12 Best VPN for iOS Devices for Ultimate Online Privacy

VPN is a worthy concept in an iOS operating system, be it an iPhone or iPad, since it will enable you to stay secure and confidential. VPN or Virtual Private Network encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address, and thus, your data is not visible to hackers and internet service providers, and trackers even during the use of public Wi-Fi. With increased concerns among people about their online privacy, a VPN will offer an essential amount of protection that will ensure that no information about your personal life is stolen and that you will be able to see the content that might have also been blocked because of the geographical restrictions.

Using VPN on iOS is also easy and might be completed via specific applications by reliable vendors or by setting it up manually in settings, which is not too complicated even without the tech skills of a user. This blog will take you through determining why a VPN is necessary for your iPhone, its functionality, and simple steps to get started with one to ensure your privacy on the internet is maintained with ease.

What Is a VPN For iOS?

iOS VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a security service that encrypts browsing online with your iPad or iPhone to protect the safety of your data and privacy. It creates an encrypted secure channel between your computer and the remote servers, hiding your true IP address and location and locking out other people, including hackers and internet service providers who can see what you are doing on the internet. 

It is especially imperative when it comes to using a public Wi-Fi network or unsecured networks, at which point it is of the essence to ensure that your own information, i. e. passwords, bank details, etc., remains confidential. Moreover, a VPN will enable you to overcome geographic limitations and get access to the content of other localities, as well as to strengthen the security together with the freedom of the web using iOS gadgets.

Why Use a VPN For iOS?

It is advantageous to use a VPN on iOS for several reasons:

• Enhances online security; all online communications are encrypted, and personal information is secured against hackers, spyware, and unsafe internet connections.
• Hide your real IP address and mask your geographical position to protect your privacy against the Internet Service Providers, advertisers, and websites that monitor the actions of users.
• Stops the ISP from spying on your activities or slowing down your network connection due to bandwidth usage.
• Also helps circumvent geo-restrictions so that one can access content and streaming services that might not be available in some areas.
• Prevention of the creation of detailed images about the user based on browsing behavior by advertisers and other third-party companies.
• Keeps a more confidential and safer connection to sensitive operations like online banking, private messaging, work messages, and video calls.
• Keeps your common applications and services steady on the move as it prevents blockings or disturbances based on location.
• Offers have such features as split tunneling and multihop encryption that would make the most of the security and bandwidth of iOS devices.

List of 12 Best VPN for iOS

1. NordVPN

Website: https://nordvpn.com/

NordVPN iOS is a high-end VPN application that aims to offer high-speed, secure and private of the internet on iPhones and iPads. It has AES-256 encryption with such a protocol as NordLynx (WireGuard-based) or OpenVPN to provide the best security and privacy during browsing, streaming, or gaming. 

It offers such sophisticated options as Threat Protection Pro (adblocks, trackers, and malware are blocked when VPN is not on), MeshNet, which allows connecting and sharing files to the network without any issues, Dark Web Monitor, which notifies about the breached credentials, and SmartPlay, which allows streaming the geo-restricted media without any problems. NordVPN offers a no-logs audit, supporting up to 10 devices simultaneously, and offers a few simpler customization options, like a split tunnel, dedicated IPs, and obfuscated servers in order to circumvent censorship.

Key Features:

• Second-generation AES-256 encryption.
• No-logs policy that was audited.
• Threat Protection Pro blocks advertisements, trackers, and malware.
• MeshNet to share and link encrypted devices.
• Breach alerts: Dark Web Monitor.
• Extra anonymity up to Double VPN.
• DNS leak protection and Automatic Kill Switch.
• Tor network routing through Onion Over VPN.
• SmartPlay to support streaming.
• Bandwidth supports a maximum of 10 devices.
• Dedicated IP address option
• Split tunneling out of VPN apps/sites.
• Censorship bypassed using obfuscated servers.
• 24/7 customer support solution

Pricing:

• Paid Plan: Priced at $3.09 per month.
• Available with a 2-year subscription plan.

2. Surfshark

Website:https://surfshark.com

Surfshark VPN iOS is a privacy-related VPN application that secures your iPhone or iPad by encrypting your web connection, concealing your IP address, and concealing your online activity. It has strong privacy such as MultiHop (two-step VPN), depending on limited areas, obfuscated servers (restricted areas), and split tunneling (Bypasser), allowing users to select which apps would utilize the VPN, and an automatic kill switch (so that data is not lost when the VPN is turned off).

CleanWeb Ad and malware blocker, and GPS spoofing are also available in Surfshark to protect the privacy of location. It is also compatible with a number of advanced connection protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN, which render it secure, quick, and reliable to link together iOS gadgets. The application permits an unlimited number of simultaneous connections between multiple devices, and this is suitable for individuals who have numerous devices or family members.

