How to set up dedicated IP address on ExpressVPN

intermediate 8 min read Updated 2026-03-18
Quick Answer

ExpressVPN's dedicated IP feature requires purchasing an add-on through your account dashboard, then configuring it in your ExpressVPN app. The process involves selecting your preferred location and activating the dedicated IP in your connection settings.

Prerequisites

  • Active ExpressVPN subscription
  • ExpressVPN app installed on your device
  • Access to your ExpressVPN account dashboard
  • Dedicated IP add-on purchased

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Purchase Dedicated IP Add-on

Log into your ExpressVPN account at expressvpn.com. Navigate to My Account and select Manage Subscription. Click on Add-ons and purchase the Dedicated IP option for your preferred location (US, UK, Netherlands, or other available regions).
Dedicated IP costs an additional monthly fee and is location-specific, so choose your region carefully.
2

Access Dedicated IP Settings

After purchase confirmation, return to your account dashboard and click on Set Up ExpressVPN. Select Dedicated IP from the menu options. You'll see your newly purchased dedicated IP address and activation instructions.
3

Download Configuration File

In the Dedicated IP section, click Download .ovpn file to get your dedicated IP configuration file. Save this file to a memorable location on your device. Note down the dedicated IP address and server name displayed on the page.
Keep the .ovpn file secure as it contains your unique dedicated IP credentials.
4

Configure ExpressVPN App

Open the ExpressVPN app and go to Settings or Preferences. Look for Protocol settings and select OpenVPN if not already selected. Some versions may have a specific Dedicated IP section in settings.
The exact menu location may vary depending on your device (Windows, Mac, mobile).
5

Import Dedicated IP Configuration

In the ExpressVPN app, click on the three dots menu or Options. Select Import .ovpn file or Manual Configuration. Browse and select the dedicated IP configuration file you downloaded earlier. The app will import your dedicated IP server settings.
6

Connect to Dedicated IP

Your dedicated IP server should now appear in the server list, usually labeled with Dedicated IP or your chosen location name. Click on this server to connect. The app will establish a connection using your dedicated IP address.
The initial connection may take slightly longer than regular servers as it authenticates your dedicated IP credentials.
7

Verify Dedicated IP Connection

Once connected, verify your setup by visiting whatismyipaddress.com or similar IP checking websites. Confirm that the displayed IP address matches the dedicated IP shown in your ExpressVPN account dashboard. The location should also match your selected region.
Bookmark IP checking sites to quickly verify your dedicated IP is working correctly.
8

Configure Auto-Connect (Optional)

In the ExpressVPN app settings, you can set your dedicated IP server as the default connection. Go to General Settings and enable Launch ExpressVPN on startup and Connect on launch. Select your dedicated IP server as the preferred location for automatic connections.
Auto-connect ensures you always use your dedicated IP when starting your VPN session.

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

Dedicated IP option not appearing in account

Ensure your subscription plan supports dedicated IP add-ons. Contact ExpressVPN support if the option remains unavailable after 24 hours of subscription activation.

Cannot import .ovpn configuration file

Verify the ExpressVPN app is updated to the latest version. Try restarting the app and importing again. If issues persist, use manual configuration with server details from your account dashboard.

Dedicated IP server shows as offline

Check your internet connection and try disconnecting/reconnecting. If the server remains offline, log out and back into your ExpressVPN account, then re-download the configuration file.

IP address not matching dedicated IP

Ensure you're connected to the correct dedicated IP server, not a regular ExpressVPN server. Clear your browser cache and check your IP again. Contact support if the wrong IP persists after reconnecting.

Prices mentioned in this guide are pulled from current plan data and may change. Always verify on the official ExpressVPN website before purchasing.