Struggling to figure out how to update your Surfshark VPN? You’re definitely not alone! Keeping your VPN app updated might seem like a small thing, but trust me, it’s actually one of the most important steps you can take to keep your online activities private and secure. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t drive a car with outdated brakes, right? The same goes for your digital security. An updated Surfshark app means you’re getting all the latest security patches, performance boosts, and cool new features that the team has been working hard on. If you want your Surfshark VPN to be as reliable, safe, and fast as possible, making sure it’s running the latest version is non-negotiable. It helps prevent those annoying connection drops, keeps your data locked down with the strongest encryption, and ensures you can access all your favorite content without a hitch. So, let’s get you sorted and make sure your Surfshark is always at its best!

Table of Contents

How to Update Surfshark VPN on Different Devices

Updating your Surfshark app is usually pretty straightforward, but the exact steps can vary a bit depending on what device you’re using. Let’s walk through them together.

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On Windows

Updating Surfshark on Windows often happens automatically or through an in-app prompt, but sometimes you might need to give it a little nudge.

Check for In-App Notifications: Often, when you open the Surfshark app, you’ll see a pop-up notification in the system tray at the bottom right of your screen if an update is available. Just click on that notification.
Follow the Prompts: The app will usually redirect you to the Surfshark website’s download page, and an .exe file for the latest version will start downloading automatically.
Install Manually: Once the download is complete, find the .exe file in your Downloads folder and double-click it to run the installer. The installer will guide you through replacing your older version with the new one. You might need to confirm that you want to uninstall the older version and then install the new one.
Reboot Optional but Recommended: After the installation finishes, it’s a good idea to reboot your device to make sure everything is applied correctly.

Pro Tip: If you’re encountering issues or prefer a clean slate, you can always uninstall the current version first via your Windows Settings Apps > Uninstall/Upgrade Apps, and then download the latest installer directly from the official Surfshark website. The latest Windows app also uses x64 architecture by default, which is pretty neat for performance.

On macOS

For Mac users, updating Surfshark can be done in a couple of ways, similar to other applications. Ultrasurf VPN iOS: Your Go-To Guide for Unrestricted Access

Via the Apple App Store if installed from there:
- Open the App Store on your Mac.
- Click on “Updates” in the left-hand menu.
- If a Surfshark VPN update is available, you’ll see it listed. Just click “Update” to install it.
Directly from the Surfshark Website if using the .DMG version:
- Many of us download the .dmg file directly from Surfshark’s website for installation. If that’s you, there isn’t currently an in-app update feature.
- You’ll typically see a red notification within the app saying “You are using an outdated version” when an update is available.
- To update, you’ll need to manually download the new .dmg file from the official Surfshark website.
- Once downloaded, open the .dmg and drag the new Surfshark application into your Applications folder, replacing the older version.
- Again, a quick reboot can help make sure everything settles in perfectly.

Heads up: Surfshark VPN generally supports macOS 10.12 and up. Also, new features like the Bypasser split-tunneling are now available on macOS, which is a big deal since Apple changes sometimes caused issues for VPNs offering this feature.

On Android Devices

Updating Surfshark on your Android phone, tablet, or even Android TV is super easy, especially if you have auto-updates turned on.

Google Play Store:
- Open the Google Play Store on your device.
- Tap on your profile picture usually in the top right corner to open the menu.
- Select “Manage apps & devices.”
- Go to the “Manage” tab and find “Surfshark VPN” in your list of apps.
- If an update is available, you’ll see an “Update” button next to it. Just tap that to download and install the latest version. If it says “Open,” you’re already up to date.
Enable Auto-Update: To save yourself the hassle, you can enable auto-updates for Surfshark. In the Google Play Store, on the Surfshark app page, tap the three dots in the top-right corner and select “Enable auto-update”. Your app will then update automatically, often overnight.

Surfshark has been enhancing its Android widgets and improving features like ‘fastest location’ and ‘Bypasser’ in recent updates, so keeping it current is a good move.

On iOS Devices iPhone & iPad

For your iPhone or iPad, the process is pretty much identical to updating any other app from the App Store.

Apple App Store:
- Open the Apple App Store on your iOS device.
- Tap your profile icon at the top of the screen.
- Scroll down, and you’ll see a list of available updates. Find “Surfshark” in the list.
- Tap the “Update” button next to Surfshark to begin the installation. If it says “Open,” you’re good to go.

