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What is aVPN for iOS?

A VPN (virtual private network) secures your internet traffic on iOS devices like iPhones and iPads. But what is a VPN in everyday terms? An iOS VPN is an app for iPhone and iPad that encrypts your internet connection and changes the IP address visible to websites and apps. It helps you protect traffic on public WiFi networks, browse with more privacy, and access otherwise unavailable content.

How to set up a VPN on iOS

iOS App

The simplest, quickest, zero-config way of installing PureVPN on your iPhone or iPad.

1. Subscribe to PureVPN and create your account.

2. Download our iOS VPN app from the App Store and log in.

3. Tap the Connect button or choose your desired server from the list.

OpenVPN

1. Get your manual VPN credentials from the PureVPN Member Area and install OpenVPN Connect.

2. Download PureVPN’s OpenVPN configuration files, choose your preferred server file, import it into OpenVPN Connect, and tap Add.

3. Enter your PureVPN credentials, allow the VPN configuration, and connect.

OpenVPN setup guide for iOS

IKEv2

Set up your VPN connection manually using the IKEv2 protocol.

1. Get your manual VPN credentials and server address from the PureVPN Member Area.

2. Go to Settings > General > VPN > Add VPN Configuration, select IKEv2, and enter the required server and login details.

3. Tap Done, then switch on the IKEv2 connection to connect.

IKEv2 setup guide for iOS

Why Choose the PureVPN
iOS App?

Take a look at what makes PureVPN worth choosing:

Based
in the BVI

We are headquartered in the British Virgin Islands, a privacy-friendly jurisdiction without mandatory data-retention requirements.

Proven
No-Log VPN

Our no-log policy is backed by multiple independent audits, including an always-on audit arrangement that allows checks without notice.

Advanced
Privacy Tools

Store and manage passwords, check for exposed personal information, and request data broker removals, all from one easy-to-use iOS app.

5M+
Users Worldwide

More than five million users across the world rely on PureVPN for greater privacy, security, and control over how they connect online.

Fastest Devices USA VPN

Download PureVPN for All Your Devices

Take PureVPN beyond your iPhone or iPad and stay protected across your everyday devices.

PureVPN Compatibility for iOS

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Using PureVPN onOlder iPhones and iPads

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Older iPhones and iPads can still run PureVPN if they support iOS 12.3 or later. You do not need the latest Apple hardware to install the app and use its core features. Plus, there is always the option of configuring PureVPN manually with a supported VPN protocol.

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Supported iOSVersions and Devices

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PureVPN supports devices running iOS 12.3 and later, including iOS 27. Compatible devices span older and newer models, from iPhone SE and earlier-generation iPads to current iPhone, iPad, iPad Air, iPad mini, and iPad Pro models.

Explore the Best iOS VPN Features

With PureVPN for iOS, you get access to features like:

Ad & Tracker Blocker

Ad & Tracker Blocker

Cut intrusive ads and stop trackers from following your activity across websites for a cleaner, more private browsing experience.

Leak Protection

Leak Protection

Prevent DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks from exposing your real IP address or other connection details outside the VPN tunnel.

Obfuscation

Obfuscation

Obfuscation Make your VPN connection appear as ordinary web traffic when you are on networks that identify or block VPN use.

VPN on Demand

VPN on Demand

Choose specific websites or domains that should always use the VPN, and PureVPN will connect automatically before you open them.

20 Gbps Speeds

20 Gbps Speeds

Get more headroom for 4K streaming, cloud backups, large downloads, and other data-heavy activity with speeds of up to 20 Gbps.

What Makes PureVPN the Best VPN for iOS?

The table outlines how PureVPN compares against other popular iOS VPNs:

Feature PureVPN Logo NordVPN Surfshark Proton VPN ExpressVPN
Ad and Tracker Blocking
white tick
white tick
white tick
white tick
white tick
white tick
white tick
10
white tick
white tick white tick white tick white tick
Password Manager tick tick tick tick
Quantum-Resistant Encryption tick tick cross tick
Data Removal tick tick tick US only
Dark Web Monitoring cross cross cross US only
Audited No-Log Policy cross cross cross cross
Always-On Audit cross cross cross cross
Simultaneous Connections 10 Unlimited 10 Up to 14
31-Day Money-Back Guarantee cross cross cross cross

Is There a Free VPN for iOS?

Yes, free VPNs are available for iPhone and iPad, but many come with limits on data, server locations, speeds, or features. Some also rely on ads or offer a much more basic experience than their paid plans.

PureVPN gives you access to its full VPN network and iOS feature set without those free-tier limits. You can use the same server network, privacy features, and connection options available with your plan, backed by a 31-day money-back guarantee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why use a VPN on iPhone/iPad?

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plus

A VPN adds privacy and security to your iPhone or iPad by encrypting internet traffic and masking your public IP address. It also helps you access content unavailable in your region, reduce activity-based ISP throttling, and more.

Can you get a VPN on iOS?

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Yes, you can install a VPN app directly on an iPhone or iPad. PureVPN supports iOS 12.3 and later and can be downloaded from the App Store.

Does iOS have a built-in VPN?

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While iOS has built-in support for configuring VPN connections, it does not include its own VPN service. You still need a VPN provider and the required server details or a VPN app to establish a connection.

Is a free VPN on iOS safe?

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Some free iOS VPNs are legitimate, but quality and privacy practices vary widely between providers. Check how the service handles your data, what security features it offers, and whether it relies on ads or other forms of monetization.

What is the best VPN for iOS in 2026?

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PureVPN is a strong option, offering WireGuard, leak protection, obfuscation, VPN on Demand, and access to thousands of servers across 65+ countries. It also supports both app-based and manual VPN connections.

How can I enable VPN on iOS?

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Open the PureVPN app, sign in, and tap Connect or select a server location manually. iOS will ask you to approve the VPN configuration the first time PureVPN establishes a connection.

What is the fastest VPN for iOS?

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PureVPN is built for high-speed iOS connections with WireGuard support and servers capable of speeds of up to 20 Gbps. However, actual VPN speed can vary depending on your location, server choice, protocol, and internet connection.