Introduction
In this article, you will learn how to set up a manual NordVPN connection on iOS using the WireGuard® protocol. By downloading a WireGuard configuration file from your Nord Account and importing it into the official WireGuard app, you can connect to a NordVPN server without the standard NordVPN application.
Before you start
- An active NordVPN subscription.
- You will need your NordVPN service credentials, not your standard Nord Account email and password.
Here's what to do
Step 1: Download and install WireGuard
- Go to the WireGuard downloads page and, under iOS, select Download from App Store.
- Install WireGuard.
Step 2: Obtain your WireGuard configuration file
- Log in to your Nord Account and choose NordVPN.
- Scroll down to Advanced Settings and select Set up NordVPN manually.
- Use the dropdown menu to choose your preferred country.
- Find the server you want to use and, under Available protocols, select WireGuard.
- In the Setup configuration screen, select Download config.
- Save the downloaded .conf file somewhere you can find it, such as your Downloads folder.
Step 3: Import the configuration into WireGuard
- Open WireGuard.
- In the upper-right corner, tap the add (+) button, and choose Create from file or archive.
- Browse to the location where you saved the downloaded .conf file and select it.
- The imported server will now appear in the WireGuard app.
Step 4: Connect to the VPN
- In WireGuard, tap the toggle next to the tunnel you just imported.
- Within a few seconds, the toggle will switch to the on position, indicating that the VPN connection is successful.
Additional tips
- To change locations, deactivate your current tunnel and activate a different imported tunnel, or download a new WireGuard configuration file following Step 2.
- After the tunnel shows Active, you can verify your connection by checking your IP address status in the top bar on the NordVPN website.
WireGuard is a registered trademark of Jason A. Donenfeld.
