You can set up and use a VPN automatically (a bit easier option) or manually (takes more time). The quickest way to start enjoying an encrypted connection is by choosing a VPN provider — we’ll talk about that later on — and downloading their app.The easiest way — get an app and use it straight off the bat
The advantage of an app is that the setup and most settings are automated — you‘ll save time and won‘t need to fiddle with the different settings of various protocols. A VPN service also has additional functions, like a dedicated IP or an IP rotator and randomizer.
By the way, setting up a VPN on an iPad is roughly the same, so here’s the process for most VPN apps:
Sign up for a VPN;
Download an iOS VPN or get it from the App Store;
Install the app;
Open the app, choose a location, and tap Connect.
Now you’re set to enjoy the benefits of a VPN.
Manually set up a VPN on an iPhone or iPad
If you want to set up a VPN on an iOS device manually, you can do that. The major upside of a manual setup is that it may give you additional setting control and insight into what’s under the figurative hood.
iPhone 11, iPhone 12, iPhone 13, iPhone 14, and a lot of older iOS devices natively support several VPN protocols. For this example, we’ll be using IKEv2, as it’s currently the best available option, but bear in mind that we have more extensive guides on how to use a VPN on iPhone.
Open Settings;
Choose General;
Click on VPN and Device Management;
Choose VPN;
Click Add VPN Configuration;
Choose IKEv2 as your VPN type;
Enter your VPN configuration data;
Enter your authentication data;
Voilà, setup complete.
It’s also worth mentioning that with the change to iOS15, Apple introduced a VPN-like feature called Private Relay. It’s only available for iCloud+ subscribers. There’s no way to access this feature without an active subscription.
A VPN connection protects your traffic by sending your data through an encrypted tunnel. Private Relay tries to achieve the same by using two different proxies to hide your IP address and online activity. If you have an iCloud+ subscription already, it may be a good tool for internet privacy, but I wouldn‘t stop using a VPN with the iOS 15 update just yet.
