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🤖 Android Guide • Updated January 2025

VPN for Android

Protect your Samsung, Pixel, or any Android device. Here's the complete setup guide and best VPN apps.

âš¡ Quick Setup

1. Download from Google Play Store

2. Sign in or create account

3. Accept connection request when prompted

4. Tap Quick Connect—done!

Android VPN Advantages

Android offers more VPN flexibility than iOS. Here's what you can do:

Split Tunneling

Route specific apps through VPN while others use normal connection. Great for banking apps that block VPNs.

Always-On VPN

Android's native feature keeps VPN connected at all times, blocking traffic if it disconnects.

GPS Spoofing

Some VPNs can override your GPS location, useful for location-locked apps beyond just IP-based restrictions.

Quick Settings Tile

Add VPN toggle to your notification shade for one-tap connection without opening the app.

Best VPNs for Android (2025)

NordVPN

Best Android VPN Overall

#1 Pick
  • • Excellent Android app with Material Design
  • • NordLynx (WireGuard) for speed and battery
  • • Per-app split tunneling
  • • Threat Protection blocks malicious sites
  • • Android TV app included
  • • 10 simultaneous devices
Get NordVPN for Android →

Surfshark

Best for Multiple Android Devices

Unlimited Devices
  • • Unlimited device connections
  • • GPS override feature (Android exclusive)
  • • Bypasser (split tunneling)
  • • CleanWeb blocks ads and trackers
  • • Very affordable
Get Surfshark for Android →

Step-by-Step Android Setup

1

Download from Play Store

Search for NordVPN or Surfshark. Look for the verified publisher badge.

2

Sign In or Create Account

Use existing credentials or sign up. You can also subscribe directly in the app.

3

Allow VPN Connection

Android will show a connection request popup. Tap OK to allow VPN to create a secure tunnel.

4

Connect to a Server

Tap Quick Connect for the fastest server, or browse the server list for specific countries.

Essential Android Settings

Enable Always-On VPN

Settings → Network → VPN → [Your VPN] → Always-on VPN. Blocks all traffic when VPN isn't connected.

Set Up Split Tunneling

In VPN app settings, choose which apps bypass the VPN. Useful for banking apps that block VPN connections.

Add Quick Settings Tile

Pull down notification shade → Edit tiles → Add VPN tile for one-tap connection.

Disable Battery Optimization

Settings → Apps → VPN → Battery → Don't optimize. Prevents Android from killing VPN in background.

Samsung-Specific Tips

  • • Disable Samsung Max: This Samsung data saver can conflict with VPN
  • • Add to Sleeping Apps Exception: Settings → Battery → Background usage limits → Never sleeping apps
  • • Secure Folder works: VPN protects apps inside Secure Folder too
  • • Samsung Internet browser: VPN works normally with Samsung's default browser

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Android have a built-in VPN?

Android supports VPN connections but doesn't include a VPN service. You need a third-party app or manual configuration.

Why does Android show "VPN may monitor traffic"?

Standard Android warning for all VPNs. It's technically true—VPN routes your traffic—but trusted VPNs don't log it.

Can VPN bypass carrier throttling?

Yes. If your carrier throttles video streaming, VPN hides what you're doing so throttling doesn't apply.

Does VPN work with mobile data?

Yes. VPN works on WiFi and cellular data. It protects you on any connection type.

Protect Your Android Device

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