Want online privacy and freedom of access on an iPhone? Learn how to encrypt your internet connection to prevent tracking and access region-locked content with an iOS VPN.
iOS is known for its sandboxed environment, which segregates apps and makes the operating system more secure against malware. Although iOS is often known to be safer than Android, you should still use an iPhone VPN to prevent online tracking.
When you connect an iPhone or iPad to the internet, WiFi networks, ISPs, government agencies, and other eavesdroppers can monitor your web traffic. This online surveillance allows companies to sell your data for profit. An iOS VPN encrypts your internet connection to prevent anybody from intercepting your data. A VPN for iPhone also works to bypass internet blocks. You can use a VPN to bypass region locks when you go on vacation and watch streaming accounts or use internet banking while traveling.
In this guide, we have pinpointed the best VPNs for iOS. Our recommendations have large server networks of fast servers, and reliable VPN apps for iPhone and iPad with strong security features that protect your privacy at home, at work, or when using public WiFi. The list below gives you a quick look at the best VPNs for iOS. Keep scrolling for more information about how we recommend VPNs, and for detailed summaries that will help you pick the best provider.
Our best VPNs for iPhone and iOS:
- NordVPN: The best VPN for iOS. NordVPN has fast servers and a reliable iOS app that provides strong encryption and a choice of protocols. Servers are available in 61+ countries. It works with popular services like Netflix. The VPN stores no logs and has many advanced features, including a killswitch. Risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Surfshark: Our favorite budget VPN for iOS. You can use Surfshark on an unlimited number of devices, perfect for sharing your account with friends and family. The iOS app is easy to use and comes with both the WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols. Comes with a reliable kill switch and rock-solid encryption.
- ExpressVPN: A fantastic all-rounder. Has a speedy proprietary protocol and fast servers in 105+ countries. The iOS app offers strong encryption and works to access Netflix and other popular services on vacation.
- CyberGhost VPN: A superb iOS VPN for beginners. CyberGhost VPN has fewer advanced features than our top recommendations, which makes it easy to use. Despite being suitable for newbies, it has strong security and servers in 100+ countries that work to access websites on vacation or at work.
- Proton VPN: A highly secure iOS VPN with advanced features. ProtonVPN is an excellent choice if you want to torrent thanks to its port forwarding. It offers a reliable iOS app with strong encryption, obfuscation, Multi-Hop connections, and SecureCore servers.
- PrivateVPN: A Swedish VPN with strong security and a reliable proprietary server network. Decent speeds make it good for streaming and playing games on iOS. Has a strict no-logging policy and strong AES-256 encryption. Works with over a dozen Netflix regions.
- Atlas VPN: A fast VPN that offers WireGuard connections and servers in 44+ countries. The iOS app is user-friendly and includes ad blocking, malware filtering, and split tunneling features.
Summary Table
No value | TEST WINNER | No value | No value | No value | No value | No value | No value |
No value | NordVPN www.nordvpn.com | Surfshark www.surfshark.com | ExpressVPN www.expressvpn.com | CyberGhost www.cyberghost.com | Proton VPN www.protonvpn.com | PrivateVPN www.privatevpn.com | Atlas VPN www.atlasvpn.com |
Ranking | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 |
Devices Supported | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, Routers | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, Routers | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, Routers | Windows, MacOS, Linux (command line), iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux Android TV | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android Amazon Fire TV | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux Android TV, Amazon Fire TV |
Number of Servers | 5,400 | 3,200 | 3,000 | 9,308+ | 3,800 | 200+ | 750 |
Avg Speed (Mbps) | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 71 Mbps | 100+ Mbps |
Simultaneous Connections | 6 | Unlimited | 5 | 7 | 10 | 10 | Unlimited |
Logging Policy | No identifying data | No logs stored | No identifying data | No identifying data | No logs stored | No logs stored | No logs stored |
Best deal (per month) | $2.99 Up to 74% OFF + 3 months FREE! |
$1.99 87% off 2yr starter plan + 4 months free! |
$4.99 Save 82% + 6 mo FREE |
$2.03 SAVE 83% |
$2.99 SAVE 70% |
$2.00 SAVE 85% on 3yr plan |
$1.83 SAVE 83% |
Finding a secure and reliable VPN for iOS can be tricky when compared to other platforms. The App Store is flooded with iOS VPN apps, but most of them offer subpar services that expose you to privacy risks and make your browsing experience slow and unsatisfactory.
