2 Free VPN Services for iOS: Secure Your Browsing
iPhone VPNs: Maintaining Privacy on the Go
Update: For the latest recommendations, please refer to our updated guide on the best iPhone VPNs available.
Understanding VPNs for iOS Devices
We previously detailed the functionality of a Virtual Private Network (VPN) and presented a selection of complimentary VPN options for desktop computers, designed to enhance online anonymity.
Similar benefits can be realized on Apple’s mobile ecosystem. If you desire to secure your internet activity on an iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch, several no-cost solutions merit consideration.
Why Utilize a Free VPN on Your iPhone?
The motivations for employing a free VPN on a smartphone mirror those for desktop use. Users might seek access to geographically restricted websites or applications.
Alternatively, a VPN can be implemented to safeguard data transmitted to and from your device through encryption. This is particularly useful when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks.
Considerations When Choosing a Free VPN
It’s important to acknowledge that, as with any service offered without charge, certain trade-offs may be necessary. These can include restrictions on data usage, often referred to as bandwidth limitations.
Furthermore, exercising caution is advised when utilizing free services, especially when dealing with confidential or sensitive data. Always be aware of the potential risks involved.
Careful evaluation of a VPN’s privacy policy is crucial before entrusting it with your online activity.
VPN Express: Secure Browsing for iOS Devices
VPN Express [iTunes link] is a complimentary application designed for iPhone and iPad users. It provides 100MB of secure, encrypted internet browsing directly on your iOS device.
Upon installation, initial setup requires creating a free account within the app. This process necessitates only an email address and a chosen password.
Account Registration and Referral Benefits
Should you have been referred by an existing VPN Express user, entering their email address during registration unlocks additional free bandwidth for both parties.
Configuring VPN Settings on Your iOS Device
After email confirmation, manual configuration of your iOS device’s VPN settings is necessary. Navigate to Settings > General > Network > VPN > Add New VPN Configuration to begin.
VPN Configuration Details
Select either the L2TP or PPTP tab and input the following settings:
Description: VPNVIP
Server: us.vpnvip.com OR vpn.vpnvip.com
Account: The email address used during VPN Express registration.
RSA SecurID: Off
Password: Your chosen password.
Encryption Level: Auto
Secret: vpnvip
Send all Traffic: On
Proxy: Off
Activating the VPN Connection
With the settings properly entered, a new VPN option will become visible within the settings menu. This allows for effortless activation and deactivation of the VPN service.
VPN Status Indicator
Once activated, a small VPN icon will appear in your device’s status bar, confirming the secure connection.
Monitoring Data Usage
A key benefit of VPN Express is its integrated usage tracking. The app displays comprehensive statistics, including your remaining bandwidth, accessible via the account tab.
Subscription Options
For users exceeding the 100MB free allowance, VPN Express provides cost-effective subscription plans. Options include $0.99 for 30 days with a 2GB data quota, or $0.99 for a 1GB data plan.
Hotspot Shield
Utilizing Hotspot Shield on your iOS device is also a viable option, as detailed in our review.
A key difference from VPN Express lies in the installation process; no application download is required for iPhones or iPads. Begin by visiting the HotSpot Shield website to create a unique account ID and password by clicking the Get Account ID option.
Ensure your WiFi connection is disabled, then navigate to Settings > General > Network > VPN > Add New VPN Configuration.
Within this menu, select the IPSec tab and populate the required fields with the following information:
Description: Hotspot Shield
Server: 68.68.107.101
Account: Input the account ID previously generated.
Password: Enter the password created during the account generation process.
Use Certificate: Off
Group Name: hss
Password: hss
Proxy: Off
Re-enable your WiFi connection. Similar to VPN Express, activate the VPN. Once the corresponding icon appears in the status bar, you can safely and securely access the internet.
Should your iOS device have multiple VPN configurations established, the VPN toggle within the settings menu will direct you to a selection page, allowing you to choose your desired configuration.
To verify proper functionality, it is recommended to search for your IP address using Safari and confirm that your reported location has been altered.
Further information regarding VPN setup on iPhones can be found in our dedicated guide.
Image credit: Shutterstock