Key Features:

• MultiHop (Double VPN) with two server-based double encryption.
• Censorship servers and VPN blockers are used through obfuscation.
• Split tunneling (Bypasser) to block apps/websites that utilize VPN.
• Kill switch on the internet drop of VPN.
• CleanWeb to block advertisements, tracking systems, malware, and phishing.
• GPS spoofing to falsify position.
• Supports WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2.
• Infinite connections of devices.
• Pause VPN option, which allows one to temporarily turn off the VPN without a disconnection.
• IP Rotator to rotate the IP address every 5-10 minutes.
• NoBorders mode to use VPN when using network restrictions.
• Separate purchase (dedicated IP) option of a stable (static) IP.

Pricing:

• Paid Plan: Starts at $2.09 per month.
• Longer subscription plans include additional free months.

3. ExpressVPN

Website: https://www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN iOS is one of the most popular VPN products that is fast, reliable, and secure on iPhones and iPad devices. It maintains more than 105 VPN server networks around the globe and employs the best in the industry AES-256 encryption to ensure that the online traffic of users is secure.

It also works perfectly as a VPN for iOS, integrating with Siri, widgets, shortcuts, and automations to offer a simple and customizable VPN experience. Otherwise, it has an inbuilt ad and tracker blocker, a multi-lingual interface, and an inbuilt password key known as ExpressVPN Keys. The application also has several up-to-date VPN protocols, such as Lightway and OpenVPN, and can offer stability and speed of connection.

Key features:

• Over 105 VPN servers all over the world.
• Fast and connection-reliable optimized.
• Best-in-class AES-256 encryption
• Leak protection, Network Lock kill switch.
• No policy of activity or connection logs.
• Unknown, secured DNS on each server.
• Automation and shortcut support iOS Siri, widget, and shortcut support.
• In-built Parental controls, ad blocker, and tracker blocker.
• ExpressVPN Keys password manager added in.
• Multilingual interface (has 18 languages)
• Proxies Lightway, OpenVPN, and IKEv2.
• Supports the connectivity of 8 devices simultaneously.
• iOS troubleshooting and hassle-free installation.

Pricing:

• Monthly Plan: $12.95 per month.
• 6-Month Plan: $139.72 for six months.
• Annual Plan: $99.95 per year (includes 4 months free, effectively $4.99/month)

4. Proton VPN

Website: https://protonvpn.com

Proton VPN iOS is a safe and convenient VPN application that provides a high-speed connection and excellent privacy without any personal information being registered. It has instant connection, a VPN Accelerator technology that increases the speed by up to 400 percent, and can stream and share P2P files.

 It is also equipped with an inbuilt ad blocker (NetShield), Secure Core multi-hop servers that provide greater security, and also has Tor over VPN integration to provide greater anonymity. The application is compatible with iPhone, iPad, and other Apple devices that have been updated to the newer iOS versions and have DNS and IPv6 leaks protection, and the ability to use the VPN as a guest user without establishing an account.

Key features:

• VPN Accelerator technology of up to 10 Gbps VPN connection speeds.
• Multi-hop VPN servers where privacy can be assured.
• Tor anonymity browsing VPN.
• NetShield ad blocker to block advertisements, spyware, and other trackers.
• One tap connection and guest mode (no signup needed)
• DNS and IPv6 leak protection
• Access to popular services such as Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, etc., through streaming.
• Up to 10 simultaneous device support.
• Connection security, Kill switch, and always-on VPN.
• Free, audited application that is highly encrypted (AES-256).
• Requirement iOS 16.0 or iPadOS 16.0.

Pricing:

• Free Plan: Provides basic VPN features with no speed or data limits.
• Premium Plan: Starts at around $10 per month.
• Annual and two-year plans offer cost-saving options.

5. Private Internet Access (PIA)

Website: https://www.privateinternetaccess.com

The VPN service comes in the form of a powerful and privacy-based VPN app called Private Internet Access (PIA) VPN that secures your online activity on iPhones and iPads with the help of efficient encryption and several protocols such as WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2. It provides a large network of servers worldwide, protection of DNS and IPv6 leaks, a kill switch in order to avoid information leakage in case of connection failure, as well as an ad and malware blocker known as MACE. 

Customization features are also available to the app, including the fine-grained settings of VPN, split tunneling, and the Safari Content Blocker that blocks adverts when surfing. The no-logs policy of PIA guarantees the anonymity of users because it does not store browsing history, and as a VPN for iOS, it allows the use of various devices with the possibility of connecting up to 10 devices at a time.

