Introduction
For anyone navigating the Android ecosystem, where would vpn be on android8 phone is a question that pops up frequently. Many users find the location of VPN settings buried in the system menus, especially on older devices like Android 8. The answer often comes down to understanding the device’s operating system version, user interface, and the specific VPN app you’ve chosen.
The same confusion surfaces when people ask, how to find VPN settings on Android. While newer Android releases provide a dedicated VPN section in Settings, older versions require a bit more digging. Knowing precisely where to look saves time and prevents frustration, especially if you’re trying to protect your data in high‑risk regions such as Russia, China, or Iran.
In this guide we’ll walk through step‑by‑step how to locate VPN settings on an Android 8 device, explain why you might need a VPN, and show alternative methods for devices that don’t follow the standard path. By the end you’ll be able to set up a secure, private connection whether you’re in the United States, the United Kingdom, or anywhere else in the world. To help you along the way, we’ve also linked to several internal resources, such as why I need a VPN, that explain the broader context of privacy and security on mobile.
Remember: while a VPN can protect your internet traffic, it’s not a silver bullet. You’ll still need to practice safe browsing habits, keep your OS updated, and use strong, unique passwords. The following steps will help you get the most out of your VPN on Android 8.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Verify Your Android Version and System Update Status
Before you dive into the settings menu, confirm that your device is truly running Android 8 (Oreo) and not a later version that masquerades as an older build. Go to Settings → About phone and look for the Android version. If your device is running an update beyond Android 8, the VPN settings may be located in a different place.
If you discover your device is stuck on Android 8 due to carrier restrictions or hardware limitations, it’s still possible to add VPNs manually. In that case you’ll need to access the hidden “VPN” option via the quick‑settings panel or the Settings app’s “Security & location” section.
Step 2: Access the Quick‑Settings Panel
Swipe down from the top of the screen twice or press and hold the quick‑settings panel. Look for a gear icon that opens Settings. From there, navigate to Network & internet or Connections depending on your device’s manufacturer. This is often the first place to find VPN options on Android 8.
On some OEM skins, you may see a dedicated VPN tile. If not, keep scrolling through the list. The location can vary: for Samsung devices it might be under Connections → VPN, whereas for Google Pixel phones it’s under Network & internet → VPN.
At this point you’re closer to the answer: the VPN settings can be found here if you’ve already installed a VPN app that created a system‑wide profile.
Step 3: Explore the Settings App Thoroughly
If the quick‑settings panel doesn’t reveal the VPN option, open the main Settings app directly. Tap Security or Security & location and look for the VPN subsection. In Android 8, the VPN tile usually lives here.
Once you locate the VPN tile, tap it. You’ll see a list of any VPN profiles you’ve previously added. If you’re starting from scratch, you can add a new one by tapping the plus icon or the Add VPN link.
When you tap Add VPN, you’ll be prompted to enter the VPN’s technical details: server address, username, password, and authentication method. If you’re using a commercial VPN service, they’ll typically provide these details in your account portal or in an email.
Step 4: Use a Dedicated VPN App
Most popular VPN providers bundle an Android app that automatically configures the VPN profile. Installing the app and logging in will often add a system‑wide VPN profile that appears in the Settings. This is the simplest route for many users.
After installation, open the VPN app and follow the on‑screen wizard. The app may ask for permission to modify network settings. Grant the permission and allow it to add the profile. Once the profile is added, the VPN icon will appear in the status bar when active.
With the VPN profile in place, you can toggle it on and off from the quick‑settings panel or Settings → VPN. The convenience of a dedicated app also means you can set automatic connections, kill switches, and split tunneling if your provider supports those features.
Step 5: Enable “Always On” and “Kill Switch” Features (If Available)
Some Android 8 devices and VPN apps offer an “Always On” setting that ensures the VPN stays active even when the phone restarts. To enable it, open the VPN profile settings and toggle Always on. This feature is particularly useful when you’re traveling in regions where censorship or surveillance is a concern.
The “kill switch” feature, if supported, blocks all network traffic if the VPN connection drops. This prevents accidental data leaks. Look for a Block all traffic when disconnected toggle inside the VPN app’s settings menu.
Using these safety nets ensures that your connection remains private, even if the VPN hiccups or the device reboots.
Step 6: Test Your VPN Connection
After setting up the VPN, verify that it’s routing traffic correctly. Open a browser and visit support.google.com or any other site that shows your IP address, such as whatismyipaddress.com. Confirm that the displayed IP matches the VPN server’s location.
