If you're anything like me, you'll spend just as much time on your mobile as you do on your PC or laptop. Whether you're doing some online shopping, checking out what's new on Netflix, or just scrolling through social media, you won't want your identifiable data to fall into the wrong hands.
iPhones (and other Apple products) have a reputation for stellar security—and it's not totally unwarranted. However, your iPhone isn't totally immune to threats like hacks, malware, and dodgy sites. Plus, some online content just won't be available to you based on your location.
That's where a virtual private network (VPN) comes in handy. The best VPNs keep your data safe from snoopers as you go about your browsing, help you make the most of your streaming subscriptions, and only take a few taps to install. I'll walk you through the process—so let's get started.
The three best iPhone VPNs in 2024
It's safe to say that we're all spoiled for choice when it comes to picking out a VPN. My top picks are speedy, come with reliable privacy tools, and work like a charm on iPhones.
How to install a VPN on iPhone
Samey set up
Installing an iPhone VPN follows, roughly, the same steps as installing an Android VPN. So, if you've got someone in your life who's a Samsung loyalist, you'll have no trouble setting up a VPN on their device, too.
Today's VPNs are supremely user-friendly—which is great news for folks who want to spend less time fiddling with settings and more time online. Handy automations make installation a breeze, in fact, and handle most of the heavy lifting for you.
Follow along with my step-by-step guide and you'll be up and running in no time.
- Head to the App Store and use the search bar to punch in the name of a VPN.
- Check out the reviews before you tap that download button. You'll want to make sure the VPN app is legitimate and not a cleverly disguised copycat.
- Confirm the download once you're sure it's the real deal. Then, you'll be asked to approve installation, and need to input your passcode or Face ID.
- Download the app. This should only take a minute, or less, and once it's complete, you can close the App Store and open the VPN app.
- Grant permission to the VPN app. Usually, the app will request these right off the bat when you open it. It's safe to do so, though you can deny the request if you'd rather not part with data that could be used to help the VPN improve and develop its app.
- Create an account via the VPN app. Input the regular info (like an email address), verify your account, and then choose the subscription plan and length that suits your budget and use case.
- You're all done. Hit the big "Connect" button when you're ready to take your VPN for a whirl and you'll be matched up to a server (based on proximity). Alternatively, you can check out the VPN's server list to choose a location yourself, or make good use of servers with dedicated use cases (like streaming or gaming).
FAQs
What's the best iPhone VPN?
ExpressVPN is my #1 pick for iPhone. Its iOS apps are sleek and modern, without clutter, and easy to use even if you're totally new to the tech. You'll also get super-fast speeds that are ideal for streaming, security-enhancing tools, and servers in over 94 countries.
Plus, if you need help getting set up, ExpressVPN's stellar customer support team is available 24/7 via live chat and email, and they've never let me down.
Do I need a VPN on my iPhone?
Unfortunately, your iPhone is still vulnerable to online threats—like malware, malicious ads and sites, hacking attempts, and data leaks. Using a VPN helps negate these risks and boost your digital privacy. How? Well, by masking your original IP address and spoofing your location, you can rest assured that third-party peepers (like your ISP, government, and would-be hackers can’t keep tabs on your activity.
Does my iPhone have a built-in VPN?
No, iPhones don't have a built-in VPN. You'll need to download one from a third-party source (and I'd suggest sticking to secure VPN providers), but once you have, you can head into your settings to manage the VPN connection.
Can I use a free iPhone VPN?
You can, but it's not a great idea. Free VPNs are sort of like the samples you get at the store—a little taste of the full thing designed to entice you into making a purchase. Free VPNs come with limitations, too, like monthly data allowances, bandwidth caps, and a puny server list, which can really put a damper on your experience.
Worse still, some free VPNs are little more than poorly disguised scams designed to scoop up your data and sell it on to the highest bidder. Naturally, this is exactly what a good VPN stands in opposition to, and you'll want to avoid these dodgy services like the plague. Check out the best cheap VPNs for some wallet-friendly options, or take a look at the free VPNs that the Tech Radar team has tested, vetted, and approved.
FAQs
How can I use a VPN on my iPhone for free? There are a number of free VPNs for iPhones, including Surfshark, TunnelBear, Windscribe, Hotspot Shield, and ProtonVPN. To use them, find their apps in the App store, download them, create an account, sign in, and connect to a server.
