This guide answers the question “How do I import nodes into sing-box?” It covers common import methods on mobile and desktop, how to update subscriptions, and how to troubleshoot when webpages still won’t load after importing by checking your IP, DNS, and browser environment. It’s intended for users who are new to sing-box and aren’t sure what to do after receiving a free node or subscription link.
1. First, check what you have
sing-box is a proxy core, and many clients provide a graphical interface built around it. Before importing, check the format of the node details you have. There are three common types:
- Subscription link: Usually an http or https URL. Suitable for long-term use and can be updated with one click.
- Single node link: Such as vless://, vmess://, trojan://, or ss://.
- Configuration file: Usually a json file containing settings such as outbounds, inbounds, dns, and route.
For most users, a subscription link is the easiest option. Our free node page usually also provides nodes or subscription details you can copy, but the stability of free nodes depends on the route, region, and number of users, so it’s a good idea to have a few alternatives ready.
2. How to import nodes into a sing-box client
Menu names vary slightly between clients, but the process is generally the same. In a typical graphical client, follow these steps:
- Install a client that supports sing-box for your platform, such as Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS.
- Open the client and find the “Configuration,” “Profile,” “Subscription,” or “Profiles” section.
- For a subscription link, select “Add Subscription” or “New Subscription,” paste in the link, save it, and then click Update.
- For a single node link, select “Import from Clipboard” or “Import from URL/Clipboard.”
- For a json file, select “Import local configuration file,” then choose the file.
- After the import succeeds, select a node, enable system proxy or VPN mode, and test access to a webpage.
If the client reports a configuration error, the node link may be incomplete, the subscription may have expired, or the client may not support certain fields. Try testing with another client or copying the subscription again, making sure no characters are missing.
3. Import succeeded, but it still doesn’t work: check your IP, DNS, and browser
Many people assume that a successful import guarantees access, but your local network environment matters too. First, check your IP: with the proxy enabled, visit an IP lookup website and confirm that your exit IP has changed. If it hasn’t, the client may not be routing your traffic. Check whether VPN mode, TUN mode, or the system proxy is enabled.
Next, check DNS. If your IP has changed but websites still won’t load, DNS may be polluted or failing to resolve. In the client settings, you can enable remote DNS, FakeIP, or an option related to “Prevent DNS leaks.” If you’re unfamiliar with the settings, stick with the client’s recommended defaults and avoid editing the json file unnecessarily.
Finally, check your browser environment. Proxy extensions, ad-blocking rules, enterprise certificates, or secure DNS settings in your browser may conflict with sing-box. Try testing in an incognito window, or temporarily disable SwitchyOmega, the browser’s built-in DNS, and other VPN extensions to avoid chaining multiple proxies.
4. Common problems and fixes
- Subscription update fails: Check whether the link opens in a browser and whether you need a direct connection first.
- Node shows a timeout: Try another node or network, or wait for the subscription source to be updated.
- Only some websites load: Check the routing mode and try Global mode for testing.
- Works on your phone but not your computer: System proxy may not be enabled on the computer, or its firewall may be blocking the client.
- Speed keeps fluctuating: This is common with free nodes. Compare nodes in different regions.
In short, the key to importing nodes into sing-box is to identify the format first, import using a subscription or clipboard, and then troubleshoot by checking whether your IP has changed, whether DNS is working, and whether your browser is causing a conflict. If you’re new to this, don’t start by editing complex settings manually. Use an updatable subscription and the default rules first, then make adjustments once you’re connected.