When it comes to VPN performance, the protocol you choose plays a bigger role than most people realize. Many users simply stick with whatever default Surfshark sets, but switching protocols can be the key to unlocking faster speeds, better stability, or improved compatibility with certain networks.

As VPN testers, we’ve found that protocol choice can sometimes double your speed compared to the default. In this guide, we’ll explain exactly how to change protocols in Surfshark, what each protocol offers, and how to pick the one that matches your needs.

Why VPN Protocols Impact Speed

A VPN protocol is the set of technical instructions that decides how your data travels between your device and the VPN server. It covers everything from encryption strength to connection handling and error correction.

Each protocol comes with trade-offs:

• Higher encryption levels often mean slower performance.

• Lightweight protocols can be faster but might not work in every environment.

• Reliability vs. speed is a constant balancing act.
  
  

The good news is Surfshark makes it easy to switch between protocols so you can optimize for the best experience.

The Protocols Surfshark Offers

Surfshark currently supports four main VPN protocols across its apps. Here’s a closer look at each, including tech specs and real-world uses.

WireGuard

This is Surfshark’s fastest and most modern protocol. It uses ChaCha20 encryption and a streamlined codebase that keeps overhead extremely low. WireGuard is ideal for streaming, gaming, and everyday browsing. In our testing, it often delivers near-ISP speeds on high-bandwidth connections.

OpenVPN UDP

This is a long-standing VPN standard, combining AES-256-GCM encryption with strong security. The UDP version prioritizes speed over reliability, making it excellent for streaming, video calls, and large downloads. It’s also widely supported, so it works on many types of networks.

OpenVPN TCP

Similar in encryption strength to UDP, TCP trades speed for consistency. It ensures all data packets arrive in the correct order, which can make it more stable on poor or congested networks. This is the protocol we recommend if you’re on hotel Wi-Fi, public hotspots, or in countries with strict firewalls.

IKEv2/IPsec

IKEv2 is particularly good for mobile devices because it reconnects almost instantly when switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data. It uses AES-256-GCM encryption with Perfect Forward Secrecy and is fast on both mobile and desktop. If you travel frequently or use a hotspot, IKEv2 is a strong choice.

How to Change Protocols in Surfshark on Windows or macOS

Switching protocols on desktop takes less than a minute.

1. Open the Surfshark App – Launch it from your Start Menu or Applications folder.

2. Go to Settings – Click the gear icon in the top right.

3. Select VPN Settings – This section contains connection options.

4. Find the Protocol Option – It’s clearly labeled “Protocol.”

5. Choose Your Protocol – Pick WireGuard, OpenVPN UDP/TCP, or IKEv2.

6. Reconnect to the VPN – The change takes effect after reconnecting.
   
   

We usually recommend starting with WireGuard for maximum speed, then experimenting with others if you hit network restrictions.

How to Change Protocols on Android and iOS

On mobile devices, the process is very similar.

1. Open the Surfshark app.

2. Tap the Settings icon.

3. Go to VPN Settings.

4. Tap Protocol.

5. Select your preferred option.

6. Reconnect to apply changes.
   
   

If you use mobile data a lot, IKEv2 is usually the better choice. For home Wi-Fi, WireGuard tends to give faster results.

Choosing the Right Protocol for Speed

While speed is often the main priority, it’s worth remembering that protocol choice depends on your environment. If you’re on a stable, unrestricted network, WireGuard almost always wins for speed. On a more restricted or unstable network, OpenVPN TCP might keep you connected when WireGuard or UDP drop out.

Here’s how we approach it in our own testing:

• First test WireGuard for raw speed.

• If blocked, switch to OpenVPN UDP for a balance of speed and compatibility.

• If still blocked or unstable, use OpenVPN TCP for reliability.

• If traveling, try IKEv2 for quick reconnections.
  
  

By rotating through these protocols when necessary, we’ve been able to maintain solid VPN performance almost anywhere in the world.

Troubleshooting Protocol-Related Problems

Sometimes, changing protocols can lead to unexpected issues:

• Can’t connect at all: Switch from WireGuard to OpenVPN TCP; TCP uses port 443, which is rarely blocked.

• Slow speeds after switching: Return to WireGuard or connect to a closer server physically near your location.

• Streaming site not working: Use OpenVPN UDP in combination with Surfshark’s NoBorders mode.

• Frequent disconnections: Switch from UDP to TCP for more stability.
  
  

These adjustments take seconds but can make the difference between a smooth connection and endless frustration.