How to Download Surfshark VPN on Chromebook?
Last updated
Last updated
In the era of increasing online privacy concerns, data breaches, and geo-restricted content, using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) has become essential. VPNs protect your internet connection by encrypting your data and masking your IP address, helping you stay safe online and access content from around the world. One popular and reliable VPN service is Surfshark, known for its strong security, user-friendly interface, and affordability.
If you are a Chromebook user and want to download and install Surfshark VPN, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We will explain how to download Surfshark VPN on a Chromebook, explore the different methods available, and provide tips on optimizing your VPN experience on your device.
Before diving into the download process, it’s important to understand why Surfshark is an excellent choice for Chromebook users:
Strong Security: Surfshark uses AES-256 encryption, the industry standard for protecting sensitive data.
Privacy Protection: Surfshark enforces a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not keep records of your internet activity.
Bypass Geo-Restrictions: Surfshark enables access to streaming platforms and websites that may be restricted in your location.
Unlimited Devices: One Surfshark subscription can secure unlimited devices simultaneously, including your Chromebook.
Easy to Use: Surfshark has an intuitive app and supports multiple installation methods compatible with Chromebooks.
Additional Features: CleanWeb (blocks ads and malware), MultiHop (double VPN for extra security), and a kill switch feature help keep your online activities safe and uninterrupted.
Chromebooks run on Chrome OS, which differs from Windows or MacOS. This means traditional VPN software may not always be compatible. However, modern Chromebooks support VPNs through multiple methods:
Android Apps: Most newer Chromebooks support Android apps via the Google Play Store.
Chrome Extensions: Some VPN providers offer Chrome browser extensions.
Linux Apps: Advanced users can install VPN software using Linux (Crostini) on their Chromebook.
Manual Setup: VPNs can also be manually configured using Chrome OS’s built-in VPN settings.
Surfshark VPN supports installation via Android apps and manual setup on Chromebook, making it accessible for most users.
This is the easiest and most straightforward method if your Chromebook supports the Google Play Store.
Click on the clock at the bottom-right corner of your screen.
Select Settings (gear icon).
Scroll down to Google Play Store and click Turn On if it’s not already enabled.
Accept the terms and sign in with your Google account if prompted.
Wait for the Play Store to finish setting up.
From the app launcher or the shelf, open the Google Play Store.
In the search bar at the top, type Surfshark VPN.
Find the official Surfshark VPN app in the results.
Click the Install button.
Wait for the app to download and install on your Chromebook.
Launch the Surfshark VPN app from the app launcher.
Enter your Surfshark account credentials (email and password).
If you don’t have an account yet, you’ll need to sign up through another device or the Surfshark website.
After logging in, you will see a list of available servers.
Use the Quick Connect feature or choose a specific server location.
Click Connect to establish the VPN connection.
You might receive a prompt to allow the VPN connection — accept it to proceed.
Once connected, you will see the VPN status in the app.
You can now browse securely and access content without restrictions.
While the Android app is more powerful and secures all your device traffic, you might want to use the Surfshark browser extension if you only want to protect your Chrome browser activity.
On your Chromebook, open the Chrome browser.
Navigate to the Chrome Web Store (through the Chrome browser).
Search for the Surfshark VPN extension.
Click Add to Chrome to install the extension.
Click the Surfshark icon on the Chrome toolbar.
Enter your login credentials.
Choose a server location and connect.
The extension will encrypt your browser traffic but won’t secure other apps or system traffic.
For users who want to manually set up Surfshark on their Chromebook without using the app, Chrome OS provides a built-in VPN client supporting protocols such as L2TP/IPsec and OpenVPN (with third-party apps).
Log in to your Surfshark account on another device.
Navigate to the manual setup section to get your VPN server addresses, username, password, and shared keys.
Click the clock icon, then Settings.
Go to Network > Add Connection > Add OpenVPN / L2TP.
Enter the server hostname, your username, and password.
Choose the appropriate protocol (L2TP/IPsec).
Add any required shared secret or certificates as instructed by Surfshark.
Save your VPN profile.
Click on the VPN network to connect.
Confirm the connection.
Keep the app updated: Regular updates bring new features, security patches, and better performance.
Enable Kill Switch (if available): This feature blocks internet traffic if the VPN disconnects unexpectedly, protecting your IP address.
Use CleanWeb: Enable the ad and malware blocker to enhance your browsing experience.
Choose servers wisely: For faster speeds, connect to servers closest to your location unless bypassing geo-restrictions.
Use MultiHop: For added security, connect through multiple VPN servers.
Regularly check your IP: Use websites to verify your IP location when connected to ensure the VPN is working correctly.
Comprehensive Security: Protects your data from hackers, especially on public Wi-Fi.
Privacy Protection: Surfshark hides your IP address and prevents tracking.
Access to Content: Bypass censorship and watch streaming platforms not available in your region.
Fast and Reliable: Modern VPN protocols ensure minimal speed loss.
Cross-Platform Support: Use the same Surfshark account on your Chromebook, phone, tablet, and other devices.
Affordable Pricing: Surfshark is one of the most budget-friendly premium VPNs without compromising quality.
Ensure your Chromebook supports Android apps and that the Google Play Store is enabled.
Restart your Chromebook and try again.
Clear Google Play Store cache or update the Play Store app.
Switch servers to find a more stable connection.
Restart the VPN app or your Chromebook.
Ensure your internet connection is stable.
Update the Surfshark app to the latest version.
Try connecting to Surfshark’s specialized streaming servers.
Clear your browser cache and cookies.
Contact Surfshark customer support for assistance with specific services.
Downloading and installing Surfshark VPN on a Chromebook is a straightforward process thanks to Chrome OS’s support for Android apps and VPN extensions. Whether you opt for the full-featured Android app via the Google Play Store, the browser extension for Chrome, or a manual setup, Surfshark provides robust privacy protection and the ability to bypass geo-restrictions.