Set up Surflare VPN on Android (APK)

This is a great solution if you're unable to download Surflare from the Google Play Store.

1

Enable installation from unknown sources

System Requirements: Android 11+

Go to your device Settings > Security (or Privacy), and enable "Install from unknown sources" or "Allow installation from this source".

Enable unknown sources
This setting may vary depending on your Android version
On Android 8+, you may need to allow your browser or file manager to install apps
2

Download the APK file

Download the Surflare APK file directly to your Android device.

3

Install the APK

Open the downloaded APK file from your Downloads folder or notification panel. Tap "Install" to begin the installation.

Surflare app icon
Tap "Open" after installation completes
5

Grant VPN permission

When connecting for the first time, Android will ask you to approve the VPN connection request. Tap "OK" to allow.

Android VPN permission dialog
This permission is required for the VPN to function
6

Connect to VPN

After logging in, the server is set to "Auto Best" by default. Simply tap the Connect button to connect to the fastest server based on your location.

Surflare main screen

You can also choose a specific server location, configure routing modes, or enable Multi-Hop VPN as needed.

6.1

VPN Server Selection

  • Auto Detect (Recommended)

    Automatically connects to the fastest server. Best for general use when you don't need a specific location.

  • City

    If you need to access from a specific country or city, select the desired location. When multiple servers are available in one city, the app automatically connects to the fastest one.

  • Specific Server

    Manually select an individual server from the list if needed.

Server selection
6.2

Routing Modes

Smart Routing

Only encrypts popular apps like Google, Facebook, OpenAI, Claude, Amazon, Netflix, etc. Other applications will continue to access the internet directly through your local network. Best for users who want VPN protection for specific apps while maintaining local network speed for other activities.

Global Routing

Encrypts all internet traffic from your device. Choose this option if you want complete privacy protection for all your online activities.

Routing modes
6.3

Multi-Hop VPN

This feature requires a Prime Plan subscription.
Enable Multi-Hop for distant servers

When connecting to a distant server with high latency, enable Multi-Hop VPN. Surflare will automatically find the fastest nearby relay server to forward your data, significantly improving connection speed.

Disable Multi-Hop for nearby servers

If the selected server is already nearby with low latency, do not enable Multi-Hop. The additional relay would add processing overhead and actually reduce your connection speed.

Once you have configured your preferences, tap the Connect button to start your VPN connection.

Verify Your Connection

After connecting, check your internet IP address in the app to confirm you are connected. Try accessing apps and websites to ensure everything works as expected.