Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) offer a secure and versatile way to change your smartphone’s location virtually. Whether you want to access geo-restricted content, enhance your online privacy, or protect your data while on public Wi-Fi, a VPN can help.
Using a VPN on your smartphone to change your location is a pretty straightforward process that provides numerous benefits. Below, I walk you through the steps to change your smartphone’s location using a VPN.
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Table of Contents
Step 1: Choose a Reliable VPN Service
Before getting started, you’ll need to select a trustworthy VPN service. Look for one that offers a large number of servers in different locations, robust security features, and a user-friendly mobile app. You can even test out a few with a VPN trial. Some popular VPN services for smartphones are listed in the last section of this article: be sure to check them out.
Step 2: Download and Install the VPN App
- Open the app store on your smartphone (e.g., Google Play Store for Android or App Store for iOS).
- Search for your chosen VPN provider’s app.
- Download and install the app on your smartphone.
Step 3: Sign Up and Log In
Once the app is installed, you need to carry out the following actions:
- Open the VPN app.
- Sign up for an account if you haven’t already.
- Log in with your credentials.
Step 4: Connect to a VPN Server
Now that you’re logged in, the next step is to connect to a VPN server in the location you want to virtually appear in. Here’s how to do that:
- Open the VPN app.
- Usually, you’ll see a “Connect” button or a list of servers. Tap “Connect.”
- Select a server in the desired location. Most VPN apps offer servers in various countries and cities.
- Tap on the chosen server to establish a connection.
Step 5: Confirm Your New Location
After a few moments, your smartphone will be connected to the selected VPN server. To ensure your location has changed:
- Open a web browser.
- Visit a website that shows your IP address and location, like “iplocation.net” or “whatismyip.com.”
- Check if the displayed IP address and location match the server you connected to. If they do, your location has been successfully changed.
Step 6: Disconnect and Revert to Your Real Location
When you’re finished using the VPN and want to revert to your actual location, here is what to do:
- Open the VPN app.
- Tap the “Disconnect” button or option within the app.
- Your smartphone will disconnect from the VPN server, and your location will return to its default setting.
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Some VPN apps you can use to change your smartphone’s location
Here are some of the best mobile VPNs to consider:
- ExpressVPN: Known for its speed and wide server network across the globe, ExpressVPN offers user-friendly apps for both Android and iOS. It’s a great choice for changing your smartphone’s location while maintaining high speeds.
- NordVPN: NordVPN is highly regarded for its security features and extensive server network. It has a user-friendly mobile app that allows you to connect to servers in various countries.
- CyberGhost: CyberGhost is known for its user-friendly apps and dedicated streaming servers that can help you access geo-restricted content. It offers apps for both Android and iOS.
- Surfshark: Surfshark is a budget-friendly option with a strong focus on security and privacy. It offers unlimited simultaneous connections, making it suitable for multiple devices, including smartphones.
- IPVanish: IPVanish offers a robust mobile app and a decent server network. It’s known for its strong privacy features and solid performance.
- VyprVPN: VyprVPN offers a unique Chameleon protocol designed to bypass censorship and VPN blocking. It has a mobile app for both Android and iOS.
- ProtonVPN: Developed by the team behind ProtonMail, ProtonVPN is known for its strong commitment to privacy and security. It offers mobile apps for both major platforms.
- Windscribe: Windscribe is a user-friendly VPN with a free plan (with limitations) and a paid version with more features. It has mobile apps for Android and iOS.
- TunnelBear: TunnelBear is another user-friendly VPN known for its simplicity. It offers mobile apps and a free plan with limited data, as well as a paid version.
- Hotspot Shield: Hotspot Shield is recognized for its speed and is particularly popular for streaming content. It offers mobile apps for both major platforms.
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