How to Download Surfshark VPN on Laptop?
Last updated
Last updated
In today’s digital world, protecting your online privacy and securing your internet connection is more important than ever. Whether you are browsing public Wi-Fi at a coffee shop, streaming your favorite shows, or working remotely, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) helps keep your data safe and anonymous. Surfshark VPN is one of the most popular VPN services, known for its strong security, easy usability, and affordable pricing.
If you have a laptop and want to download Surfshark VPN, this article will provide a detailed step-by-step guide for you. It covers everything from preparation to installation and setup, so you can enjoy secure, private internet access in no time.
Before you begin downloading Surfshark VPN on your laptop, it is helpful to understand why Surfshark is a great option:
Strong Security: Surfshark uses AES-256 encryption, which is widely regarded as the most secure encryption standard.
No-Logs Policy: Surfshark does not keep logs of your browsing activity or personal data, ensuring true privacy.
Wide Server Network: With thousands of servers in over 100 countries, Surfshark offers you plenty of choices for your VPN connection.
Fast Speeds: Surfshark uses modern protocols such as WireGuard, which balances security with speed.
Unblock Streaming Services: It helps you bypass geo-restrictions on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more.
Multi-Device Support: One Surfshark subscription can protect unlimited devices, including your laptop, smartphone, tablet, and others.
Additional Features: Surfshark offers features like CleanWeb (ad and malware blocker), MultiHop (double VPN), and a kill switch to enhance your security.
Before downloading, make sure your laptop meets these requirements:
Operating System: Surfshark supports Windows, macOS, and Linux. For Windows, Windows 7 or later is required. For macOS, version 10.12 or later is recommended.
Storage Space: At least 100 MB of free disk space for installation.
Internet Connection: A stable internet connection for downloading the software and connecting to servers.
Administrator Rights: You need admin rights on your laptop to install the VPN software.
Before you start the download:
Close any running VPN software if you have one installed.
Make sure your laptop’s operating system is up to date.
Ensure you have a working internet connection.
If you don’t have a Surfshark account yet, visit the Surfshark website on your browser from any device and sign up for a plan.
Open your laptop’s web browser — such as Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, or Safari.
Navigate to the official Surfshark website by typing its URL in the address bar.
It’s important to download Surfshark only from the official website to avoid fake or malicious software.
Once on the Surfshark homepage, locate the Apps or Downloads section.
Click on it to view the available Surfshark apps.
Select the version that corresponds to your laptop’s operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
Click the Download button for your operating system.
The VPN installer file will begin downloading to your laptop.
Depending on your internet speed, this might take a few seconds to a few minutes.
After downloading, open the folder where your downloads are saved (typically the “Downloads” folder).
Find the Surfshark installer file. For Windows, this will typically be an .exe file; for macOS, it will be a .dmg file.
Double-click the .exe installer file.
A User Account Control window may pop up asking for permission to make changes; click Yes to proceed.
Follow the on-screen instructions: accept the terms and conditions, choose the installation folder (or leave it as default), and click Install.
The installation will take a few minutes.
Once finished, click Finish to exit the installer.
Double-click the .dmg file.
A new window will open showing the Surfshark app icon.
Drag the Surfshark icon into the Applications folder shortcut in the same window.
This will copy the app to your Applications folder.
You can then eject the mounted installer from Finder.
Go to your desktop or Start menu (Windows) or the Applications folder (macOS).
Find the Surfshark app and double-click it to open.
The first time you open the app, you might see a security warning or prompt to confirm opening an app downloaded from the internet. Confirm to proceed.
Once the app opens, enter your Surfshark account credentials (email and password).
If you don’t have an account yet, you can sign up within the app or on the website using any device.
After logging in, you will be directed to the Surfshark dashboard.
To start protecting your laptop’s internet connection, click the Quick Connect button.
This will automatically connect you to the fastest and nearest Surfshark VPN server.
Alternatively, you can select a server manually by browsing the list of countries and cities available.
Once connected, the VPN icon will appear on your taskbar (Windows) or menu bar (macOS), and your internet traffic will be encrypted.
Surfshark offers several features you can configure:
Kill Switch: Automatically stops your internet connection if the VPN drops to prevent data leaks.
CleanWeb: Blocks ads, trackers, and malware sites.
MultiHop: Routes your traffic through two VPN servers for added security.
Bypasser (Split Tunneling): Allows you to exclude specific apps or websites from the VPN.
Auto-Connect: Enables the VPN to launch automatically when your laptop boots or when you connect to an unsecured network.
VPN Protocols: Choose between WireGuard (recommended for speed and security), OpenVPN, or IKEv2.
Access these options via the app’s Settings or Preferences menu.
To ensure Surfshark VPN is working correctly, open your web browser.
Visit a website that shows your current IP address.
Check that the IP displayed corresponds to the VPN server location you selected, not your real IP.
Additionally, test your connection speed using an online speed test tool to see if the VPN connection is stable.
Keep your Surfshark VPN app up to date.
Updates often include important security patches and feature enhancements.
Enable automatic updates if your operating system supports it or check for updates manually within the app.
Installer Won’t Launch: Make sure you have administrator privileges. Restart your laptop and try again.
VPN Won’t Connect: Switch servers or VPN protocols. Restart the app or your laptop.
Permissions Problems on macOS: Go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy and allow Surfshark if blocked.
Slow Speeds: Choose a server closer to your location or switch to WireGuard protocol.
Account Login Issues: Verify your credentials and subscription status.
Use VPN on Public Wi-Fi: Always connect Surfshark VPN when on public or unsecured networks to avoid data theft.
Enable Kill Switch: Protect your data if the VPN unexpectedly disconnects.
MultiHop for Extra Privacy: Use this feature if you require the highest level of anonymity.
Split Tunneling: Use it to access local devices (printers, NAS) while connected to the VPN.
Protect Multiple Devices: Remember, your subscription allows unlimited simultaneous connections, so secure all your gadgets.
Downloading and installing Surfshark VPN on your laptop is a simple yet powerful way to safeguard your online privacy and security. This guide has walked you through each step from system preparation and download to installation, login, and connection setup so you can confidently start using Surfshark VPN.
With Surfshark’s robust features, you will enjoy secure, fast, and unrestricted internet access whether you are working remotely, streaming, or just surfing the web. Taking a few minutes to install this VPN on your laptop can significantly reduce your exposure to cyber threats and increase your online freedom.