How To Setup A VPN On Android

We use our phones for everything, from obtaining directions to monitoring individuals on social media. VPNs can help you conceal your online activities, but establishing them up on Android devices might be tough. The procedure is simple, and we've described everything in this comprehensive guide.

Ben Grindlow

Ben Grindlow is the founder of ProXPN, a company that provides reviews about VPN products and services. Ben's interest in cybersecurity and privacy led him to start ProXPN, which has become one of the most well-respected VPN providers in the world. Ben is passionate about his work, and he is constantly exploring new ways to improve ProXPN's in-depth guides.

Last updated: 9:09AM 7/5/2022

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Table of Contents

For Android users, a VPN or virtual private network adds an extra layer of anonymity and safety that protects your internet activities from prying eyes. VPNs will work on your Android device (smartphone, tablet or television) as well as they work on your computer.

It really isn't complicated to set up a VPN on an Android device and protect your sensitive information from snoops while you use the web privately.

The process to set up a VPN on Android can be outlined in just four steps.

Step 1: Subscribe to a Virtual Private Network service

Use our online VPN comparison tool to help you choose a VPN service that works for you. We can accept your payment method right from your Android device. To make it easier, there even is a special filter you can use to display only the VPN providers that work with Android.

Most VPNs function well on devices made by the most popular Android manufacturers like Samsung, Huawei, OnePlus and other brands, so chances are good that a VPN will work fine for you.

Step 2: Log in to the VPN provider

Now that you have signed up for a subscription to a VPN service, you should get online and log in on the VPN provider's website using the username and password you created.

Once you are connected, you will gain access to the VPN service's online environment. The environment should include a list of the app downloads available for various operating systems.

Step 3: Download and install the Android app

From the VPN service's online environment, click on the Android client you want to use from the list of VPN apps. The service will send you to the Google Play Store, where you can download and install the app.

When the installation process has finished, start the Android app and use it to access the VPN again.

Step 4: Make a VPN connection

Your service will provide a list of its available VPN servers, ideally with multiple servers offered. The choices should include countries with more desirable privacy policies. Choose the server location you want and make a VPN connection to it.

Now the top of your screen should display a message that your connection is encrypted. The VPN should run quietly in the background as you go about your online activities.

Keep an eye on battery consumption as you move around the internet. Most of the time the battery load should be minimal. In some cases, using the VPN may drain your battery even less than normal.

How is a VPN on Android useful?

Using a VPN on your Android device helps you in the following ways:

  1. You will enjoy more privacy, anonymity and security while using your Android phone.
  2. You (and your device) will be better protected while using public networks.
  3. Governments and streaming services may block certain content from your country, but the VPN lets you circumvent these blockages.

There really are no disadvantages to using a VPN on your Android device if you are using a wisely chosen VPN server. Just be sure to choose a VPN server in a country that will let you get around blockages while protecting your privacy.

The best free VPN services for Android

If you want a good VPN for Android without paying for it, start with the list of providers below.

  • ProtonVPN: this VPN app works quickly and well on Android devices
  • Hide me: use your smartphone to make a fast connection.
  • Tunnelbear: this is a user-friendly Android VPN with a sense of humor.

What are the disadvantages of a free VPN?

The advantage of a free VPN service is, of course, the price. The disadvantage of the free price is therefore a restricted budget, meaning that the providers will impose limitations on your account.

Restrictions you may find include:

  • Data limits: a maximum of 4 gigabytes per month is an example of this.
  • Not enough countries to choose from
  • A limited number of servers
  • A slower connection that may not be as dependable

VPN services that charge no fees may not have an adequate number of servers available to you, especially when you need VPN while on the road. Many premium VPN services offer 30-day free trials, and you may find one of these services to be your best bet for VPN on Android.

How do I connect to a VPN from my Android device?

Here is how to use a VPN from an Android device:

  1. If you are traveling, use 3G, 4G or 5G to get on the internet.
  2. Go to your VPN provider's site and log in.
  3. Connect to one of your provider's VPN servers.
  4. The rest is automatic: the VPN hides your mobile IP and redirects your data through the remote server.
  5. The VPN allows you to look around anonymously, visit blocked sites, and read uncensored news.

A VPN will work equally well, of course, if you connect your Android smartphone or tablet to it over WiFi.

Frequently asked questions

Android contains built-in VPN support, so you can set it up quickly and simply using the phone's Settings menu without installing an app. Open the Settings menu on your phone. Depending on what device you have, the instructions below may differ. Select Wi-Fi & Internet or Wireless & networks from the list.

A virtual private network (VPN) hides your device's internet traffic. VPN software may be installed on both your computer and mobile devices, such as a smartphone or tablet. It transmits information in an incomprehensible manner (known as encryption) to those who wish to steal it.

Is an Android VPN as secure as a desktop service? In general, Android VPNs may be as safe as their desktop counterparts. The same infrastructure is used by top VPN providers such as ExpressVPN and Surfshark, allowing you to use the same features on both platforms.

The best free VPNs for Android are:

  • NordVPN – It's an excellent VPN for Android with a free trial.
  • Surfshark – Introducing the best VPN for Android with a 100% money-back guarantee.
  • Atlas VPN – smooth Android app experience.
  • ProtonVPN – a solid all-around free VPN for Android.
  • Hide.me – independently audited free VPN for Android.

The main drawback of virtual private networks (VPNs) is that they expose entire networks to dangers such as malware, DDoS assaults, and impersonation attacks. When an invader has gained access to the network via a compromising device, the whole network may be brought down.

Protect your digital privacy and stay safe on the internet

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