How to Add VPN to iPhone?
🔍 Quick answer:
To add a VPN to your iPhone, the easiest method is to download a VPN app from the App Store (ExpressVPN, NordVPN, ProtonVPN), open it, create an account, tap "Allow" when iOS asks to add VPN configurations, and tap connect. The VPN icon will appear in your status bar. You can also manually add a VPN in Settings → General → VPN & Device Management → Add VPN Configuration, but this requires server details from your VPN provider.
Method 1: Add VPN via App Store (Recommended)
Step 1: Open the App Store
Tap the blue App Store icon on your iPhone's home screen.
Step 2: Search for a VPN
Search for a trusted VPN like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, or ProtonVPN. Avoid unknown free VPNs with poor reviews.
Step 3: Download and install
Tap "Get" then "Install". Authenticate with Face ID, Touch ID, or your Apple ID password.
Step 4: Open the app and sign up
Open the VPN app and create an account. Most offer free trials or 30-day money-back guarantees.
Step 5: Allow VPN configuration
iOS will ask "Would you like to add VPN configurations?" Tap "Allow" — this is normal and required.
Step 6: Connect
Tap the connect button. "VPN" appears in your status bar — you're now protected!
Method 2: Manually add VPN configuration
Use this method if your VPN provider doesn't offer an app or you prefer manual setup:
- Go to Settings → General → VPN & Device Management
- Tap "Add VPN Configuration"
- Choose a protocol: IKEv2, IPSec, or L2TP (IKEv2 is recommended for iPhone)
- Enter the server address, remote ID, and your credentials from your VPN provider
- Tap "Done" then toggle the VPN switch to connect
Best VPN apps for iPhone (2026)
| VPN | Best for | iOS app rating | Free tier |
|---|
💡 Pro tip: After adding a VPN to your iPhone, add the VPN toggle to Control Center for quick access. Go to Settings → Control Center → add VPN to "Included Controls". Then you can swipe down and tap to connect/disconnect instantly without opening the VPN app.
On this page
Top 3 VPNs 2026 Tested
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Terms you'll meet
- IP address
- Your device's public ID online.
- Encryption
- Scrambling data so only you can read it.
- No‑logs policy
- VPN doesn't store your activity.