If you want to know how to install TotalVPN, you’re in the right place — but there is one thing to sort out first. TotalVPN exists in two separate forms, and the installation process is completely different depending on which one you have. That confusion catches a lot of people who signed up through TotalAV and assumed the VPN tab was the same product.

This guide covers every supported platform: Windows, Mac, iPhone, iPad, Android, and Apple TV. You’ll get numbered steps for each OS, plus clear explanations of what to do if something breaks during setup. If you want the bigger picture on features and value before diving into setup, check out our full TotalVPN review.

One thing to know upfront: TotalVPN does not support Linux, routers, Android TV, or gaming consoles. If you need VPN protection on those devices, TotalVPN isn’t the right tool. For everything else it does support, the installation is straightforward — let’s walk through it.

Before You Begin: Standalone TotalVPN vs TotalAV Bundle

Which version do you have? There are two completely separate TotalVPN experiences. Which one you have depends on your subscription:

  • TotalVPN Standalone (totalvpn.com): A full VPN product with 1,000+ servers across 90+ countries, WireGuard, HYDRA, IPSec, and OpenVPN protocol options, split tunneling, and 5 simultaneous connections. You get this by subscribing directly at totalvpn.com. The app installs separately on each device.
  • TotalAV Safe Browsing VPN (bundled): A limited VPN included with TotalAV Internet Security and Total Security plans. Only 50 servers in 30+ countries. You access it through the TotalAV app — there is no separate download.

Not sure which you have? If you subscribed at totalvpn.com, you have the standalone version. If you subscribed at totalav.com for antivirus software and VPN was included in your plan, you have the bundle. The standalone product is significantly more capable.

The installation steps in sections 2–6 below apply to the standalone TotalVPN app. If you have TotalAV with a bundled VPN, skip to section 7.

TotalVPN Windows Setup: Step-by-Step Install Guide

System requirement: Windows 10 or Windows 11. The app does not support Windows 7, 8, or older versions.

Step 1: Download TotalVPN for Windows

  1. On your Windows PC, open your web browser and go to totalvpn.com.
  2. Sign in to your TotalVPN account (or create one if you just purchased).
  3. Click the Download button for Windows. The site will detect your OS automatically. The file is named something like Total VPNSetup.exe.
  4. Wait for the download to complete. It typically lands in your Downloads folder.

Step 2: Run the Installer

  1. Open File Explorer and go to your Downloads folder (or wherever your browser saved the file).
  2. Double-click Total VPNSetup.exe to launch the installer.
  3. A Windows security prompt will appear asking if you want to allow this app to make changes to your device. Click Yes.
  4. The installer will open a setup window. Click Install.
  5. Wait for the installation to complete. This usually takes under a minute.

Step 3: Sign In and Connect

  1. Once installed, TotalVPN will launch automatically. If it doesn’t, find it in your Start menu or on your desktop.
  2. Enter your TotalVPN account email and password, then click Login.
  3. You’ll land on the main dashboard showing a connect button and a server location.
  4. Click Connect. On first connection, TotalVPN will automatically select your fastest server.
  5. The button will turn green when you’re connected. Your IP address is now masked.

Setting Up WireGuard Protocol on Windows (Optional)

TotalVPN defaults to a standard protocol on first install, but you can switch to WireGuard for faster speeds — especially useful for streaming or large file transfers.

  1. Make sure TotalVPN is open. Click the Settings (gear icon) in the top corner.
  2. Click Protocols in the left menu.
  3. Select WireGuard, then click Install.
  4. Follow the on-screen prompt to allow the system extension.
  5. Once installed, WireGuard will be active for future connections.

Protocol tip: For most Windows users, WireGuard is the fastest option. Use OpenVPN if you need maximum compatibility with older networks or corporate firewalls. HYDRA is best for bypassing geo-restrictions in restrictive regions.

How to Install TotalVPN on Mac

System requirement: macOS 12 (Monterey) or later. Check your macOS version under Apple menu → About This Mac before downloading.

Step 1: Download the macOS App

  1. On your Mac, go to totalvpn.com in Safari or any browser.
  2. Sign in to your account.
  3. Click Download for Mac. A .dmg file will download to your Downloads folder.

