Start with a mode
Smart is the recommended starting point: it selects a location and protocol from the network conditions it can observe. Tor is for when the usual routes do not connect: it goes through the Tor network and its bridges and is usually slower. If the VPN drops when the screen turns off, see our battery and background guide. Exclusive is a more direct alternative when you want to choose a special route. Normal is the straightforward connection path. None is a promise of a fixed speed or availability on every network.
Read the protocol labels
Balanced aims to combine compatibility, stability and processing overhead for everyday use. Compatible is worth trying when a network does not work well with one transport. Direct targets a less mediated path and can be useful on a network that supports it. The public Wi-Fi guide explains why network restrictions can affect these choices. These labels describe connection behaviour; they are not guaranteed speed numbers.
A simple decision order
- Connect with Smart and wait for the route to prepare.
- If it does not connect, try Tor.
- If handshaking fails, try Compatible in the same mode.
- Use Exclusive when you want a deliberate route choice.
- Change one thing at a time and note the result.
Combine with split tunneling
Mode and app/site rules are separate. An old direct exception can make a protocol appear broken because the app never entered the tunnel. Review the list before changing routes. App choices apply across modes; site rules can depend on the route, as the split-tunneling guide explains.
Report a problem clearly
Include the mode, displayed protocol, approximate time, Android version and app version. A finished daily quota or service maintenance is not fixed by switching protocols. Do not email tokens, passwords or private message contents; the public device ID is enough for support.