How to turn off VPN on iPhone or iPad: 3 Methods
Lawrence Williams
Protecting your privacy on the internet is essential nowadays, and VPN is a great way to ensure that. Virtual Private Network, commonly known as VPN, establishes a safe tunnel between your device and the internet.
However, you might need to disable your VPN. This could happen when changing your VPN provider or switching to the home network. In this tutorial, you will learn how to turn off VPN on iPhone and iPad.
Method 1: How to Disable VPN on iPad and iPhone using iOS Settings
For users’ convenience, all iOS devices have more than one option to operate VPN. After you set up the service on the device, you can turn it on and off from the system’s settings.
Here are steps to disable VPN on iPhone or iPad from your iOS settings:
Step 1) Open Settings app on Your iPhone or iOS device.
Step 2) Locate VPN option here.
Step 3) Tap the Switch in front of the VPN to disable it.
Note: When you hit the Toggle, it will turn grey from green. This confirms that the VPN service on your phone is off now.
Method 2: How to Turn off VPN on iPhone and iPad From Advanced Settings
All iOS devices have an advanced option to configure VPN in your settings app. Along with some extra options, it allows you to operate a VPN on the device.
Here are steps to turn off VPN on iPad and iPhone devices from advanced settings:
Step 1) Expand the Settings app of your iOS device.
Step 2) Navigate to the General option and open it.
Step 3) Scroll down and tap on VPN & Device Management.
Step 4) You will see a green color switch next to the Status option.
Step 5) Tap on it to turn off VPN on your device.
Note: In the General settings, you can check your current VPN profile. If it is not the one you want, change it from the available options or Add a new one.
Method 3: Turn off ExpressVPN on iPhone or iPad from the App
ExpressVPN is one of the popular service providers available in the market. It boasts over 3,000 servers spread across 160 locations in more than 90 countries. It provides users with fast, stable, and protected connections.
However, if you use ExpressVPN on your iOS device, you may need to deactivate it temporarily. Here are steps to turn off ExpressVPN from the app on iPad and iPhone:
NOTE: The process remains similar for other VPN apps.
Step 1) Open ExpressVPN app on your iOS device.
Step 2) The app’s interface will be green if you are connected to VPN. You will also see the “Connected” status under the big power button.
Step 3) Tap on that button to turn off ExpressVPN.
Note: After you disable VPN, the app’s interface will turn red, and the connection status will change to “Not connected.”
Why You Should Not Disable VPN on iPad and iPhone Devices
Apple is known for having the most secure operating system in the market. Although the iPhone is powerful, leaving your VPN off can make you vulnerable. Apple’s encryption feature is more effective when using its proprietary services.
You are at high risk without an active VPN, especially when connected to public Wi-Fi.
Moreover, when you turn off VPN iPhone and iPad, you bring back the geo-restriction. Many websites are geo-restricted, meaning they’re only available in certain regions. When you use a VPN, you can bypass these restrictions and access the content you want.
Note: Just like you wouldn’t leave your front door unlocked – don’t leave your device unprotected.
When Can You Turn Off VPN on iPhone and iOS?
Even though turning your VPN off is not a good idea, sometimes it becomes necessary.
Here are the moments when you can switch it off:
- Low Battery: VPN running in the background means additional software using the battery. And when your iPhone is dying of low battery, you should save every bit of power in cell. It helps you to make an urgent call. Therefore, turning off VPN on your iPad or iPhone is okay until you can access the charging port.
- Network Issue: You may see network issues while connected to the VPN. Slow or weak internet connection, the reason could be anything. Troubleshooting the network can solve the problem.
- Setting up New Internet Connection: If you are getting a new internet connection at home, you may need to turn off VPN to set it up. However, your ISP may block VPNs, hindering a new internet connection setup.
Once you are done with the issue, it is highly recommended to turn on VPN immediately. Otherwise, you may forget it and put your iPhone at risk.