How to Turn Off VPN on Android: Simple Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

Turning off a VPN on your Android device is straightforward once you know where to look. Whether you’re using a built-in VPN connection or a third-party app like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or Surfshark, this guide covers all the bases. Sometimes, you might want to disable your VPN temporarily for faster local speeds, accessing region-specific content, or troubleshooting connectivity issues.

We’ll walk you through the most common methods, tailored for UK users who rely on VPNs for streaming BBC iPlayer or protecting privacy on public Wi-Fi. No technical jargon—just clear steps.

Quick Ways to Disconnect VPN on Android

The fastest method is often right in your notification shade or quick settings. Here’s how:

Swipe down from the top of your screen to open the notification panel.
Look for the VPN key icon or a notification saying “VPN connected”.
Tap the notification or the toggle switch next to it to disconnect instantly.

This works on most Android versions from 10 upwards, including Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, and OnePlus devices.

If no notification appears, head to your quick settings:

Swipe down twice to expand the full quick settings menu.
Tap the VPN tile (it might be under ‘More’—long-press the edit button to add it).
Toggle it off.

Turn Off Built-in VPN in Android Settings

Android has a native VPN feature for manual configurations. To disable it:

Open Settings > Network & internet (or Connections on Samsung).
Tap VPN.
Select your active VPN connection.
Tap the gear icon or settings next to it.
Hit Disconnect or toggle the switch to off.

To remove it entirely:

Tap Forget VPN or the delete icon.

Pro tip: On Android 14 (common on newer Pixels), you might see a dedicated VPN section under Privacy for always-on VPNs—toggle it off there too.

Disconnect VPN Apps on Android

Most popular VPNs have their own apps with easy disconnect buttons. Here’s how for the top ones:

NordVPN

Open the NordVPN app.
Tap the Disconnect button on the dashboard.
Or use the notification shade method above.

ExpressVPN

Launch ExpressVPN.
Tap the power button (large on/off toggle).
Confirm disconnection.

Surfshark

In the app, tap Disconnect.
Enable the “Connect on demand” kill switch only if needed—turn it off for full disable.

Other Apps (CyberGhost, ProtonVPN, etc.)

Look for a prominent Disconnect, Off, or power icon on the main screen.
Always check app notifications for a quick tap-to-disconnect.

If your VPN app has a kill switch enabled, internet might cut off until you reconnect—disable it in app settings under Advanced or Connection.

Device-Specific Instructions

Android skins vary:

Samsung Galaxy (One UI)

Settings > Connections > More connection settings > VPN.
Tap your VPN > Disconnect.

Google Pixel

Settings > Network & internet > VPN.
Standard disconnect steps apply.

Xiaomi/Redmi (MIUI/HyperOS)

Settings > Connection & sharing > VPN.
Long-press the connection > Disconnect.

OnePlus/Oppo (OxygenOS/ColorOS)

Follow stock Android steps—very similar.

Troubleshooting: VPN Won’t Turn Off on Android

Stuck? Try these fixes:

Restart your device: Simplest solution for glitches.
Force stop the VPN app: Settings > Apps > [VPN App] > Force stop.
Clear app cache: Same menu > Storage > Clear cache (not data, to avoid logins).
Check always-on VPN: Settings > Network & internet > VPN > Gear icon > Block connections without VPN (toggle off).
Disable via ADB (advanced): If rooted or via PC, use adb shell settings put global vpn_supplicant_warnings_cache 1—but avoid unless necessary.
Update Android and app: Bugs fixed in latest versions.

If it’s a work VPN (e.g., from your employer), contact IT—they might have restrictions.

When Should You Turn Off Your VPN?

Local streaming: UK Netflix or iPlayer works better without.
Gaming: Lower ping for multiplayer.
Banking apps: Some detect VPNs as suspicious.
Speed tests: See your true broadband speed.

Always reconnect for public Wi-Fi security. Not sure which VPN suits your needs? Check our VPN comparison tool for UK-optimised options.

Why Use a Reliable VPN in the First Place?

VPNs encrypt your traffic, hide your IP, and bypass geo-blocks. But they’re not always needed. Take our quick VPN quiz to find the best for streaming, privacy, or travel.

Turning off your VPN on Android takes seconds once mastered. If issues persist, specify your device and app in comments below—we’re here to help UK users stay secure online.