Best VPN for Tablets: iPad & Android Tablet Setup (2026)

2 min read

Tablets: The Forgotten Security Device

Tablets sit between phones and laptops in both size and security attention. They're used for reading, browsing, video calls, and even light work — often on public Wi-Fi. Yet many people don't install a VPN on their tablet.

If you use your tablet on any network outside your home — hotel, café, airport — you need a VPN.

iPad VPN Setup

iPads follow iOS VPN conventions:

Download your VPN app from the App Store
Open and log in
Connect — iPad will ask to add a VPN configuration, approve it
Enable "Connect on Demand" in the VPN app settings

iPad-Specific Tips:

Stage Manager (iPadOS 16+) with VPN: VPN protects all windows simultaneously
Split View: Run VPN app alongside your work app to monitor connection status
Apple Pencil workflows: VPN adds no latency to drawing/note-taking apps
No split tunneling on iPadOS (Apple restriction)

Android Tablet VPN Setup

Android tablets support full VPN features:

Download from Google Play Store
Log in and connect
Go to Settings > Network > VPN > gear icon next to your VPN
Enable "Always-on VPN" + "Block connections without VPN"

Android Tablet Tips:

Split tunneling available (route specific apps through VPN)
Always-on VPN at system level (superior to iOS)
Samsung DeX mode: VPN protects all desktop-mode traffic
Battery optimization: Exclude VPN app from Doze/battery saver

Our Top Pick for Tablets

Surfshark — Unlimited devices means your tablet is covered on the same subscription as your phone and laptop. No need to choose which devices get protection. Clean, tablet-optimized UI on both iPadOS and Android.

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