How do I setup a VPN on my iPhone for free? ›
How can I use a VPN on my iPhone for free? There are a number of free VPNs for iPhones, including Surfshark, TunnelBear, Windscribe, Hotspot Shield, and ProtonVPN. To use them, find their apps in the App store, download them, create an account, sign in, and connect to a server.
Does iPhone have built in VPN? ›
The iPhone doesn't have a built-in VPN but has VPN settings if you wish to build or install one. To make a VPN work, you would need to complete a manual setup and find a server to connect to, which is not an option for most users.
Is VPN on my iPhone free? ›
PrivadoVPN, Proton VPN, Windscribe, Hotspot Shield, and Atlas VPN are some of the most trustworthy providers that offer completely free VPN apps for iPhone. You can use their free plan for as long as you want. They do not cost a single penny—and they don't ask for your credit card details, either.
How much does VPN cost on iPhone? ›
Cost. Depending on your budget, you may want to take into account the cost and overall value of your iPhone VPN before making a purchase. VPN pricing can vary greatly from provider to provider, but you can typically expect to spend about $5 to $13 per month for a monthly VPN subscription plan.
What does a VPN do on iPhone? ›
A virtual private network or VPN on an iPhones cloaks your IP address, location, device identifiers, and other online activity by encrypting your internet traffic. With a VPN, you can protect your online privacy, bypass internet censorship, and access geo-restricted content.
How do I know if I have a VPN on my iPhone? ›
Additionally, you can check the VPN settings on the iPhone by going to the "Settings" app and selecting "General" > "VPN." If there are VPN configurations set up on the device, it is a strong indicator that the user is using a VPN.
How to setup a VPN? ›
Set Up a VPN on an Android Device
Go to “Settings” and from there click “Network & Internet” then “Advanced” and, finally, “VPN.” Click “Add VPN.” Fill out your VPN's “Name” and “Server” and hit save. Click on your newly added VPN profile and fill out the “Account” and “Password” fields then click “Connect.”
How do I know if I have a VPN on my phone? ›
If you are accessing your VPN directly through the provider's app you do not need to follow the steps below. To check if you already have a VPN configured on your device go to Settings > Connections > More connection settings > VPN. Any VPNs already configured on your device will show here.
Is Apple's VPN any good? ›
While Apple Private Relay has similarities to a VPN, such as masking your IP address and encrypting internet traffic, it is not a VPN and that is where its features stop. A VPN provides a much more comprehensive level of security with privacy features.
No, Safari on iPhone does not have a built-in VPN. However, you can use a third-party VPN app, like ExpressVPN, to protect your privacy and security when browsing the web on your iPhone. It's worth noting that Apple does offer a privacy feature called iCloud Private Relay, which is available on iOS 15 and iPadOS 15.
What is the most reliable VPN for iPhone? ›
ExpressVPN is the best iPhone VPN I've tested, thanks to its excellent privacy, great content unblocking power, and streamlined apps that put the competition to shame. Tons of servers, reliable connections on both Wi-Fi and mobile data, plus excellent customer support make ExpressVPN perfect for iOS.
Is there a 100% free VPN? ›
Proton VPN's free tier is the only truly free VPN we've encountered that's worth using. True, it lacks support for torrenting and doesn't include all the bells and whistles as its paid subscriptions, but Proton VPN's free tier is secure and doesn't put limits on speed, data or usage time like most other free VPNs do.
Are VPNs legal? ›
Are VPNs legal to use? Yes, VPNs are legal in most countries around the world, including the US, Canada, and most of Europe. However, you might risk heavy fines or even imprisonment for using a VPN in a country that bans it, for example, North Korea or Iraq.
Can you set up your own VPN for free? ›
Yes, you can set up a VPN for free. There are a few different ways to do this: – Use a free VPN service: There are a number of free VPN services available, but they are often not as reliable or secure as paid VPN services. They may also have limited features like bandwidth caps or slow speeds.
Should I turn on VPN on my iPhone? ›
In a word, yes. Having a VPN an iPhone ensures its security and privacy.
Is there a way to set up a free VPN? ›
There are many ways to use a VPN for free. You can either use a free VPN service or set up your own VPN. If you would like to set up a free VPN yourself, you can install it on a Windows or macOS virtual machine in the cloud or set it up on Windows 10 or 11 by using the built-in Windows tool to create your own VPN.
