How to change VPN protocol (WireGuard vs OpenVPN) on Surfshark

beginner 8 min read Updated 2026-03-19

Quick Answer

To change VPN protocol on Surfshark, open the app, go to Settings, select VPN settings, and choose between WireGuard or OpenVPN protocols. WireGuard offers faster speeds while OpenVPN provides better compatibility with older networks.

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Prerequisites

Active Surfshark VPN subscription
Surfshark app installed on your device
Admin/system permissions on your device
Internet connection

Step-by-Step Instructions

Open Surfshark App

Launch the Surfshark VPN application on your device. Make sure you're logged in with your Surfshark account credentials. If not logged in, enter your email and password to access the main dashboard.

Close any active VPN connection before changing protocols to prevent conflicts.

Access Settings Menu

Look for the Settings or gear icon, typically located in the top-right corner of the app interface. On mobile apps, this might be in the hamburger menu (three horizontal lines). Click or tap on Settings to open the configuration menu.

Navigate to VPN Settings

In the Settings menu, locate and click on VPN settings or Advanced section. This section contains all VPN-related configuration options including protocol selection, kill switch, and connection settings.

The exact menu name may vary slightly between desktop and mobile versions of the app.

Find Protocol Selection

Look for the Protocol or VPN Protocol option within the VPN settings. This will show your currently selected protocol and available options. Click on the dropdown menu or toggle to view available protocols.

Choose Your Protocol

Select either WireGuard or OpenVPN from the available options:

WireGuard: Newer, faster protocol with lower battery usage
OpenVPN (UDP): Reliable, widely compatible protocol
OpenVPN (TCP): More stable for unstable connections

Click on your preferred protocol to select it.

WireGuard is recommended for most users due to its superior speed and efficiency.

Apply Changes

After selecting your preferred protocol, click Save or Apply if prompted. Some versions of Surfshark automatically apply the changes. The app may display a confirmation message indicating the protocol has been changed.

Restart VPN Connection

If you were connected to a VPN server, the connection will automatically restart with the new protocol. If not connected, establish a new connection by selecting a server location and clicking Connect. The new protocol will now be active.

Test your connection speed after changing protocols to ensure optimal performance.

Verify Protocol Change

To confirm the protocol change, return to VPN Settings and check that your selected protocol is now active. You can also check the main connection screen, which may display the current protocol being used when connected to a server.

Some versions show protocol information in the connection status area of the main dashboard.

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

Protocol option not appearing in settings

Update your Surfshark app to the latest version. Older versions may not support all protocols. If the issue persists, restart the app or reinstall it from the official app store.

Connection fails after changing to WireGuard

Some networks block WireGuard traffic. Switch back to OpenVPN protocol or try connecting to a different server location. Contact your network administrator if you're on a corporate network.

Slower speeds after protocol change

Try connecting to a different server location or switch between UDP and TCP versions of OpenVPN. WireGuard typically offers faster speeds, so consider switching to it if currently using OpenVPN.

Settings menu looks different than described

Surfshark's interface varies between devices (Windows, Mac, iOS, Android). Look for Advanced settings, Connection settings, or Preferences instead. The protocol option should be in the main settings area regardless of the exact menu name.

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

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