Key features:

• Unlimited VPN servers to 28+ countries
• |human|>Infinite VPN servers to 28 or more countries.
• VPN Protocols: WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec (iOS only)
• Kill switch on data leakage on lost connection.
• DNS and IPv6 leak protection
• Embedded MACE advertisement, tracker, and malware protection.
• Ad-blocking by Safari Content Blocker.
• Split tunneling is order to select which applications or websites utilize VPN.
• Modable interface that has tabs and swift settings.
• Multi-device, supports 10 connections at the same time.
• No-logs privacy policy
• Hotspot Helper API to utilize Wi-Fi/hotspots without hassles.
• Dark theme and mobile application widgets are to be easy to use.

Price:

• Basic Plan: Starts at approximately $2.19 per month, billed annually.
• Also offers yearly and long-term subscription options.

6. IPVanish

Website:https://www.ipvanish.com

iOS IPVanish VPN is the highest-rated application, providing mobile privacy and security with encrypted connections to such common protocols as WireGuard ®, IKEv2, and IPSec. It offers quick and reliable VPN service over its over 2,400 servers in 90-plus locations across the globe, allowing its users to use their phones and tablets anonymously and at the same time prevent the theft of personal data, particularly via an unsecured network. 

The application has automatic security settings, including On-Demand VPN-on, a kill switch in case of data leakage, split tunneling to select applications using VPN, and other security features, including an ad and tracker blocker. It promotes the infinity of simultaneous connections of all devices on a single account, and it enhances the privacy of the user with a strict no-logs policy, which has been verified by independent audits.

Key features:

• WireGuard 2 supports and strong AES-256 encryption and supports of the IKEv2 and IPSec protocols.
• Connection to 2,400+ servers in more than 90 locations across the world.
• Independent audit of no-logs policy.
• On-Demand VPN switching on to insecure networks.
• An internet kill switch to avoid leakage of data in connection drop.
• Split tunneling so that VPN is not used on apps or sites of choice.
• Threat Protection: malicious site filter, anti-tracker, and ad blocker.
• Infinite concurrent connections on accounts.
• Ease of use is designed for the iPhone and iPad.
• 24-hour customer service through live chats, email, and telephone.

pricing:

• Paid Plan: Starts at approximately $3.99 per month (annual billing).
• Offers both basic and advanced subscription options.
• Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

7. CyberGhost

Website: https://www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost VPN apps are user-friendly and powerful VPN applications created to secure your privacy and safety on iPhones with iOS or macOS 11 or above. This VPN for iOS encrypts your internet traffic to ensure a secure browsing experience, unlock geo-blocked content, and protect your personal information with powerful AES-256 encryption.

The application has a simple design with a big connect button to use in a hurry, customizable settings such as a kill switch to secure the information in case the VPN fails, and the ability to choose the desired VPN protocols, such as WireGuard, due to high speed. Also included in CyberGhost are streaming-optimized servers, gaming and torrenting servers, and a no-log policy that is automatically audited to provide privacy.

Key features:

• Large server network totaling more than 11,500 servers in 100-plus countries.
• Gaming, streaming, and torrenting server.
• Smarter Rules automation of customized connections and app launches.
• RAM-based servers, which destroy data on a reboot to ensure greater privacy.
• Kill switch to ensure data protection in case of a VPN connection issue.
• OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard are supported.
• No-logs policy is audited by the strict policy.
• Unlimited access to 30 or more streaming platforms such as Netflix, Disney+, Hulu.
• 7 concurrent connections over several devices.
• Dedicated IPs that can be rented.
• iOS exclusive capabilities such as the secret photo vault and privacy browser.
• WiFi security to connect to a network automatically in hotspots.

Pricing:

• Paid Plan: Starts at around $2 per month.
• Best pricing available with long-term subscription plans

8. PrivateVPN

Website:https://privatevpn.com

The PrivateVPN iOS is a secure and easy-to-use VPN service that offers your iPhones and iPads security and privacy with the AES-256 military-grade encryption algorithm and a no-log policy that ensures absolute online privacy and anonymity. It also enables effortless evading of geo-restrictions to access international content, is compatible with unlimited bandwidth and high velocity, and has progressive settings, features such as IPv6 leak protection, a kill switch, and various VPN protocols (OpenVPN, IKEv2, L2TP, etc.). 

