No, iOS devices do not come with a built-in VPN. While iPhones and iPads do provide the option to connect to a VPN server in the iOS device’s Settings, it is technically not a VPN service and still requires you to connect to a third-party VPN service like the ExpressVPN iOS app.

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The best iPhone VPN app for iOS in 2024

Q: What does a VPN for iPhone/iPad do?

A VPN, or virtual private network, adds a layer of security between your iOS device and the internet, protecting you from online snooping, interference, and censorship. With ExpressVPN, you can stream, shop online, and browse the internet privately and securely.

Q: How do I enable VPN on iOS?

It’s easy! Simply subscribe to ExpressVPN, download the app from the App Store, open the app, and press the “On” button. Your connection is now encrypted.

Q: Does my iPhone have a VPN built in?

While iPhones provide the option to connect to a VPN server in the phone’s Settings, it is technically not a VPN service and still requires you to connect to a third-party iPhone VPN service like ExpressVPN.

Q: Does Safari have a built-in VPN?

No, Safari doesn’t have a built-in VPN. If you want to keep your browsing and search history private on your iOS device, consider downloading a fast VPN like the ExpressVPN iOS app that will encrypt all of your internet traffic data, and keep your personal details safe.

Take back your internet with a risk-free iPhone or iPad VPN app.

Secure streaming, gaming, working, or browsing
Best-in-class encryption and privacy features
Fast VPN servers in 105 countries
30-day money-back guarantee

Secure streaming, gaming, working, or browsing
Best-in-class encryption and privacy features
Fast VPN servers in 105 countries
30-day money-back guarantee

Get ExpressVPN

Download iOS VPN

How to set up an iOS VPN

Step 1

Sign up for ExpressVPN

Visit the order page and select the option that’s right for you. All of our plans are fully covered by our 30-day money-back guarantee.

Step 2

Download an iOS VPN app

Head to the App Store on your iPhone or iPad, and install the ExpressVPN app for iOS.

Step 3

Connect to a VPN server location

Simply hit the On Button, and you’ll be instantly connected to the best location for your connection. Or pick one from our global network.

Video: How to install ExpressVPN on iOS devices

What makes the best iPhone VPN?

ExpressVPN’s high-speed network is perfect for YouTube TV

Fast speeds and smooth, hassle-free streaming

While VPNs have the potential to slow down your internet speeds, ExpressVPN is optimized so you barely notice a difference on your iOS device. This means less buffering and waiting while you enjoy strong online security.

Innovations to protect your privacy

We take your privacy seriously, which is why we use best-in-class encryption to keep your online traffic secure from interception. Our innovative server technology supports our strict policy of not collecting connection logs or activity logs.

Effective unblocking for content access

Depending on where you are, censorship and other restrictions can keep you from accessing websites, popular apps, and videos on your iOS device. ExpressVPN helps you break through these blocks, including those on school or office Wi-Fi networks.

ExpressVPN iOS app for iPhone: VPN protection in your pocket

ExpressVPN protects your iPhone, whatever model you’re using. The ExpressVPN iOS app is compatible with:

iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone SE (3rd, 2nd, and 1st generation), iPhone 13, iPhone 13 Mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, iPhone X, iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 6S, iPhone 6S Plus

Need the same great functionality on your laptop or desktop? One ExpressVPN subscription lets you connect to the VPN on eight devices at the same time, so you can use it as your Mac VPN or Windows VPN, too.

Download the ExpressVPN app for iOS on the App Store for a free seven-day trial:

ExpressVPN for iPad: VPN from anywhere, anytime

ExpressVPN is compatible with these iPad devices:

iPad 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, iPad Pro (all generations), iPad Air 2, 3, 4, 5, iPad Mini 4, 5, 6

Download the ExpressVPN app for iOS from the App Store for a free seven-day trial:

Gaming on iOS with a VPN

ExpressVPN is the best VPN for gaming online on your iPhone or iPad. A VPN keeps your data private, protects you from DDoS (distributed denial of service) attacks, and can also lower ping times between gaming servers by connecting you to locations closer to the network hosts.

If your internet service provider is throttling gaming traffic, the ExpressVPN iOS app can also bypass those restrictions to restore your network speeds to their default levels. In some instances, gamers have even reported faster speeds.

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Frequently asked questions

What does a VPN for iPhone/iPad do?

Do I need a VPN app on my iPhone/iPad?

Having a VPN on your iOS device will ensure that everything you do is secure. By connecting to any of our VPN server locations in 105 countries, you can change your device’s IP address, protect your data on unsecured Wi-Fi networks, and access blocked content.

How do I enable VPN on iOS?