Just like on Mac, Surfshark has added features like the Bypasser split-tunneling to iOS, which is a huge plus for flexibility and security on your Apple devices. Surfshark ubiquiti

On Amazon Firestick / Fire TV

Updating Surfshark on your Firestick is crucial for maintaining performance and accessing new features, especially for streaming.

Amazon App Store:
- From your Firestick home screen, go to the “Find” menu and then “Search”.
- Type “Surfshark” into the search bar and select the app.
- On the Surfshark app page, if an update is available, you’ll see an “Update” button. Click it to install. If it says “Open” or “Download,” you’re either up to date or need to install it for the first time.
- Enable Automatic Updates: You can often enable auto-updates within the app store settings to keep it hassle-free.
Manual Update Sideloading APK: If you find the Amazon App Store isn’t giving you the latest version which sometimes happens, you can sideload the APK file. This usually involves:
- Enabling “Apps from Unknown Sources” in your Firestick settings Settings > My Fire TV/Device > Developer Options.
- Using the “Downloader” app to navigate to Surfshark’s download page or a trusted APK repository like TROYPOINT’s toolbox if you’re familiar with it to download the latest .apk file.
- Install the downloaded .apk file. This will usually replace the older version and keep your settings.
- Sometimes, if the app still says you’re on an old version, uninstalling the current app completely and then reinstalling the updated version is the best way to get all the new features.

Some users report that the in-app “Update Now” prompt on Android-based devices like the Firestick might not always directly trigger an update and could require manual steps via the app store or sideloading.

On Linux

For Linux users, updating Surfshark generally involves using your package manager or downloading the latest version from the Surfshark website.

Using your Package Manager: If you installed Surfshark via a .deb or .rpm package and added Surfshark’s repository, you can usually update using your system’s package manager commands e.g., sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade for Debian/Ubuntu-based systems.
Manual Download: If you’re not using a repository, or prefer to, download the latest Linux app version from the Surfshark website and install it, often replacing the older version.

Keeping your Linux app updated is just as important for security and performance as on other platforms. How to Use Surfshark VPN on Your TV

Why Keeping Your Surfshark App Updated Is a Big Deal

Seriously, this isn’t just about getting cool new features. it’s fundamental to your online well-being. Here’s why you should always aim to keep your Surfshark app updated:

Enhanced Security & Privacy

VPNs are all about security, and new threats pop up online every single day. Software updates are how Surfshark stays ahead of those threats.

Patching Vulnerabilities: Updates frequently include patches for security vulnerabilities that bad actors could exploit. Running an outdated app is like leaving a back door open for hackers.
Latest Encryption Standards: While Surfshark already uses robust AES-256-GCM encryption, updates ensure your app is utilizing the latest iterations and protocols, like WireGuard, which is known for its speed and security.
Improved Leak Protection: Updates often bring enhancements to features like DNS leak protection and the Kill Switch, making sure your real IP address and data stay hidden even if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly. Surfshark’s Kill Switch, for example, is a reliable safety net.
No-Logs Policy Reinforcement: Surfshark has a strict no-logs policy, which has been independently audited by Deloitte in December 2022. Updates might include minor tweaks to reinforce this policy and ensure that no identifiable data is ever stored about your online activities.

Unlocking New Features & Improvements

Surfshark is constantly innovating, and updates are how they deliver these cool new tools directly to you. Surfshark VPN: Your Ultimate Guide to Secure and Free Browsing in Taiwan and Beyond

New Functionalities: We’re talking about features like NoBorders mode for bypassing censorship, Whitelister split-tunneling for selected apps/websites, MultiHop connecting through two servers for extra anonymity, and CleanWeb blocking ads, trackers, and malware. The FastTrack feature, for example, was released to boost speeds by up to 70% by optimizing traffic routes.
Better User Experience: Often, updates include interface tweaks, bug fixes, and performance improvements that make the app smoother and easier to use. For instance, Surfshark recently uplifted its Android widgets for easier VPN use without opening the app.
Wider Compatibility: As operating systems evolve, updates ensure Surfshark remains compatible and optimized for the latest versions of Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.

Better Performance

Nobody likes a slow VPN. Updates are key to keeping your connection snappy.

