How to Setup a VPN on Android [Updated 2023] (2024)

Smartphones privacy and security threats are ever-present. The need to guard precious data stored in your Android is higher than ever before. The good thing is, there are a lot of VPN apps for Android so setting it up on your device is really easy.

In this post, I will explain how to setup a VPN on Android and safeguard your Android devices from security vulnerabilities to another level.

How to Setup a VPN on Android?

You can setup a VPN on Android in two ways . The first option is much simpler and involves using the Google Play store app. The second option involves the manual configuration of a Best VPN service such as ExpressVPN through settings. Also, ExpressVPNhas thebest mobile VPN appservicewith the fastest delivery powered bylightway protocol. ExpressVPN offers 7-day ExpressVPN free trial on Android. a top-rated VPN according to ExpressVPN Review

#1 Install Android App through Google Play Store

Step 1: Select any Android VPN of your choice, preferably ExpressVPN.

Step 2: Grab your Android device.

Step 3:Head over toGoogle Play Storeand search for your desired VPN app.

Step 4:Install app> Login using your credentials> Selectthe most optimized server> Enjoy internet freedom!

#2 Manually Configure VPN through Settings

Note: Since Android devices vary from one another, the below mentioned steps might differ slightly depending on your Android device and OS version. But they are very easy and will only take you 3 minutes to setup a VPN on Android.

*The below mentioned steps and screenshots are taken from Nokia 8 running Android Pie.*

Step 1: Head over to settings menu of your Android device.

Step 3:Now tap on Advanced.

Step 4:Now tap on VPN.

Step 5: Next tap on the + icon located at the top right.

Step 6: Choose a name for your VPN settings. Don’t worry, you can choose any name you like.

Step 7: Choose which protocol you wish to use.

Step 8:Now enter the server address of your VPN provider.

Step 9:Finally, enter the credential of your VPN provider and hit save to setup a VPN on Android.

Get ExpressVPN

Do not have Play Store? Use the APK instead

Not being able to access the Google Play Store can be a major pain in the neck. Unfortunately, some countries have actually banned Google products, this also includes the Play Store.

Take for example China. Google Play Store is just not accessible in the region. In fact, most Android device don’t even come with Play Store installed.

That said, there is one way you can install any app including VPNs without having to deal with Google Play Store issues.

How?

Well…by enabling Unknown sources on your Android device, you can install any .APK file of your choice from a source other than Google Play.

Here’s how you can do it yourself:

Step 1: Head over to the settings menu of your Android device.

Step 2:Scroll all the way down to Lock screen and security.

How to Setup a VPN on Android [Updated 2023] (7)

Step 3:Now tap on Install unknown apps.

How to Setup a VPN on Android [Updated 2023] (8)

Step 4:Now choose the source app from where you’ll be downloading the .APK file of your choice.

How to Setup a VPN on Android [Updated 2023] (9)

Step 5:Finally, enable the Allow from this source option.

How to Setup a VPN on Android [Updated 2023] (10)

That’s it! If you’ve followed the steps correctly, you can easily download and install any VPN app of your choice.

That said, if you want to install the Google Play Store itself, you might find my best VPN to access Google Playblog useful.

Always-On VPN Mode

From Android 4.2 and higher versions, Google introduced the “Always-on VPN” functionality. When you activate the said function on your Android phone, your device will always send your data over the VPN.

You must use this feature when you need to avail public Wi-Fi to use the internet. To enable this benefit, check the “Always-on” VPN mode.

How to Setup a VPN on Android [Updated 2023] (11)

Wrapping Up

So there you have it. Learning how to setup a VPN on Android hardly requires any special skill or knowledge. With enough patience, I’m sure I could explain it well enough to my grandma. But seriously, don’t connect your phones to the internet without a VPN running if you value your privacy at all and don’t want your ISPs to snoop in on your online activities. If you’re looking for a comprehensive installation guide for the IPVanish Android App in USA , we’ve got you covered.Read reviews also when trying to use free VPNs as data protection is also necessary while using the apps or you may look for best free VPN for android TV box in USA online.

How to Setup a VPN on Android [Updated 2023] (2024)

FAQs

How to Setup a VPN on Android [Updated 2023]? ›

On your phone, tap [Settings] > [Network & internet] > [VPN] > tap [+] in the upper right corner to add a new IPSec VPN profile.

