Beginner
How to install on Android on Surfshark
Quick Answer
Installing Surfshark on Android is straightforward - download the app from Google Play Store, log in with your credentials, and connect to a server. The entire process takes just a few minutes and requires no technical expertise.
Prerequisites
- Active Surfshark subscription
- Android device running Android 5.0 or higher
- Google Play Store access
- Stable internet connection
1
Open Google Play Store
Launch the Google Play Store app on your Android device. Ensure you're signed in with your Google account to download apps.
Tip
Make sure your device has enough storage space (at least 50MB) for the Surfshark app.
2
Search for Surfshark
Tap the Search bar at the top and type
Surfshark. Look for the official Surfshark VPN app with the blue shark logo published by Surfshark B.V.Tip
Verify the publisher name to avoid downloading fake or malicious VPN apps.
3
Download and Install
Tap the Install button next to the Surfshark app. Wait for the download and installation to complete automatically. The app size is approximately 40-50MB.
Tip
Use Wi-Fi connection for faster download and to avoid mobile data charges.
4
Launch the App
Once installed, tap Open from the Play Store or find the Surfshark app icon on your home screen. The app will launch and show the welcome screen.
5
Log In to Your Account
Tap Log In and enter your Surfshark email and password. If you don't have an account, tap Get Surfshark to create one and choose a subscription plan.
Tip
Enable biometric login (fingerprint/face unlock) for quicker access in the future.
6
Grant Necessary Permissions
The app will request VPN connection permissions. Tap Allow when prompted and then tap OK in the Android VPN connection dialog. This creates a secure VPN profile on your device.
Tip
These permissions are essential for the VPN to function properly and encrypt your internet traffic.
7
Choose a Server Location
Tap Locations to browse available servers. Select your preferred country and city from the list. For best performance, choose Fastest Server which automatically selects the optimal location.
Tip
Closer server locations typically provide faster connection speeds.
8
Connect to VPN
Tap the large Connect button on the main screen. The button will turn green and show Connected when the VPN tunnel is established. You'll see a VPN key icon in your Android status bar.
Tip
Your real IP address is now hidden and your internet traffic is encrypted through Surfshark's servers.
Troubleshooting
App not available in Google Play Store
Check if you're in a restricted region. Try downloading the Surfshark APK directly from the official website or use a different Google account.
Connection fails or keeps disconnecting
Try switching to a different server location, disable battery optimization for Surfshark in Settings > Apps > Surfshark > Battery, or switch VPN protocols in app settings.
Slow internet speeds while connected
Connect to a nearby server location, try the WireGuard protocol in Settings > VPN Settings > Protocol, or disable unnecessary features like ad-blocking.
Login credentials not working
Reset your password through the Forgot Password link, ensure you're using the correct email address, or contact Surfshark support if the issue persists.
Ready to get started with Surfshark?
Put this tutorial into practice. Visit Surfshark and follow the steps above.
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