VPN ( Virtual Private Networks) service allows you to access information securely over public networks. A lot of people use it to securely access their work related email and documents on laptops and iPhones as well. Another great use of VPN is ability to access restricted content. For example, you can use Pandora from outside US by using VPN. This tutorial shows you how to configure your iPhone to use a VPN Server.
We will use the example of HotSpot Shield which is our favorite VPN server and it’s free too. You’ll remember how we used this server earlier to use Google Voice from outside US.
Here are the steps to configure VPN on your iPhone:
Firstly, turn Wi-fi Off. Now Go to Settings > General > Network > VPN and choose Add VPN Configuration. Select the IPSec Tab and fill the following details:
- Description: HotspotShield
- Server: 68.68.107.101
- Account: Get it here
- Password: Get it here
- Use Certificate: OFF
- Group Name: hss
- Secret: hss
You’re done now. Hit the save button and turn on Wi-fi now.
To activate the VPN go to Settings > VPN > Click on On button. The status will change to Connected in a few seconds and a VPN icon will appear in the status bar of the iPhone. It’s that simple, really.
Switch it off whenever you don’t require the VPN as it does seem to slow down the network speed a bit. Moreover, there are many apps like Hulu, which are not available in countries outside U.S, by using an U.S. based iPhone VPN, you can take advantage of service like HULU or Netflix. Let us know which are your favorite VPN Servers or check out our list of five free VPN Servers apart from HotSpot Shield.
{ 11 comments… read them below or add one }
awesome man – just hooked up om the PC AND iphone thanks to u – shout out from AU
you welcome buddy.
Heya,
jsut did the setup, VPN got connected without prob. Started Pandora but it gave “Can not connect to Pandora” error. Both on Wifi or 3G. I am connecting form Turkey if it matters. Any ideas how to fix it?
Thanks
how do i get a vpn from tata docomo? those people don’t understand any of the technical stuff!
Does this work on iPad too?
Hey Hi, (You All)
How can i get my username & password. above said get it here but when i click on that a hotspot sheild webpage opens but didn’t find anything where i can get my username & password for the VPN !!
ive done all the mentioned steps above but nothing happens it appears as THE VPN SERVER DID NOT RESPOND!what should be the next step??
Hi Rajat, What does one use in the username and password field?
im on vodafone india
I had the same problem.. I’m guessing that I’m doing something wrong, but I don’t know what
I followed all the steps, but when I turn on the VPN, I get an error message saying that “The VPN sever did not respond.” I asume I’m doing something wrong, but I don’t know. I’m connecting from Kenya if that matters..
Cheers