How do I manually setup a VPN on Android? ›

Step 2: Enter VPN information
  1. Open your device's Settings app.
  2. Tap Network & internet. VPN. If you can't find it, search for "VPN." If you still can't find it, get help from your device manufacturer.
  3. At the top right, tap Add .
  4. Enter the information from your administrator.
  5. Tap Save.

Does Android have a built-in VPN? ›

Android includes a built-in (PPTP, L2TP/IPSec, and IPSec) VPN client. Devices running Android 4.0 and later also support VPN apps.

Why is VPN not working on my phone Android? ›

If your VPN isn't connecting on your Android device, there could be various reasons behind it. Things like outdated operating systems, crowded servers, or wrong setups might be culprits. Unreliable VPN providers might also cause your VPN not working on Android.

How to create your own VPN on Android? ›

How to set up a VPN on Android:
  1. Go to Settings, then Network & Internet, then Advanced, and click VPN.
  2. You'll then be prompted to create a VPN Profile where you'll add the VPN name, type, and server details. Then click on Save.
Sep 7, 2023

Is there a 100% free VPN for Android? ›

Yes, there's a really good free VPN for Android – ProtonVPN. It's a good choice, although not the best, given its lackluster performance, no streaming capabilities, and small server fleet. This is by far the best choice if you don't want to pay a single dollar.

How to set VPN on Android without app? ›

Here's how to set up a VPN on Android manually: Go to “Settings,” tap “Wireless & networks” → “More settings” → “VPN” → “Add VPN network.” Under “Edit VPN network,” enter the required information as shown below.

How do I know if my Android phone is connected to VPN? ›

To check if you already have a VPN configured on your device go to Settings > Connections > More connection settings > VPN.

What is the number one VPN for Android? ›

NordVPN is one of the biggest and best-known VPNs on the block—and there's a good reason for it. The VPN has scored more than 50 million downloads and a top Google Play rating, and works like a charm on Android. NordVPN offers, in fact, a greater wealth of advanced security features compared to many competitors.

What's the best free VPN for Android? ›

Side-by-Side Comparison of the Best Free VPNs of 2024
SystemNordVPNHotspot Shield
Ranking1st3rd
Ratings9.7/10 Full-featured VPN with free offers8.9/10 Fastest free VPN
Works onWindows, Mac, Android, iOS, Apple TV, Android TV, browser extensions, etcWindows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Data Usage LimitNone15 minutes of use per ad
6 more rows
Apr 26, 2024

How do I add a VPN configuration? ›

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.

Should I turn on VPN on my Android phone? ›

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.

What is blocking my VPN connection? ›

VPNs typically get blocked due to government censorship, copyright concerns, streaming location restrictions, or school and workplace restrictions.

Does Samsung have a built-in VPN? ›

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.

Can police track NordVPN? ›

Whether police can track VPN traffic is a common concern among users seeking online privacy. The truth is: the police can't monitor encrypted VPN traffic. However, they can ask your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to provide connection or usage logs through a court order, which can lead them to your VPN provider.

How can I make my own VPN for free? ›

How to set up your own VPN for free in the cloud
  1. First, you will need a Google Cloud account, for which you can use a pre-existing Gmail account or create a new one; you will get free credit if you are a new user of Google Cloud.
  2. Visit the Google Cloud Marketplace and search for OpenVPN.
Jun 29, 2023

How do I manually add a VPN connection? ›

Once you have your work or personal VPN settings ready:
  1. Select Start > Settings > Network & internet > VPN > Add VPN.
  2. Under Add a VPN connection, do the following: For VPN provider, choose Windows (built-in). In the Connection name box, enter a name you'll recognize (for example, My Personal VPN). ...
  3. Select Save.

How do I manually set up a VPN? ›

You can also set up a new VPN connection manually by following these instructions:
  1. Select “Start,” then “Settings,” then “Network & Internet,” then “VPN,” and “Add VPN”.
  2. Choose Windows as your VPN provider.
  3. Enter a name you will recognize for future use in the “Connection Name” box.
Oct 16, 2023

How do I manually install 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 to get free VPN on Android? ›

ProtonVPN is a great option for anyone with a single Android device who needs a free VPN. Perfect for the one-off phone or tablet user, ProtonVPN provides unlimited data so it can be used all day without worrying about hitting a cap.

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