How to Set Up a VPN on iPhone in 2026: Step-by-Step Guide
Setting up a VPN on your iPhone takes less than 2 minutes. Here’s exactly how to do it.
Method 1: VPN App (Recommended)
Step 1: Choose a VPN
We recommend NordVPN ($2.99/month) for the best iPhone experience. Other great options:
- Surfshark ($1.99/month) — unlimited devices
- ExpressVPN ($6.67/month) — simplest interface
Step 2: Download from App Store
- Open the App Store on your iPhone
- Search for your chosen VPN (e.g., “NordVPN”)
- Tap Get to download
Step 3: Create Account & Sign In
- Open the VPN app
- Create an account or sign in
- Choose a subscription plan
Step 4: Allow VPN Configuration
- The app will ask to Add VPN Configurations
- Tap Allow
- Authenticate with Face ID / Touch ID
Step 5: Connect
- Tap the Connect button
- You’ll see a VPN icon in the status bar
- Done! Your iPhone is now protected
Method 2: Manual Configuration (iOS Settings)
For VPNs without an iOS app:
- Go to Settings → General → VPN & Device Management → VPN
- Tap Add VPN Configuration
- Select protocol: IKEv2 (recommended)
- Enter server details from your VPN provider
- Tap Done and toggle the VPN on
Note: Manual setup lacks kill switch and auto-connect features. Use the app method when possible.
iPhone VPN Tips
- Enable auto-connect for WiFi networks in VPN settings
- Use WireGuard/IKEv2 for best battery life (avoid OpenVPN on iOS)
- Enable kill switch (called “Block connections without VPN” in iOS)
- Use Siri Shortcuts with NordVPN: “Hey Siri, connect VPN”
- iOS 16+ has iCloud Private Relay — this is NOT a VPN replacement
Best VPN Apps for iPhone
| VPN | iOS Rating | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | 4.7★ | NordLynx, Threat Protection, Meshnet | $2.99/mo |
| Surfshark | 4.6★ | CleanWeb, GPS Spoofing, Unlimited | $1.99/mo |
| ExpressVPN | 4.7★ | Lightway, Network Lock | $6.67/mo |
FAQ
Does a VPN drain iPhone battery?
Modern protocols like WireGuard and IKEv2 have minimal battery impact — roughly 5-10% more usage. Much less than apps like TikTok or Instagram.
Is iCloud Private Relay the same as a VPN?
No. Private Relay only works in Safari, doesn’t let you choose a location, and doesn’t encrypt all app traffic. A VPN protects everything on your iPhone.
Can I use a free VPN on iPhone?
ProtonVPN offers a legitimate free tier on iOS with unlimited data. Avoid other “free” VPN apps — they often sell your data or inject ads.
Final Verdict
NordVPN is the best iPhone VPN — fast, secure, and easy to set up in under 2 minutes.