How to set up a VPN on Android
A neutral step-by-step guide to setting up a VPN on Android, covering Google Play install, VPN permissions, servers, always-on, kill switch, and Android TV.
Install from Google Play
Only the official store — third-party APKs may be tampered with.
System VPN permission
Android asks for permission to create a VPN config — standard dialog.
Server choice
Nearby server — for speed, target country — for streaming or bypassing blocks.
Always-on VPN
System mode: tunnel comes up before apps start after a reboot.
Kill switch
On by default — blocks all traffic when the tunnel drops.
Split tunneling
Exclude specific apps from VPN (e.g., banking apps with geo restrictions).
Install and first launch
Open Google Play on your phone, find Pivot VPN and tap "Install." On first launch Android asks for permission to create a VPN configuration — a standard system dialog, safe and required. Register with email (or sign in if you have an account) and tap the connect button — the tunnel comes up to the nearest server in a couple of seconds.
Always-on VPN and kill switch
Android's system settings (Network → VPN → Pivot VPN) have an Always-on VPN toggle — we recommend enabling it. With it the tunnel comes up before apps start after a reboot, and the system kill switch blocks any non-VPN connections. This closes a rare but important case: the first few seconds after boot when background apps are already syncing.
Split tunneling and server choice
Sometimes you need to exclude a specific app from VPN — e.g., a banking app that doesn't work from foreign IPs, or a local-only service. In Pivot VPN settings pick Split tunneling and check those apps — they'll bypass the tunnel. As for server choice: for everyday protection pick a nearby server — lower ping. For streaming or bypassing blocks — a server in the target country.
What to do if VPN stops working
First, switch to another server — the current one may have temporarily stopped responding. If that doesn't help, try changing the protocol in Pivot VPN settings (WireGuard → obfuscated mode). On corporate Wi-Fi the tunnel may be firewalled — try 4G/5G. As a last resort, reinstall the app from Google Play — this resets the system VPN configuration.
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Try Pivot VPNSkip free VPNs
Free VPNs often throttle speeds, show ads, collect your data and offer no stable protection.
- Private connection with zero tracking
- Fast and stable speeds for streaming, video and apps
- Unlimited traffic with no daily caps
- Modern protection for all your internet traffic
- Stable servers for comfortable streaming
- May collect and share your data with third parties
- Throttle speeds and overload their servers
- Daily traffic caps and on-screen ads
- Show pop-up ads and push you to upgrade
- Basic encryption that isn't always stable
- Servers can be slow or unavailable
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Available on every platform you use — phone, tablet, laptop, TV.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Pivot VPN really free for 7 days?
Yes. You start with a 7-day free trial with no payment upfront — no card pre-authorization. Cancel any time during the trial and you pay nothing.
Which devices does Pivot VPN support?
Pivot VPN runs on Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux and Android TV. One subscription covers your phone, laptop and TV.
Does Pivot VPN keep logs?
No. We follow a strict no-logs policy and don't store browsing history, DNS requests or VPN traffic content.
Will it work for Netflix, Disney+ and other streaming?
Yes. Pivot VPN unblocks major streaming libraries with smooth 4K speeds on any of your devices.
How fast is the connection?
We use the modern WireGuard protocol, so nearby servers typically keep most of your line speed — fast enough for 4K streaming and gaming.
Is using a VPN legal?
In most countries yes. Rules vary, so check local laws. A VPN doesn't make otherwise-illegal activity legal.