Adding VPN protection to your iPhone is easier than you think

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Dashlane's built-in VPN makes online security a snap.
Dashlane's built-in VPN makes online security a snap.
Photo: Porapak Apichodilok/Pexels CC

This post is presented by Dashlane.

If you’ve ever read our website (hi), you know we’re big fans of virtual private networks. A solid VPN can keep your online activity secure and anonymous by preventing malware and trackers. It also can bypass annoying location restrictions on streaming content. Anytime you use a public Wi-Fi network, you face possible threats to your security online.

But wait, aren’t VPNs something you use on your computer? Usually, yeah, but you also can use them on your iPhone. And considering the number of public networks our mobile devices encounter as we travel, there are plenty of reasons to take this small but important measure.

Whether in our hometowns, other cities or abroad, using a VPN is a crucial component of your online security. But adding a VPN to your iPhone or iPad isn’t rocket science. In fact, if you’re using Dashlane, the official password manager of Cult of Mac, you’re just a step away from VPN protection on your iOS device.

Dashlane VPN on iOS

Stay safe on public Wi-Fi with Dashlane VPN on iOS.
Stay safe on public Wi-Fi.
Screenshot: Dashlane
The first step toward using Dashlane’s VPN is to download Dashlane.

There’s a free version you can try, but you’ll need a Dashlane Premium subscription to use the VPN and other advanced features. (At just $60 per year, it’s totally worth it.)

Once Dashlane is on your iPhone and you’ve signed up for the Premium account, you’re ready for the next incredibly easy steps to get your VPN up and running.

First, open the Dashlane app. Then tap the Tools tab. You’ll see the VPN tile right at the top. Clicking that brings you to the option to Set up my VPN. Tapping that will bring you to your device’s VPN settings, where you’ll see the option to authorize Dashlane to perform that function.

From there, you’ve got a small number of simple settings to consider.

First, obviously, is whether the VPN is on. VPNs work by routing traffic through a global network of encrypted servers, making signals impossible to track. That means the connection might not be as quick as you’re used to, so sometimes you might prefer to leave it off. Usually, though, we recommend leaving it on if you’re not using a trusted network. A little clock will tell you how long the VPN has been active.

The only other option to consider is the country that the VPN will show as your location. Dashlane’s VPN offers 26 countries to choose from, which might make a difference in the kind of content you want to download or stream. If you don’t make a choice, the app will choose the nearest country.

And that’s it. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a simpler way of adding a vital layer of protection to your iOS device. Don’t forget, it requires Dashlane Premium, but that’s something you should be using anyway. Once you start using suitably secure passwords and VPN protection, you can leave the house feeling great about your mobile security.

Download from: Dashlane

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