How to install on Android on Surfshark

beginner 8 min read Updated 2026-03-19

Quick Answer

Installing Surfshark on Android is straightforward - download the app from Google Play Store, log in with your credentials, and connect to a server. The entire process takes just a few minutes and requires no technical expertise.

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Prerequisites

Active Surfshark subscription
Android device running Android 5.0 or higher
Google Play Store access
Stable internet connection

Step-by-Step Instructions

Open Google Play Store

Launch the Google Play Store app on your Android device. Ensure you're signed in with your Google account to download apps.

Make sure your device has enough storage space (at least 50MB) for the Surfshark app.

Search for Surfshark

Tap the Search bar at the top and type Surfshark. Look for the official Surfshark VPN app with the blue shark logo published by Surfshark B.V.

Verify the publisher name to avoid downloading fake or malicious VPN apps.

Download and Install

Tap the Install button next to the Surfshark app. Wait for the download and installation to complete automatically. The app size is approximately 40-50MB.

Use Wi-Fi connection for faster download and to avoid mobile data charges.

Launch the App

Once installed, tap Open from the Play Store or find the Surfshark app icon on your home screen. The app will launch and show the welcome screen.

Log In to Your Account

Tap Log In and enter your Surfshark email and password. If you don't have an account, tap Get Surfshark to create one and choose a subscription plan.

Enable biometric login (fingerprint/face unlock) for quicker access in the future.

Grant Necessary Permissions

The app will request VPN connection permissions. Tap Allow when prompted and then tap OK in the Android VPN connection dialog. This creates a secure VPN profile on your device.

These permissions are essential for the VPN to function properly and encrypt your internet traffic.

Choose a Server Location

Tap Locations to browse available servers. Select your preferred country and city from the list. For best performance, choose Fastest Server which automatically selects the optimal location.

Closer server locations typically provide faster connection speeds.

Connect to VPN

Tap the large Connect button on the main screen. The button will turn green and show Connected when the VPN tunnel is established. You'll see a VPN key icon in your Android status bar.

Your real IP address is now hidden and your internet traffic is encrypted through Surfshark's servers.

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

App not available in Google Play Store

Check if you're in a restricted region. Try downloading the Surfshark APK directly from the official website or use a different Google account.

Connection fails or keeps disconnecting

Try switching to a different server location, disable battery optimization for Surfshark in Settings > Apps > Surfshark > Battery, or switch VPN protocols in app settings.

Slow internet speeds while connected

Connect to a nearby server location, try the WireGuard protocol in Settings > VPN Settings > Protocol, or disable unnecessary features like ad-blocking.

Reset your password through the Forgot Password link, ensure you're using the correct email address, or contact Surfshark support if the issue persists.

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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