To make matters worse, many questionable iOS VPNs get positive user reviews. Consumers don’t always realize that although a VPN is changing their IP address it isn’t adequately giving them online privacy and security. This makes it harder to pick an iOS VPN that is safe.
To help internet users, we use a precise methodology to test VPNs and find reliable services worth paying for. We will explain exactly how we tested and recommended iOS VPNs later in this guide. For now, you can check out the primary criteria we used to select iPhone VPNs below:
- Strong security: Our top priority is VPNs for iOS that provide robust encryption, support multiple protocols, offer a kill switch, and protect against DNS leaks. These measures ensure your online activities remain secure and private no matter where you connect to the internet.
- No-logs policy: Our recommended iOS VPNs have trustworthy no-logging policies. They never track or share your home IP address, server connections, browsing habits, or any other personal data that passes through their servers.
- Fast speeds: Optimal performance is important if you want to stream, play games, make video calls, or do anything else that is fun on your iPhone or iPad. Our recommended VPNs for iPhones all offer fast protocols and servers that let you do data-intensive tasks.
- A large server network: Our recommended iOS VPNs have extensive server networks spread across multiple regions worldwide. This lets you bypass restrictions and get an IP almost anywhere in the world.
- User-friendly iOS app: Not all VPNs are easy to use on iPhone and iPad, and not all VPNs have reliable security for your iOS device. We tested VPNs to find reliable services that work seamlessly on any iOS device. Plus, you can also install and use these VPNs on Windows, macOS, Android, Firestick, routers, and even in your browser.
- Reliable customer support: We understand that consumers have varying tech skills and experience. That is why we looked for VPNs that offer world-class customer support. Our recommendations offer assistance through live chat, email support, comprehensive guides, FAQs, and other valuable resources.
Get a risk free trial
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There are no hidden terms - just contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn't right for you and you'll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here .
Best iOS and iPhone VPNs
Here's our list of the best VPNs for iOS and iPhone:
1. NordVPN
NordVPN is a service that works seamlessly with both iPhones and iPads. This VPN is the best VPN for Safari, which underscores its reliability as an iOS VPN. The iOS app offers a comprehensive range of security features, including a choice of protocols and strong encryption. It even has a reliable kill switch for iOS users, making it a reliable option for bypassing censorship in countries like the UAE.
If you are a Mac enthusiast, you will be happy to know that it also has a fantastic app for macOS. Plus, you can use the VPN on up to six devices simultaneously. You can set up a connection to a choice of IP addresses in over 61 countries. Nord is excellent for accessing regional TV services such as Netflix, Hulu, and many other popular platforms on vacation.
The iOS app also includes NordVPN’s Threat Protection Lite feature, which blocks malicious ads and prevents access to malicious websites. You can easily set up your VPN connection using either OpenVPN (UDP and TCP) or the IKEv2 protocol. By default, the apps use the company’s WireGuard fork NordLynx, which helps to give you even better speeds.
A Quick Connect feature automatically connects you to the best server location for optimal performance. This is perfect if you are in a rush to get online privacy (whether on public WiFi or at home) but also want to get the fastest speeds available.
With a vast network encompassing over 6,000 servers, this VPN employs intelligent automated load balancing to prevent server congestion. It’s a reliable option for playing iOS games or streaming. It is also suitable for accessing VoIP apps or social media services in countries where they are banned.
Torrenting is permitted throughout its network, which makes this a fabulous all-rounder. It has a solid no-logging policy, which means it keeps no records of what you do while connected. You can test it yourself using its 30-day money-back guarantee and get help at any time of day using its 24/7 live chat.
