How to turn off a VPN on Android

A virtual private network (VPN) on your Android™ device shields your real IP address from websites and apps. When it’s enabled, the VPN’s data encryption enhances your internet privacy so third parties can’t view your actual location. This is helpful if you want to minimize tracking and stop intrusive ads. However, you might wonder how to disable the VPN if it slows down your internet connection or prevents you from loading that video your friend sent you.

Asurion Experts keep your favorite devices running smoothly. Whether you want to extend your phone’s battery life or understand the importance of a VPN, you can count on us for a quick answer. Here’s how to turn off VPN on Android smartphones.

Why you might want to turn off a VPN

• Has your internet speed slowed to a crawl? Your VPN server could be to blame. Too much network traffic can overload the server and prevent you from getting the 4G or 5G connection you expect. Changing your VPN location may help, but turning it off entirely can restore your network speeds.
• Websites and apps may block you from accessing content if they detect your VPN. This is common with streaming services, since the content they share may be limited to certain geographical regions. Disabling the VPN will allow you to access content approved for your location.
• If you’re experiencing a general connectivity issue, turning off the VPN can help you narrow down the root cause. Improved connectivity after disabling the VPN may indicate problematic settings or a VPN service outage.

Turn off a VPN from Quick Settings

Android smartphones have a Quick Settings menu that’s accessible with a single swipe. Using this method, you can turn your VPN on or off. However, you won’t be able to switch locations or change the VPN protocol. Here’s how to turn VPN off through Quick Settings:

1. Swipe down from the top of the screen to access Quick Settings. On some devices, you may need to swipe again to view all Quick Settings options.
2. Locate the VPN icon.
3. Tap the VPN icon to disable your connection.
4. Follow the prompts to confirm your selection.

Turn off a VPN from the Settings app

To view your current setup and turn off VPN on Android, take these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Network & internet > VPN. If you don’t see that option, search for VPN in the menu. The exact wording varies across device manufacturers.
3. Locate the VPN and tap Settings next to its name.
4. Tap Disconnect.

How to turn off a VPN using the app

Most third-party VPNs, such as NordVPN®, Bark®, and ExpressVPN®, have a dedicated app you can use to disable or enable the connection. You may have downloaded it when you originally created an account with your VPN service provider. Take these steps to disable your VPN connection through the app:

1. Open the provider’s VPN app.
2. Locate and tap the Disconnect or Power icon.
3. If prompted, verify you want to disconnect from the VPN.

Confirm your VPN is off and troubleshoot

To verify your VPN is off, check the status bar on your Android smartphone. If the VPN icon (which is usually a key) no longer appears, you have successfully disabled the connection.

You can search, “What’s my IP address?” to visit an IP identification website and see whether it displays your actual location or the VPN’s server area. If it shows the server location, you’re still connected to the VPN. Use the earlier steps to disable the VPN.

Your VPN may attempt to reconnect automatically depending on your smartphone’s configuration. To disable VPN auto-connect, use these steps:

1. Swipe up from the bottom of your screen to view open apps. Force close the VPN app if it’s open.
2. Open Settings.
3. Tap Network & internet > VPN. If you don’t see that option, search for VPN in the menu. The exact wording varies across device manufacturers.
4. Locate the VPN and tap Settings next to its name.
5. Switch off Always-on VPN. Tap Save.
6. Restart your phone to apply the changes.

Asurion’s phone insurance gives you quick access to tech help when you need it most. Get in touch if your VPN continues to give you headaches!

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FAQ

What happens when I turn off my VPN?

When you turn off your VPN, your IP address becomes visible to websites or internet-connected apps you use on your smartphone. Third parties may track your internet browsing activities and use them for marketing purposes.

Can I set my VPN to turn off automatically on certain networks?

Many commercial VPN service providers let you customize settings so that the VPN disconnects on recognized networks. Check your provider’s support documents for instructions on how to set this up.

Does turning off a VPN affect specific apps or all internet traffic?

By default, turning off a VPN affects all internet traffic. Any apps or websites you visit may view your actual IP address.