How to use Surfshark VPN 2026: Features, Setup & Pro Tips

Quick Start

This guide covers every Surfshark VPN feature:

• はじめる — Create account and basic setup
• How to Use Surfshark Antivirus — Scan and protect devices from malware
• How to Use Surfshark Search — Browse privately without tracking
• How to Use Surfshark Alert — Monitor data breaches in real time
• How to Use Alternative ID — Generate fake identities for signups
• How to Use Dedicated IP — Get a static IP that never changes
• How to Use DNS Leak Checker — Verify your VPN isn’t leaking data
• How to Use Surfshark VPN — Connect, change servers, and stay safe

Time needed: 5 minutes per feature

Also in this guide: Pro Tips | Common Mistakes | トラブルシューティング | 価格 | 代替案

Why Trust This Guide

I’ve used Surfshark VPN for over two years and tested every feature covered here. This tutorial comes from real hands-on experience — not marketing fluff or vendor screenshots.

サーフシャーク VPN is one of the most powerful privacy tools available today.

But most users only scratch the surface of what it can do.

This guide shows you how to use every major feature.

Step by step, with screenshots and pro tips.

Surfshark VPN Tutorial

This complete Surfshark VPN tutorial walks you through every feature step by step, from initial setup to advanced tips that will make you a power user.

サーフシャークVPN

Protect all your デバイス with one account. Surfshark VPN gives you 3,200+ servers in 100 countries with unlimited connections. Plans start at $1.99/month with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

TRY SURFSHARK VPN NOW →

READ FULL REVIEW →

SURFSHARK VPN ALTERNATIVES →

Getting Started with Surfshark VPN

Before using any feature, complete this one-time setup.

It takes about 3 minutes.

Now let’s walk through each step.

Step 1: Create Your Account

Go to Surfshark’s website at surfshark.com.

Click “Get Surfshark” or “Start Free Trial.”

Pick a plan — Starter, One, or One+.

Enter your email and create a password.

Add your payment method to finish registration.

Surfshark accepts credit cards, PayPal, Google Pay, and 暗号.

✓ Checkpoint: チェックしてください 受信トレイ for a confirmation email.

Step 2: Download the App

Download Surfshark for your device from the website.

It works on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS、そして Android。

You can also get browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox.

Log in with your new account credentials.

Here’s what the dashboard looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: You should see the main dashboard with a Quick Connect button.

Step 3: Connect to Your First Server

Click the “Quick Connect” button on the main screen.

Surfshark picks the fastest server near you automatically.

You can also choose a country from the Locations tab.

Enable the Kill Switch in Settings for extra protection.

Turn on Auto-Connect so Surfshark starts with your device.

How to Use Surfshark Antivirus

Surfsharkアンチウイルス lets you scan and protect your devices from malware, viruses, and trojans in real time.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Surfshark Antivirus in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open the Antivirus Tab

Launch the Surfshark app on your device.

Navigate to the “Antivirus” section in the left sidebar.

This feature requires a Surfshark One or One+ plan.

Step 2: Run a Full Scan

Click “Full Scan” to check your entire device for threats.

You can also run a Quick Scan for a faster check.

The scan shows progress and flags any detected threats.

Here’s what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: You should see a list of scanned files and any detected threats.

Step 3: Enable Real-Time Protection

Toggle on “Real-time protection” in the Antivirus settings.

This monitors files as you download or open them.

Schedule automatic scans for daily or weekly checks.

How to Use Surfshark Search

Surfshark検索 lets you browse the web privately without ads, trackers, or データ コレクション。

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Surfshark Search in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open the Search Tool

Go to the “Search” tab inside the Surfshark app.

You can also visit search.surfshark.com in your browser.

Step 2: Enter Your Search Query

Type your search term in the search bar.

Results appear without personalized ads or tracking scripts.

No search history is saved or linked to your account.

✓ Checkpoint: You should see clean search results without ad banners.

Step 3: Browse Results Privately

Click any result to visit the page.

Surfshark Search doesn’t track which links you click.

Combine it with the VPN for full browsing privacy.

How to Use Surfshark Alert

サーフシャークアラート lets you monitor your email and personal data for breaches and leaks in real time.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Surfshark Alert in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open the Alert Dashboard

Navigate to the “Alert” section in your Surfshark app.

This is available on Surfshark One and One+ plans.

Step 2: Add Your Email to Monitor

Enter the email address you want to monitor.

Surfshark scans known data breaches for your email.

You’ll see a list of any breaches your email appeared in.

✓ Checkpoint: You should see your email’s breach history and any exposed data.

Step 3: Enable Breach Notifications

Turn on real-time alerts for new data breaches.

Surfshark notifies you the moment your data appears in a leak.

