Guide
VPN for public Wi‑Fi on iPhone — stay encrypted
Coffee shops, airports, hotels, and guest networks are convenient but risky. FollowNet encrypts iPhone and iPad traffic to the VPN server on Wi‑Fi you do not fully trust — within Free weekly traffic or Premium unlimited use.
Risks on open and guest Wi‑Fi
Shared hotspots can expose unencrypted traffic to others on the same network. Even password-protected guest Wi‑Fi may be operated by untrusted parties. A VPN adds encryption between your device and the VPN server; it does not make a malicious hotspot “safe” by itself or stop phishing.
Recommended setup for public Wi‑Fi
Join the network, complete any captive portal login first, then connect FollowNet. Prefer Smart Connect on unfamiliar networks. Enable Auto-connect for Wi‑Fi Only if you want the tunnel to start when you leave home networks you already trust.
Auto-connect and everyday habits
Auto-connect modes (Wi‑Fi Only, LTE Only, Always, or Disabled) decide when VPN starts. Pair with a Home Screen widget to confirm the tunnel is up after you sit down with coffee — status first, not a marketing dashboard.
Speed and captive portals
Some overhead is normal on hotel uplinks. Use Speed Test and a closer location listed in the app. If WireGuard fails after portal login, try Smart Connect or AmneziaWG/Hysteria2. VPN cannot invent bandwidth the hotspot does not have.
Free weekly vs Premium on Wi‑Fi
Free encrypts public Wi‑Fi sessions within the weekly traffic allowance — enough for travel days and café work. All-day streaming or large uploads on hotel Wi‑Fi usually need Premium. Locations available on each plan are listed in the app.
Key points
- Encrypt traffic on café, airport, hotel, and guest Wi‑Fi
- Complete captive portal login, then connect VPN
- Auto-connect on Wi‑Fi so you do not forget
- Smart Connect for filtered or awkward hotspots
- Free weekly allowance or Premium for unlimited sessions
FAQ
Do I need VPN on home Wi‑Fi?
Home networks are usually safer. Use VPN if you want extra privacy from ISP-visible browsing or you share the network with guests.
Will VPN slow down hotel Wi‑Fi?
Some overhead is normal. Use Speed Test and try a closer server listed in the app for better results.
Does FollowNet work on captive portal login pages?
Usually connect VPN after you complete the portal login. Then keep the tunnel up for the rest of the session.
Is Free enough for public Wi‑Fi?
Yes for short and medium sessions within the weekly Free traffic. Heavy all-day use typically needs Premium.