Don’t Get Tracked: This VPN for iPhone is Blowing Up in 2025

Ever connected your iPhone to public Wi-Fi at a cafe or airport?

Most iPhone users have, and many assume their data is fully protected just because it’s an Apple device. But that’s a common misconception. While iPhones are secure against malware. But they do not hide what you’re doing online.

Anyone on the same network can still snoop on your activity. So, how can we fix this issue? A simple answer is that a VPN for iPhone can help you. It encrypts your connection and keeps your data private, even on public networks.

What is VPN for iPhone, and Do You Need it? Here’s the Truth

When you use an iPhone, it is easy to assume you are protected. And you are not alone; many people think the same way. For them, using a VPN on an iPhone is unnecessary. But what if we tell you, all these assumptions are not based on any reliable fact, but rather misconceptions?

Apple’s built-in security features do a great job of keeping malware out and securing your device. But that protection ends the moment your data leaves your phone and travels over the internet. It becomes vulnerable to being seen or intercepted.

So, here using a VPN is very important if you want to stay protected online. Now, let us discuss in detail. 

Why Use a VPN on iPhone

IOS VPN creates a secure, encrypted connection between your device and the internet. It routes your online activity through a remote server. For hiding your real IP address and making it nearly impossible for anyone, like hackers, your internet provider, or advertisers, to track what you do online.

All this matters more than most people think. iPhones don’t protect your activity on public Wi-Fi. When you connect to free Wi-Fi at an airport or coffee shop, anyone on that same network can intercept your data, including passwords, personal messages and even banking details.

Without a VPN, your internet service provider (ISP) can also see the websites you visit. And how much time do you spend there? This data is often sold to advertisers or used to build a profile of your behaviour.

Another mistake many people make is trying to fix this by using free VPNs. Think that it is enough to protect them. Others figure the risk isn’t that big, or they don’t want to spend money on something they don’t fully understand. They believe a free VPN will cover the basics and that’s good enough.

But this is where things get risky. Free VPNs often have weak security, slower speeds, and data limits. Some even collect and sell your data to third parties. This can leave you more exposed than before. Taking your privacy lightly might cost you more in the long run.

Spending on a paid VPN for your iPhone is a smart move. It offers stronger encryption, faster connections, and reliable privacy without surprises. You get peace of mind knowing your data is safe whether you’re browsing, streaming, or banking.

Thanks to modern iOS apps, setting up a paid VPN is quick and hassle-free. It runs quietly in the background with little impact on your battery and can even connect automatically on public Wi-Fi, so you’re protected without lifting a finger.

Your iPhone is secure, but it’s not invisible. A paid VPN fills that gap, keeping your online activity private wherever you go and letting you stay worry-free.

When Should You Use a VPN on iPhone?

iPhone VPNs are not something you need only once in a while. It’s a smart tool to use daily, specifically when your online activity is more exposed.

Here are some common scenarios where using a VPN on your iPhone makes a real difference:

• On Public Wi-Fi: Cafes, airports, and hotels often have unsecured networks. A VPN encrypts your connection to keep hackers out.
• To Unlock Streaming Content: Change your virtual location to access shows on Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and more that aren’t available in your country.
• While Using Banking Apps on Public Networks: Even secure banking apps can be exposed on unsafe Wi-Fi. A VPN keeps your financial info private.
• To Hide Your IP and Location: Prevent advertisers, websites, and ISPs from tracking you by masking your IP address.

Myth: VPNs vs Speed
Modern VPNs, especially those optimised for iOS like NordVPN or Surfshark, are built for speed. When using fast protocols like WireGuard or IKEv2, most users would notice any slowdown. In some cases, a VPN can even improve streaming performance by avoiding throttling.

So using a VPN for iPhone isn’t overkill. It’s smart, especially when your data matters.

Best VPN Features for iPhone Users

Not all VPNs work the same way on iPhone, and many popular reviews skip over the features that actually matter for iOS users.

Here is what to look for if you want privacy without frustration or performance issues.

Quick Connect

This is a must-have. It lets your VPN connect automatically when you open the app or join a network. Some VPNs, like NordVPN and Surfshark, offer auto-connect.

When you are on public Wi-Fi, you don’t have to remember to turn it on every time.

iOS Split Tunnelling: Rare but Useful

Split tunnelling allows you to choose which apps use the VPN and which do not. For example, you can route your browser through the VPN while keeping your banking app on your regular connection.