Pros:
- Apps for all popular platforms, including iOS
- Strong encryption, kill switch, obfuscation, and a no-logs policy
- Fully audited apps, infrastructure, and policies
- Diskless servers in 61+ countries
- Many useful privacy and security features
Cons:
- Suffered a minor breach on a third-party server in Finland in 2018
BEST iOS VPN: NordVPN offers outstanding speeds for video conferencing, streaming, gaming, and downloading files on your iPhone or iPad. Excellent value for money. Solid no logs policy and based in Panama. Works with Netflix and other popular streaming services. Fully audited and runs on diskless servers. A 30-day money-back guarantee means you can test it risk-free.
Read our full review of NordVPN.
2. Surfshark
Surfshark is the best option if you want a cheap iOS VPN that will prevent your ISP from tracking you, let you work on public WiFi without fear of data interception, and use the internet on vacation without fear of hackers.
A subscription starts at just $2.39 per month. This lets you install and use the VPN on an unlimited number of devices. As a result, you can split the bill with a friend or choose to share your account with your entire family!
The iOS app is easy to install and comes with strong encryption and a choice of protocols, including WireGuard for faster speeds. You can connect to servers in 100+ countries, which lets you get an IP address on every continent.
We tested it and found it to have an average download speed of 188 Mbps, which is fast enough to let regular home broadband users play data-intensive games like Fortnite or Call of Duty. This VPN works with Netflix US and around 20 other regional Netflix catalogs. It also works with Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and just about any other international streaming service you can think of.
Surfshark Nexus technology lets you periodically change your IP address without disconnecting from the VPN. Plus, you can use it not just on iOS but also on macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, and Linux.
Surfshark has a strict no-logs policy, ensuring your personally identifiable information is always protected. Torrenting is allowed, and the VPN has a split tunneling feature. It also provides ad blocking and malware filtering to make you even safer as you surf the web.
Live chat support is available 24/7 and you can compare the VPN to any other of our favorite iOS VPNs thanks to its no-quibbles 30-day money-back guarantee. One of the best VPNs that money can buy at a price point that makes it affordable for anybody.
Pros:
- Unlimited device connections for an affordable price
- Best low-cost VPN for iOS users on iPad or iPhone
- Audited zero logs policy
- Diskless servers for added security
- Servers in 100+ countries
Cons:
- The monthly plan is more expensive than the longer plans
BEST CHEAP VPN FOR iOS: Surfshark offers fast WireGuard connections perfect for streaming and playing games on an iPhone. Easily lets you bypass blocks on public WiFi, at work, and in countries like the UAE or China. Strong encryption, affordable plans, a kill switch, obfuscation, ad blocking, and DNS leak protection features. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of Surfshark.
3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is a reliable and secure VPN that has been around since 2009. The service has apps for iOS and Mac that are easy to download from the App Store. Those apps come with OpenVPN, IKEv2, and ExpressVPN’s proprietary Lightway protocol to give you the best possible speeds, lowering battery consumption due to a lightweight build.
Servers are available in 105+ countries and the VPN has more than 3,000 in total. This makes it one of the best options for accessing blocked websites and services. In our tests, Express helped us to access Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, HBO, Hulu, Netflix, Showtime, HBO Max, and many other international streaming services.
A solid no-logging policy means that this VPN is completely trustworthy, and you can use it to gain privacy and security whether at home, at work, on public WiFi, or when using the internet anywhere else. It is a touch expensive and it only lets you use the VPN on up to eight devices simultaneously. However, you can still use it on Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Linux, and routers.
Live chat support is available 24/7. A reliable kill switch lets you torrent safely. Just bear in mind that this service has fewer advanced features than our top recommendation, and its split tunneling feature is available in its desktop apps only.
Pros:
- Servers in 105+ countries
- No logs policy that has been independently audited
- Diskless servers can be erased remotely
- Kill switch, obfuscation, DNS leak protection, and split tunneling
- Strong privacy and excellent features
Cons:
- Monthly price is expensive compared to our top recommendations
- Lacks port forwarding
SECURE ALL-ROUNDER: ExpressVPN offers fast connections, strong AES encryption, and the key features you need to gain online privacy anywhere. Works to access Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, iPlayer, and many more. Keeps no logs whatsoever. iOS app is easy to install and use. Has a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of ExpressVPN.
4. CyberGhost
CyberGhost VPN is a beginner-friendly VPN for iOS. It has an impressive network of over 10,000 VPN servers located in more than 100 countries. This lets you get an IP address where you need it to bypass blocks, whether on vacation or at work.
