How to set up a VPN on iPhone
On iPhone a VPN is set up through an app: the app adds a VPN configuration to iOS and turns it on and off. The VPN section in Settings is meant for configurations a company or school hands out; with an app you do not need to fill anything in there.
Step by step with Desert Connect
- Install the app. Desert Connect is in the App Store — see the iPhone page.
- Sign in. On the first screen tap Continue with Apple to sign in with your Apple Account.
- Allow the VPN configuration. On the first connection iOS asks whether Desert Connect may add VPN configurations. Tap Allow and confirm with Face ID, Touch ID or your passcode. It asks once.
- Connect. Tap the button on the main screen. When the connection is up, the app shows Connected, and iOS shows a VPN badge in the status bar or, when there is no room for it, in Control Center.
Choosing a location
Tap the location row under the button and pick a country, or leave Smart choice and the app picks one itself. More in How to change your VPN location.
Turning the VPN off
- In the app: tap the button again.
- In Settings: once a VPN configuration is added, a VPN switch appears near the top of Settings.
Removing the configuration
Settings → General → VPN & Device Management → VPN → the ⓘ next to Desert Connect → Delete VPN. The app adds it again the next time you connect, and iOS asks for permission again.
If it does not connect
Go through VPN not connecting: what to check.