Speed Optimizations: Developers continually fine-tune the app’s code to improve connection speeds and stability. For example, Surfshark updated all its servers to 10Gbps, ensuring faster connections and less crowded servers.
Bug Fixes: Outdated apps can have bugs that lead to crashes, slow performance, or connectivity issues. Updates squash those bugs, giving you a more reliable experience.
Efficient Resource Usage: Newer versions are often more optimized, meaning they use less of your device’s battery and processing power.

Is Surfshark VPN Reliable, Safe, and Does It Really Work?

We’ve talked about why to update, but you might be wondering, “Is Surfshark VPN reliable, safe, and does it even work well in the first place?” These are great questions, and from what I’ve seen and from current reviews, Surfshark is a pretty solid contender in the VPN world.

Top-Tier Security Features

When it comes to keeping your online life private, Surfshark really brings its A-game. How to Completely Uninstall Surfshark VPN from Ubuntu

Rock-Solid Encryption: They use AES-256-GCM encryption, which is basically military-grade stuff. It scrambles your data so nobody, not even your internet service provider ISP, can read it.
Strict No-Logs Policy: This is a big one. Surfshark has a verified no-logs policy, meaning they don’t track or store what you do online, your IP address, browsing history, or connection timestamps. They’ve even had independent audits like by Deloitte in 2022 to prove it, finding no flaws in their policy. Even though their headquarters are in the Netherlands part of the Nine Eyes intelligence alliance, which might sound a bit concerning to privacy purists, their no-logs policy and RAM-only servers are designed to combat this, meaning they simply don’t have user data to share even if requested.
Reliable Kill Switch: This is your safety net. If your VPN connection ever drops unexpectedly, the Kill Switch automatically cuts your internet access, preventing your real IP address or data from being exposed. I know people who’ve had their connection saved by this feature, especially with unreliable internet providers.
Modern Protocols: Surfshark uses secure protocols like WireGuard, IKEv2/IPSec, and OpenVPN. WireGuard, in particular, is lauded for its excellent balance of speed and security.
RAM-Only Servers: This is a fantastic privacy feature. All of Surfshark’s servers operate on RAM, meaning all data is wiped clean with every reboot, leaving no permanent records.

Performance & Speed

A VPN shouldn’t drag your internet down to a snail’s pace.

Fast Speeds: Surfshark consistently ranks high for speed, with average speeds of around 104 Mbps, more than enough for 4K streaming and online gaming. With all their servers now upgraded to 10Gbps, you can expect even faster connections and better stability.
WireGuard Advantage: Their implementation of WireGuard helps maintain these impressive speeds, often maxing out test lines.
FastTrack Feature: Recently, Surfshark introduced FastTrack, a feature leveraging its Nexus network to optimize traffic routes and potentially boost speeds by up to 70%.

Streaming & Unblocking

Many of us use a VPN to get around geo-restrictions for streaming, and Surfshark usually shines here.

Netflix Champion: Yes, Surfshark does indeed work with Netflix. It’s known for unblocking multiple Netflix libraries over 30 in some reports!, making it a top choice for streaming fans. You can stream movies and TV shows in 4K without buffering.
Other Streaming Services: Beyond Netflix, Surfshark also works really well with other popular platforms like Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and Hulu.
NoBorders Mode: If you’re in a country with strict internet censorship, Surfshark’s NoBorders mode is specifically designed to help you bypass those restrictions and access content worldwide. It makes your VPN traffic look like regular internet traffic, which is super handy.
Smart DNS: For devices that don’t natively support VPN apps, like some Smart TVs or gaming consoles, Surfshark’s Smart DNS feature can help you unblock content.

Unlimited Devices & Value

One of Surfshark’s standout features is its generous device policy.

Unlimited Simultaneous Connections: You only need one Surfshark subscription to cover all your devices—your phone, laptop, tablet, smart TV, Firestick, you name it!. This is a huge perk that not many other premium VPNs offer. It means you can share your account with family and friends without worrying about connection limits.
Affordable: While renewal prices increased slightly recently, Surfshark still offers a fantastic price-to-feature ratio, often being more budget-friendly than competitors with similar offerings. They even offer bundles like Surfshark One, which includes an antivirus and breach alerts, making it an all-in-one security solution.

What If Surfshark VPN is Down?

