How to Download Surfshark VPN App on Android?
Last updated
Last updated
In today's digital age, protecting your privacy and accessing content freely across borders are major concerns for users worldwide. With the rise of online surveillance, data theft, geo-blocking, and internet restrictions, having a reliable VPN (Virtual Private Network) is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. One of the top VPN providers in the industry is Surfshark VPN, known for its strong security features, easy-to-use interface, and ability to unblock restricted content. For Android users, Surfshark offers a seamless app that works across smartphones and tablets.
This article will guide you step by step on how to download, install, and set up the Surfshark VPN app on Android. The guide is designed for beginners and tech-savvy users alike, and it explains everything in detail—without any hyperlinks or phone numbers. We’ll cover device compatibility, installation steps, app features, and tips to make the most out of your Surfshark VPN experience on Android.
Before jumping into the installation process, it’s important to understand the benefits of using Surfshark VPN on your Android device.
1. Online Privacy and Security
Surfshark encrypts all the data that travels between your Android device and the internet, making it unreadable to hackers, snoopers, and even your Internet Service Provider (ISP). It uses industry-standard AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and secure VPN protocols.
2. Access Geo-Restricted Content
Many streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and others restrict content based on geographic location. With Surfshark, you can switch your virtual location and unlock content libraries from other regions.
3. Safe Public Wi-Fi Usage
Public Wi-Fi networks in places like airports, cafes, and hotels are often unsecured, making them a target for cybercriminals. Surfshark protects your connection, keeping your data safe on any network.
4. Avoid Bandwidth Throttling
Some ISPs slow down your internet when they detect streaming or large downloads. A VPN hides your activity, helping avoid speed throttling.
5. Unlimited Device Connections
Surfshark allows unlimited simultaneous connections, which means you can use one account across your phone, tablet, computer, smart TV, and more—all at once.
Before downloading the Surfshark app, make sure your Android device meets the minimum requirements:
Operating System: Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or higher
Storage Space: At least 100 MB of free space
Internet Connection: Wi-Fi or mobile data
Google Play Access: Required for easy installation
Most Android smartphones and tablets released in the last decade will support the app without issue.
Step 1: Power On and Connect to the Internet
Ensure your Android phone or tablet is powered on and connected to a stable internet connection, either through Wi-Fi or mobile data.
Step 2: Open Google Play Store
From your home screen or app drawer, locate and open the Google Play Store. This is where you can search for and download apps officially supported on Android.
Step 3: Search for “Surfshark VPN”
In the search bar at the top, type “Surfshark VPN” and press enter or tap the search icon.
Look for the official Surfshark app. It usually appears at the top of the search results and features a blue icon with a white "S" or shield-like shape.
Make sure the app is published by Surfshark B.V., the official developer.
Step 4: Tap “Install”
Tap on the app to open its detail page. Then tap the Install button.
The app will begin downloading and will automatically install once the download is complete. Depending on your internet speed, this process may take a few seconds to a couple of minutes.
Step 5: Launch the Surfshark App
After installation, the Open button will appear on the Play Store screen. You can also find the app in your app drawer or on your home screen.
Tap Open to launch the app for the first time.
Step 6: Sign In to Your Surfshark Account
Upon launching, the app will prompt you to log in or create a new account.
If you already have a Surfshark subscription, tap Log In and enter your registered email and password.
If you are new to Surfshark, you can sign up directly from the app by choosing a plan and creating your account.
Once logged in, the app will take you to the home screen where you can begin using the VPN.
Now that the app is installed and you are logged in, here’s how to use Surfshark efficiently.
1. Quick Connect
On the main screen, you’ll see a large “Connect” button. Tapping it will automatically connect you to the fastest available server based on your current location.
Once connected, you’ll see a confirmation message and the virtual location you are connected to.
2. Select a Specific Server
If you want to access content from a specific country, tap on the Locations tab.
Browse the list of countries and tap on the one you wish to connect to. Some countries also have multiple cities or servers to choose from.
3. Features and Settings
Tap on the Settings or Features tab to explore additional tools:
CleanWeb: Blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites.
Kill Switch: Disconnects internet access if the VPN connection drops, preventing accidental data leaks.
Whitelister (Split Tunneling): Allows selected apps to bypass the VPN while others stay protected.
Override GPS Location: Matches your GPS location with your VPN server for greater anonymity.
Auto-Connect: Ensures Surfshark starts and connects automatically when your device boots up or connects to the internet.
You can also change VPN protocols (WireGuard, IKEv2, or OpenVPN) under the Advanced settings for better speed or security.
While Surfshark usually works flawlessly, you might encounter occasional issues. Here are some quick fixes:
Problem 1: Connection Failed
Try switching to a different server or protocol in the app settings.
Restart the app or your device.
Problem 2: App Not Downloading
Check if you have enough storage space.
Ensure you’re connected to the internet.
Restart the Play Store or clear its cache.
Problem 3: Streaming Service Still Blocked
Try clearing the streaming app’s cache and data.
Switch to another VPN server in the same country.
Restart your Android device.
Always connect to the VPN before using streaming apps to ensure your IP address is masked.
Enable Auto-Connect for seamless protection every time your phone connects to the internet.
Use WireGuard protocol for the best balance of speed and security.
Update the app regularly to get new features and bug fixes.
Contact support within the app if you need help—Surfshark has a dedicated support section with FAQs and live chat.
If you ever need to remove the app:
Go to Settings > Apps on your Android device.
Scroll down and find Surfshark.
Tap on it and choose Uninstall.
Confirm when prompted.
This will completely remove the app from your device.
Installing and using Surfshark VPN on Android is a straightforward process that takes only a few minutes but offers a wealth of benefits. From enhancing your online privacy to unlocking geo-restricted content and protecting your personal data on public Wi-Fi networks, Surfshark ensures a secure and unrestricted browsing experience on your Android device.
By following the step-by-step instructions provided in this guide, you can now easily download, install, and use Surfshark VPN on any Android smartphone or tablet. With a clean interface, powerful features, and global server coverage, Surfshark empowers you to explore the internet with freedom and confidence—anytime, anywhere.