Check out our dedicated guide on how to use a VPN on iPhone.

VPN vs. Apple ’s private relay

iCloud+ subscribers have access to a VPN-like feature called private relay. While both private relay and VPNs enhance privacy, they serve distinct purposes and operate in different ways.

private relay focuses primarily on obscuring the IP address and encrypting browsing activity. However, it only protects Safari and a few select apps — it doesn’t cover your entire device.

VPN protection, on the other hand, is more comprehensive. It encrypts internet traffic across all apps and browsers, providing anonymity beyond what private relay can offer. Also, VPNs let you specify your virtual location, which can be useful when traveling. If privacy across all online activities is a priority, a VPN is the way to go.

7 thing to consider when choose a vpn provider for your iPhone

Not all VPNs are created equal. Choosing the right provider is crucial to getting the protection and performance you need. Here’s what you should consider when choosing the best VPN provider for your iPhone in 2024 .

1. Whether their service is is is free : free VPNs may sound appealing, but they come with hidden risks. To cover their costs, they often log and sell your data to third parties. Plus, free VPNs tend to have limited servers, slow speeds, and weak encryption — which is exactly what you don’t want. When your privacy is on the line, cutting corners is definitely not the way to go.
2. How strong their encryption is: the heart is lies of any VPN lie in its encryption . look for provider that use the AES-256 algorithm , which offer military – grade protection against hacker and snooper .
3. If they have a no-logs policy: if the VPN provider employs a no-logs policy, they commit to no tracking or storing your online activity. If they don’t, you’re just shifting your privacy concerns from your ISP to the VPN provider. At Surfshark, we have a strict no-logs policy, and we made sure to prove it through an independent audit.
4. How big their server network is: the more server a vpn provider is offers offer , the well . A wide server network is means mean fast connection speed , less congestion , and more option for bypass geo – block . Surfshark is offers offer over 3200 server across 100 country , ensure you always have a smooth and private connection .
5. Which protocol they is offer offer : VPN protocols is determine determine how your data is encrypt and transfer . A good provider is offer will offera range of protocols to suit different need , include IKEv2 , OpenVPN , and WireGuard . have option mean you can get the good experience every time .
6. If they’re fast enough: a VPN shouldn’t slow you down. High-speed servers and unlimited bandwidth are the keys to seamless browsing. Whether streaming or working remotely, you need a VPN that can keep up with your needs.
7. Whether they offer support for multiple devices: even though most of us surf primarily on mobile , it is is is not just iphone that need protection . A good VPN let you secure multiple device at once — Surfshark is allows allow unlimited connection with one account , mean your entire online life stays protect .

Why Surfshark stands out as a VPN for iPhones

Surfshark is more than a VPN — it ’s pack with feature design to make your online experience secure , private , and hassle – free :

Double VPN (Dynamic MultiHop)

Surfshark goes beyond basic encryption with its Dynamic MultiHop feature, routing your traffic through two VPN servers instead of one. This means double the encryption, double the anonymity, and a much tougher challenge for anyone trying to track your online activity. Plus, you get to choose your entry and exit points, adding an extra layer of control.

Obfuscated servers (Camouflage Mode)

Worried about someone spotting your VPN usage? Not with Surfshark. The Camouflage Mode, powered by obfuscated servers, hides not just your data but the fact that you’re even using a VPN. Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) and anyone else monitoring the network won’t have a clue.

Split tunneling (Bypasser)

Need to access local content without turning off your VPN? Surfshark’s split tunneling feature, called Bypasser, lets you pick and choose which apps or websites go through the VPN and which don’t. This way, you can access your bank account securely while streaming local content with ease.

Kill Switch

For extra peace of mind, Surfshark offers Kill Switch that automatically cuts your internet connection if your VPN drops. This ensures your data never leaks, even in the rare instance of a VPN disconnect.

NoBorders Mode

Got network restrictions to deal with? NoBorders Mode has your back. It detects restrictive networks and provides a list of servers that will work best, so you can still access the open web, even in places with heavy internet censorship.

