How to install a VPN on Android (2024)

FAQs

How to install a VPN on Android? ›

VPNs allow devices that aren't physically on a network to securely access the network. Android includes a built-in (PPTP, L2TP/IPSec, and IPSec) VPN client. Devices running Android 4.0 and later also support VPN apps.

VPNs allow devices that aren't physically on a network to securely access the network. Android includes a built-in (PPTP, L2TP/IPSec, and IPSec) VPN client. Devices running Android 4.0 and later also support VPN apps.

Surfshark is an excellent free VPN for Android. It offers fast and secure protocols, such as WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2. Moreover, there's a top-class AES-256 encryption, and even GPS spoofing that allows switching GPS location on your Android phone.

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.”

Smartphone VPN services are a reliable way to protect your internet activities. Since tons of personal details are sent in your phone use, hackers love to target this data. Whether using your cellular connection (3G, 4G, 5G, etc.) or Wi-Fi, your smartphone leaves you open to identity theft and other cyber dangers.

A VPN connection is made through highly secure protocols at a level of encryption that has never been cracked. This, coupled with the anonymity of IP masking and location spoofing, renders your online presence nearly untraceable. If you or your organization handle sensitive information, then a VPN is a must.

The built-in Android VPN client is one of the VPN clients that enterprises can use. It is available on all Samsung devices but has been limited to simple VPN configurations as seen in the Android Settings app. Samsung devices come with an enhanced version of the Android VPN Service.

The best completely free VPN is Proton VPN Free. It's very fast, highly secure, doesn't track user web logs, and doesn't limit data usage. Sadly, it only offers free servers in 3 countries, which don't bypass streaming geo-restrictions.

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.

Weak encryption

One of the primary reasons for using a VPN is to benefit from the strong encryption protocols that keep your data secure. However, many free VPNs employ weak or outdated encryption protocols like PPTP, which can leave you vulnerable to cyber threats, data theft and more.

Can you set up a VPN yourself? ›

Yes, you can DIY your very own VPN – but it's not easy. You have to choose a suitable device, install VPN software, and configure it for secure access. It may sound simple at first, but it requires some technical know-how, such as understanding network settings and possibly configuring your router.

Setting Up the VPN on Your Android

The first step is to go to the Google Play Store on your device and search for your VPN provider. Once you find it, tap on the Install button to download and install the VPN app on your device. For instance, if you have chosen McAfee+, search for “McAfee+ VPN” in the Play Store.

While it's important to clarify that a VPN doesn't provide free Internet, it can enhance your online experience by eliminating data caps and ensuring anonymity. However, VPNs that come with no charge may have limitations such as data caps, small server networks, and slower speeds.

To get started, you'll need a VPN client, a VPN server, and a VPN router. The downloadable client connects you to servers around the world, so employees everywhere can access your small business network. The client can be used on devices like smartphones and laptops, even if workers are using public Wi-Fi networks.

Download an Android VPN app

You can do so through the Google Play Store (easiest) or as an APK.