Change any compromised passwords right away.

How to Use Surfshark Alternative ID

代替ID lets you generate a fake online identity and email for website signups.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Alternative ID in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open Alternative ID

Go to the “Alternative ID” section in the Surfshark app.

Click “Create New Identity” to get started.

Step 2: Generate Your Fake Identity

Surfshark creates a random name, date of birth, and gender.

It also generates a working proxy email address.

Emails sent to this address forward to your real inbox.

✓ Checkpoint: You should see your new identity with a proxy email ready to use.

Step 3: Use It for Online Signups

Copy the fake details when signing up on new websites.

Use the proxy email instead of your real one.

Your actual identity stays hidden from the service.

How to Use Surfshark Dedicated IP

専用IP lets you get a static IP address that only you use.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Dedicated IP in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Purchase a Dedicated IP Add-On

Go to Settings and find the “Dedicated IP” option.

This is a paid add-on to your existing Surfshark plan.

Choose your preferred server location for the IP.

Step 2: Connect to Your Dedicated IP

Open the Locations tab in the Surfshark app.

Find your Dedicated IP server listed at the top.

Click to connect — you’ll get the same IP every time.

✓ Checkpoint: Your IP address should stay the same across sessions.

Step 3: Use It for Consistent Access

Add your Dedicated IP to allow-lists for work tools or banking.

It reduces CAPTCHAs since websites trust consistent IPs.

You still get full VPN encryption and privacy protection.

How to Use Surfshark DNS Leak Checker

DNS Leak Checker lets you verify that your VPN connection isn’t leaking DNS requests.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch DNS Leak Checker in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Connect to a VPN Server

Open Surfshark and connect to any server location.

Make sure your VPN is active before running the test.

Step 2: Run the DNS Leak Test

Visit the DNS Leak Checker tool in the Surfshark app or website.

Click “Run Test” to start the leak check.

The tool checks if your DNS requests match your VPN location.

✓ Checkpoint: You should see the DNS server matching your VPN server location.

Step 3: Review the Results

A green “No leaks” result means your VPN is working perfectly.

If leaks are detected, disconnect and reconnect to a new server.

Run the test again to confirm the fix.

How to Use Surfshark IP Address Checker

IP Address Checker lets you see your current IP address and verify your VPN is masking it.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch IP Address Checker in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Check Your IP Without VPN

Disconnect your VPN first.

Open the IP Address Checker in the Surfshark app or website.

Note your real IP address and location.

Step 2: Connect VPN and Check Again

Turn on Surfshark VPN and connect to any server.

Run the IP Address Checker again.

Your IP should now show the VPN server’s location.

✓ Checkpoint: Your displayed IP should match the VPN server country, not your real location.

Step 3: Verify Your Location Changed

Compare the two results — they should be completely different.

If they match, your VPN isn’t working correctly.

Try switching servers and running the test again.

How to Use Surfshark VPN Connection

サーフシャークVPN lets you encrypt your internet traffic, hide your IP, and access content from any country.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch the VPN connection features in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Choose Your Server

Open the Locations tab in the Surfshark app.

Browse by country or search for a specific city.

Click Quick Connect for the fastest server near you.

Step 2: Configure Advanced VPN Settings

Go to Settings and choose your VPN protocol.

WireGuard gives you the fastest speeds in most cases.

Enable CleanWeb to block ads and trackers while connected.

Turn on the Kill Switch to prevent data leaks if VPN drops.

Set up Bypasser to exclude specific apps from the VPN tunnel.

✓ Checkpoint: You should see “Connected” with your chosen server location.

Step 3: Use MultiHop for Extra Security

Go to Locations and select the “MultiHop” tab.

Choose two server locations to route your traffic through.

Dynamic MultiHop adds an extra encryption layer to your connection.

Enable Rotating IP to change your address every few minutes.

Surfshark VPN Pro Tips and Shortcuts

After testing Surfshark VPN for over two years, here are my best tips.

キーボードショートカット

Hidden Features Most People Miss

• GPS Spoofing (アンドロイド): Matches your GPS location to the VPN server. Go to Settings → Advanced → Override GPS Location. Great for location-locked apps.
• Rotating IP: Changes your IP every 5-10 minutes without disconnecting. Enable it in Settings → VPN Settings → Rotating IP. Perfect for extra anonymity during long sessions.
• NoBorders Mode: Automatically activates on restricted networks. Helps you access the internet in countries where VPN use is blocked. No manual setup needed.

Surfshark VPN Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Not Enabling the Kill Switch

Mistake #2: Connecting to Distant Servers for Speed

Mistake #3: Ignoring CleanWeb Ad Blocker

Surfshark VPN Troubleshooting

Problem: VPN Connection Keeps Dropping

Cause: Unstable internet connection or outdated VPN protocol settings.