Step 2: Install the App

  1. Open the .dmg file from your Downloads folder. A window appears showing the TotalVPN icon and an Applications folder shortcut.
  2. Drag the TotalVPN icon into the Applications folder.
  3. Open Finder → Applications and double-click TotalVPN to launch it.
  4. macOS may show a security warning for apps downloaded from the internet. Click Open to proceed.
  5. A prompt may ask you to allow TotalVPN to access data from other applications. Click Allow.

Step 3: Sign In and Grant VPN Permission

  1. Click Get Started on the welcome screen.
  2. Enter your TotalVPN account credentials and click Login. If you’re new, click “I’m new to TotalVPN” to create your account.
  3. On the main dashboard, click the power button to initiate your first connection.
  4. macOS will prompt: “TotalVPN would like to add VPN configurations.” Click Allow. You may need to enter your Mac’s administrator password.
  5. Your VPN is now connected. The first connection always uses your fastest server automatically.

Installing WireGuard and HYDRA Protocols on Mac

The Mac app supports four protocols: IKEv2 (default), WireGuard, HYDRA, and OpenVPN. WireGuard and HYDRA each require a system extension to be enabled separately; OpenVPN does not.

  1. Open TotalVPN and click the Settings (gear icon).
  2. Click Protocols.
  3. To install WireGuard: Click WireGuard → Install → then click “Open System Settings.” In System Settings → Privacy & Security, toggle on WireGuardSystemExtension. Enter your Mac admin password when prompted.
  4. To install HYDRA: Click Hydra → Install → toggle on HydraSystemExtension in System Settings → Privacy & Security. Enter your Mac admin password.
  5. Both protocols are now available from the Protocols menu whenever you want to switch.

Which protocol to use on Mac? WireGuard is fastest for streaming and general browsing. HYDRA is designed to bypass censorship and works well in regions where VPNs are restricted. The default IKEv2 is reliable for everyday use if you don’t need extra speed or obfuscation.

How to Install TotalVPN on iPhone and iPad

System requirement: iOS 14 or later for iPhone; iPadOS 14 or later for iPad. You can check by going to Settings → General → About on your device.

Step 1: Find TotalVPN on the App Store

  1. On your iPhone or iPad, open the App Store.
  2. Tap the search icon and type TotalVPN.
  3. Look for the TotalVPN app published by Total Security Limited. Tap Get to download it (it’s free to download; your subscription unlocks features).
  4. Authenticate with Face ID, Touch ID, or your Apple ID password to confirm the download.

Step 2: Sign In

  1. Open the TotalVPN app once it finishes installing.
  2. Tap Allow when asked about notification permissions.
  3. Tap the power button on the dashboard to start the connection process.
  4. Tap Agree on the data processing screen.

Step 3: Allow VPN Configuration

  1. iOS will display a system prompt: “TotalVPN would like to add VPN configurations.” This is required for the VPN to function.
  2. Tap Allow.
  3. Enter your iPhone or iPad passcode when prompted. This is an iOS security requirement — not something TotalVPN controls.
  4. The app will confirm your VPN configuration is set up. You’re now connected on your fastest available server.

iOS protocol note: On iPhone and iPad, TotalVPN uses IKEv2 as the connection protocol. Unlike the Windows and Mac apps, iOS does not have access to WireGuard or HYDRA through TotalVPN. IKEv2 is fast and stable but is the least flexible option. If protocol choice matters to you, Windows or Mac will give you more control. If you’re weighing TotalVPN against other iOS options, our roundup of mobile VPN apps for iPhone and Android covers the leading alternatives side by side.

TotalVPN allows up to 5 simultaneous connections on a standard standalone subscription. So if you install it on your iPhone and already have it running on your laptop, that counts as 2 of your 5 slots.

How to Install TotalVPN on Android

System requirement: Android 6.0 or later. Most modern Android phones well exceed this requirement.

Step 1: Find TotalVPN on Google Play

  1. Open the Google Play Store on your Android phone or tablet.
  2. Search for TotalVPN.
  3. Tap the TotalVPN app published by Total Security Limited, then tap Install.
  4. Wait for the download and installation to complete.

Step 2: Sign In

  1. Open the TotalVPN app. You’ll land on the login screen.
  2. Tap Login if you already have a TotalVPN account, or tap Get Started if you’re setting up for the first time.
  3. Enter your email address and password, then tap to proceed.

