This guide details how to get Surfshark set up on your Android devices. You can then start protecting your online activity.
Surfshark is a leading VPN provider. Lots of folks who use Android TV boxes, phones, and tablets use Surfshark.
This VPN has made a name for itself. This is thanks to its blazing-fast speeds, ability to connect an unlimited number of devices, a strict no-logs policy, and the power to get around those pesky geo-restrictions.
Surfshark is user-friendly. The Android app is a breeze to install and only takes a few minutes to get up and running.
But before we dive into installing Surfshark on your Android device, let’s take a moment. It’s helpful to grasp why using a virtual private network (VPN) is beneficial in the first place.
Why Use Surfshark for Android?
So, you might be wondering, why should I even bother using Surfshark on my Android devices? It’s a valid question, and there are a bunch of compelling reasons.
Thousands of cord-cutters rely on Surfshark for their Android TV boxes, phones, and tablets. It’s a popular choice for good reason.
Protect Yourself Online
The biggest reason to use Surfshark on your Android devices is for online protection. It’s about keeping your online activity private.
Think about it. App developers, hackers, shady website operators, your Internet service provider (ISP) – there are a lot of entities that might be interested in what you’re doing online.
When you install Surfshark on your Android devices, you’re essentially masking your online identity. It creates a secure connection through an anonymous IP address, which is like giving yourself a digital disguise.
Zero Logs
Surfshark is serious about your privacy. They’ve got a strict no-logs policy. Basically, they don’t keep track of what you’re doing online.
Surfshark explicitly states on their website that they “don’t monitor, track, or store what you do online.” That’s a pretty solid commitment to privacy.
What does a “zero-log” policy actually mean? It means Surfshark won’t log things like your browsing history, IP addresses, how much bandwidth you’re using, when you connected, or your network traffic. That goes for your Android devices and any other device you use with Surfshark.
Unlimited Devices
One of the coolest things about Surfshark VPN is that you can use it on as many devices as you want with just one account. And that includes your Android devices, of course.
In today’s world, we’re all surrounded by internet-connected gadgets. Having a VPN that doesn’t limit the number of devices is incredibly convenient.
This means you can use Surfshark on your Firestick, Android TV boxes, Windows PC, Mac, iOS devices, phones, tablets – you name it. One account covers them all.
Unblock Streaming Apps/Services
Ever tried to access a streaming app or service only to find out it’s blocked in your region? That’s where Surfshark comes in handy. It lets you bypass those geo-restrictions on your Android devices.
Surfshark can help you sidestep censorship based on your location. This is a major plus if you’re into streaming services like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Peacock TV, and others. You can watch content from different countries, no matter where you are.
Surfshark has a massive network of servers. They’ve got over 3,200 secure servers spread across 65 countries. That gives you plenty of options for getting around geo-blocks.
Fast Speeds
Nobody likes buffering or lag when they’re trying to stream or browse the web. That’s why speed is a big deal when it comes to VPNs. Luckily, Surfshark delivers in this department.
Surfshark is said to be among the fastest VPN providers out there. After many speed tests, it’s safe to say that this claim holds up. If you’re looking to stream in HD or even 4K without any buffering, using a fast VPN on your Android device is essential.
Sometimes, a VPN like Surfshark can actually boost your download speeds. This happens because a lot of internet providers use throttling methods for different streaming apps.
Block Ads and Malware
Surfshark has a CleanWeb feature for Android devices. It will block those annoying ads and malware. Plus, it’ll help keep you safe from hacker attacks. This feature is super helpful if you like to stream movies or sports on sites from your Android gadget.
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How to Install Surfshark for Android TV
To get Surfshark on your Android TV, just follow these steps. We’ll show you how to install it using the Google Play Store. This method works on all sorts of devices that run the Android TV operating system, like the NVIDIA Shield, Tivo Stream 4K, MECOOL boxes, and others.
1. To start, sign up for a Surfshark account. Click Here to snag a discount.
2. From the main menu on your Android TV’s home screen, go to Apps.
3. Scroll down until you find Open the Google Play Store and give it a click.
4. Head over to the Search option and click on the search box.
5. In the search box, type “surfshark”, then hit the search icon.
6. Click the Install button to get it going.
7. Let Surfshark finish installing, then click Open to launch it.
8. Give it a few seconds to open up, then click Log in to get to your account.
9. You can log in with your Android TV device by using a code . Or, you can choose to Log in with email, which is what we’ll do in this guide.
