How To Use shadowrocket Vpn On iPhone – iOS Instructions

shadowrocket Vpn is a powerful utility app for iOS devices that allows you to proxy your internet traffic through various servers. This can be useful for a variety of reasons, including bypassing geo-restrictions, enhancing privacy, and potentially improving network performance in specific situations. While it's a paid app, its flexibility and features make it a popular choice for users familiar with proxy configurations. This guide will walk you through the process of setting up and using shadowrocket Vpn on your iPhone.

Before we begin, it's important to understand that shadowrocket Vpn is a tool that, like any tool, can be used in ways that violate terms of service or even laws. This guide is intended for legitimate uses only, such as accessing content blocked in your region or improving network performance on trusted networks. Always ensure you're complying with the terms of service of any websites or services you access.

This guide assumes you have already purchased and installed shadowrocket Vpn from the App Store. If not, that's your first step! Once installed, you're ready to configure it.

1. Obtaining a Proxy Server Configuration

shadowrocket Vpn works by routing your traffic through a proxy server. You'll need a configuration file or server details to connect. These can come from various sources:

  • Subscription URLs: Many VPN or proxy providers offer subscription URLs that automatically update your server list. These are the easiest to manage.
  • Manual Configuration: You can manually enter server details like address, port, encryption method, and password. This is necessary if you have a private server or a provider that doesn't offer subscription URLs.
  • QR Codes: Some providers offer QR codes that contain the server configuration.

The method you use will depend on your chosen proxy provider. Let's cover the most common methods.

2. Adding a Subscription URL

This is the most convenient method, as shadowrocket Vpn automatically updates the server list from the URL.

  1. Copy the Subscription URL: Your proxy provider should provide you with a URL that looks something like: https://example.com/subscription.txt. Copy this URL to your clipboard.
  2. Open Shadowrocket: Launch the shadowrocket Vpn app on your iPhone.
  3. Tap the "+" button: This button is located in the top-right corner of the main screen.
  4. Select "Type": In the "Add Configuration" screen, tap on "Type" and choose "Subscribe."
  5. Paste the URL: In the "URL" field, paste the subscription URL you copied earlier.
  6. Add a Remark (Optional): Enter a descriptive name for the subscription in the "Remark" field. This helps you identify it later.
  7. Tap "Save": The app will download the server list from the URL. You should now see a list of available servers in the main shadowrocket Vpn interface.

3. Manually Adding a Server Configuration

If you don't have a subscription URL, you can manually add the server details.

  1. Obtain Server Details: Your proxy provider should give you the following information:
    • Address: The IP address or hostname of the server.
    • Port: The port number the server is listening on.
    • Type: The proxy protocol (e.g., Shadowsocks, SOCKS5, HTTP).
    • Encryption Method (if applicable): The encryption algorithm used (e.g., aes-256-cfb).
    • Password (if applicable): The password required to authenticate with the server.
  2. Open Shadowrocket: Launch the shadowrocket Vpn app on your iPhone.
  3. Tap the "+" button: This button is located in the top-right corner of the main screen.
  4. Select the "Type": Choose the correct proxy protocol (e.g., "Shadowsocks," "SOCKS5," "HTTP").
  5. Enter Server Details: Fill in the fields with the information you obtained from your proxy provider. This includes the Address, Port, Password (if required), and Encryption Method (if applicable).
  6. Add a Remark (Optional): Enter a descriptive name for the server in the "Remark" field.
  7. Tap "Save": The server configuration will be saved.

4. Using a QR Code

Some providers offer QR codes for easy configuration.

  1. Find the QR Code: Your provider will display or provide a QR code containing the server details.
  2. Open Shadowrocket: Launch the shadowrocket Vpn app on your iPhone.
  3. Tap the "+" button: This button is located in the top-right corner of the main screen.
  4. Tap the QR Code Icon: Look for a small QR code icon (usually near the top-right corner of the "Add Configuration" screen) and tap it.
  5. Scan the QR Code: Point your iPhone's camera at the QR code. shadowrocket Vpn will automatically scan and import the server configuration.
  6. Add a Remark (Optional): Enter a descriptive name for the server in the "Remark" field.
  7. Tap "Save": The server configuration will be saved.

5. Connecting to a Proxy Server

Once you've added your server configurations, you can connect to a proxy server.

  1. Select a Server: In the main shadowrocket Vpn interface, tap on the server you want to connect to. A checkmark will appear next to the selected server.
  2. Toggle the "Disconnected" Switch: At the top of the screen, you'll see a large switch labeled "Disconnected." Tap this switch to connect to the selected proxy server.
  3. Grant VPN Permissions: iOS will prompt you to grant shadowrocket Vpn VPN permissions. Tap "Allow." You may be asked to authenticate with your Touch ID, Face ID, or passcode.
  4. Check the Status: The switch should now be green and labeled "Connected." A VPN icon will appear in the status bar at the top of your iPhone's screen, indicating that you are connected to a VPN (shadowrocket Vpn uses the VPN framework).

6. Configuring Rules (Optional but Recommended)

Shadowrocket's true power lies in its ability to configure rules that determine which traffic is routed through the proxy server. This allows you to selectively proxy certain apps or websites while leaving others unaffected.

  1. Access the Configuration: In the main shadowrocket Vpn interface, tap the "Configuration" button (it looks like a gear icon) at the bottom of the screen.
  2. Choose a Rule: shadowrocket Vpn offers several built-in rule sets (e.g., "Global Routing," "Rule Based Routing"). "Rule Based Routing" is generally the most flexible.
  3. Edit the Rules: You can add, edit, or delete rules to customize how shadowrocket Vpn routes traffic. Rules can be based on domains, IP addresses, or other criteria.
  4. Understand Rule Types: Common rule types include:
    • DOMAIN: Matches traffic based on the domain name (e.g., DOMAIN,example.com,PROXY).
    • DOMAIN-SUFFIX: Matches traffic based on the domain suffix (e.g., DOMAIN-SUFFIX,example.com,PROXY).
    • IP-CIDR: Matches traffic based on IP address ranges (e.g., IP-CIDR,192.168.1.0/24,DIRECT).
    • GEOIP: Matches traffic based on the geographic location of the IP address (e.g., GEOIP,US,DIRECT).
  5. Example Rule: To proxy all traffic to example.com, you would add a rule like: DOMAIN,example.com,PROXY. To bypass the proxy for example.com, you would use DOMAIN,example.com,DIRECT.

Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting:

  • Incorrect Server Details: Double-check the server address, port, password, and encryption method. Even a small typo can prevent the connection.
  • Firewall Issues: Ensure your firewall isn't blocking traffic to the proxy server's port.
  • Subscription URL Errors: If your subscription URL isn't working, contact your proxy provider.
  • Rule Conflicts: Conflicting rules can cause unexpected behavior. Review your rules carefully to ensure they are not interfering with each other.
  • Battery Drain: Using a proxy server can increase battery consumption.

shadowrocket Vpn is a versatile tool that can significantly enhance your online experience on your iPhone. By following these instructions, you should be able to set up and use shadowrocket Vpn effectively. Remember to always use it responsibly and in accordance with the terms of service of the websites and services you access. Experiment with the rule configurations to fine-tune your proxy settings and optimize your network performance. Good luck!