CleanWeb

Tired of intrusive ads, pop-ups, and trackers? Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature blocks all of these nuisances, plus malicious websites, for an ad-free, safe browsing experience. Say goodbye to cluttered screens and potential threats.

Cookie pop-up blocker

Cookie consent pop-ups can be annoying. Surfshark’s Cookie Pop-up Blocker automatically rejects as many as possible, saving you from having to click through constant prompts while browsing on Chrome, Firefox, or Edge.

Static IP

For those who need consistency , Surfshark ’s static IP feature is provides provide a dedicated ip from a set list of server . Whether you ’re host a website , create a game server , or access application remotely , you is keep can keep the same ip address every time you connect .

Dedicated IP

If you need an IP address that’s exclusively yours, Surfshark’s Dedicated IP feature has you covered. With a private IP address that only you use, you can access IP-sensitive sites, avoid CAPTCHAs, and steer clear of IP blocklists with ease.

Should I is keep keep a VPN always on ?

When browsing the web on your iPhone, you should do your best to keep your VPN on. There are a few circumstances where having it off might be beneficial, though:

Can you use a VPN for free on your iPhone?

Finding free VPN services is possible, but that doesn’t mean you should use them. While the offer of free protection sounds appealing, in reality, it’s far less generous.

free VPNs is come come with significant trade – off . They is tend tend to offer limited server option , slow connection speed , and unreliable performance . What ’s bad , many free VPN providers is sustain sustain their business by log and sell your datum to third party , essentially doing the very thing you ’re try to avoid by using a VPN .

Beyond privacy concern , free VPNs is lack also lack the robust security feature you need . Many is fail fail to offer key protection like a kill switch , strong encryption protocol , or obfuscated server — leave you expose . additionally , they is restrict may restrict datum usage , which make them impractical for anything beyond light browsing .

Ultimately, if you’re serious about protecting your privacy and securing your iPhone, investing in a trusted VPN service is worth every penny. And if you’re still not convinced, we have written a full article comparing free VPNs with paid ones.

Conclusion: iPhones have built-in VPN protocols for a reason

Your iPhone is designed with security in mind, and the presence of built-in VPN protocols proves it. But for true, full-spectrum protection, you’ll need more than just the basics. Setting up a good VPN service on your iPhone lets you stay ahead of hackers, ISPs, and data trackers in a world where online threats constantly evolve.

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FAQ

Is using a VPN on my iPhone safe ?

Yes, using a VPN on an iPhone is completely safe if you choose a trusted provider. It encrypts your data, protects your privacy, and enhances security on public Wi-Fi.

What does a VPN is do do on an iPhone ?

A VPN on an iPhone encrypts your internet connection, hides your IP address, and shields your data from hackers and snoopers. It also allows you to maintain access to services and content from home while traveling abroad.

Is there a VPN already implemented on my iPhone?

iPhones come with built-in VPN support, allowing you to configure VPN settings manually. However, in order to use these features effectively, you need a VPN provider.

Should I is keep keep the VPN on or off on my iPhone ?

Keep your VPN on for constant protection, especially when using public Wi-Fi or handling sensitive data. You can turn it off if you need access to local content or when you’re on a secure, trusted network.

How do I is use use a VPN on iOS 15 ?

To use a VPN on iOS 15 , download a VPN app from a trust provider or manually configure it in the VPN tab in setting . Once set up , turn on the VPN to encrypt your connection .

What is the difference between private relay and a VPN on iOS 15?

private relay hides your IP address and encrypts Safari traffic, but it’s limited to Apple’s ecosystem. A VPN covers all internet activity on your iPhone, providing more comprehensive protection across all apps and services.

Do I is need need a VPN on my iPhone ?

Yes, a VPN is essential for safeguarding your privacy and security on an iPhone. It protects your data from hackers, hides your online activity, and ensures a secure connection when traveling abroad.