Surfshark is a powerful VPN that combines speed, privacy, and a user-friendly interface — and its Android app is no exception. With features like WireGuard protocol, CleanWeb ad blocking, and unlimited device connections, setting up Surfshark on your Android phone or tablet takes just a few minutes.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through downloading, installing, and configuring the Surfshark Android app, along with tips for optimizing performance and privacy.

1. Check Your Android Requirements

Before installing Surfshark, make sure your device meets the basic requirements:

• Operating system: Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or newer

• Storage: At least 50 MB of free space

• Connection: Stable Wi-Fi or mobile data for installation

• Google Play access (or ability to sideload APK from Surfshark’s official site)
  
  

2. Download the Surfshark App

The easiest way to get Surfshark on Android is via Google Play Store:

1. Open the Google Play Store.

2. Search for Surfshark VPN.

3. Tap Install.
   
   

If your device doesn’t have Play Store access (e.g., some Huawei models), download the APK directly from the Surfshark website and enable “Install from Unknown Sources” in your Android settings.

3. Log In or Create an Account

1. Open the Surfshark app after installation.

2. Tap Log In if you already have an account.

3. Enter your email and password.

4. If you’re new, tap Create Account and follow the on-screen subscription steps.
   
   

4. Connect to a VPN Server

Once logged in, you can connect immediately:

• Quick Connect – Surfshark automatically selects the fastest available server.

• All Locations – Manually choose from 100+ countries.

• Specialty Servers – Select Static IP or MultiHop for advanced setups.
  
  

Tap the server you want, and within seconds you’ll be connected and protected.

5. Adjust Protocol for Speed or Stability

Surfshark’s Android app supports multiple VPN protocols:

• WireGuard – Best for speed and battery efficiency.

• OpenVPN UDP – Good balance of speed and compatibility.

• OpenVPN TCP – More reliable on poor networks.

• IKEv2/IPsec – Great for mobile network switching.
  
  

To change protocol:

1. Go to Settings → VPN Settings → Protocol.

2. Choose your preferred option.

3. Reconnect for changes to take effect.
   
   

6. Enable Key Privacy Features

Surfshark’s Android app includes several privacy-enhancing tools:

• CleanWeb – Blocks ads, trackers, and malware (enable in Settings → Features → CleanWeb).

• Kill Switch – Disconnects the internet if the VPN drops unexpectedly.

• Bypasser (Split Tunneling) – Lets you choose apps to exclude from VPN protection.
  
  

Activating these features gives you extra control over your security and browsing experience.

7. Use NoBorders Mode for Restricted Networks

If you’re in a country or on a network where VPNs are restricted, Surfshark’s NoBorders mode helps bypass blocks:

1. Go to Settings → VPN Settings.

2. Enable NoBorders.

3. Reconnect to a recommended server.
   
   

8. Auto-Connect and Always-On VPN

To keep Surfshark active without manual input:

• Auto-Connect – Go to Settings → VPN Settings → Auto-connect and choose a default server.

• Always-On VPN – In Android settings, enable Always-On VPN and Block connections without VPN for maximum protection.
  
  

This ensures your connection is encrypted 24/7, even after reboots.

9. Optimize for Battery Life and Speed

Surfshark is light on resources, but you can fine-tune for performance:

• Use WireGuard protocol for the best speed-to-battery ratio.

• Avoid unnecessary MultiHop connections unless extra encryption is needed.

• Choose nearby servers for lower latency.
  
  

10. Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Can’t connect: Switch protocols (e.g., WireGuard → OpenVPN TCP).

• Slow speeds: Try a closer server or disable battery saver mode (which can affect VPN performance).

• Streaming blocked: Change to a different server in the same country.
  
  

If problems persist, use the 24/7 live chat support within the app under Help.

Final Thoughts

The Surfshark Android app combines speed, security, and ease of use in one package. Installation takes just a few minutes, but exploring its settings can unlock much more — from faster protocols like WireGuard to advanced privacy features like MultiHop and Kill Switch.

Whether you’re streaming, gaming, working remotely, or just browsing on public Wi-Fi, Surfshark ensures your Android device stays private and protected. With unlimited device connections included in every plan, you can extend that same protection to all your gadgets under a single account.