It’s natural to sometimes wonder “is Surfshark VPN down?” if you’re having connection issues. While mass outages are rare, individual connection problems can happen. Is Surfshark VPN Free to Use? The Real Deal

Check Official Channels: Surfshark generally maintains very high uptime 100% up in the last 30 days according to one monitor. You can usually check their official status page or social media for any widespread issues.
Troubleshooting Steps: If you suspect an outage, or if you’re just having trouble connecting, here are some quick fixes:
- Change Servers: Sometimes a specific server might be temporarily overloaded or experiencing issues. Try connecting to a different server location.
- Change Protocols: Go into your Surfshark app’s Settings -> VPN Settings -> Protocols and try switching to a different VPN protocol e.g., if you’re on WireGuard, try OpenVPN or IKEv2.
- Check Your Internet: Make sure your underlying internet connection is stable. A VPN can’t work without a functional internet connection.
- Restart the App/Device: A classic troubleshooting step, but often effective!
- Clear Cache/Reinstall: If all else fails, especially after an update, clearing the app’s cache or even reinstalling the app can resolve stubborn issues.

If you’re ever really stuck, Surfshark offers 24/7 customer support via live chat and email, which is super helpful.

Troubleshooting Common Surfshark Update Issues

Even with the smoothest apps, sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. If you’re running into trouble while trying to update your Surfshark VPN, don’t worry, we can usually get it sorted.

“Update” Button Doesn’t Work Firestick/Android TV: This is a common one on streaming devices. You might see an “Update Now” prompt, but clicking it doesn’t do anything.
- Solution: Often, you’ll need to go through the app store Google Play Store or Amazon Appstore on your device directly. Search for Surfshark, and if an update is available, you’ll see the option there. If not, and you’re really determined to get the absolute latest, sideloading the APK file might be necessary. Just uninstall the current app, download the freshest APK from Surfshark’s official site, and install it.
App Says “Up to Date” But I Know There’s a Newer Version:
- Solution: This can happen if the update hasn’t propagated to your specific app store region yet, or if you installed a .dmg or .apk directly and the app store isn’t managing its updates. The best bet here is to visit the official Surfshark download page on their website. They’ll always have the latest versions available for direct download, especially for Windows, macOS, and Linux. For mobile, try checking your app store again a day or two later.
Update Fails or Gets Stuck:
- Solution: First, check your internet connection. A patchy connection can interrupt downloads. Try restarting your device and your router. If it’s still stuck, try uninstalling the current version of Surfshark completely and then perform a fresh installation of the latest version from their website or app store. Sometimes corrupted files from the old installation can interfere with a clean update.
Cannot Log In After Update:
- Solution: Make sure you’re entering your credentials correctly. If you’re sure they’re right, try restarting the app or your device. If the problem persists, try logging into your Surfshark account on their website to ensure your account is active and your login details are correct. If you’re using an outdated version, login attempts might even be blocked, so definitely ensure it’s updated.
New Features Aren’t Showing Up After Update:
- Solution: Again, sometimes a simple restart of the app or device can help. For Firestick or Android TV, if you’ve just updated, you might need to completely uninstall the previous app and reinstall the updated version to ensure all features are present and visible.

All About Surfshark VPN: Your Ultimate Guide to Online Freedom and Security

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Surfshark VPN

you’ve got Surfshark updated and humming along nicely. But how do you really squeeze every drop of goodness out of this VPN? Here are some simple, practical tips to enhance your experience:

Always Keep it On Mostly: For general browsing, especially on public Wi-Fi, keep Surfshark connected. It’s your shield against snoopers and ensures your data is always encrypted. It’s especially important if you want to prevent your ISP from monitoring your internet habits.
Use the Kill Switch: Make sure Surfshark’s Kill Switch is always enabled. This is a non-negotiable safety feature that prevents accidental data leaks if your VPN connection drops. It’s a lifesaver.
Experiment with Protocols: Surfshark offers several VPN protocols WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2. WireGuard is usually the fastest and a great default. But if you’re experiencing connection issues or want to try different performance levels, switch between them in the app settings Settings > VPN Settings > Protocols.
Leverage CleanWeb: Turn on CleanWeb! This feature blocks ads, trackers, and warns you about malware, giving you a cleaner, faster, and safer browsing experience. Some users find it occasionally breaks websites, so if you notice issues, you can temporarily disable it for specific sites.
Utilize the Bypasser Split Tunneling: This is a really handy feature. It lets you choose which apps or websites use the VPN and which bypass it. For example, I sometimes use it to route only my torrenting client through the VPN, while my banking app connects directly for faster speeds. This is especially useful if certain apps or services don’t play nice with a VPN.
Explore MultiHop: For an extra layer of privacy, try MultiHop. It routes your traffic through two different VPN servers, making it even harder to trace your online activity. It’s a great option for situations where you need maximum anonymity.
Choose Your Server Wisely for Streaming: If you’re trying to unblock content on Netflix or other services, make sure you connect to a server in the region where that content is available. For example, for US Netflix, connect to a US server. If one server doesn’t work, try another in the same country. Surfshark has servers in over 100 countries, offering plenty of choices.
Check for Virtual Server Locations: Surfshark is transparent about its virtual server locations. While they still offer good performance, sometimes connecting to a physical server closer to you can yield better speeds.
Take Advantage of Unlimited Devices: Don’t forget Surfshark lets you connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously. So go ahead, secure your entire family’s gadgets with just one subscription!
Use Surfshark One If You Have It: If you’ve opted for the Surfshark One bundle, explore its additional features like Antivirus, Alert for data breach monitoring, and Search for private search results. These tools add layers of security beyond just the VPN.

By regularly updating your app and making the most of these features, you’re not just using a VPN. you’re taking control of your online privacy and security like a pro.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I update Surfshark on my Mac if I didn’t get it from the App Store?

If you downloaded Surfshark for your Mac directly from their website using a .dmg file, there isn’t an in-app update button. When an update is ready, you’ll usually see a red notification inside the app telling you your version is outdated. To update, you just need to go to the official Surfshark website’s download page, get the latest .dmg file, and then drag and drop the new application into your Applications folder, replacing the older one. A quick reboot after that often helps things settle in.

Is it safe to use Surfshark VPN in 2025?

Yes, absolutely! Surfshark remains a very safe VPN to use in 2025. It uses strong AES-256 encryption, offers secure VPN protocols like WireGuard and IKEv2/IPSec, and has essential features like a reliable Kill Switch. Plus, their strict no-logs policy has been independently audited, meaning they don’t collect or store your online activity. They also use RAM-only servers, which wipe all data with every reboot, adding an extra layer of privacy.

Does Surfshark VPN slow down internet speeds significantly?

While any VPN can introduce a slight speed reduction due to encryption and routing traffic through a server, Surfshark is actually known for its fast performance. They’ve updated all their servers to 10Gbps, and with the WireGuard protocol, users often experience speeds that are more than enough for 4K streaming and online gaming averaging around 104 Mbps. They even have a “FastTrack” feature designed to boost speeds further by optimizing connection routes. So, no, it typically won’t slow down your internet significantly.

Can Surfshark VPN unblock Netflix and other streaming services in 2025?

Yes, Surfshark is one of the best VPNs for unblocking geo-restricted content. It consistently works with Netflix, often unblocking over 30 different regional libraries, allowing you to stream in 4K without issues. It also does a great job with other popular streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and Hulu. If you’re having trouble, make sure your app is updated and try connecting to a different server in the desired country.

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What should I do if my Surfshark VPN is not connecting after an update?

If Surfshark isn’t connecting after an update, first, restart the app and your device. Then, try connecting to a different server location within the app. If that doesn’t work, go to Surfshark’s settings and try switching to a different VPN protocol e.g., from WireGuard to OpenVPN or IKEv2. Also, ensure your general internet connection is working correctly without the VPN. If you’re still having issues, reinstalling the app uninstalling the old, then installing the new from the official source often resolves these kinds of problems. For persistent issues, Surfshark’s 24/7 customer support is always there to help.

Is Surfshark reliable for torrenting?

Yes, Surfshark is widely considered reliable for torrenting. It supports P2P traffic on all its servers, offers strong AES-256 encryption to keep your activity private, and has a strict no-logs policy. The Kill Switch feature is particularly useful, ensuring your IP address isn’t exposed if the VPN connection drops during a download. Plus, their speeds are generally good enough for fast downloads.

Why is keeping Surfshark VPN updated so important for my privacy?

Keeping Surfshark updated is crucial for your privacy because each update includes the latest security patches to defend against new cyber threats and vulnerabilities. These updates often enhance features like the Kill Switch and DNS leak protection, ensuring your real IP address and online activities remain hidden. Without updates, your app might have unpatched weaknesses that could compromise your online privacy and security.

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