修理： Switch to the WireGuard protocol in Settings → VPN Protocol. If that doesn’t help, try OpenVPN (TCP) which is more stable on unreliable networks. Restart the app after switching.

Problem: Slow Speeds While Connected

Cause: Connected to a distant server or using a slower protocol like IKEv2.

修理： Use Quick Connect to pick the fastest nearby server. Switch to WireGuard protocol for the best speeds. Close background apps that consume bandwidth.

Problem: Can’t Access a Streaming Service

Cause: The streaming platform has blocked the VPN server IP you’re using.

修理： Disconnect and reconnect to the same country — you’ll get a different server IP. Try clearing your browser cookies. If it still doesn’t work, contact Surfshark support for the latest working servers.

📌 注記： If none of these fix your issue, contact Surfshark support via live chat — they respond 24/7.

Surfshark VPN とは何ですか?

サーフシャークVPN is a privacy and security tool that encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address from trackers, hackers, and your ISP.

Think of it like a private tunnel between your device and the internet.

Watch this quick overview:

It includes these key features:

• Surfshark Antivirus: Scans devices for malware and provides real-time protection.
• Surfshark Search: A private search engine with zero tracking or ads.
• Surfshark Alert: Monitors your email for data breaches and sends real-time notifications.
• Alternative ID: Generates fake online identities and proxy email addresses for signups.
• 専用IP: Gives you a static, personal IP address that never changes.
• DNS Leak Checker: Verifies your VPN connection isn’t leaking DNS requests.
• IP Address Checker: Shows your current IP and confirms your VPN is working.
• VPN Connection: Encrypts traffic with 3,200+ servers in 100 countries with unlimited devices.

For a full review, see our Surfshark VPN review.

Surfshark VPN Pricing

Here’s what Surfshark VPN costs in 2026:

無料トライアル: Yes — 7-day free trial available on iOS, Android, and macOS for annual and 2-year plans.

返金保証: Yes — 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans. You can test risk-free for up to 37 days total.

💰 Best Value: 24 Months +3 Extra at $1.99/month — you save 87% compared to paying monthly and get 3 bonus months free.

Surfshark VPN vs Alternatives

How does Surfshark VPN compare? Here’s the competitive landscape:

Watch this comparison:

Quick picks:

• Best overall: NordVPN — Fastest speeds, strongest security suite, and proven reliability.
• Best budget: Surfshark VPN — Lowest price with unlimited devices on every plan.
• Best for beginners: CyberGhost — Simple interface with pre-configured streaming servers.
• Best for privacy: ProtonVPN — Swiss jurisdiction with a free plan and audited no-logs policy.

🎯 Surfshark VPN Alternatives

Looking for Surfshark VPN alternatives? Here are the top options:

• 🚀 ノルドVPN: Fastest VPN with 6,400+ servers, advanced threat protection, and strong security audits. Best for power users who want top performance.
• ⭐ エクスプレスVPN: Premium VPN with servers in 105 countries and reliable streaming access. Ideal for users who want polished apps and consistent speeds.
• 💰 ピュアVPN: Budget-friendly option with port forwarding and 6,000+ servers. Great for torrenting and P2P file sharing on a tight budget.
• 🔒 プロトンVPN: Privacy-focused VPN based in Switzerland with a free plan and open-source apps. Perfect for users who prioritize privacy above all.
• 🌟 プライベートVPN: Free VPN option with 10GB monthly data and servers in 49 countries. Solid pick for occasional VPN users who need basic protection.
• 🎨 アドガードVPN: Combines VPN protection with system-wide ad blocking. Best for users who want one app to handle both VPN and ad removal.
• 🔧 仮想シールド: Simple VPN aimed at non-technical users with easy one-click connection. Good for families who need set-it-and-forget-it protection.
• ⚡ 強力なVPN: No-frills VPN with WireGuard support and solid speeds. Reliable for basic VPN needs without extra features or complexity.
• 🔥 最速VPN: Lifetime plans available at very low cost with decent speeds. Best for users who want a one-time payment instead of monthly subscriptions.
• 🏢 オーラVPN: Bundles VPN with identity theft protection and antivirus in one subscription. Great for families who want a complete digital safety package.
• 👶 サイバーゴースト： Beginner-friendly VPN with dedicated streaming and torrenting servers. Ideal for first-time VPN users who want the easiest setup.
• 🧠 マカフィー VPN: Bundled with McAfee’s antivirus suite for all-in-one security. Good for existing McAfee users who want VPN as an add-on.
• 💼 プライベートインターネットアクセス: Open-source VPN with advanced customization and the largest server network. Perfect for tech-savvy users who want full control.
• 📊 ミステリウム: Decentralized VPN built on blockchain technology for censorship resistance. Best for users who want a peer-to-peer privacy network.
• 🎯 SafeShell VPN: Niche VPN focused on bypassing geo-restrictions for streaming services. Works well for accessing region-locked content from anywhere.
• 💰 オイスターVPN: Affordable VPN with clean interface and basic privacy features. Solid choice for casual users who want simple, low-cost protection.

