Increase your online security with the VPN by Google One

Note: The VPN by Google One is one of several benefits included for users with the 2 TB and higher Google One plans. It is currently available in the U.S. for Android phones.

If you want more protection from hackers and online monitoring, you can secure the connection from your Android device with a virtual private network (VPN) by Google One. In the Google One app, you can tap to encrypt your online activity for an extra layer of protection wherever you’re connected.

After you turn on the VPN, you can:

• Stream, download, and browse on an encrypted, private connection
• Shield against hackers on unsecure networks (like public Wi-Fi)
• Hide your IP address and prevent third-parties from using it to track your location

How the VPN by Google One works

While online, your browser and your apps frequently communicate sensitive information. Some websites and apps use outdated or weak encryption, or none at all. While in transit, unsecured data can be intercepted or modified by hackers. That can compromise your privacy and overall security.

When you turn on the VPN, your online data is protected by traveling through a strongly encrypted tunnel. The VPN tunnel is operated by Google through our secure global servers.

Learn more about what makes the VPN by Google One different from other VPNs. 

Multiple devices and family sharing

If you're on an eligible Google One plan, you can use the VPN on up to six Android phones per plan. You need to install the Google One app on each device.

If you share your Google One plan with other family members, they can use the VPN, too. Family members will need to download the Google One app on their own devices and then turn on the VPN. Learn more about how to share your plan with your family.

Set up the VPN by Google One

• To use the VPN by Google One, you need to install the Google One app on an Android device.
• Make sure you're using the latest version of the Google One app. Learn how to update your apps.

Turn on the VPN by Google One

1. Make sure you're logged into your Google account.
2. On your Android device, open the Google One app.
3. On the top, tap Benefits.
4. Find the VPN benefit and tap View Details.
5. Turn on Enable VPN.

Turn off the VPN by Google One

1. On your lock screen, find the VPN notification .
   • You can also find it in the notification tray.
2. Tap Disable VPN.

You can also turn off the VPN via the Google One app, or by tapping the VPN by Google One under Quick Settings.

Add or remove from Quick Settings

For easier access, you can add the VPN by Google One to your Quick Settings. You can remove it from the menu whenever you like.

1. From the top of your screen, swipe down twice.
2. At the bottom left, tap Edit .
3. Scroll until you find the VPN by Google One .
4. Touch and hold VPN by Google One. Then drag the setting to where you want it.
   • To add a setting, drag it up from "Hold and drag to add tiles."
   • To remove a setting, drag it down to "Drag here to remove."

Frequently asked questions

Does this prevent third parties or Google from saving my browsing history or personalizing my experience?

No. Third-party sites and apps may still save information about your browsing or personalize your experience in other ways. Some examples include cookies or other technologies, or moments when you sign into an account on another company’s website.

Also, while VPN by Google One secures your device connection, it does not affect how Google collects data when you use our other products and services. For example, depending on your sync settings, Chrome will continue to store your Chrome browsing history to your Google Account. To manage the kinds of data saved to your account, you can review your Google Account’s privacy controls.

How do I know if the VPN by Google One is running?

On your phone lock screen, you'll see a notification that says "VPN is connected." When your phone is unlocked, you’ll see the Google One logo in your notification tray. To see the status of the VPN connection, pull down the notification tray.

You'll also see a small key in the top right corner of your screen. This tells you that the VPN is connected and your network is secured.

How does this affect my battery and data?

Because of the extra step of encrypting your data to keep it private, VPNs inherently use more battery. This extra encryption also means about 5-10% more data is consumed. So you may notice a little more battery drain and data usage while the VPN is running and you use the internet. As a result, Android will also report that the Google One app is using more mobile data.

Why can't I dismiss the notification?

While VPNs are running, the Android operating system requires them to show a notification that can't be dismissed. That way, VPN users always know when it's active and when it is not. Unless you turn the VPN off, you can't swipe the notification away via the notification tray or the Google One app.

If I'm already a Google One member, do I need to pay extra to use the VPN?

If you're on an eligible 2 TB or higher plan, the VPN is included at no additional cost. If you're not on an eligible plan, you can upgrade your account.