How to setup your own VPN for iPhone

To some users, it might seem more customary to install and use the VPN on their PC. However, the potential of the VPN is not limited to merely use from a desktop PC. You can in the same way enjoy private and secure browsing from your mobile device. Besides that, to reach a higher level of control over your VPN configuration, you may configure your own VPS server which you can rent from a reliable provider (e. g. HostZealot). After that, you will have to follow some not-very-complex instructions covered in the writing below.

Setting up your own VPN for iPhone

VPN Protocol

First and foremost you have to make up your mind, about what kind of VPN protocol you want to use for your VPN. A VPN protocol is a solution, presented by a set of rules and procedures dictating how data is transmitted and encrypted between devices in a Virtual Private Network (VPN). The protocol contains instructions on how to establish, maintain, and secure communications channels within a VPN. On the market nowadays, there is a variety of VPN protocols, each using its own set of methods and providing different levels of security, speed, and compatibility as well as different interfaces for installing and using the protocol. Some common VPN protocols include OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, L2TP/IPsec, and WireGuard. You should choose the protocol with an eye on your specific usage scenarios and personal preferences.

Getting a server

To configure your own VPN, you need to have a server where you’ll be able to deploy it. A basic VPN server will do. Pay attention to the reputability of the provider, and financial affordability according to your budget, the specific features included in each of the provider’s plans, and of course the location of the server, as it determines from what location you will browse using your VPN.

Setting up the server

After you have purchased the server you see fit for your VPN, it’s time to set up the server. Depending on the protocol you’ve chosen, go to its official website and follow the instructions for downloading and installing it on your server. Also, make sure to perform the essential server configuration including IP addresses, encryption settings, and user authentication.

Setting up certificates and keys

Keys and certificates play a vital role in the functioning of a VPN, making the communication between the VPN client and server possible, as well as securing it. Some of the functions they perform include authenticating the identities of both parties, encrypting the data transmission, and establishing a secure connection.

You don’t have to engage in the installation of every single certificated one by one, since many VPN software packages provide scripts to automate this process.

Installing a VPN client on your iPhone

Now that we’ve set up the VPN, it’s time to set up the connection to it on your iPhone. The first step is to download and install the client of the VPN protocol you’ve chosen. from the App Store Make sure it’s compatible with the client on your PC.

Configure VPN on iPhone

After the app has been installed, open the client on your iPhone. Enter the required information, such as the server IP address or domain name as well as any required authentication credentials. Some, for example, for IKEv2/IPsecl, you’ll have to use the built-in VPN settings on your iPhone.

Connect to the VPN

After all the necessary settings have been entered, tap the connect button in the VPN app to establish a connection. If everything was done correctly, now you’ll be able to browse the world wide web with much less worries about privacy and security and access the content omitting regional restrictions.

Test your connection

To acquire complete confidence that your VPN works and is ready for exploitation, make sure to first test your connection. To do this, first verify that your iPhone is connected to the VPN by checking your IP address. Then, confirm that your internet traffic is routed through the VPN server.

Troubleshooting (just in case)

If you’ve made a mistake on one of the stages or an unforeseen technical failure has come into play, then you’ll have to figure out what’s wrong and fix the problem to continue using your VPN.

First, in case if connection fails, you should check the server logs to see if there are any errors.

If you are using port forwarding, make sure it’s configured correctly.

Also, ensure everything is alright with the firewall settings on the server and iPhone.

If any of these practices do not help in your case, you may try to browse the knowledge base of your VPN protocol (if available) or search for similar cases on forums. You may also contact the technical support team of your provider, especially if the problem is with the server.

Conclusion

This has been a guide in setting up VPN for your iPhone. We’ve tried to cover all the necessary aspects, so we hope that this guide was helpful. Good luck!