Not many iPhone VPNs support this, but Surfshark and Private Internet Access offer it through their “Bypasser” or app-exclusion features.

Kill Switch

Unlike Android, iOS doesn’t support a true kill switch in most VPN apps. However, some VPNs simulate this by automatically blocking internet access when the connection drops.

Look for apps that offer “Auto-reconnect” or “Always-on VPN” options, and enable them through your iPhone’s Settings > VPN menu.

No-Logs Policy & Independent Audits

Always check for a clear no-logs policy. This means the VPN does not track or store your browsing data.

The best VPNs for iPhones, like ProtonVPN and ExpressVPN, back up this promise with third-party audits, which is an important sign that the provider is serious about privacy.

Battery Usage and Background Activity

A well-optimised iOS VPN should run quietly without draining your battery. Lightweight protocols like WireGuard or IKEv2 are better choices for mobile devices. Also, VPNs with native iOS apps tend to use less power than those with clunky or outdated designs.

Choosing the best VPN for iOS is not just about security. It is also about smooth day-to-day use. These features help you get both.

Free vs Paid VPN for iPhone: What’s the Real Difference?

Choosing a free VPN might seem like the easiest option at first, as so many free VPN are available in the App Store.

But before you install one. It’s important to know what you are actually signing up for and what limitations come with it.

What You Get with Free VPNs

Free VPNs often come with tradeoffs. Most offer limited server access, which indicates you are sharing bandwidth with other users. This leads to slower speeds, longer connection times, and more buffering, especially if you are streaming or video calling.

Many also have monthly data limits (like 500MB to 10GB), which can run out quickly. You will usually be restricted to a few locations, which limits your ability to unblock content from other countries.

Where Paid VPNs Shine

Paid VPNs offer faster speeds, better security, and more reliable connections. You get full access to thousands of servers worldwide, optimised for things like Netflix, gaming, or torrenting.

Features like split tunnelling, a kill switch, and dedicated IP options are usually available only in premium plans. More importantly, paid VPN for iPhone often come with verified no-logs policies, strong customer support, and regular app updates.

You are not just paying for a product; you are getting peace of mind.

The Truth about “Unlimited Free VPNs”

Some free VPN claim to offer unlimited data, but they usually come with hidden costs. Many are ad-supported, which means your browsing habits may be tracked to serve targeted ads.

In some cases, your data could even be logged or sold. Without strong privacy policies or audits, there’s no real way to know how your information is handled.

If privacy and performance matter to you, a paid VPN for iPhone is a better long-term choice. Free VPNs may work for light use. But they are rarely built to protect your data when it counts.

What is the Best VPN for iPhone?

A good VPN for iPhone delivers fast speeds, strong privacy protection, and a smooth app experience without draining your battery or interrupting your connection. It should easily handle daily tasks like browsing, streaming, and using public Wi-Fi while keeping your data secure.

Services like NordVPN, Surfshark, and ProtonVPN consistently rank high because they combine performance, security, and ease of use in their iOS apps.

But not every VPN lives up to its promises. That is why we tested the top VPNs ourselves on real iPhones and in real-world conditions to see which ones actually work best in 2025.

Top VPNs for iPhone in 2025: Tested & Compared

With so many VPNs claiming to be the best. It’s hard to know which ones actually deliver a smooth, secure experience on iPhones.

We looked past marketing claims and affiliate hype to focus on what really matters: speed, streaming performance, privacy policies, free plan availability, and real mobile usability.

Each best VPN for iOS in this list was tested using an iPhone on both Wi-Fi and mobile data, checking for connection reliability, app performance.

Along with how well each one handled common tasks like Netflix access, public Wi-Fi security, and background activity. Here’s how the top contenders stack up:

👉 Swipe to see full comparison

NordVPN: Best Overall for Speed & Security

NordVPN is one of the most refined and reliable services we’ve tested for iPhone.

Why do we Like it

• Fast speeds across global servers.
• Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, and HBO Max.
• Advanced features like Threat Protection & Double VPN.
• Auto-connects on public Wi-Fi.

Overview

NordVPN’s iPhone app is sleek and reliable. It delivered consistently fast speeds, even on long-distance servers, and handled streaming with zero buffering.