You can also use a dedicated app like Cyber Insider’s VPN guide for more advanced diagnostics. These tools can detect DNS leaks, verify encryption strength, and confirm that the VPN is active.
Once you’ve confirmed everything is working, you’re ready to browse safely. Keep the VPN toggle enabled whenever you’re on public Wi‑Fi, traveling abroad, or accessing sensitive data.
Tips
Finding VPN settings on Android 8 can be tricky, especially if you’re a new user. Here are some handy tips to streamline the process:
- Use the search bar in Settings. Type “VPN” or “Virtual Private Network” to jump directly to the settings page.
- Check the manufacturer’s custom UI (e.g., Samsung One UI, Xiaomi MIUI, Huawei EMUI). They often place VPN under a different menu label like Connections or Security Center.
- Enable the “Show VPN icon” option in Settings → VPN. This places a persistent VPN icon in the status bar, making it easier to see whether you’re connected.
- Use the “Add VPN” shortcut in the quick‑settings panel if available. Some devices let you add a new VPN profile directly from the panel.
- Keep your device’s OS updated. Even if you’re on Android 8, installing security patches can improve VPN reliability and security.
For users who prefer a more visual guide, you can find a step‑by‑step video tutorial on YouTube that demonstrates the exact navigation for popular Android 8 devices like the Google Pixel 2 and Samsung Galaxy S8.
Alternative Methods
Not all Android 8 phones support the built‑in VPN settings, especially if the manufacturer has removed the feature for cost or policy reasons. In those cases, you can still protect your traffic using one of the following alternatives:
Method 1: Install a Full‑Featured VPN App
Most commercial VPN services provide an Android app that manages its own VPN connection without requiring the system’s VPN profile. The app runs in the background and creates a secure tunnel for all network traffic. This approach is effective on devices that have disabled the native VPN settings.
Examples include how to put a VPN on a Firestick and how to put a VPN on a Smart TV. The same principle applies to Android 8 phones: the app handles the encryption and routing, bypassing system limitations.
While this method may use a bit more battery and CPU, it offers a robust solution for devices that lack native support.
Method 2: Use a Proxy Server Instead of a VPN
Proxies are less secure than VPNs because they typically do not encrypt traffic. However, if you’re on a low‑budget device or an old Android build, a proxy can still mask your IP address. You can set up a proxy by going to Settings → Wi‑Fi → Advanced and entering the proxy details manually.
Keep in mind that proxies don’t protect your DNS requests or local traffic, so they’re best used for simple anonymity tasks rather than sensitive activities.
Method 3: Create a Personal VPN on a Cloud Server
Advanced users can spin up a small VPS (Virtual Private Server) on a cloud platform like AWS, Google Cloud, or DigitalOcean. Install openVPN or WireGuard on the VPS and configure a client profile for your Android phone.
This DIY approach gives you full control over encryption protocols, server location, and DNS. You can also set up automatic reconnects, kill switches, and split tunneling as needed. Tutorials for setting up WireGuard on Android can be found on Cyber Insider’s guide.
Method 4: Use a Browser‑Based VPN Extension
If you only need to secure certain web traffic, a browser extension (e.g., Surfshark, NordVPN, or ProtonVPN) can provide a partial solution. These extensions act as a proxy for the browser only, leaving other apps unencrypted.
This method is suitable for casual browsing or when you’re on a device that can’t support native VPNs. Remember that other apps will still use the device’s default network path.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a frequent traveler or a cautious privacy enthusiast, understanding how to locate and configure VPN settings on an Android 8 phone is essential. By following the steps above—verifying your Android version, exploring the quick‑settings panel, using the Settings app, and installing a dedicated VPN app—you can ensure your device stays protected.
For anyone still puzzled by where would vpn be on android8 phone, remember that the answer varies by manufacturer and OS build. Use the search bar in Settings, check the manufacturer’s custom UI, and enable the VPN icon for quick visibility. If the native settings are unavailable, consider the alternative methods outlined, such as installing a full‑featured VPN app, setting up a proxy, or building a personal VPN on a cloud server.
Finally, don’t forget that a VPN is part of a larger security strategy. Pair it with a reputable security app, keep your software updated, and practice safe browsing. For more insight into why a VPN matters, check out our article on why I need a VPN. And if you’re looking to secure other devices like a Firestick or Smart TV, our guides on how to put a VPN on a Firestick and how to put a VPN on a Smart TV will walk you through those setups.
By staying informed and using the steps provided here, you’ll be able to confidently answer where would vpn be on android8 phone and how to find VPN settings on Android for yourself and anyone you help. Safe travels and stay private, no matter where you’re connected from.
