Using a virtual private network is key to keeping your internet activity private and safe. While most users have learned about the importance of implementing virtual private networks on their systems and browsers, many leave their phones unprotected. Android phones come with built-in support for a VPN, but setting a virtual private network is a tedious pain. So instead of manually configuring a virtual private network with your Android phone, TechNinjaPro recommends subscribing to a provider with dedicated virtual private network apps for Android.
It is always a perfect idea to connect your Android phone to a virtual private network server when on a public wifi network to stop cyberattackers from snooping on your internet activity. Connecting to a virtual private network server in the appropriate location can cover your IP address and help you safely access geo-locked content like Amazon Prime Video and Netflix. VPNs can also prevent your internet service provider and mobile carrier from monitoring your internet activities. In this blog, TechNinjaPro will guide you on setting up a VPN on Android in 2022.
Why do you need a VPN?
A VPN is a technology that allows you to create a secure internet connection to another network. Virtual private network services create an encrypted tunnel for your internet connection, covering your IP and location, preventing third parties from spying on your online activity or identifying you.
Virtual private networks are essential tools for accessing geo-restricted content and streaming region-specific libraries. They also protect your private information, allow users to access restricted content, and help activists and journalists in countries where freedom of speech is endangered. Setting up a virtual private network on Android is important in protecting your internet connection on all internet-ready devices. Since people use smartphones to communicate and access personal information regularly, it is crucial to keep them safe from hackers.
What to look for when selecting a VPN
Using a free virtual private network may be tempting, but they usually have some restrictions which can irritate you. But free VPN services are a perfect way to test services to select which one you need to buy. Let’s have a view of some of the questions to consider while selecting a VPN.
Is the connection secure?
A reliable virtual private network will use 256-bit encryption and a robust protocol like OpenVPN, while a free VPN service may use a lower level of encryption.
Is the virtual private network logging your activity?
If your aim for a virtual private network is privacy, you need to ensure that the service you select does not keep a log of your internet activity. Always check the privacy policies of the services you are considering and see what you are comfortable with.
How do some VPN services make money?
With a subscription-based virtual private network, you know how the VPN service makes its money. With a free virtual private network, you cannot be sure how the company is making a profit. You might have to deal with a lot of ads in your internet browsing experience, or they could be selling your private information to advertisers, which can defeat the core purpose of using a VPN.
Are there usage caps?
Some free VPN services might restrict your daily or monthly usage. Some VPN services offer a free tier that provides limited use and allows you to upgrade to a subscription with unlimited use.
Best Recommended VPNs
How to set up a VPN on Android manually
When you decide to connect a virtual private network server on Android manually, there are some things you should know before starting the process. Firstly, you will need to have valid VPN login and server configuration data to establish a manual connection. This information can be obtained from your administrator if you are connecting to an enterprise network.
- Go to your Android phone’s settings and click network settings.
- Click on the VPN tab and tick add VPN.
- Type the VPN information.
- Click the saved VPN profile to connect
Connecting to a virtual private network on Android with a dedicated app
Using a reliable VPN app is a bit easier alternative to manually setting up a virtual private network connection. There is a vast collection of Android VPN apps available to select from. While the free versions are often limited, they should mostly get the work done. So how to set up a virtual private network on Android for free through a reliable app?
First, you need to find a trustworthy VPN online. Once you have selected your preferred VPN service, the next step involves downloading the app itself. You can download the VPN app through Google Play Store. If you cannot access the Google store for some reason, you can find APK installation files online by doing a Google search. Simply download them and start the installation process manually.
After starting the installation, the process is automatic, with the installer handling most VPN settings for Android by itself. Keep in mind that most free virtual private networks out there do not encrypt your internet connection and just serve to mask your locations. Hence, TechNinjaPro recommends you to stick to reputable VPN services as mentioned above.