How to Use Surfshark VPN: Fast & Secure Setup in 2026?

Using a VPN can feel confusing at first.

You just have to watch your favorite shows or keep your data safe, but all the settings and buttons look complicated.

If you don’t set it up right, you might not be protected at all.

You could be leaking your private info or still get blocked from the websites you want to visit.

That is frustrating and risky.

Don’t worry, it is actually very simple.

In this guide, we will show you how to use Surfshark VPN the right way.

We will break it down into easy steps so you can get secure in minutes.

Surfshark

Protect every device you own with Surfshark. Connect to 3,200+ servers across 100 countries instantly. Enjoy unlimited simultaneous connections and try it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Try Surfshark now read full review Surfshark alternatives

Surfshark VPN Tutorial

Learning the ropes is easy with this Surfshark VPN tutorial.

We guide you through the whole process, from downloading the app to clicking that connect button.

You will be browsing safely and hiding your location in no time at all.

How to use Alternative ID

Do you hate spam? This feature creates a fake online person for you.

It keeps your real info safe while you enjoy unlimited simultaneous connections on your internet connection.

Here is how to use Surfshark VPN features like this to protect your identity.

Step 1: Access the Feature

• Open the Surfshark app or log into your Surfshark account.
• This works on the website or the Surfshark VPN app.
• Click the Alternative ID tab. It is separate from the VPN servers list or VPN settings.

Step 2: Create Your Persona

• Hit “Create.”
• Pick a gender and country, or let the VPN provider choose.
• This identity protects you better than just using a virtual private network alone.

Step 3: Link Your Email

• Enter your real email address.
• This links to the new ID without exposing your main inbox.
• Verify it with the code sent to you. Now you are ready to use a vpn tool that goes beyond just streaming services.

Step 4: Use It Online

• Copy your fake details from the dashboard.
• Paste them into websites.
• Emails are forwarded to you safely. You don’t need to check VPN protocol settings for this; it just works!

How to use Surfshark Antivirus

A VPN hides your personal internet traffic from your internet service provider, but it cannot stop a virus you download.

That is why you need the Antivirus.

It works alongside your encrypted connection to keep you safe on the Surfshark desktop app and mobile devices.

Step 1: Install the Antivirus Module

• Open the app. You do not use browser extensions for this part.
• Click the Antivirus shield icon.
• If you are on a Surfshark free trial, make sure this feature is unlocked.
• Click “Install” to install Surfshark Antivirus data.

Step 2: Run Your First Scan

• Click “Start Scan.”
• This checks for bad files immediately.
• It works even if your vpn connection drops, so you are always safe.

Step 3: Schedule Automatic Scans

• Go to settings. You don’t need advanced settings for this.
• Set a time for the scan to run.
• You do not need to pick server locations or find the fastest server; the scan happens right on your device.

Step 4: Manage Quarantined Files

• If the app finds a virus, it locks it up.
• This acts like a kill switch for malware.
• Delete these files to clean your computer.

How to use Surfshark Search

Google tracks what you look for. Surfshark Search does not.

It gives you a secure connection for your questions.

Here is how to use this feature on your mobile device or computer to boost your online security.

Step 1: Find the Search Tool

• Make sure you download Surfshark and log in.
• Look for the Surfshark logo in the app sidebar.
• Click the Search icon. It works on various devices, so you can even use it via a browser on your smart TV.

Step 2: Perform a Private Search

• Type what you want in the search bar.
• This tool automatically blocks ads and trackers.
• It loads very fast, so you will never need a speed test.

Step 3: Change Your Location

• You can see results from other countries without moving your actual location.
• This is different from the quick connect button, which changes your ip address for the whole device.
• You do not need auto-connect on for this specific feature to work.

Step 4: Lock SafeSearch

• Go to the settings menu inside the Search tool.
• Click the settings tab to filter out adult content.
• See how well the vpn work to keep you private.
• If you are new, remember there is usually a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can also try it risk-free.