Go ahead and enter your account login credentials. Surfshark will have emailed these to you when you first signed up.
10. To establish a connection to Surfshark VPN quickly, just click Quick Connect.
11. You’ll see a Connection request message pop up. Simply click OK to proceed.
12. And that’s all there is to it. You’ve successfully installed Surfshark on your Android TV device.
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How to Install Surfshark for Android Phones and Tablets
Let’s walk through the steps to install Surfshark on your Android phone or tablet. For this example, we’ll be using a Samsung Galaxy Tab S6.
Remember, you’ll need a Google account to access the Play Store. If you don’t have one yet, you’ll need to create one before you can get started.
1. To start, register for a Surfshark account. Grab a discount by Clicking Here.
2. Next, open the Google Play Store. Type “surfshark” into the search bar and then click install.
3. Give it a few moments for Surfshark to install on your device.
4. Once Surfshark has finished installing, go ahead and click Open.
5. Open the Surfshark app. Log in using your Email and Password.
You’ll find your Surfshark login details in the email they sent after you registered.
6. To get connected, click Quick Connect.
7. When the Connection request message appears, simply click OK.
8. Congratulations! You’ve successfully installed Surfshark on your Android phone or tablet.
Surfshark for Android – Settings & Features
Note: If you’re missing some settings in your Surfshark app, it might be outdated.
We suggest uninstalling the current version and reinstalling the latest one.
To find your Surfshark settings, go to the bottom menu and click VPN Settings.
The Surfshark VPN app for Android offers a variety of customizable features. Let’s take a closer look at them below.
CleanWeb is a handy Surfshark feature. It blocks ads, malware, and trackers, plus it adds an extra layer of security when you’re browsing unfamiliar websites or using new apps.
Surfshark’s Bypasser option is essentially its Split Tunneling feature.
Split Tunneling gives you control. It lets you decide which apps bypass the VPN’s encrypted connection and connect directly to the internet.
On the flip side, Route via VPN lets you specify which apps should always use the VPN connection.
To get to your settings in Surfshark, click the Settings icon in the bottom left menu. From there, select VPN Settings.
Enabling Auto-connect ensures that Surfshark connects automatically whenever you turn on your Android device.
It’s a good idea to keep this option enabled. It provides continuous protection, even if your VPN connection drops unexpectedly.
The Kill switch setting is a safety net. It blocks your internet access if your device can’t connect to Surfshark.
Kill switches are great for privacy. They often don’t work on NVIDIA Shields, Firesticks, or other Android TV Boxes, but this one does.
VPN Protocol refers to the connection method used by the app.
Surfshark offers various VPN Protocol selections. These include WireGuard®, IKEv2, OpenVPN (UDP), OpenVPN (TCP), and an Automatic option.
If you’re having trouble connecting with your VPN app, try switching the connection protocol in this section. It might just solve the issue
To change VPN servers, go back to the Surfshark VPN app’s home screen. From there, click Locations on the main menu.
This will let you select the country you prefer to connect to. Surfshark offers over 3,200 servers across 65 countries—giving you plenty of options.
You can even save your favorite locations for quick access, just like in the example shown above.
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Surfshark Support
Surfshark provides excellent customer support. They offer 24/7 live support through their website. Whether you have billing inquiries, technical issues, or any account-related questions, they’ve got you covered.
Simply look for the Support option at the bottom right of the Surfshark website and click it. It’s that easy to get help.
For a deeper understanding of Surfshark’s features and benefits, check out our detailed review below.
Surfshark for Android FAQ
Can I Install Surfshark for Android Devices?
Absolutely! Surfshark is readily available on the Google Play Store, making it simple to install on any Android device you own.
Is Surfshark the Best VPN for Android?
Surfshark is undoubtedly a top contender for the best VPN on Android. Ultimately, the best VPN for you depends on your individual needs and what features you prioritize.
Does Surfshark Work with Streaming Apps?
Yes, it does. Surfshark is compatible with a wide range of popular streaming services, including Netflix, Prime Video, Disney Plus, Hulu, HBO Max, and many others.
What Does Surfshark do?
Surfshark, like other VPNs, encrypts your internet connection and masks your IP address. This added layer of security prevents your ISP, hackers, app/addon developers, and others from monitoring your online activity.
Why does my Download Speed Decrease when Using a VPN?
When using a VPN, your internet traffic is routed through a third-party server and encrypted, which can lead to a slight decrease in download speed. However, rest assured that your download speed will still be sufficient for streaming HD content without buffering.