The application is compatible with the new iOS releases and offers one-tap security, the ability to stream, torrent, and connect to up to 10 devices at once. Another advantage of PrivateVPN is that they have a dedicated IP and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Key features:

• AES-256 encryption of military standards.
• Privacy protection policy No-log.
• One-tap, one-tap, easy-to-use app.
• 200+ servers across 63 countries worldwide.
• Unlimited network and very fast connections.
• Kill switch and IPv6 leak protection.
• Streaming platform and P2P/torrenting support.
• Several VPN protocols: OpenVPN, IKEv2, L2TP, PPTP, IPSec.
• Maximum number of simultaneous device connections: 10.
• Reserved static and dynamic IP addresses.
• 30-day money-back guarantee
• Call center services are provided by the developers.

Pricing:

• Paid Plan: Starts at approximately $3.82 per month.
• Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee for risk-free use.

9. Hide.me

Website: https://hide.me/en/

Hide.me VPN iOS is a safe and easy-to-use VPN for iOS designed to keep your online privacy protected by encrypting your internet traffic and hiding your real IP address. It automatically connects you to the nearest and fastest server based on your location and server load, ensuring smooth streaming, secure browsing, and unrestricted access to blocked content worldwide.

The application has sophisticated security features, including SmartGuard that prevents intrusive advertisements, trackers, and malware websites, a kill switch (StealthGuard) that monitors applications by barring non-secured connections, and split tunneling that allows users to choose certain applications that should travel via the VPN. Hide.me iOS also provides 10 simultaneous connections to devices, a zero logs policy which is privately audited and ensures privacy, as well as customizable, friendly settings with preferred easy server choice and dark mode. It is also fast and has strong encryption capabilities, which is why it is perfect to ensure data safety on open Wi-Fi and defeat geo-blocking on streaming platforms.

Key features:

• SmartGuard advertisement, tracker, and malicious website blocker.
• Slavery ( Kill Switch (StealthGuard) per-app.
• Split tunneling of selective app VPN routing.
• autonomous connection to the highest speed server.
• Speeds up to 10 simultaneous connections of devices.
• Independent audit on zero logs policy.
• Supports the protocols OpenVPN and WireGuard.
• Multihop server configuration and custom DNS configuration.
• Dark mode and ca onvenient interface.
• Optimized servers for streaming.

Pricing:

• Free Plan: Includes unlimited data but with limited features and locations.
• Paid Plan: Starts at $4.57 per month, billed annually.

10. Windscribe

Website: https://windscribe.com/

Windscribe VPN iOS is a simple app that offers high-speed, secure, and private browsing on iPhones and iPads. You can also use this VPN for Android devices to enjoy the same security and performance features across devices. It provides secure encryption based on protocols such as WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2, with the help of AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20 ciphers to encrypt internet traffic. The app is easy to install from the App Store and includes features like ad and tracker blocking, a firewall kill switch (always-on VPN) to prevent data leakage, and a no-logs policy to ensure user privacy.

It enables access to global content by masking IP addresses to bypass geo-restrictions. Other capabilities include smooth integration with iOS, a variety of VPN protocols, and custom configurations. Windscribe VPN is also praised for its reliability on unverified Wi-Fi networks and its ability to overcome government or workplace censorship using stealth modes.

Key features:

• Configurations: WireGuard, OpenVPN (TCP/UDP) and IKEv2, stealth, and WSTunnel.
• Perfect Forward Secrecy and post-quantum encryption of wireless on WireGuard.
• Firewall kill switch (always-on VPN) to prevent internet traffic in case of VPN connection failure.
• Ad, tracker, and threat blocking(R.O.B.E.R.T. feature).
• Privacy policy of no-identifying-logs.
• Simple to install through the App Store and integrated with the iPhone.
• Its availability of worldwide content and circumventing geo-restrictions.
• Split tunneling and personalized connection features.
• Capability to bring in bespoke VPN settings.
• High-speed servers with 10 Gbps.
• Supports a variety of gadgets on iOS, macOS, Apple TV, and iPad.
• Stealth and WSTunnel to defeat VPN blocks and censorship.

Pricing:

• Free Plan: Offers a high data limit with no cost.
• Pro Plan: Costs around $3 per month.
• Provides unlimited data usage.

11. Hotspot Shield

Website: https://www.hotspotshield.com/vpn/vpn-for-iphone

Hotspot Shield VPN iOS is a fast, secure, and optimized VPN for iOS that deploys its own Catapult Hydra protocol to offer high-speed, reliable connections with military-grade encryption. It enjoys an extensive network of servers worldwide, consisting of over 1800 servers in 80+ countries, ensuring privacy and easily bypassing geo-restrictions.

Its key features include an always-on VPN option, a kill switch to maintain security even during connection drops, split tunneling to exclude specific apps or websites, VPN protocol options (Automatic, Hydra, IKEv2), and built-in malware/phishing protection. It supports up to 10 devices on one account, offers 24/7 live tech support, and includes a 45-day money-back guarantee. With a strict no-logs policy and unlimited bandwidth in the premium version, it prioritizes user privacy.