Privacy features like Double VPN and Threat Protection are easy to use, and public Wi-Fi auto-connect makes daily use seamless. Though it’s not free, the performance justifies the price.

Surfshark: Best for Unlimited Devices & Affordability

Surfshark stands out by letting you connect an unlimited number of devices, making it ideal for families or users with multiple gadgets.

Why do we Like it

• Connect unlimited devices.
• Built-in ad blocker (CleanWeb).
• Streams Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video.
• Offers split tunnelling for selected apps.

Overview

Surfshark’s affordability and unlimited device connections make it perfect for households or power users.

The app runs smoothly on iOS and includes handy extras like split tunnelling and ad blocking. Streaming was flawless in our tests, and the pricing is among the most competitive in the premium tier.

ProtonVPN: Best Free VPN for iPhone

ProtonVPN is the only trustworthy VPN offering unlimited free data with no ads or trackers.

Why do we Like it

• Unlimited free plan with no ads.
• Transparent no-logs policy, open-source app.
• Decent free-tier speeds.
• The paid version unlocks streaming.

Overview

ProtonVPN is a standout free VPN with no bandwidth caps or invasive ads. While the free version limits server access and streaming, it’s ideal for private browsing.

Privacy-first users will appreciate its audited, open-source app. The paid tier unlocks more speed and full streaming access.

ExpressVPN: Best for Travellers

ExpressVPN combines speed, security, and simplicity in a sleek app.

Why do we Like it

• Excellent global server coverage.
• Consistently fast across regions.
• Split tunnelling for advanced users.
• User-friendly, fast iOS app.

Overview

ExpressVPN excels in travel scenarios, maintaining stable, high-speed connections across continents.

The app is intuitive, connects quickly, and includes advanced options like split tunnelling. It is pricier than others but ideal for users who want a seamless, premium experience anywhere in the world.

Windscribe: Best Free Plan with Flexibility

Windscribe offers a generous 10GB/month free plan and a surprising number of features for a premium VPN.

Why do we Like it

• 10 GB of free data per month.
• Several server options, even on the free tier.
• Works with some streaming sites.
• Great for casual, light users.

Overview

Windscribe’s free plan offers decent flexibility for non-heavy users. It handled YouTube and some Netflix regions in our testing, though performance varied.

Its app isn’t the smoothest, and the no-logs policy hasn’t been independently audited. But it’s a strong pick for occasional use on a budget.

Looking for a VPN USA iPhone Solution: Will these VPNs Meet your U.S. Needs?

If you’re located in the U.S. or often stream U.S.-based content, your VPN for iPhone must perform well with American servers. During testing, we specifically evaluated how these VPNs handled access to platforms like Netflix U.S., Hulu, and HBO Max from different U.S. regions.

We also examine how well they protect your privacy while using public networks, especially in high-traffic locations like airports and cafés.

The services mentioned above performed reliably across U.S. locations, making them great choices for iPhone users who want both speed and privacy on American networks.

How to Get VPN for iPhone: Step-by-Step Guide to Set Up VPN on iOS

Setting up a VPN on your iPhone is simple and only takes a few minutes. Whether you prefer using a ready-made app or configuring it manually, both options help protect your online activity and privacy. Here’s how to do both.

Option 1: Use a VPN App from the App Store

This is the easiest and most reliable method for most people.

• Open the App Store on your iPhone.
• Search for a trusted VPN app like NordVPN, Surfshark, or ProtonVPN.
• Download and install the app.
• Open the VPN app and sign up or log in.
• Allow VPN permissions when prompted. This gives the app permission to configure VPN settings on your device.
• Tap “Quick Connect” or select a server location. Your VPN will activate, and you’ll see a small “VPN” icon at the top of your screen.

Tip: Most apps let you auto-connect when joining public Wi-Fi. Look for this in the app settings.

Option 2: Set Up a VPN Manually via iOS Settings 

If your VPN provider gives you manual configuration details (e.g., for L2TP/IPSec or IKEv2), here’s how to set it up:

• Go to Settings, then select General, then click  VPN & Device Management and click on  VPN.
• Tap “Add VPN Configuration.”
• Choose your VPN type (IKEv2, IPSec, or L2TP).
• Enter the required details: server address, remote ID, username and password.
• Tap “Done.”
• Toggle the VPN switch to connect.