CyberGhost VPN provides dedicated apps for both iOS and macOS devices, offering seamless integration with any MacBook, iPad, or iPhone. This VPN makes it super-easy to find a server that works with your favorite streaming platforms. It labels servers for streaming platforms from over 15 different countries, which is something we have never seen in any other VPN app.
In our tests, it worked with Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney Plus, and many others. One slight downside is that it lacks some advanced features. If you want split tunneling or port forwarding, for example, you should shop elsewhere. The good news is that it offers strong encryption, an automatic kill switch, DNS leak protection, and everything else you need to use the internet protected from hackers and other unwanted eavesdroppers.
CyberGhost VPN is headquartered in Romania, a jurisdiction outside the scope of international intelligence agreements and invasive countries like the USA and the UK. Its no-logs policy means CyberGhost VPN retains no data that can directly identify its users.
It is worth noting that CyberGhost VPN is part of the Kape Technologies family, which includes other well-known VPN providers like ExpressVPN and Private Internet Access (all three VPNs are top-notch). This puts the VPN in good company, although each service remains independently run and managed.
If you want to test it, CyberGhost VPN offers a 45-day money-back guarantee, and it has live chat support to help get you set up.
Pros:
- iOS app comes with WireGuard and IKEv2 protocols
- 24/7 live chat support
- Easy for beginners to use on iPhone
- Strong AES encryption and a kill switch
- Servers in 100+ countries
Cons:
- Lacks port forwarding, split tunneling, MultiHop, and other advanced features
- Kill switch is always on
- Causes captchas when searching on Google
EASY TO USE: CyberGhost VPN is perfect for beginners who want a simple iOS VPN. Strong security despite being easy to use. Doesn’t confuse you with additional features and settings. Fast servers in 100+ countries work to use VoIP apps and social media privately. Can bypass website blocks at work. Lets you use public WiFi safely. Has a generous 45-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of CyberGhost VPN.
5. Proton VPN
Proton VPN has reliable apps for all platforms that come with a slew of advanced features, including a kill switch, DNS leak protection, MultiHop connections, split tunneling, and port forwarding. The lattermost makes it popular with people who like to seed torrents.
Premium servers are available in 71+ different countries, and if you are short on cash you can use it for free to connect to servers in Holland, the US, and Japan. Just bear in mind that the free servers are a touch slower than the premium ones, and will not let you access streaming platforms like Netflix. Premium servers benefit from a VPN Accelerator, ensuring blazing-fast speeds.
We tested a premium Proton VPN account to watch Netflix and iPlayer without issues. That said, you may want to test it with your favorite streaming services yourself because it isn't as good for bypassing stream blocks as our top recommendations.
Live chat support is available on its website for paying subscribers, and you can get help with setting up using the VPN thanks to its excellent FAQs and guides. It is a little pricey compared to some of our other iOS VPN recommendations, but those who need its features will find it hard to beat.
It even has obfuscation and secure core servers designed to keep you safer in countries that enforce high levels of censorship and online surveillance. You can compare it to any other iOS VPN using its 30-day money-back guarantee.
Pros:
- Has a basic free plan with top-tier security
- Many advanced privacy and security features for improved user anonymity
- Fast speeds and decent streaming access features
- Perfect for torrenting thanks to its port forwarding and split tunneling
- Lets you connect 10 devices at once
Cons:
- Quite hard for beginners to use
- Live chat is for paid users only (and hard to find)
- A touch expensive compared to some of our other recommendations
VERY ADVANCED: Proton VPN can be used to gain privacy for free on any iOS device. Premium version works with Netflix and other popular services. Premium also offers better speeds than the free version. WireGuard protocol is perfect for streaming and torrenting. Includes port forwarding. 30-day money-back guarantee to test it yourself.
Read our full review of Proton VPN.
6. PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN is a reliable VPN that is based in Sweden, this is a country that lacks mandatory data retention directives that apply to VPNs. You can use it to access IP addresses in 63+ countries, and the entire of its server network is self-owned and managed, which helps to increase privacy and security for its users.
