This article will explore the setup methods and usage of ExpressVPN on iOS. ExpressVPN supports only the newer versions of the iOS. (14,13 or 12) For the older versions of this world-renowned OS, you have to set up manual configuration. (11 or below). If you got an iOS device and purchased a plan from ExpressVPN arguably one of the best VPN providers out there, you might want to set it up. Here is a comprehensive guide to guide you through the processs.
Why ExpressVPN? What is a VPN?
ExpressVPN, currently one of the leaders in VPN technology, is an optimum choice for your iOS devices. Whether you are in need of online privacy or are an avid fan of streaming geo-blocked content, ExpressVPN is the choice for you. ExpressVPN comes streamlined for your iPhones and iPad. Know more about ExpressVPN.
A VPN is a virtual network that allows you to connect to the internet seemingly undetected. It helps protect your identity and data from online threats. Not only that, as a VPN connects you to a remote server it can enable you to bypass geo-blocking, thus enabling you to access content unavailable in your region.
Setting up ExpressVPN on iOS | Things you need to know
As mentioned above, not all the iOS versions are supported by the ExpressVPN app. Officially, you can download ExpressVPN on iOS 12 or above. But unofficially, you can set up and run ExpressVPN manually on any of the iOS versions by using L2TP/IKEv2 protocol or OpenVPN configuration. But I have to remind you that L2TP provides no real security measures and is only used for anonymity and bypassing geo-blocking. On the other hand, OpenVPN protocol comes highly recommended for security and privacy but is a tad bit tricky to set up.
All in all, in this guide, we will see 3 different approaches towards installing and using ExpressVPN on iOS.
- ExpressVPN via App set up
- ExpressVPN via manual set up
How to set up ExpressVPN on iOS 12 or above (via app setup)
It is the easiest method to set up ExpressVPN on iOS. All you need to do is follow the steps mentioned below:
- Visit expressvpn.com to get started and click on Get started.
- Select a Subscription plan according to your needs.
- Sign up for an account and keep the username and password ready for future use.
- After you log into your ExpressVPN account, scroll down and download the app by clicking on Go to App Store.
- Your App store will open. Get ExpressVPN App.
- Now your app has been downloaded and installed. Click on the app to continue.
- Your app is running, click on Sign in and fill out the details obtained during step 3.
- A new page will pop up detailing ExpressVPN privacy policy. Read it and tap on agree to continue.
- The next screen will ask you to Set up the VPN. Click on Allow.
- You may be asked for authentication such as passcode, Touch ID or Face ID.
- Now, before connecting, first head over to your app settings and choose your preferred protocol.
- I recommend OpenVPN. You can opt between OpenVPN UDP and TCP. UDP offers faster peed but if unsure leave it to automatic.
- Once done, choose a server to connect to and hit the connect button.
Now, ExpressVPN is up and running on your iOS device.
How to set up ExpressVPN on iOS 11 or below (via manual setup)
We will explore 3 different ways to set up a manual ExpressVPN on iOS, using e different protocols.
Keep Note L2TP protocol doesn’t offer security measures, it is included here but not recommended.
L2TP and IKEv2 will need your ExpressVPN login credentials, as well as the server address of the VPN server you want to connect to. Getting these ready beforehand will save you a bit of trouble later.
Setting up ExpressVPN using L2TP protocol
- Unlock your iOS device and head to settings
- Click on General and then on VPN
- On this page, click on Add VPN configuration > Setup VPN configuration
- Select L2TP from the list of options and enter the following settings:
- Description — Enter your desired name (ex MY VPN)
- Server — Enter the server address you obtained from the list of servers provided from ExpressVPN
- Account — Enter your username
- RSA SecureID — Ensure this is turned off
- Password — Enter your password
- Secret — Enter the code obtained from ExpressVPN (i.e., 12345678)
- Send All Traffic — Make sure this is turned on
- After ensuring the information entered to be correct, click on save to move forward
- To connect, Toggle the Status button
You are now set to surf the internet in private.
Setting up ExpressVPN using IKEv2 protocol
Steps 1 to 3 are similar to the previous protocol
- Unlock your iOS device and head to settings
- Click on General and then on VPN
- On this page, click on Add VPN configuration > Setup VPN configuration
- Select IKEv2 from the list of options and enter the following settings:
- Description — Enter your desired name (ex MY VPN)
- Server — Enter the server address you obtained from the list of servers provided from ExpressVPN
- Remote ID — Enter the hostname provided by ExpressVPN
- Username — Enter your username
- Password — Enter your password
- Click on Save and you are done
Setting up ExpressVPN using OpenVPN
As I’ve repeatedly mentioned, OpenVPN is more reliable and secure than both L2TP and IKEv2 protocols. While both of them are considered ok, it is OpenVPN that comes highly recommended and is the most secure of them all.
Configuring OpenVPN on older iOS needs a third-party VPN client, I will be using OpenVPN connect here.
- Head to the App Store and Get OpenVPN Connect.
- After successful installation, navigate to expressvpn.com to download the OpenVPN Config (.ovpn) file.
- Import the file to OpenVPN Connect by following the below-mentioned steps:
- Click on the .ovpn file after download finishes and select open in, then click on more
- Scroll down to find OpenVPN connect and tap on Copy to OpenVPN Connect
- Run the OpenVPN Connect and find the file which must have appeared there
- Click on Add to import it
- Enter your Username and Password, when prompted
- Check the box named Connect after import and click on Add
- Now you will be prompted to confirm the Addition of VPN configurations to your device. Click Allow.
- The app will ask if you want to connect. Hit Yes.
In the future, all you need to do is run OpenVPN Connect to enjoy ExpressVPN services on older iOS devices.