Step 3: Grant Permissions and Connect

  1. When prompted, tap Allow for notification permissions. This lets TotalVPN alert you about connection status changes.
  2. Allow Exact Alarms when prompted — this lets the app run in the background and schedule connection checks.
  3. Confirm both permissions are enabled and tap Done.
  4. On the dashboard, tap the power button to connect.
  5. Tap Agree on the data processing screen.
  6. Tap Activate when the connection request appears.
  7. Tap OK on the “Trust this source” confirmation. You’re now connected.

Honest note on Android ratings: TotalVPN holds a 3.9/5 rating on Google Play — noticeably lower than its 4.3/5 on Apple’s App Store. Common complaints from Android users include occasional connection drops and slower reconnect times. The app works, but if you primarily use Android, it’s worth knowing that competitors like NordVPN and Surfshark have more polished Android experiences. Android does support WireGuard through TotalVPN, which helps with speeds.

How to Install TotalVPN on Apple TV

TotalVPN’s official help documentation includes Apple TV installation steps, and a native tvOS app has been reported in the App Store. If you have an Apple TV, search for “TotalVPN” in the App Store first to confirm availability before subscribing.

Requirement: Apple TV (4th generation or later) running tvOS. The TotalVPN app is not available for older Apple TV models that use an IR remote and don’t support App Store downloads.

Step 1: Find TotalVPN in the tvOS App Store

  1. On your Apple TV, navigate to the App Store from your home screen.
  2. Use the search function (click the magnifying glass) and type Total VPN using the on-screen keyboard or Siri remote dictation.
  3. Select the TotalVPN app from the results.

Step 2: Download and Open

  1. Select the cloud/download icon to install TotalVPN. The app will download and install automatically.
  2. Once installation finishes, click Open.

Step 3: Sign In and Set a Default Location

  1. When the app opens, enter your TotalVPN account email and password using the remote, then click Sign In.
  2. Go to the Locations tab in the app menu.
  3. Select your preferred default location. This is the server TotalVPN will automatically connect to each time you use it on Apple TV.
  4. When prompted, click Agree on the data processing screen.
  5. Your Apple TV is now connected to TotalVPN through your chosen server location.

Why Apple TV support matters: Most VPN providers don’t offer a native Apple TV app — they require you to set up the VPN at the router level, which is technically complex. TotalVPN’s native tvOS app means you can install and connect in under 5 minutes with no router configuration needed. If you primarily use Apple TV for streaming, this is a real practical advantage over many competing VPNs.

How to Access TotalVPN Inside TotalAV

If you have a TotalAV Internet Security or TotalAV Total Security plan, there is no separate step to install TotalAV VPN — it is already built into your TotalAV app. You don’t need to download anything extra; just open TotalAV and navigate to the VPN tab.

Step 1: Open Your TotalAV App

  1. Launch the TotalAV app on your Windows PC, Mac, iPhone, or Android device. (Install TotalAV from totalav.com if you haven’t already.)
  2. Sign in with your TotalAV account credentials.

Step 2: Navigate to the VPN Tab

  1. In the TotalAV dashboard, look for the VPN tab or section in the left-hand navigation or main menu.
  2. Click or tap it to open the VPN panel.
  3. Click Connect to establish a VPN connection. TotalAV will select the fastest available server automatically.

Step 3: Choose a Server (Optional)

  1. To connect to a specific country, look for a server list or location dropdown within the VPN panel.
  2. Select your preferred location and click Connect.

Important limitation: The VPN inside TotalAV uses a smaller server network — only 50 servers in 30+ countries — compared to 1,000+ servers in 90+ countries on the standalone TotalVPN app. If you need a specific country not available in the TotalAV VPN panel, or if you notice slower speeds, consider upgrading to the standalone TotalVPN subscription at totalvpn.com. The standalone version also gives you protocol options (WireGuard, HYDRA, OpenVPN) that the TotalAV bundle does not offer.

Troubleshooting TotalVPN Installation Issues

Most installs complete without problems. But if something goes wrong, here are the most common issues and how to fix them.