PrivateVPN has a strong zero-logs policy, and it supports torrenting throughout its network. Its port forwarding feature can make torrenting more efficient. Unlike some of our other options, it doesn’t currently have split tunneling in any of its apps. It also lacks WireGuard support, though you can connect using this protocol via a third-party client if you want to.
The iOS app is easy to use and comes with a kill switch, a choice of protocols, obfuscation, and AES encryption. This makes it suitable for bypassing censorship, internet blocks at work, or using the internet safely and privately on public WiFi or at home.
The VPN used to be a bit faster, but in our recent tests, it had fallen behind. Despite this, the service offers connections that work fine to watch Netflix in HD. If speed is important, you may want to consider one of our other recommendations or test PrivateVPN with your home broadband to make sure it gives you the performance you need.
Live chat support is now available 24/7 on its website, and the agents are generally knowledgeable and well-trained to help with any request you might have. You can try it yourself using its 30-day money-back guarantee. Finally, PrivateVPN works to watch more than 15 different Netflix regions and tons of other popular services.
Pros:
- Reliable apps for all platforms
- Decent speeds for streaming, gaming, and torrenting
- Works with Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+, etc
- Has a solid no-logs policy and reliable AES encryption
- Live chat support is available 24/7
Cons:
- Not yet available in the native apps
- Slower top speeds than our other recommendations
- No split tunneling feature
LOW-COST iOS VPN: PrivateVPN has a reliable iOS app that connects to secure servers in 63+ countries. Works with popular streaming services, including around 15 Netflix regions. Fast speeds for playing iOS games. Port forwarding for torrenting, hosting servers, or accessing LAN resources remotely. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of PrivateVPN.
7. Atlas VPN
AtlasVPN is a newer VPN that offers a super-reliable service for iOS users. Its free plan lets you download 5 GB of data each month. But the free plan has limited servers that are slower and will not work for streaming Netflix or other popular platforms.
On the plus side, you can use the free plan to enjoy enhanced online privacy when connected to public WiFi networks or to bypass social media blocks at work, for example.
Dedicated apps are available for iOS, Windows, macOS, and Android, and you can install and use the VPN on an unlimited number of devices which means you can share your account with friends and family. This makes it exceptionally good value for money.
The apps come equipped with a decent range of features, including DNS leak protection, a kill switch, MultiHop connections, ad blocking, malware filtering, and split tunneling. Considering its affordable subscription costs, this is a hugely impressive feature set. The only real drawback is that the "soft" kill switch causes leaks during reconnection, so pause your torrents until the VPN has reconnected to be safe.
AtlasVPN comes with the WireGuard protocol by default on iOS, which gives you decent speeds for streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and Disney+. We found it to be a superb all-rounder when it came to accessing international streaming services on vacation. If you like the sound of AtlasVPN you can test it on your iPhone using its 30-day money-back guarantee.
Just bear in mind that live chat is for paying subscribers only. You will need to get a subscription if you want to test the service and ask questions.
Pros:
- Fast WireGuard protocol for streaming and playing iOS games
- Works with Netflix US and other streaming platforms
- Gives you unlimited connections with a single account
- Kill switch, split tunneling, and MultiHop are included as robust security features
Cons:
- Based in the US
- Kill-switch leaks momentarily on reconnection
- Live chat support is for subscribers only
FANTASTIC ALL ROUNDER: AtlasVPN has a server network that spans 44+ countries. Fast WireGuard protocol is ideal for streaming, gaming, and torrenting. The iOS app comes with DNS leak protection, a kill switch, and a native ad blocker. 30-day money-back guarantee lets you test it for a month.
Read our full review of AtlasVPN.
Methodology: How we identify the best VPNs for iOS
To find the best VPNs for iOS, we use an advanced testing methodology that allows us not only to determine which VPNs offer reliable security, but also which VPNs are better for iPhone and iPad users.
We test for leaks, check under the hood to see how the encryption is implemented, and check each VPNs privacy policy to ensure the service is treating user data in a privacy-compliant manner.
Beyond that, we checked for diskless servers, for the completion of reliable third-party audits, and to see how the VPN performs – including speed tests. Below, you can see a full list of tests and criteria we used to find the best iOS VPNs (as well as to ascertain the best order for the list).