Does my iPhone have a VPN built in?

Can I use ExpressVPN on other devices at the same time?

Yes! ExpressVPN is available on a wide array of devices including computers, mobile devices, and much more. You can install ExpressVPN on as many devices as you wish, and up to eight devices can be connected to ExpressVPN simultaneously with a single subscription. Or install ExpressVPN on your Wi-Fi router to connect even more.

Does ExpressVPN keep logs?

ExpressVPN is first and foremost a privacy company and therefore stores no activity logs and no connection logs. ExpressVPN also never stores any data that would allow anyone to trace a specific network activity or behavior back to an individual user. Read more about ExpressVPN’s commitment to privacy and policy toward logs.

Is there a free VPN app for iPhone?

While there are free VPNs for iPhone available, they can’t match a service like ExpressVPN, which provides optimized connections for superior speed, security, and stability, without any bandwidth caps. We keep your online traffic secure with strong encryption while offering server locations in 105 countries to choose from. You’ll also have access to our 24/7 customer support via live chat and email.

Does iOS have a VPN?

Does Safari have a built-in VPN?

Why do people use a VPN on an iPhone?

A VPN iOS app encrypts all your traffic between your iPhone and the internet. This prevents third parties from seeing what you’re doing online and protects your device from certain cyberattacks. Essentially, a VPN service like the ExpressVPN iOS app offers an extra layer of security and privacy to your iPhone. It also allows you to appear to be in a different country and increases your anonymity by giving you a new IP address.

Is an iPhone VPN safe?

Yes, most iPhone VPNs are safe and secure because they create an encrypted tunnel between your iOS device and the internet, allowing you to go online with greater privacy and security.

However, not all VPNs for iOS devices are created equal. It’s recommended that you opt for premium services like ExpressVPN, which offers an iOS app optimized to provide superior speed, security, and stability, without bandwidth caps. We keep your online traffic secure with strong encryption while offering server locations in 105 countries. You’ll also have access to our 24/7 customer support via live chat and email.

How do I know if my VPN is enabled on my iPhone?

To check if your VPN is enabled on your iPhone, you can either check for the VPN icon in your iOS device’s status bar or check if your IP address has changed. To do so, turn off the VPN app on your iPhone and type “what’s my IP address” into Google; then turn on your VPN to check if your IP address (and possibly location) has changed.

When should I use a VPN on my iPhone?

You should use a VPN on your iPhone every time you want to secure your device when connecting to the internet. By encrypting all data traveling to and from your iPhone or iPad, an iOS VPN app provides a secure internet connection. A VPN for iOS devices can also help you unblock restricted or censored content while making you appear to be in a different country.

How do I know the ExpressVPN app for iOS is secure?

Security is at the forefront of what we do at ExpressVPN. Not only do we aim to design our apps and systems to offer a high level of privacy and security, but we also routinely engage independent auditors to validate our security claims. It’s one of the best ways for our users to know if they can trust our services to protect them. See the full list of audits and read the full reports.

What iOS support does ExpressVPN offer?

What is the best VPN for gaming on iOS?

With servers across 105 countries, best-in-class encryption, and ultra-fast speeds that offer minimal buffering, ExpressVPN is the best and most reliable VPN for gaming on your iPhone or iPad.

ExpressVPN for iOS key features

More VPN locations

Choose from VPN server locations across 105 countries, including the UK, U.S., Canada, and Australia.

Optimized for speed

ExpressVPN constantly optimizes servers to deliver the fastest speeds possible.

Superior connection reliability

Enjoy industry-leading connection stability and reliability, no matter where you are in the world.

Multilingual interface

English not your first choice? Try ExpressVPN in any of 17 other languages.

Best-in-class encryption

Secure and protect all of your data with best-in-class AES 256-bit encryption.

Shortcuts to your favorite services

Customize your VPN with links to your most-used services, right below the On Button.

Advanced leak protection

Strong leakproofing is enabled by default, ensuring your privacy and security stay intact.

In-app troubleshooting

Find answers to common questions about using ExpressVPN with guides within the app.

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What people are saying about ExpressVPN

rated 4.7 out of 5

rated 4.4 out of 5

Excellent

I have ExpressVPN on all my devices - phone, laptop, tablet, AppleTV, etc., and absolutely love it.

Great VPN!

A lot of comfort in knowing that my IP address is not known and not being watched.

A sampling of reviews from our most satisfied customers. For all our reviews, check out the App Store or Google Play.

Got an account with @expressvpn yesterday. Great decision for traveling out of the country!

I have to say the service I have received from @expressvpn has been brilliant. Nothing is too much hassle so if you need a VPN I would consider Express.