App Won’t Open After Installation (Windows)

  • Check Windows version: TotalVPN requires Windows 10 or 11. If you’re running an older version, the app won’t launch.
  • Restart your PC: Some system-level VPN drivers need a reboot to activate after installation. Restart and try opening TotalVPN again.
  • Run as Administrator: Right-click the TotalVPN shortcut and select “Run as administrator” to see if a permissions issue is blocking launch.
  • Reinstall: Uninstall TotalVPN via Control Panel → Programs, restart your PC, and re-download the installer from totalvpn.com.

VPN Not Connecting After Login

  • Try a different server: Click the server location name and switch to a server in a different city or country. Some servers experience temporary congestion.
  • Switch protocols: Go to Settings → Protocols and try switching from the current protocol to a different one (e.g., from HYDRA to IKEv2 or WireGuard). Some network environments block specific VPN protocols.
  • Check your firewall: Windows Defender Firewall or third-party antivirus software can block VPN connections. Temporarily disable your firewall to test, then add TotalVPN as a firewall exception.
  • Check your internet connection: The VPN can’t connect if your base internet isn’t working. Make sure you can browse without the VPN active first.

WireGuard Protocol Not Showing in Settings

  • On Windows, WireGuard requires a system-level driver. Open TotalVPN settings → Protocols → WireGuard → and click Install. If the install option doesn’t appear, try reinstalling TotalVPN entirely.
  • On Mac, WireGuard requires toggling on the WireGuardSystemExtension in System Settings → Privacy & Security. If the toggle doesn’t appear after clicking Install, restart your Mac and try again.
  • WireGuard is not available on iOS. This is a platform limitation — Apple’s VPN framework on iPhone does not support WireGuard through third-party VPN apps in the same way as desktop platforms.

Login Problems: Account Confusion Between TotalVPN and TotalAV

  • TotalVPN (totalvpn.com) and TotalAV (totalav.com) are connected under the same parent company but can have separate account credentials. If you subscribed on totalvpn.com, log in with your TotalVPN account credentials — not your TotalAV login.
  • If you’re unsure which account you have, check your purchase confirmation email. It will show whether you bought from totalvpn.com or totalav.com.
  • If you’re locked out, go to help.totalvpn.com or call TotalVPN billing support at 833-201-8681 to confirm your account details.

Mac: App Blocked by macOS Gatekeeper

  • If macOS says the app “cannot be opened because it is from an unidentified developer,” go to System Settings → Privacy & Security and click Open Anyway next to the TotalVPN entry.
  • You only need to do this once. After granting permission, TotalVPN will open normally going forward.

iOS: VPN Configuration Keeps Disappearing

  • If your iPhone keeps losing the VPN profile, go to Settings → General → VPN & Device Management and check whether the TotalVPN configuration is still listed.
  • If it’s gone, open the TotalVPN app and tap the connect button again — iOS will prompt you to re-add the VPN configuration.
  • Some iOS updates reset VPN configurations. This is an Apple behavior, not a TotalVPN bug.

TotalVPN Installation: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between TotalVPN standalone and the VPN inside TotalAV?

They are two separate products built on different infrastructure. The TotalVPN standalone app (available at totalvpn.com) gives you 1,000+ servers in 90+ countries, WireGuard, HYDRA, IPSec, and OpenVPN protocol options, split tunneling, and 5 simultaneous connections. The TotalAV Safe Browsing VPN — included with TotalAV Internet Security and Total Security plans — uses a smaller network of just 50 servers in 30+ countries and does not offer protocol selection. If you want the full-featured VPN, you need the standalone subscription.

How many devices can I use TotalVPN on at the same time?

The standard TotalVPN standalone subscription allows 5 simultaneous device connections. If you subscribe to TotalAV Internet Security (which includes a bundled VPN), you get 6 device licenses. TotalAV Total Security includes 8 device licenses. The simultaneous connection count applies across all platforms — if you’re connected on your laptop, phone, and tablet at the same time, that uses 3 of your 5 slots.

Which VPN protocols does TotalVPN support?