- Apple apps and usability: We assessed which VPN apps are available, their user-friendliness, and their features – with a focus on solid performance for iOS devices. It must be available via the iPhone App Store.
- Fast speed: Connection speeds play a vital role in activities such as streaming and are a must for people who have slower speeds. The VPN must also work to bypass throttling.
- Security: We examine the VPN's security measures, including their logging policy, leak protection, encryption, and any additional features that enhance privacy while protecting your internet traffic.
- Streaming: We test the VPN's ability to access international streaming services, ensuring you can enjoy content from around the world on your iOS device.
- Customer support: We evaluated the quality and availability of customer support, giving preference to VPNs that offer live chat support day and night.
- Value for money: The best VPNs aren't always the most expensive. We looked for reliable services that offer leading features and strong security without overcharging.
Bonus points:
In addition to everything mentioned above, we awarded bonus points to VPN providers that met the following criteria:
- Audited no logs policy: Our top three providers must have had third-party audits of their infrastructure and policies that prove that the service is providing privacy and online security without vulnerabilities or flaws. Our top three recommendations have diskless servers that run in RAM and can be erased instantly in an emergency.
- Advanced VPN features: We opted for leading VPN providers that are dedicated to user privacy and consistently innovate to improve their services by adding new features and VPN protocols that help enhance user experience and security.
- Safe jurisdictions: We preferred those VPNs and recommended them in higher positions if they were based in countries that enforce widespread surveillance or are part of international intelligence alliances, ensuring greater privacy and protection for users.
How to set up a VPN on iPhone
All of the VPNs we have recommended in this guide have their own iOS app. This means that setting up the VPN is very straightforward. Follow the steps below:
- Choose a VPN from this guide. We recommend NordVPN.
- Click our link to navigate to the VPN’s website and get a subscription.
- Subscribe to the VPN and log in to the member's area.
- Download the iOS VPN app and install it.
- Login to the VPN using your credentials from sign up.
- Pick a VPN server from the list and click Connect.
As soon as the VPN connects your internet connection is encrypted and your IP address appears to be in the location of the VPN server you selected.
iOS VPN FAQs
Can I use a free VPN for iPhones and iPads?
Although you may be able to find free VPNs advertised on the Apple App Store, we recommend that you do not download and install the vast majority of these cowboy VPN services.
Many free VPNs create revenue by collecting the data that passes through their servers. These unscrupulous VPNs have dodgy privacy policies that allow them to use this data for profiling purposes, and that give them permission to sell browsing habit data to third parties such as marketing companies and data brokers.
Most free VPNs have also been found to lack encryption or to hide tracking libraries in their apps. Using those VPNs is futile for privacy purposes.
The good news is that we have recommended two reliable VPNs that offer a basic free plan. The free VPNs in this guide use their free plan to give you a taste of what the premium VPN can do. However, it is important to note that the free servers are slower and have certain limitations, such as not working to watch streaming platforms.
On the plus side, our recommended free VPNs do not skimp on privacy and offer a strong no-logging policy. You can still use the free version to block your ISP or local networks from tracking you online, and the VPN includes the security you need to protect yourself against hackers on public WiFi.
All our VPN recommendations for iOS users include a money-back guarantee. If you enjoy using the free version but want to try the VPN at full speed, with access to the entire server network, and without limitations on what you can access (such as watching Netflix), then you can try any of the VPNs on this page using their money-back guarantees.
Why do I need a VPN for iOS?
Everything you do online can be tracked by local network providers, ISPs, and nosey government snoops. When you use your iPhone or iPad to use the internet you are constantly tracked.
If being tracked by the company that you pay to access the internet isn’t enough, ISPs may even sell that data to third parties for a profit! This makes it imperative to protect yourself by encrypting your data with a VPN to stop your ISP from having access.
In addition to being tracked by hotels, coffee shops, your employer, your school, or any other network you connect to, you are also being tracked by the websites you visit. These sites can detect your IP address, which means they know when you visit. Websites use this data to profile you and even share this data with affiliates to create a database of your online movements.
