Change Protocols on iOS

Protocols determine how Private Internet Access (PIA) VPN builds and secures your connection. They differ in how they authenticate the server and maintain the connection, and some perform better than others on certain networks. If one is slow, unstable, or blocked, another may connect without issue.

If you have trouble connecting to or staying connected to PIA servers, switching to a different protocol can help. 

PIA offers two protocols on iOS:

  • WireGuard: The default, optimized for speed.
  • OpenVPN: The most flexible, with adjustable port and transport settings for getting around network restrictions.

Note: You can also select the Automatic protocol. The PIA app will choose the protocol best for your connection and network.

How to Switch Protocols

  1. Tap the three horizontal lines in the top-left corner, then tap Settings.
PIA for iOS settings menu with Settings highlighted.
  1. Tap Protocols.
PIA for iOS settings screen with Protocols highlighted.
  1. Tap Protocol Selection and choose your protocol.
PIA VPN iOS app Protocols screen showing Automatic, WireGuard, and OpenVPN protocol options.
  1. Return to the main screen and try to connect.
PIA VPN iOS app connected to the SK Streaming Optimized VPN server.

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