Add a VPN Profile in Android Settings With Details From Your IT
Enter a VPN profile in Android Settings when your work, school, or network administrator gives you the server details. This is not a guide to choose, rate, or install a consumer VPN app—only the built‑in Settings form.
Scope: Android Help: get VPN information from your administrator, then enter it under Network & internet → VPN. Samsung: you need connection information from your VPN administrator. Do not use this page to shop for a VPN service or sideload a client—if IT says use their managed app from Play/admin, follow them instead of inventing settings.
What You Need
- Written values from IT/provider: server address, type, username/password, and any IPSec / certificate info they list.
- Screen lock if certificates are required.
- Wi‑Fi or mobile data so you can test Connect.
Step 1: Open VPN in Settings
Pixel / stock: Settings > Network & internet > VPN (search “VPN” if needed).
Samsung: Settings > Connections > More connection settings > VPN → More options → Add VPN profile.
Step 2: Add profile — fill fields IT gave you
Tap Add / Add VPN profile. The form shows only what your Android build supports. Typical labels (names vary; older types may be missing on newer OS versions):
- Name — label for the profile
- Type — e.g. PPTP, L2TP/IPSec PSK, L2TP/IPSec RSA, IPSec Xauth PSK, IPSec Xauth RSA, IPSec Hybrid RSA (pick exactly what IT specifies)
- Server address
- IPSec identifier / IPSec pre‑shared key / user or CA certificates when the type requires them
- Username / password when connecting
Enter only supplied values → Save. Android Help: enter the information from your administrator.
Step 3: Connect
Tap the saved VPN → enter username/password if asked → Connect. Status bar shows VPN when connected. Gear → disconnect or Forget to remove.
Step 4: Always-on VPN (if shown)
Next to the profile, tap Settings → turn Always-on VPN on or off (Android Help). Not available for many app-based VPNs. Work/Android Enterprise docs also describe Block connections without VPN with always-on—use only if your admin requires it. If always-on fails, a sticky notification remains until you turn always-on off or reconnect.
Not covered
No third‑party VPN recommendations. Pixel 7+ may list a separate built‑in “VPN by Google” entry in countries where Google offers it—that’s a distinct Settings product, not this IT-profile walkthrough. If your org uses an MDM/VPN app, follow their Play Store / admin instructions instead of guessing Type fields.
Official docs
Android VPN + Always-on: 9089766. Always-on / block without VPN (enterprise): 9213914. Samsung Connections VPN: ANS10002546.