Note: This method doesn’t support advanced features like a kill switch or auto-connect. Use it only if your provider recommends it.

Both methods help secure your iPhone, but using a dedicated app gives you better control, automatic updates, and access to extra features like split tunnelling and ad blocking.

VPN Compatibility for iOS Versions: iOS 9 to iOS 18

iPhones come in all shapes, sizes, and software versions, whether you are holding on to an older device or have just updated to the latest iOS.

Finding a VPN for iPhone that works smoothly on your version matters. Not all VPN apps support legacy devices, and even some newer versions require specific features to run optimally.

To make it easier for you, we have broken down VPN compatibility by iOS version. Below, you will find which versions are still supported, what features you may miss out on, and how to get the best experience.

VPN for iOS 10.3.4: Does It Still Work?

Suppose you are still using a device on iOS 10.3.4. You’re not alone. Many users rely on older iPhones for basic browsing and communication. While support is limited, there are still ways to secure your connection.

VPNs with the IKEv2 protocol are your best bet. These lightweight setups can still run on iOS 10.3.4 without overwhelming the device. However, be aware that advanced features like split tunnelling or kill switch may not be available, and app updates could be inconsistent.

VPN for iOS 9.3.5 & VPN for  iOS 9: Limited but Still an Option

Older iPhones running iOS 9.3.5 or iOS 9 have much more limited VPN iPhone options. But if you are using one as a backup or travel device, there is still a way to protect your connection.

In this case, your best option is manual configuration. Set up a VPN through your iPhone’s settings using L2TP or IPSec protocols. You would not get the polished app interface or newer security features, but you will still have basic encryption to help protect your data.

VPN for iOS 10 is Still Usable with Manual Setup

Many users still operate devices on iOS 10, and while app store support is fading, manual VPN setup can keep you secure.

Providers like ProtonVPN and Private Internet Access may still offer partial app support, but for consistent protection, manual configuration with IKEv2 is the more stable route.

You’ll get better speed and reliability with fewer crashes, ideal for basic browsing or occasional public Wi-Fi use.

VPN iOS 10 Tip: Choose Lightweight Protocols

To get the most out of your VPN on iOS 10. It is important to stick with lightweight protocols and apps that do not drain your device.

Avoid feature-heavy apps that demand frequent updates or background processing. Look for a VPN for iPhone that offers WireGuard or IKEv2, which are both fast and efficient on older devices.

VPN for iOS 12.5.7 is Still Compatible with Most Apps

If your iPhone runs iOS 12.5.7, you are in a good spot. This version still supports most major VPN apps from the App Store.

Apps like NordVPN, Surfshark, and ProtonVPN all offer full support on this version. You will be able to stream, browse, and protect your data with up-to-date security features, making it the best choice for users with older but still active devices.

VPN for iOS 18: Best Performance and Full Features

For users running the latest iOS 18, VPN apps are at their most powerful. You’ll have access to the latest features like auto-connect, kill switch, split-tunneling, threat protection, and more.

Performance is smooth, battery impact is minimal, and app updates are fully optimized. If you value speed, privacy, and convenience, iOS 18 gives you the best VPN experience available today.

In short matter whatever iPhone version you’re using, there’s a VPN solution available, though some may require manual setup or simpler apps. If you’re unsure where to start, check the App Store compatibility for your version, or try a VPN with a free trial to test its performance on your device.

VPN for iPhone: FAQs

The Bottom Line

The iPhone might be one of the most secure devices on the market. But it’s not bulletproof, especially when your data leaves the device. From public Wi-Fi at airports and hotels to untrusted networks and aggressive ad tracking. iPhone users face plenty of privacy risks every day.

A VPN for iPhone keeps you safe. It gives you control over who can see your data and who can’t. It hides your IP address, encrypts your traffic, and helps you avoid ISP tracking and geo-restrictions.

The good news? You don’t need to be a tech expert to get protected. Modern iOS VPN apps are built for simplicity, speed, and security, with features like quick connect, auto-on for public Wi-Fi, and minimal battery usage.

From free options like ProtonVPN to the best iPhone VPN like NordVPN and Surfshark. There is a VPN that fits every need, budget, and iOS version from iOS 9 to iOS 18.

So if you are still browsing without a VPN, now is the time to change that. A few taps in the App Store could mean a huge step forward in protecting your digital life.