Beginner
How to install ExpressVPN on iOS
Quick Answer
Installing ExpressVPN on iPhone requires downloading the app from the App Store, signing in with your ExpressVPN credentials, and connecting to a server. The process takes just a few minutes and provides instant VPN protection for your iOS device.
Prerequisites
- Active ExpressVPN subscription
- iPhone running iOS 12.0 or later
- Apple ID for App Store downloads
- Stable internet connection
1
Download ExpressVPN from App Store
Open the App Store on your iPhone and search for ExpressVPN. Tap the official ExpressVPN app with the red shield icon, then tap Get to download and install it. You may need to authenticate with Face ID, Touch ID, or your Apple ID password.
Tip
Make sure you're downloading the official ExpressVPN app - look for the red shield logo and verify the developer is ExpressVPN.
2
Launch ExpressVPN and Sign In
Once installed, tap the ExpressVPN app icon to open it. On the welcome screen, tap Sign In. Enter your ExpressVPN email address and password that you received when you purchased your subscription. If you don't have credentials yet, tap Need Help? to retrieve them.
Tip
Check your email for ExpressVPN account credentials if you can't remember them - they're sent when you first subscribe.
3
Grant VPN Configuration Permissions
ExpressVPN will request permission to add VPN configurations to your iPhone. Tap Allow when prompted, then authenticate with Face ID, Touch ID, or your device passcode. This step is essential for the VPN to function properly on iOS.
4
Choose Your Server Location
Tap the location picker (shows current selected location) to view available servers. Browse through the Recommended tab for optimal servers, or use All Locations to see every available country. Tap your desired location to select it.
Tip
The Smart Location feature automatically selects the fastest server for your location - great for beginners.
5
Connect to ExpressVPN
Tap the large Power Button in the center of the screen to connect. The button will turn green and display Connected when the VPN tunnel is active. You'll see a small VPN indicator in your iPhone's status bar confirming the connection.
Tip
The connection usually takes 10-30 seconds depending on your internet speed and chosen server location.
6
Verify Your Connection
Once connected, the app will show your new IP address and location. To double-check, you can tap Test for IP Leaks in the app menu or visit a website like
whatismyipaddress.com in Safari to confirm your location has changed.Tip
Always verify your connection is working before accessing sensitive content or websites.
7
Configure Auto-Connect Settings
Tap the Menu icon (three horizontal lines) and select Options. Enable Connect on Demand to automatically connect when joining untrusted networks. You can also enable Network Protection to block connections when the VPN isn't active.
Tip
Auto-connect features help ensure you're always protected, especially on public Wi-Fi networks.
Troubleshooting
App won't connect or shows connection failed
Try switching to a different server location, restart the ExpressVPN app, or toggle your iPhone's airplane mode on and off. Check that your subscription is active in Account Settings.
VPN permission denied during setup
Go to iPhone Settings > General > VPN & Device Management and delete any existing VPN configurations. Restart the ExpressVPN app and try the setup process again.
Slow internet speeds while connected
Switch to a server closer to your physical location using the Smart Location feature. You can also try the Lightway protocol in Options > Protocol for better performance.
Can't find ExpressVPN app in App Store
VPN apps may be restricted in some countries. Try changing your App Store region in Settings > Apple ID > Media & Purchases or contact ExpressVPN support for alternative installation methods.
Ready to get started with ExpressVPN?
Put this tutorial into practice. Visit ExpressVPN and follow the steps above.
Visit ExpressVPN →