For the full list, see our Surfshark VPN alternatives guide.

⚔️ Surfshark VPN Compared

Here’s how Surfshark VPN stacks up against each competitor:

• Surfshark VPN vs NordVPN: NordVPN has faster speeds and more servers, but Surfshark wins on price and unlimited device connections.
• Surfshark VPN vs ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN has the most polished apps and widest country coverage, but costs more and limits you to 8 devices.
• Surfshark VPN vs PureVPN: PureVPN offers port forwarding and more P2P servers, but Surfshark has better security audits and features.
• Surfshark VPN vs ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN has a free plan and Swiss privacy laws, but Surfshark offers more features at a lower paid price.
• Surfshark VPN vs PrivadoVPN: PrivadoVPN has a free 10GB plan, but Surfshark offers unlimited data and far more server locations.
• Surfshark VPN vs AdGuard VPN: AdGuard excels at ad blocking, but Surfshark’s CleanWeb does the same while offering a much larger server network.
• Surfshark VPN vs Virtual Shield: Virtual Shield is simpler, but Surfshark costs less and includes far more advanced privacy features.
• Surfshark VPN vs StrongVPN: StrongVPN is reliable but bare-bones. Surfshark offers more features, more servers, and a lower price.
• Surfshark VPN と FastestVPN の比較: FastestVPN has a lifetime plan, but Surfshark’s speeds, features, and security audits are superior.
• Surfshark VPN vs AuraVPN: Aura bundles identity protection, but Surfshark One+ offers similar bundling at a much lower monthly cost.
• Surfshark VPN vs CyberGhost: CyberGhost has dedicated streaming servers, but Surfshark matches it in unblocking while offering unlimited devices.
• Surfshark VPN vs McAfee VPN: McAfee VPN comes bundled with antivirus, but Surfshark One offers better VPN performance with its own antivirus.
• Surfshark VPN vs Private Internet Access: PIA has the largest server network and is open-source, but Surfshark has faster speeds and a friendlier interface.
• Surfshark VPN vs Mysterium: Mysterium is decentralized for censorship resistance, but Surfshark has more servers, faster speeds, and better apps.
• Surfshark VPN vs SafeShell VPN: SafeShell focuses on streaming access, but Surfshark offers a complete security suite beyond just unblocking content.
• Surfshark VPN vs Oyster VPN: Oyster is a basic, affordable VPN, but Surfshark offers far more features and a larger server network at a similar price.

Start Using Surfshark VPN Now

You learned how to use every major Surfshark VPN feature:

• ✅ Surfshark Antivirus
• ✅ Surfshark Search
• ✅ Surfshark Alert
• ✅ Alternative ID
• ✅ Dedicated IP
• ✅ DNS Leak Checker
• ✅ IP Address Checker
• ✅ VPN Connection

Next step: Pick one feature and try it now.

Most people start with the VPN Connection and Quick Connect.

It takes less than 5 minutes.

よくある質問

Is Surfshark VPN trustworthy?

Yes. Surfshark has passed independent no-logs audits by Deloitte in 2023 and 2025. The company operates RAM-only servers that wipe all data on every reboot. They also publish transparency reports showing they can’t hand over user data because they don’t store any.

What is better, NordVPN or Surfshark?

NordVPN has faster speeds and more servers (6,400+ vs 3,200+). Surfshark costs less and offers unlimited device connections. Both are owned by Nord Security. Choose NordVPN for raw speed or Surfshark for the best value across all your devices.

How much is Surfshark VPN per month?

Surfshark costs $1.99/month on a 24-month plan, $3.19/month on a 12-month plan, or $15.45/month for a single month. The 24-month plan saves you 87% compared to paying monthly. All long-term plans come with 3 extra months free.

Is Surfshark safe for banking?

Yes. Surfshark uses AES-256-GCM encryption — the same standard banks use. Combined with DNS leak protection and the Kill Switch, your banking data stays protected even on public Wi-Fi. Use a Dedicated IP to avoid repeated security prompts from your bank.

Do you leave Surfshark on all the time?

Yes, it’s recommended. Keeping Surfshark on protects your data at all times, especially on public Wi-Fi. Use the Auto-Connect feature so it starts with your device. If certain apps don’t work well with VPN, use Bypasser to exclude only those apps.