Alternatives to Surfshark VPN

• NordVPN: Known for its vast server network and a wide array of security and privacy features.
• ExpressVPN: Praised for its consistently fast speeds and user-friendly applications across devices.
• PureVPN: Offers a significant number of servers and additional functionalities.
• ProtonVPN: Emphasizes strong security and privacy, based in Switzerland.
• PrivadoVPN: Offers a free tier with limited data and a strong focus on user privacy.
• AdGuard VPN: Integrates seamlessly with AdGuard’s ad and tracker blocking capabilities.
• Virtual Shield: Designed for simplicity and ease of use, making it good for beginners.
• StrongVPN: Known for its robust encryption and reliable server connections.
• FastestVPN: Provides affordable subscription options with decent connection speeds.
• AuraVPN: Includes identity theft protection alongside its VPN service.
• CyberGhost: Features user-friendly apps and specialized servers optimized for different online activities.
• McAfee VPN: A basic VPN option often bundled with McAfee’s security software suite.
• Private Internet Access: A long-standing VPN provider with a strong focus on user privacy and customization options.
• Mysterium: Operates as a decentralized VPN utilizing a peer-to-peer network infrastructure.

Surfshark VPN Compared

Conclusion

Improving online safety is simple.

A good vpn hides your online activity and protects your digital life.

It runs on any operating system, so set up Surfshark on other devices after picking a payment method.

Watch Surfshark work by choosing a server.

You get an unlimited number of gadgets on one connection.

That is how Surfshark works. Connect now to find other cool features.

Run a test to confirm internet access.

You will see these cool features when you install the app.

The main screen shows everything Surfshark offers.

Open your device’s app, tap Quick Connect, and connect to the VPN today.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Facts about Surfshark

• Surfshark protects your privacy by sending your internet connection through its own private servers, which hides your real digital address (IP).
• It scrambles your internet data with encryption, making it unreadable to hackers and keeping your information safe.
• By hiding your location and scrambling your activity, Surfshark helps stop companies from showing you targeted ads.
• You can always save your money when shopping online by pretending to be in a different country, which helps you find lower prices.
• You can use Surfshark on as many devices as you want at the same time without paying extra.
• It keeps your personal data safe when you use public Wi-Fi networks, like at coffee shops or airports.
• The Auto-Connect feature can turn on the VPN automatically as soon as you start your device or join a Wi-Fi network.
• You can search for specific cities or countries in the “Locations” tab to choose where you want to connect.
• Also, you can download the app from the official Surfshark website or app stores like Google Play and the Apple App Store.
• After downloading the app, you just need to log in with the username and password you created.
• If you are not happy with the service, you can get your money back within 30 days.
• To stop using the VPN, you just click the “Disconnect” button in the app.
• Surfshark has over 3,200 servers in 100 different countries for you to choose from.
• You can check the speed indicators in the app to help you pick the fastest server.
• To make sure your real location stays hidden, you can run tests to check for IP and DNS leaks.
• Dynamic MultiHop sends your data through two different servers instead of one for double the safety.
• There are easy-to-use apps for Windows, Mac, iPhone, Android, and Linux computers.
• To use Surfshark on a new phone or computer, just download the app and log in with your current account.
• You can click “Quick-connect” to let the app instantly find the best server for you.
• You can change your settings and manage your connection right from the app’s main screen.
• If you use a Mac, iPhone, or Android, you can try Surfshark for free for 7 days.
• The cheapest plan is usually the 24-month option, which costs about $2 per month.
• You can also pay for your subscription using credit cards, PayPal, Google Pay, Apple Pay, or even cryptocurrency.
• You can switch between different connection styles (protocols), such as WireGuard and OpenVPN, to improve speed or security.
• Enabling “Two-factor authentication” in your settings adds an extra layer of security to your account.
• You can install the browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, or Edge to help block ads while you surf the web.
• The CleanWeb feature stops ads, trackers, and computer viruses from loading.
• The Bypasser feature lets you choose specific apps or websites that will work without the VPN, even while it is on.
• The Kill Switch automatically cuts off your internet if the VPN stops working, ensuring your data never leaks.
• The NoBorders feature helps you use the internet freely in countries that try to block VPNs.
• The Rotating IP feature changes your digital address every few minutes to make you harder to track, but your connection stays smooth.