Key features:

• AES-256 military grade encryption.
• Patented Catapult Hydra protocol at the highest speeds.
• Over 1800 servers in 80+ countries
• Infinite bandwidth and premium.
• VPN and a kill switch that is always on.
• Split-tunneling to control application and web VPN.
• Built-in viruses and phishing sites blocking.
• 24/7 live tech support
• Connect up to 10 devices to one account.
• 45-day money-back guarantee
• No-logs policy for privacy

Price:

• Premium Plan: Starts at $7.99 per month.
• Supports multiple devices simultaneously.
• Offers unlimited bandwidth usage.

12. TunnelBear

Website:https://www.tunnelbear.com/apps/ios/

TunnelBear VPN for iPhone is an easy-to-use VPN application that is characterized by high privacy standards and a cute design with bears. It offers encrypted internet services on servers in more than 40 countries, assisting the user to conceal the IP address and maintain the privacy of browsing data.

 It is created to secure the users of both public and private Wi-Fi through AES-256 encryption and can easily connect to without a single tap with unlimited bandwidth and server switchovers. The main characteristics are SplitBear (split tunneling), GhostBear (to cover the VPN traffic), VigilantBear (kill switch), and a no-logs policy, which can be considered appropriate to secure browsing, streaming, and even torrenting. The application also maintains an infinity of simultaneous connections with devices and has frequent independent security audits.

Key features:

• Single-tap connection and a bearish interface.
• Strong security AES-256-bit encryption.
• International service in more than 40 countries.
• SplitBear split tunneling (excluding sites covered by VPN) option.
• GhostBear mode to be able to obfuscate VPN traffic against detection.
• VigilantBear’s kill switch to avoid data leakage during connection failure.
• No-logs policy that protects the privacy of browsing activities.
• Infinite bandwidth and server switching.
• Limitless parallel connections of devices.
• Frequent external security checks on credibility.
• Appropriate for streaming, torrenting, and evading censorship.

Pricing:

• Free Plan: 500MB of data per month at no cost.
• Monthly Plan: $9.99 per month with unlimited data.
• Annual Plan: $4.99 per month (billed annually at $59.88) with unlimited data.

Comparison Table

Conclusion

The importance of having a VPN on iOS platforms like the iPhone is to enhance privacy, security, and to enhance freedom in the online space. A VPN will secure your online information and conceal your IP address, prevent hackers and internet service providers from viewing and utilizing your information, help you beat censorship and other geo-based limitations, and enable you to utilize your work or school network safely.

As more issues arise regarding digital privacy and cyber threats, a VPN provides an important dimension of safety usage in public Wi-Fi, online shopping, or just browsing. When used frequently, a reliable VPN on iPhone will ensure the privacy and safety of your online traffic, a guarantee of serenity, and access to the world. In general, the integration of a VPN into your use of the iOS platform is an intelligent, viable decision to secure your online existence in the contemporary connected world.

FAQs

Q.1 What Is A VPN On iOS?

A VPN on iOS routes your network traffic through an encrypted tunnel, concealing your IP address and safeguarding your online activity on iPhone and iPad devices. It protects your data, especially when using public Wi-Fi or accessing geo-restricted content.

Q.2 What Is The Configuration Of VPN On My iPhone Or iPad?

VPN can be configured in two main ways:

• With a VPN Application: Download a secure VPN app from the App Store, log in or create an account, and connect to the VPN server with a single tap. This is the easiest and most convenient method.
• Manual Setup: Go to Settings > General > VPN & Device Management > VPN > Add VPN Configuration, select a protocol (IKEv2, IPSec, or L2TP), fill in the server details and credentials, and switch on the VPN. This method suits advanced users or corporate setups.

Q.3 Which VPN Protocols Can Run In iOS?

iOS natively supports IKEv2, IPSec, and L2TP protocols. Many modern VPN apps also include faster options such as WireGuard and OpenVPN, available directly through the app rather than native iOS settings.

Q.4 What Are The Ways Of Knowing Whether My VPN Is On iPhone?

When connected, most VPN apps display an active status, and a small VPN icon appears in the iPhone’s status bar. You can also confirm the connection in Settings > General > VPN to view the active status.

Q.5 Can I Use A Free VPN On iPhone?

Yes, some free VPNs like ProtonVPN, Hide.me, and Windscribe offer secure protocols such as IKEv2. However, free VPNs often have limitations in speed, data allowance, or privacy protection compared to premium versions.