Use VPN On Android: Here’s How It Works

If you surf on open WiFi networks with an Android smartphone or want to bypass geo blocking, you should set up a VPN. We explain how it works in a few simple steps.

What Is A VPN?

A VPN, short for Virtual Private Network, has several advantages. The use of this means that you do not connect to a server with your actual IP address but that the Internet traffic takes a slight detour via the VPN provider’s server. Some VPN providers even allow you to freely choose the origin of the IP address you want to camouflage yourself. In this way, for example, websites can be accessed, or content consumed that may be blocked in Germany for licensing reasons. Or the other way around: If you are currently abroad, you can use a German IP address if necessary. A VPN provides additional security on a mobile device such as an Android smartphone, which you can use to connect to a free, public WLAN when you are out and about. The setup is neither time-consuming nor complicated, Mobile phones and tablets have become.

Why Should You Use A VPN?

Sometimes, due to license restrictions, content is not available on platforms such as Netflix and other streaming services in Germany – this is called geoblocking. The VPN tunnel gives the impression on the corresponding website that the user is in a different country and is therefore permitted access.

The VPN connection is secure and can withstand attacks from outside, as you can only access the data in the tunnel with the key – you and the respective VPN provider. VPN servers also increase network privacy by obscuring the actual IP address. Without such a block, internet operators can pass on your browser history to advertisers. But many VPN providers are also legally obliged to save all data for a specific point in time. Only a few providers promise 100 percent protection because IP logs and other information are not collected from the start.

If you use a public and non-password-protected WLAN to surf the Internet, a VPN is also a valuable protective barrier. Otherwise, passwords, personal information, payment information, and even your entire identity could be tapped. However, with a VPN, you are not fundamentally immune to cyberattacks – it just makes it harder for attackers. This is because data could still be accessed via an unencrypted website.

Setup VPN On Android

A VPN connection can be established under Android even without a particular app. Depending on the Android interface from Samsung, Huawei used, etc., the exact position of the corresponding VPN settings in the system can vary. Most of the time, the point can be found near the WiFi settings. To add a new VPN, the encryption type, the server IP address, username, and the associated password are required, which are assigned to you by your VPN provider. After saving, the VPN is created as a profile. Several profiles can also be made in this way. To switch on the VPN, you have to go the cumbersome way via the settings every time. You may, however, have the option of adding the VPN toggle to the quick access, which you can access by pulling down the status bar.

Android Apps For VPN

While manually setting up a VPN still requires some work, and you need the correct access data, this can be reduced to the push of a button via an app. The VPN providers let themselves be paid for this service. Services such as NordVPN, Thunder VPN, ExpressVPN, or CyberGhost are billed monthly or yearly as part of a subscription. However, most of the time, you can try out the services free of charge in a test phase. To activate the VPN, it is sufficient to enter the login data here. The corresponding app automatically configures everything else.

Conclusion: Use VPN On Android

It’s easier than you think to set up a VPN connection on Android. If you surf in a public and non-password-protected WLAN with your Android smartphone or tablet, we recommend using a VPN. You can find more tips on protecting your digital security in the linked article.

Regardless of which VPN provider you choose – to use the VPN, it would be best if you had a fast LTE tariff.

Also Read: What Are The Criteria For Choosing A VPN