How to Change VPN on Android: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Changing your VPN on Android is straightforward once you know the steps. Whether you’re switching to a better provider for faster speeds, more privacy, or unblocking content, this guide covers everything. We’ll walk you through uninstalling your current VPN app, installing a new one, switching servers, and troubleshooting common issues. Ideal for UK users seeking reliable protection.

Why Change Your VPN on Android?

Your current VPN might be slowing down your connection, logging your data, or lacking servers in key locations like the UK. Reasons to switch include:

Better performance: Newer apps offer faster speeds for streaming Netflix or BBC iPlayer.
Enhanced privacy: Opt for no-logs policies verified by independent audits.
More features: Kill switches, split tunnelling, and ad blockers.
Cost savings: Many premium VPNs have affordable long-term plans.

If you’re unsure which VPN suits your needs, take our quick VPN quiz to find the perfect match.

Step 1: Disconnect and Uninstall Your Current VPN App

Before changing VPNs, properly remove the old one to avoid conflicts.

Open your Android device’s Settings app.
Go to Apps or Apps & notifications (depending on your Android version).
Find your VPN app in the list and tap it.
Select Uninstall and confirm.

Tip: If the app is a system VPN (pre-installed), you may need to disable it first via Settings > Network & internet > VPN.

Restart your device after uninstalling to clear any cached connections.

Step 2: Choose a New VPN for Android

Select a VPN optimised for Android with a user-friendly app. Look for:

Native Android support (Google Play Store availability).
UK servers for local content.
Strong encryption (AES-256) and protocols like WireGuard or OpenVPN.

Top recommendations for UK users:

ExpressVPN: Lightning-fast with excellent unblocking.
NordVPN: Feature-packed with double VPN.
Surfshark: Unlimited devices and budget-friendly.

Compare the best options in our detailed VPN comparison to see specs side-by-side.

Step 3: Download and Install the New VPN App

Open the Google Play Store.
Search for your chosen VPN (e.g., “ExpressVPN”).
Tap Install and wait for it to download.

Alternative: Download the APK directly from the provider’s official site if Play Store isn’t available (enable “Unknown sources” in Settings > Security).

Once installed, open the app and sign in with your account credentials. Most offer a free trial or money-back guarantee.

Step 4: Set Up and Connect to Your New VPN

Grant necessary permissions (VPN connection, notifications).
Choose a server location – start with a UK server for optimal speeds.
Toggle the Connect button.

Your Android status bar will show a VPN icon when active. Test the connection by visiting whatismyipaddress.com to confirm your IP has changed.

How to Change VPN Servers on Android

Switching servers is easy within most apps:

ExpressVPN: Tap the server list, search by country/city, and connect.
NordVPN: Use the “Quick Connect” or browse the map for specialty servers (e.g., P2P for torrents).
Surfshark: Swipe through locations or use GPS-based auto-connect.

Pro Tip: For streaming, connect to US servers for Netflix US or UK servers for iPlayer.

Advanced Settings for Optimal VPN Use on Android

Customise your experience:

Protocol selection: Switch to WireGuard for speed or OpenVPN for security.
Kill switch: Enable to block internet if VPN drops.
Split tunnelling: Route only specific apps through VPN.
Auto-connect: Set to launch on Wi-Fi or mobile data.

Access these in the app’s Settings menu.

Troubleshooting Common Issues When Changing VPNs on Android

Encounter problems? Here’s how to fix them:

Connection fails: Restart app/device, try different server/protocol.
Slow speeds: Choose closer servers, disable battery optimisation for the app (Settings > Apps > [VPN] > Battery).
App crashes: Clear cache/data or reinstall.
VPN won’t uninstall: Use ADB commands via PC or safe mode.
No internet after switch: Forget old VPN networks in Wi-Fi settings.

Update Android to the latest version for best compatibility (Settings > System > System update).

Best Practices for VPNs on Android in the UK

Use VPNs on public Wi-Fi (cafes, trains) to protect against hackers.
Avoid free VPNs – they often sell data.
Check for GDPR compliance for UK privacy.
Test with speedtest.net before/after connecting.

Regularly update your VPN app for security patches.

Conclusion

Changing your VPN on Android takes minutes and boosts your online security and freedom. Follow these steps for a seamless switch, and explore our recommendations to stay ahead. Questions? Drop a comment below!

Stay safe online.