The standalone TotalVPN app supports four protocols:

  • WireGuard — Fastest protocol; best for streaming and speed-sensitive tasks. Available on Windows, Mac, and Android.
  • HYDRA — Proprietary Hotspot Shield protocol; excellent for bypassing geo-restrictions and censorship. Available on Windows and Mac.
  • IPSec / IKEv2 — Reliable and fast; good everyday option. Available on all platforms including iOS.
  • OpenVPN — Maximum compatibility and strong security. Available on Windows, Mac, and Android.

iOS users are limited to IKEv2 through the TotalVPN app. The TotalAV bundled VPN does not offer protocol selection.

Does TotalVPN work on Linux?

No. TotalVPN does not have a Linux app and does not officially support Linux. If you need VPN protection on Linux, you’ll need to look at providers like Proton VPN (which has a native Linux CLI and GUI app) or NordVPN, which supports Linux via a command-line application.

Can I install TotalVPN on a router?

No. TotalVPN does not offer router support. There are no OpenVPN config files for manual router setup and no instructions for router-level installation. If you need to protect all devices on your home network through a VPN at the router level, TotalVPN is not the right choice. Consider providers like ExpressVPN (which has dedicated router firmware) or NordVPN (which supports manual OpenVPN router configuration).

Does TotalVPN support Apple TV?

Yes — and this is one of TotalVPN’s genuine strengths. TotalVPN has a native Apple TV app available in the tvOS App Store. Most competing VPNs do not offer an Apple TV app, requiring router-level configuration instead. With TotalVPN, you simply search “TotalVPN” in the tvOS App Store, install the app, sign in with your account, and connect. The whole process takes about 3–5 minutes.

What happens when my TotalVPN subscription renews?

TotalVPN’s introductory pricing (commonly around $1.59/month billed annually in year one) is a promotional rate for the first billing period only. When your subscription renews, it reverts to the standard rate of $99/year ($8.25/month). This is a significant jump. TotalVPN is required to send advance renewal notice at least 15 days before your renewal date for annual plans. To avoid being surprised, mark your renewal date in your calendar when you sign up and decide before then whether you want to continue at the standard rate or cancel.

Does TotalVPN have a free trial?

No, there is no free trial. However, annual and biannual plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Monthly and quarterly plans have a shorter 14-day refund window. To get a refund, you must fully cancel your subscription and submit a refund request — simply turning off auto-renewal is not enough and will not trigger a refund. Contact TotalVPN support through help.totalvpn.com or call 833-201-8681 to request one.

Does TotalVPN have a browser extension?

TotalVPN’s pricing page mentions “browser extensions” as a feature included with a subscription. However, no separate browser extension pages were found on the official site at the time of writing, and the extension is not confirmed on major browser stores. If a browser extension is important to your setup, verify its current availability directly at totalvpn.com before purchasing.

What is the difference between TotalVPN pricing and TotalAV pricing?

These are separate pricing structures:

  • TotalVPN standalone: Typically $99/year at standard rates (introductory promotions bring this much lower in year one). Includes the VPN app, TotalAV antivirus, and Total Adblock. 5 simultaneous devices.
  • TotalAV Internet Security: $129/year standard ($39 first-year promo). Includes antivirus + bundled VPN (50 servers, 30+ countries) + more. 6 devices.
  • TotalAV Total Security: $149/year standard ($49 first-year promo). Includes everything in Internet Security plus a password manager. 8 devices.

If your primary goal is VPN use, the standalone TotalVPN subscription gives you the better VPN. If you also need antivirus and are happy with a more limited VPN, TotalAV Internet Security or Total Security may be more cost-effective.

Is TotalVPN safe and does it keep logs?

TotalVPN uses AES-256 encryption and passed independent DNS and WebRTC leak tests in 2026. However, TotalVPN has not undergone an independent no-logs audit — unlike providers such as NordVPN, Surfshark, and Proton VPN, which have had their no-logs policies verified by external security firms. TotalVPN’s privacy policy contains language about potentially collecting device identifiers and IP addresses in some contexts. The company is also based in the UK, which is a Five Eyes jurisdiction. For casual browsing, streaming, and public Wi-Fi security, TotalVPN is adequate. For high-stakes privacy needs, the lack of an independent audit is a meaningful gap.

Where can I find more detailed information about TotalVPN’s features?

For a full breakdown of TotalVPN’s performance, pricing, streaming capabilities, and how it compares to competitors, read our full TotalVPN review. For technical help with specific install errors or account questions, TotalVPN’s official support is at help.totalvpn.com.

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