Beginner
How to sign up and create account on Surfshark
Quick Answer
Sign up for Surfshark by visiting their website, selecting a subscription plan, entering your email address, and completing the payment process. Once payment is confirmed, you'll receive login credentials and can download the app to start using the VPN service.
Prerequisites
- Valid email address
- Payment method (credit card or PayPal)
- Internet connection
- Web browser or mobile device
1
Visit Surfshark's official website
Open your web browser and navigate to surfshark.com. Click on the Get Surfshark or Start Free Trial button prominently displayed on the homepage.
Ensure you're on the official website to avoid phishing attempts by checking the URL matches exactly.
Ensure you're on the official website to avoid phishing attempts by checking the URL matches exactly.
Tip
Use an incognito or private browsing window to avoid cached data that might affect pricing or promotional offers.
2
Choose your subscription plan
Review the available subscription options displayed on the pricing page. Surfshark typically offers:
Select your preferred plan by clicking Get [Plan Name] button.
- 24-month plan - Best value with maximum discount
- 12-month plan - Good balance of savings and commitment
- 1-month plan - Most flexible but highest monthly cost
Select your preferred plan by clicking Get [Plan Name] button.
Tip
Longer-term plans offer significant savings, and Surfshark includes a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans.
3
Enter your email address
On the checkout page, enter your email address in the Email field. This will be your login username and where Surfshark sends important account information.
Double-check your email address for accuracy as you'll need to verify it and use it for future logins.
Double-check your email address for accuracy as you'll need to verify it and use it for future logins.
Tip
Use an email address you regularly check and have long-term access to, as it's tied to your subscription and support requests.
4
Select payment method and enter details
Choose your preferred payment method from the available options:
Fill in the required payment information accurately.
- Credit/Debit Card - Enter card number, expiration date, and CVV
- PayPal - Click to redirect to PayPal login
- Cryptocurrency - Follow prompts for crypto payment
- Google Pay/Apple Pay - Use saved payment methods
Fill in the required payment information accurately.
Tip
Credit card payments are processed immediately, while some alternative payment methods may take longer to confirm.
5
Review and complete your order
Review your order summary showing:
Check the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy checkbox if required, then click Complete Order or Buy Now.
- Selected subscription plan and duration
- Total price and any applicable discounts
- Billing cycle information
Check the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy checkbox if required, then click Complete Order or Buy Now.
Tip
Take a screenshot of your order confirmation for your records, including the order number and billing details.
6
Verify your email address
Check your email inbox for a verification message from Surfshark. The subject line typically reads "Welcome to Surfshark" or "Verify your email".
Click the Verify Email or Confirm Account link in the email. If you don't see the email, check your spam or junk folder.
Click the Verify Email or Confirm Account link in the email. If you don't see the email, check your spam or junk folder.
Tip
Email verification usually happens automatically after payment, but manual verification may be required for some payment methods.
7
Set up your password
After email verification, you'll be prompted to create a password for your account. Create a strong password that includes:
Enter your password in both the Password and Confirm Password fields, then click Create Account.
- At least 8 characters
- Mix of uppercase and lowercase letters
- Numbers and special characters
Enter your password in both the Password and Confirm Password fields, then click Create Account.
Tip
Use a unique password you haven't used for other accounts, and consider using a password manager to generate and store it securely.
8
Download and install Surfshark app
Once your account is created, you'll be redirected to the download page or your account dashboard. Download the appropriate Surfshark app for your device:
Install the app and log in using your email and password to start using Surfshark.
- Windows/Mac - Download desktop application
- iOS/Android - Download from App Store or Google Play
- Browser Extension - Install Chrome, Firefox, or Edge extension
Install the app and log in using your email and password to start using Surfshark.
Tip
You can use your Surfshark account on unlimited devices simultaneously, so download apps on all your devices for complete protection.
Troubleshooting
Email verification not received
Check your spam/junk folder first. If still not found, log into your Surfshark account dashboard and click Resend Verification Email. Ensure your email provider isn't blocking emails from Surfshark domains. Wait up to 15 minutes as delivery can be delayed.
Payment declined or failed
Verify your payment details are correct including card number, expiration date, and billing address. Contact your bank to ensure they're not blocking the transaction. Try a different payment method like PayPal or contact Surfshark support for alternative payment options.
Cannot access account after signup
Ensure you're using the correct email address and password. Click Forgot Password on the login page to reset your password. Clear your browser cache and cookies, or try logging in from a different browser or device.
Promotional discount not applied
Ensure you clicked through from a valid promotional link or entered the correct coupon code. Try opening the signup page in an incognito window to avoid cached pricing. Contact Surfshark customer support with your promotional code if the discount still doesn't apply.
Ready to get started with Surfshark?
Put this tutorial into practice. Visit Surfshark and follow the steps above.
Visit Surfshark →