How to Download Surfshark VPN on Android?
Last updated
Last updated
In today’s digital world, protecting your online privacy and security is more important than ever. With cyber threats, data tracking, and content restrictions becoming increasingly common, many Android users turn to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to safeguard their internet experience. Surfshark VPN is one of the most popular VPN services due to its strong security features, ease of use, and affordable pricing. If you are an Android user wondering how to download and set up Surfshark VPN on your device, this detailed guide will walk you through the entire process.
Before we dive into the downloading process, it’s useful to understand why Surfshark VPN is an excellent choice for Android users:
Top-Notch Security: Surfshark uses AES-256 encryption, the highest standard in the industry, to protect your data from hackers and third parties.
Privacy Focus: It has a strict no-logs policy, which means it doesn’t store your browsing data or personal information.
Unblock Geo-Restricted Content: With Surfshark, you can access streaming services, websites, and apps that may be restricted in your country.
Fast Connection Speeds: Surfshark uses efficient VPN protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN to maintain fast and reliable internet speeds.
Unlimited Devices: One Surfshark subscription can protect all your Android devices and other gadgets simultaneously.
Extra Features: These include CleanWeb (blocks ads and malware), MultiHop (double VPN), Whitelister (split tunneling), and a kill switch to keep you secure.
Before installing Surfshark, make sure your Android device meets the basic requirements:
Running Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or newer for full compatibility.
A stable internet connection to download the app and use the VPN service.
Sufficient storage space on your device (Surfshark’s app size is relatively small, usually under 50 MB).
An active Google account logged into your device to access the Google Play Store.
Surfshark VPN is available officially on the Google Play Store, which is the safest and easiest place to download Android apps.
Locate the Google Play Store icon on your Android home screen or app drawer.
Tap on the icon to open the Play Store.
At the top of the Play Store interface, you will see a search bar.
Tap the search bar and type “Surfshark VPN”.
Press the Enter key or tap the magnifying glass icon to search.
From the search results, look for the official Surfshark VPN app, which is usually listed with the developer name “Surfshark” and the Surfshark logo.
Verify that the app has a high number of downloads and good user ratings to ensure you are downloading the legitimate version.
Tap the Install button.
The app will begin downloading. The time it takes depends on your internet speed.
Once downloaded, the installation will automatically start, and you will see a progress indicator.
After the installation finishes, the Open button will appear.
Tap Open to launch the Surfshark app for the first time.
Alternatively, you can locate the Surfshark icon in your app drawer or home screen and tap to open it.
If you already have a Surfshark subscription:
Tap on Log In.
Enter your registered email address and password.
Tap Log In to access the app.
If you do not have an account:
Tap Create Account or Get Started.
Follow the prompts to sign up by entering your email and choosing a secure password.
You might be asked to choose a subscription plan and enter payment details.
After logging in, Surfshark will request permission to set up a VPN connection on your device.
You will see a system prompt asking you to allow Surfshark to establish a VPN connection.
Tap OK or Allow to grant the necessary permissions.
This permission is essential because it enables Surfshark to encrypt and route your internet traffic securely.
On the Surfshark app home screen, you will see a Quick Connect button.
Tap Quick Connect to automatically connect to the fastest and nearest VPN server.
Alternatively, you can manually select a server location by tapping on the Locations tab.
Choose a country or city where you want your internet traffic to appear from, then tap to connect.
Once connected, you will see a VPN icon in your Android status bar, indicating that your internet connection is protected.
Surfshark’s Android app includes a variety of features to enhance your VPN experience:
CleanWeb: Enable this feature to block ads, trackers, and malware while you browse.
Kill Switch: Turn on the kill switch to stop internet traffic automatically if the VPN connection drops.
Whitelister: This feature lets you choose apps or websites that bypass the VPN, useful if you want to access local network devices or apps that block VPNs.
MultiHop: Use double VPN servers for extra security by routing your traffic through two servers.
Auto-Connect: Set Surfshark to connect automatically when your device starts or when you join unsecured Wi-Fi networks.
Tap on the Settings icon in the Surfshark app.
Explore options such as changing VPN protocols (WireGuard is recommended for better speed), enabling notifications, and configuring connection preferences.
Adjust settings based on your privacy needs and connection preferences.
To confirm Surfshark is working properly on your Android device:
Open a web browser and visit an IP lookup website.
Verify that your IP address has changed to the location of the VPN server you connected to.
Try accessing geo-restricted content or websites to check if the VPN bypasses restrictions successfully.
Keep the App Updated: Regularly update Surfshark from the Play Store to receive the latest features and security patches.
Use Trusted Networks: Use Surfshark on public Wi-Fi to protect your data from hackers.
Choose Servers Wisely: For streaming or gaming, select servers optimized for these purposes.
Monitor Data Usage: If you have a limited mobile data plan, keep an eye on VPN data consumption.
Log Out Securely: When you’re done using Surfshark, log out if you share your device with others for added security.
Ensure your device has enough storage.
Check your internet connection.
Restart your device and try downloading again.
Clear Google Play Store cache by going to Settings > Apps > Google Play Store > Storage > Clear Cache.
Switch to another VPN server.
Restart the app or your Android device.
Check for app updates.
Change VPN protocol in the settings.
Double-check your login credentials.
Reset your password if necessary.
Contact Surfshark support for assistance.
Comprehensive Protection: Surfshark encrypts all your internet traffic, not just your browser activity.
Freedom and Access: Surfshark helps you bypass censorship and access websites and apps from anywhere.
Privacy on the Go: Protect your personal data while using public or unsecured Wi-Fi.
Multiple Device Support: One subscription covers your phone, tablet, and other devices.
User-Friendly Interface: The app is designed for easy use without sacrificing powerful features.
Downloading and installing Surfshark VPN on your Android device is a simple yet crucial step toward securing your online activities. Whether you want to safeguard your personal information, access geo-restricted content, or browse anonymously, Surfshark offers a reliable and affordable solution.