How to set up auto-connect on startup on Surfshark

beginner 8 min read Updated 2026-03-19

Quick Answer

Enable Surfshark auto-connect on startup by opening the app settings, finding the Auto-connect section, and toggling on both 'Launch Surfshark on startup' and 'Connect VPN on app launch'. You can also select your preferred server location for automatic connection.

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Prerequisites

Surfshark subscription and account
Surfshark app installed on your device
Administrative privileges on your computer
Stable internet connection

Step-by-Step Instructions

Launch Surfshark and log in

Open the Surfshark application on your device and sign in with your account credentials. Make sure you're on the main dashboard before proceeding to settings.

If you're not already logged in, use the same credentials you used when purchasing your Surfshark subscription.

Access the Settings menu

Click on the Settings icon, which appears as a gear or cog wheel, typically located in the top-right corner of the Surfshark interface or in the main menu.

Navigate to General settings

In the Settings menu, look for and click on General or Auto-connect tab. This section contains the startup and connection preferences for the application.

The exact location may vary slightly depending on your operating system and app version.

Enable launch on startup

Find the option labeled Launch Surfshark on startup or Start with system and toggle it ON. This ensures the Surfshark app starts automatically when your computer boots up.

On some systems, you may need to grant permission for the app to start with Windows or macOS.

Enable auto-connect VPN

Locate the Connect VPN on app launch or Auto-connect option and toggle it ON. This setting will automatically establish a VPN connection as soon as Surfshark launches.

Select preferred server location

In the auto-connect section, click on Choose location or Server selection. Select your preferred country and server from the dropdown menu, or choose Fastest server for optimal performance.

Choosing 'Fastest server' is recommended as it automatically connects to the server with the best performance at startup.

Configure additional auto-connect settings

Review additional options such as Auto-connect to VPN on untrusted Wi-Fi and Auto-connect when joining new networks. Enable these if you want enhanced automatic protection.

These settings provide extra security when connecting to public or unknown networks.

Save and test the configuration

Click Save or Apply to confirm your settings. Restart your computer to test that Surfshark launches automatically and connects to your chosen server location upon startup.

Check your system tray or taskbar after restart to confirm Surfshark is running and connected.

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

Surfshark doesn't launch on startup

Check if the app has permission to start with your system. On Windows, verify it's enabled in Task Manager > Startup. On Mac, check System Preferences > Users & Groups > Login Items.

App launches but doesn't auto-connect

Verify that both Launch on startup and Connect VPN on app launch are enabled. Try logging out and back into your Surfshark account, then reconfigure the auto-connect settings.

Auto-connect fails with connection error

Try selecting a different server location in the auto-connect settings. Check your internet connection and firewall settings. Temporarily disable other VPN software that might conflict with Surfshark.

Settings don't save or reset after restart

Run Surfshark as administrator (Windows) or grant necessary permissions (Mac). Check if antivirus software is blocking Surfshark from saving configuration files. Reinstall the app if the problem 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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