iOS Guide
OrbVPN for iOS
The complete guide to using OrbVPN on your iPhone and iPad. Built natively with Apple's Network Extension framework for seamless performance and deep iOS integration.
iOS Features Overview
OrbVPN for iOS is built as a native application using Apple's Network Extension framework. This ensures reliable VPN connections that persist across app switches, screen locks, and device restarts.
Network Extension
Uses Apple's official VPN framework for system-level integration. The VPN runs as a network extension, not just an app overlay.
Face ID & Touch ID
Unlock OrbVPN with Face ID on iPhone X and later, or Touch ID on older models. Fast, secure access without typing passwords.
Apple Sign-In
Create an account or sign in using your Apple ID. Keeps your email private with Apple's Hide My Email relay service.
Installation
Open the App Store
On your iPhone or iPad, open the App Store and search for OrbVPN, or tap the download link above to go directly to the listing.
Download and Install
Tap 'Get' to download OrbVPN. The app installs automatically. Authenticate with Face ID, Touch ID, or your Apple ID password if prompted.
Allow VPN Configuration
When you first open OrbVPN and connect, iOS will prompt you to allow the app to add VPN configurations. Tap 'Allow' and authenticate.
Sign In or Create Account
Use your existing OrbVPN credentials, or tap 'Sign in with Apple' to create an account using your Apple ID with privacy protection.
VPN Configuration Profile
iOS requires explicit permission to install VPN profiles. This is a one-time prompt. The VPN profile is managed by OrbVPN and can be removed from Settings then General then VPN and Device Management.
iOS-Specific Features
Face ID Integration
Once enabled in Settings then Security then Biometric Login, OrbVPN uses Face ID to authenticate app access. This prevents anyone from opening the app and changing settings without your biometric verification.
Apple Sign-In
Sign in with Apple provides a privacy-focused authentication method. You can choose to share or hide your real email address. Apple generates a private relay email that forwards to your real inbox.
iCloud Backup
OrbVPN settings and preferences can be backed up to iCloud. When you restore your iPhone from an iCloud backup or set up a new device, your OrbVPN configuration is automatically restored.
iCloud Sync
Your app preferences, favorite servers, and VPN settings sync via iCloud across all your Apple devices signed into the same Apple ID.
Keychain Integration
Your OrbVPN credentials are securely stored in the iOS Keychain, protected by the Secure Enclave hardware encryption.
Passkey and Biometric Login
OrbVPN supports modern authentication methods on iOS for fast, secure access to your account.
Passkey Support
Sign in using Apple Passkeys stored in iCloud Keychain. Passkeys provide phishing-resistant authentication that syncs across all your Apple devices.
Face ID Login
Authenticate with Face ID on iPhone X and later. Face ID secures both app access and sensitive actions like wallet transactions within OrbVPN.
Touch ID Login
Use Touch ID on supported devices for biometric login. Works on older iPhones and iPads with a Home button fingerprint sensor.
VPN Extension Behavior
Understanding how the VPN extension works on iOS helps you get the best experience. OrbVPN is built on Apple's Network Extensions framework, which allows the VPN tunnel to operate as a system-level service independent of the app itself.
Always-On VPN
The Network Extension keeps the VPN running even when the app is in the background or closed. Your connection persists across app switches.
On-Demand Rules
Configure the VPN to connect automatically on certain Wi-Fi networks or when leaving trusted networks. Set rules in the app settings.
Kill Switch
When enabled, all internet traffic is blocked if the VPN drops. On iOS, this is handled at the system level for comprehensive protection.
Status Bar Indicator
iOS displays a VPN icon in the status bar whenever OrbVPN is connected. This provides a constant visual confirmation of your protection.
On-Demand VPN Rules
On-Demand VPN lets OrbVPN automatically connect or disconnect based on your network environment. Configure rules so you never forget to enable VPN protection.
Connect on Wi-Fi
Automatically activate the VPN whenever you join any Wi-Fi network, or only on untrusted networks. Define trusted home or office networks that skip the VPN.
Connect on Cellular
Set OrbVPN to automatically connect when using cellular data. Protects your traffic on mobile networks where interception risks are higher.
Specific Network Rules
Create per-network rules to connect or disconnect on specific Wi-Fi SSIDs. For example, always connect at coffee shops but disconnect at home.
Disconnect on Trusted Networks
Define a list of trusted networks where the VPN disconnects automatically, such as your home or office Wi-Fi, to avoid unnecessary overhead.
On-Demand Configuration
Navigate to OrbVPN Settings then VPN then On-Demand Rules to configure your network-based triggers. Rules are evaluated in order, so place more specific rules before general ones.
Network Extensions Framework
OrbVPN leverages Apple's Network Extensions framework to deliver a system-level VPN that operates outside the normal app lifecycle.
System Extension
The VPN runs as a Network Extension, a privileged process separate from the main app. It continues running even if the app is terminated or not launched.
Packet Tunnel Provider
OrbVPN implements a Packet Tunnel Provider to intercept and encrypt all network traffic at the system level, covering every app on your device.
iCloud Wallet Backup
Your OrbVPN wallet data can be securely backed up to iCloud, ensuring you never lose access to your tokens and transaction history.
Encrypted iCloud Backup
Wallet recovery data is encrypted before upload to iCloud. Only you can decrypt it using your device credentials and biometric authentication.
Seamless Restoration
When setting up a new iPhone or restoring from backup, your wallet balance, transaction history, and staking data are automatically restored from iCloud.
Backup Your Recovery Phrase
While iCloud backup protects your wallet data, always write down your recovery phrase and store it in a safe location. iCloud backup is a convenience feature, not a replacement for a proper recovery phrase backup.
Notifications
OrbVPN for iOS uses the native notification system to keep you informed about your VPN status.
Connection Alerts
Receive notifications when the VPN connects, disconnects, or encounters a connection issue. Customize which alerts you receive.
Subscription Reminders
Get notified before your subscription renews or when your plan is about to expire, so you never lose protection unexpectedly.
Widgets and Shortcuts
Home Screen Widget
Add the OrbVPN widget to your home screen for at-a-glance VPN status and one-tap connect or disconnect without opening the app.
Siri Shortcuts
Create Siri Shortcuts to connect or disconnect OrbVPN with voice commands. Say 'Hey Siri, connect my VPN' for hands-free operation.
Troubleshooting
VPN Not Connecting
Ensure you have allowed VPN configurations in iOS settings. Try switching protocols in the OrbVPN app. Restart your device if issues persist.
Face ID Not Working
Re-enroll Face ID in iOS Settings then Face ID and Passcode. Ensure biometric login is enabled in OrbVPN Settings then Security.
VPN Disconnects Frequently
Check your Wi-Fi or cellular signal strength. Enable auto-reconnect in OrbVPN settings. Update to the latest app and iOS versions.
High Battery Usage
VPN usage does consume some additional battery. Use WireGuard protocol for the most battery-efficient connections on iOS.
Protect Your iPhone and iPad
OrbVPN for iOS delivers native performance with deep system integration. Download from the App Store and secure your Apple devices today.