How to Set up a VPN on an iOS Device

Configure a VPN in a few simple steps

Written by Jack Lloyd

Last Updated: May 9, 2023

This wikiHow teaches you how to enable and set up a Virtual Private Network--which allows you to use the internet anonymously--from within your iPhone's Settings.

Things You Should Know

Navigate to VPN & Device Management within your iPhone's General Settings to get started.
Tap "VPN" and then tap "Add VPN Configuration".
Enter your VPN's configuration settings and tap "Done" to set up the VPN on your iPhone.

1

Open your iPhone's Settings.

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"Settings" is the grey cog icon on one of your Home screens. It may also be in a folder named "Utilities" in your App Library..
- To connect to a VPN with your iPhone, you'll need to first contact your system administrator and ask for the configuration settings.
- If your ideal VPN runs on a workplace network, you should ask a supervisor for configuration settings.

2

Tap the "General" option.

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It's in the third group of settings.

3

Tap the "VPN & Device Management" option.

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This is where you can enter your new VPN settings.

4

Tap "VPN."

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The configuration options you enter should be provided to you by your network administrator.

5

Tap "Add VPN Configuration…"

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The "Add Configuration" window will expand.

6

Select a connection type.

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Tap Type and choose a connection type. This will be dictated by your network configuration. Your available connection types include the following options: ^{[1]
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- IKEv2
- IPSec
- L2TP
- PPTP (not included on iPhone 7)

7

Add the rest of your VPN details.

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Type your VPN's information into the pertinent fields. Depending on the type of connection you're using and your system administrator's configuration settings, this will include some or all of the following information:
- Description
- Server
- Account
- Password

8

Choose a proxy setting.

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Choose one of the three proxy options at the bottom. If your VPN uses a proxy network--that is, a network separate from your own that's used to hide your IP address--you'll need to tap one of the following options at the bottom of your screen:
- Manual - This option allows you to configure the server, port, and authentication preferences for your proxy.
- Auto - If you have the specific web address for your chosen proxy, you can paste it into the "URL" section of this option.

9

Tap "Done" to save.

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Your VPN should now be configured and ready to turn on.

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Tips

After configuring your VPN, you can turn it on by sliding the VPN switch at the top of the Settings menu from left to right. It will turn green, signifying that your VPN is on and ready to connect.

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Warnings

Without the proper support from your system administrator, you won't be able to configure your VPN.

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How to Set up a VPN on an iOS Device

Things You Should Know

Steps

Open your iPhone's Settings.

Tap the "General" option.

Tap the "VPN & Device Management" option.

Tap "VPN."

Tap "Add VPN Configuration…"

Select a connection type.

Add the rest of your VPN details.

Choose a proxy setting.

Tap "Done" to save.

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