A VPN is the only effective way of preventing all of this tracking from happening, and, as a bonus, it gives you the power to bypass any blocks imposed by local networks (such as school or at work), by ISPs, or due to government censorship.
The encryption provided by a VPN also makes you safer. It prevents you from being attacked by hackers on public WiFi, and it ensures that you are safe against cybercriminals if you engage in any peer-to-peer activities such as torrenting or using apps like Omegle.
Can I access home TV services with an iOS VPN?
Yes. When you go on vacation abroad you might find that your usual TV services and streaming platforms are unavailable. This is due to licensing agreements that limit where those platforms are permitted to broadcast content.
While traveling abroad, the websites you visit can detect your IP address, which lets them know that you are no longer permitted to view their content. This is frustrating if you are a paying subscriber who wants to watch Hulu or BBC iPlayer on vacation!
The good news is that you can bypass these blocks using a VPN. All you need to do is connect to a server back home to get a valid IP address. You can then login and watch your favorite shows as if you were back home.
Can I bypass blocks at work or in school with a VPN?
Workplaces, colleges, and universities are known to block websites such as YouTube, Netflix, game servers, and even social media to stop staff or students from becoming distracted. This is annoying if you are on a lunch break or have downtime.
With a VPN you can bypass these types of blocks to regain access to the full internet, and thanks to the encryption provided by the VPN, nobody will know that you are sidestepping the rules.
How to setup a VPN manually on iPhone
The VPNs we have recommended all have custom iOS apps that allow you to seamlessly connect to their servers on your iPad or iPhone. This is by far the easiest and most secure way to connect to the VPN without having to worry about IP, DNS, or WebRTC leaks.
For those who are interested, we have outlined how to connect to a VPN manually on iOS below. This will allow you to connect to the VPN using config files if you so desire. If available, your VPN makes these config files available for download on its website.
To connect to a VPN manually you will need the following information, so contact your VPN provider to get these things first:
- Config files for the protocol you’ll be using.
- The address for the VPN server you want to use.
- Your username and password.
- If a certificate or shared secret is required, you will need to get this from your VPN.
Once you have all of this data you are ready to connect. Your VPN should have its own guide for setting up the VPN, which is helpful because it is service-specific. However, the process will look something like this:
- Head to Settings > General > VPN.
- Select Add VPN Configuration…
- Hit Type and select your protocol. IKEv2 is the most likely protocol to be offered by your VPN but check with your provider to ensure you pick the right one.
- Now, tap Back, and in the Add Configuration screen, fill out the Description, Server, and Remote ID fields. Your VPN will provide this info.
- Enter your login information (your username and password). Some VPNs will require you to use a certificate, in which case you can select User Authentication > Certificate and enter the information.
- When you have entered all the necessary information press Done. This will return you to the VPN screen where you can connect by toggling Status to the green position (on).
The important thing to remember is that while you can connect to a VPN manually (or by using a third-party client such as Tunnelblick), this will not provide you with many of the advanced features you get in the custom VPN client.
So, if you want to take full advantage of a VPN and all of its features (kill switch, DNS leak protection, split tunneling, etc) we strongly recommend that you stick to a recommended VPN that has its own application.
Can I use these VPNs on an iPhone 15?
Yes. All the VPNs recommended in this guide have excellent iOS apps that you can use on any iPhone or iPad, including the brand-new iPhone 15. This means that you can install the VPN from the Apple app store and start using a VPN to gain online privacy and security.
By using a VPN on your iPhone 15 (or any older model), you will prevent local network administrators, ISPs, government agencies, and other eavesdroppers from monitoring your web visits and communications data.
A VPN also makes it safer to connect to any public WiFi network by preventing hotspot providers from tracking you and keeping you safe against hackers and Evil Twin attacks. Besides these security benefits, you will also gain a ton of added freedom on your iPhone 15, to access international streaming services, gamer servers, shopping services, or any of your usual accounts while on vacation.
The best VPNs even include DNS-based ad blocking, tracker blocking, and malware filtering, which helps speed up page load times, saves on mobile data, and gives you additional safety as you surf the web. You can even use a VPN on your iPhone to get around annoying blocks at work - perfect if you need to use social media or want to watch a quick YouTube video.
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