How to Use Windscribe on Android Phone

Windscribe is a powerful and user-friendly VPN service that helps protect your online privacy and access content from around the world. This guide will walk you through how to install, set up, and use Windscribe on your Android phone, even if you’re new to VPNs.

What Is Windscribe?

Windscribe is a virtual private network (VPN) that encrypts your internet connection. It hides your real IP address and helps you browse the web securely. With Windscribe, you can:

• Access websites and apps blocked in your country
• Protect your data on public Wi-Fi
• Stop ads and trackers
• Stream content from other countries

Windscribe offers a generous free plan with up to 10GB of data per month if you confirm your email address.

Minimum Requirements

To use Windscribe on your Android phone:

• Your device must run Android 5.1 or higher
• Some features, like auto-connect on boot, require Android 9 or above

How to Install Windscribe on Android

Step 1: Download the App

Open the Google Play Store on your Android device.
Search for “Windscribe VPN” and tap “Install.”
Alternatively, you can download the APK directly from Windscribe’s website if the Play Store is not available in your region.

Step 2: Open the App

Once installed, open the Windscribe app.
You will see options to “Login” or “Get Started.”

Creating an Account

You can use Windscribe without an account, but creating one gives you more benefits.
Tap “Get Started” to create a free account.
You can sign up without an email for 2GB of free data per month.
If you provide and confirm your email, you get 10GB of free data per month.

Connecting to the VPN

Step 1: Choose a Location

In the app, you’ll see a list of server locations.
Free users can connect to locations without a star icon.
Paid users have access to all locations.

Step 2: Connect

Tap on a location to connect.
The first time you connect, Android will ask for permission to set up the VPN. Tap “OK.”
Once connected, the app will display “ON” in the top-left corner, and the interface will turn blue.

Step 3: Disconnect

To disconnect, tap the big ON/OFF button in the app.

Key Features of Windscribe on Android

1. Multiple VPN Protocols

Windscribe supports various protocols to ensure a stable and fast connection:

• WireGuard: Offers high-speed connections
• IKEv2: Provides fast connection times
• OpenVPN (TCP/UDP): Standard protocols for VPN connections
• Stealth and WSTunnel: Useful for bypassing restrictive networks

2. Split Tunneling

Choose which apps use the VPN and which don’t.
This feature helps manage bandwidth and access local services without disconnecting the VPN.

3. R.O.B.E.R.T. – Ad and Tracker Blocking

Windscribe includes a built-in tool called R.O.B.E.R.T.
It blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites.
You can customize block lists to suit your needs.

4. Auto-Connect and Network Rules

Set up rules to automatically connect or disconnect the VPN on specific Wi-Fi networks.
This ensures you’re always protected on public Wi-Fi.

Troubleshooting Tips

Slow Speeds

If you experience slow speeds:

• Try changing the VPN protocol
• Go to the app’s settings, select “Connection,” and switch to a different protocol like WireGuard or IKEv2
• Experiment with different ports to find the fastest connection

Reinstalling the App

If you need to reinstall Windscribe:

• Long-press the Windscribe app icon and tap the “i” icon
• Tap “Uninstall”
• Restart your device (optional)
• Reinstall the app from the Google Play Store
• Log in and reconnect to your desired location

Manual Setup Options

For advanced users, Windscribe supports manual VPN configurations.

IKEv2 via StrongSwan

• Download the StrongSwan app from the Google Play Store
• Obtain your IKEv2 credentials from Windscribe’s Profile Generator (requires a Pro account)
• Set up a new VPN profile in StrongSwan with the provided server address, username, and password
• Choose “IKEv2 EAP (Username/Password)” as the VPN type
• Enable advanced settings to block non-VPN traffic

OpenVPN via OpenVPN for Android

• Download the OpenVPN for Android app from the Google Play Store
• Download the OpenVPN configuration files from Windscribe (requires a Pro account)
• Import the configuration file into the OpenVPN app
• Enter your Windscribe-generated username and password

WireGuard via Third-Party Apps

Windscribe also supports WireGuard configurations for advanced users.
You can generate WireGuard configuration files from your Windscribe account dashboard.
Download the official WireGuard app from the Play Store.
Import the .conf file into the WireGuard app and connect.

Note: Manual setup is only recommended for users with technical knowledge or those on restricted networks. It also usually requires a Pro account.

Is Windscribe Safe to Use on Android?

Yes. Windscribe is a trusted VPN provider known for its strong privacy policy, transparent logging practices, and robust encryption.

Here are some security features that make Windscribe reliable:

• AES-256 encryption
• No-logs policy
• Firewall (Kill Switch) to prevent data leaks
• Built-in DNS and IPv6 leak protection

Windscribe doesn’t store your browsing history, DNS queries, or connection logs. Only minimal data is collected to enforce service limits (like data usage on free plans).

Free Plan vs Pro Plan: What’s the Difference?

Upgrading to Pro gives you more freedom, better performance, and access to advanced features like split tunneling, port forwarding, and static IP addresses.

Best Practices for Using Windscribe on Android

Here are a few tips to get the most out of Windscribe:

• Enable Auto-Connect: Automatically connect to VPN when you open the app or switch networks
• Use Split Tunneling: Route sensitive apps through the VPN while allowing others to use your regular connection
• Regularly Update the App: Updates bring new features, security patches, and better performance
• Use R.O.B.E.R.T. Filters: Block unwanted ads and malware before they reach your device
• Connect to the Nearest Server: For faster speeds, choose the server closest to your location
• Avoid Free Wi-Fi Without VPN: Always connect Windscribe before using public hotspots
• Set Up Network Rules: Create custom behaviors for different Wi-Fi networks (like home, work, or coffee shop)

Conclusion

Windscribe is a secure and easy-to-use VPN for Android users. Whether you’re looking to:

• Protect your data on public Wi-Fi
• Access geo-blocked content
• Or simply stay anonymous online

Windscribe makes it simple.

With a free plan to get started and powerful features in the Pro version, it’s a solid choice for both beginners and tech-savvy users.