Using a VPN on iPhone and iPad is a better way to ensure the security of your devices. You can effortlessly use apps downloaded from the App Store to connect to a VPN. The Cupertino-based tech giant also allows you to add VPN Configuration to your iPhone and iPad manually. Apple devices have excellent VPN support.

But what is VPN and why should you use it?

VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. It allows you to create a secure connection to another network. It also gives you online privacy and anonymity. VPN does so by creating a private network from a public Internet connection.

In easy terms, VPN makes your connection secure while you surf on public Wi-Fi. The anonymity it provides hides your web browsing from government and other agencies. VPN also allows you to unblock geo-restricted content like videos, TV shows, apps, websites, podcasts, etc. It will enable you to view content that is not yet made available in your country.

How to Add and Configure VPN Access on iPhone and iPad

Step #1. Download a VPN app of your choice. There are plenty on the App Store. We also have a list of best VPN apps for the iPhone. I am using a Better VPN.

 Step #2. Launch the VPN app. Most VPN apps need you to log in or sign up before you can use them. If your app asks you to do so, tap on sign up and complete the process. In this demo, I am using Better VPN that does not require compulsory sign up or log in.

Step #3. Tap on Accept. Close the pop-up that asks you to purchase a subscription.

 Step #4. Tap on the circle that shows “DISCONNECTED.” Tap Accept & Continue if asked.

 Step #5. After one or two seconds, you will see an iOS pop-up asking for your permission to add VPN Configurations. Tap on Allow.

 Step #6. Enter your iPhone password. On iPhones with Touch ID, you may also use fingerprint authentication.

 After the password (or Touch ID), you will be taken back to the VPN app. Now, you will see “CONNECTING…” and then “CONNECTED.” You are now connected to a VPN!

By default, your browsing is routed via VPN servers at the optimal location. If you want, you may also tap on any country from the list below. This will route your connection via servers in that country. The sites and apps you use now will think you are using it from the chosen country.

To disconnect, launch the Better VPN app and tap on the circle that currently says CONNECTED. To connect next time, relaunch the app and tap on the same ring. You may also open the Settings app of your iPhone and tap on the VPN toggle. (From my personal experience, this is a hit or miss at times. Use the app instead.)

How to Add and Configure VPN Manually on iPhone and iPad

The above method was simple and straightforward. However, you can also add and configure VPN client manually. For this, you will need the setup information, like the server, remote ID, username, and password. You can get this from your system administrator, your company’s tech support, or ask your VPN service provider. (If you are provided these certificate files via email, you can import them from mail or Safari by a tap.)

Assuming you have the necessary information, let us proceed.

Step #1. Launch Settings on your iPhone.

Step #2. Tap on General ⟶ VPN ⟶ Add VPN Configuration.

 Step #3. Tap on Type and select your VPN type among IKEv2, IPsec, L2TP. After selecting, tap on Back.

 Step #4. Enter details like Description, Server, Remote ID, and Local ID (optional).

Step #5. Now, enter the authentication login information like username (or certificate) and password.

Step #6. Tap on either Manual or Auto if you use a proxy. Then, tap on Done.

Step #7. Finally, turn on the status switch under VPN configuration.

Connect and Disconnect from VPN

It is straightforward. Once you have set your VPN configuration, turning VPN on and turning it off is a cakewalk.

Method #1. If you use a VPN app, you can simply launch the app and tap on Connect/Disconnect

Method #2. Launch the Settings app and toggle the VPN switch to on / off (Below Mobile Data).

Method #3. Launch the Settings app and go to General ⟶ VPN and tap the toggle on / off. If you have more than one VPN Configuration profile, you will have to tap on the one you wish to use.