This guide will walk you through setting up a VPN connection on your iPhone or iPad using the OpenVPN Connect client.
When to use OpenVPN
OpenVPN is a versatile and highly secure protocol. It’s an excellent choice if you need to connect to a specific server that requires it or if you’re having trouble with other protocols. For the simplest experience, we recommend the official VPNBaron app for iOS: no config files needed, and Baron Pathfinder picks the best protocol automatically.
Download Your Configuration File On your iPhone or iPad, log in at vpnbaron.com and open the Servers page, then switch to the OpenVPN tab. Each server row has two download links: UDP and TCP. Download the UDP config for the fastest speeds, or the TCP config if you’re on a network that blocks UDP (TCP works through most restrictive firewalls). The file saves to your Files app.
Download the OpenVPN Connect App Install the official OpenVPN Connect app from the App Store.
Import the Configuration File
Launch the OpenVPN Connect app. Go to the Upload File tab and select the .ovpn file you downloaded in Step 1 from your Files app.
Enter Your Credentials Enter your VPN username and password. You’ll find them at the top of the same Servers page, with copy and reveal buttons. These VPN credentials are separate from your website login. We recommend toggling “Save password” for convenience. Tap “Connect” in the top right.
Accept Certificate and Add VPN Configuration A warning about a missing certificate may appear. This is expected. Tap “Continue”. iOS will then ask for permission to add a VPN configuration. Tap “Allow”.
Connected! You are now successfully connected to the VPN. You can manage your connection from the OpenVPN Connect app.
