ExpressVPN works on a wide range of iPhones and iPads. If you have a relatively newer device, you can set up ExpressVPN by downloading it from the App Store. However, older devices don't have that option - so let's first explain that situation.
If your device runs iOS 16, 15, 14, 13, or 12, you can use the iOS App Store to download and then run ExpressVPN's native app for your iPhone. However, if you have an iPhone that runs iOS 11 or older, you need to set up ExpressVPN manually through an L2TP/IPsec connection.
That said, we highly recommend you update your iPhone or iPad by going to Settings > General > Software Update. Then, let's talk about how to set up ExpressVPN.
How to Install ExpressVPN on iPhone & iPad
As mentioned above, there are two ways to get ExpressVPN to work on your iPhone or iPad. Use the links found below based on the version of iOS your device runs at the moment:
How to Install ExpressVPN on iOS 16, 15, 14, 13, and 12
Owners of newer iPhones and iPads can count on ExpressVPN's native application, which is hosted on the iOS App Store. Here's how you can download and install it:
1. Sign up for ExpressVPN using your computer or phone and any Web browser.
2. Once you sign up, open the App Store on your iPhone or iPad. Then, tap on "Search" and search for ExpressVPN. Select its icon to open the app's overview.
3. Tap on "GET", authenticate your purchase, and then download ExpressVPN. It will take a moment for the app to install. Open it once it's ready for use.
4. Tap "Sign In," and then provide your email address and password (your ExpressVPN credentials). Select "Agree & Continue" when asked to accept ExpressVPN's privacy policy.
5. The next screen will instruct you to set up the VPN. Tap on "Continue." Your iPhone or iPad will ask you to install a VPN profile. Tap on "Allow."
6. You can also decide if you want ExpressVPN's notifications. Select "OK" or "No, Thanks."
7. Lastly, select "OK" or "No, Thanks" when asked about anonymous data logging.Â
8. You should now see ExpressVPN’s home screen. Tap on the ON/OFF button to connect to the closest available server.Â
9. Tap on the ON/OFF button to disconnect at any moment (the app will turn red).Â
10. To pick a different server, tap the button just below the ON/OFF button. Use the top-placed sidebar to find a server. Tap on any country or server name, and you'll connect automatically.
We also recommend you check out ExpressVPN settings, as that's how you can switch to other VPN protocols, enable the "Threat Manager" feature, and more. Tap on Option > Settings to see what else this hugely capable VPN can do.
How to Set Up ExpressVPN on iOS 11 and Older
If you have an older iPhone or iPad that runs iOS 11 or older, you need to set up ExpressVPN manually. Here's how that's done:
1. Subscribe to ExpressVPN on your iPhone/iPad using your favorite Web browser.
2. Then, return to ExpressVPN's website. Tap on the hamburger button in the top right corner to reveal the main menu. Select "My Account" and access your ExpressVPN dashboard.
3. Navigate to Set Up Other Devices > Manual Configuration > L2TP/IPsec. Note your username and password while also picking a VPN server (note its server address).
4. Then, go to Settings > VPN > Add VPN Configuration on your iPhone or iPad. Fill out the fields you see on your screen in the following way:
- Type: L2TP.
- Description: Give a name to your new VPN connection.
- Server: Copy the server address of your chosen server from ExpressVPN's site.
- Account: Copy your L2TP username.
- RSA SecurID: Disable this option.
- Password: Copy your L2TP password.
- Secret: Type in "12345678."
- Send All Traffic: Enable this option.
5. Tap "Done" to confirm the input. Then, flip the switch next to your newly added connection's name. The switch should become green, meaning your VPN session is now active.
6. To disconnect, flip the switch to OFF (by going to Settings > VPN). It should turn gray, which means that you'll be using your regular Web connection from now on.
Don't forget that you can add multiple VPN connections (to multiple different VPN servers). To make that happen, simply repeat the steps found above.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, setting up ExpressVPN on iPads and iPhones is an incredibly easy procedure. In under a few minutes, ExpressVPN can make sure your data is safe, protecting you against many online threats. That's why ExpressVPN is our #1 pick for iPads and iPhones.
If you wish to protect other platforms and gadgets as well, here's how to set up ExpressVPN across all its supported devices. And if you'd like to explore other options, check our guide to the best VPN for iPhone and iPad.
That would be all regarding how to set up ExpressVPN on iPad and iPhone. If you have any questions, make sure to post your comment below. Thanks for reading!