This guide addresses the practical question, “How do I use Shadowrocket?” From installation and importing nodes to enabling the proxy and understanding how IPs, DNS, and browser settings interact, it will help you troubleshoot common issues such as connection failures, being connected but unable to open webpages, and unusual browsing environments.
1. What is Shadowrocket, and what do you need before using it?
Shadowrocket is commonly known as “Little Rocket” among Chinese-speaking users. It is mainly used on iPhone and iPad to import proxy nodes or subscription links and route network requests according to rules. Shadowrocket does not provide nodes itself; whether you can connect depends on the availability of the V2Ray, VLESS, Trojan, SS, or other nodes you import.
Before using it, we recommend having three things ready: a working node link or subscription URL, a stable network connection, and the correct system time. This site also compiles free node resources, but free nodes can become unavailable due to high demand or changes to their routes. If you run into problems, try switching nodes first.
2. How to import nodes into Shadowrocket
- Open Shadowrocket, go to the home screen, and tap “+” in the top-right corner.
- If you have a link for a single node, select the corresponding protocol and enter details such as the server, port, UUID, and encryption method. If you have a complete share link, you can usually import it directly from the clipboard.
- If you have a subscription URL, select “Subscribe/Subscription,” paste the URL, add a name, and save.
- Return to the home screen and tap the node you just imported. Make sure a checkmark appears next to it.
- Turn on the connection switch at the top. The first time you connect, you’ll be prompted to add a VPN configuration. Tap Allow and enter your device passcode.
Once connected, a VPN icon will usually appear in the status bar. We recommend opening a familiar website in your browser first, then testing a site that requires a proxy. This can help you avoid attributing every problem to the node.
3. How are IP, DNS, and your browser environment related?
IP is the outgoing address a website sees. After you enable Shadowrocket, if a rule routes your traffic through the proxy, the website will usually see the node’s exit IP. If the rule sends traffic directly, the website may still see your local carrier’s IP. When checking your IP, make sure the site you’re using is actually routed through the proxy.
DNS resolves domain names to IP addresses. Incorrect DNS settings can cause issues such as being connected to a node but unable to open webpages, unexpected redirects on certain sites, or inconsistent location detection. In Shadowrocket, you can use system DNS, remote DNS, or rules defined in a configuration file. Most users should stick with a reliable, ready-made configuration rather than mixing multiple DNS services at random.
Your browser environment includes your cache, cookies, language, time zone, location permissions, and more. Even if your proxy IP has changed, a website may still infer your environment from old cookies, your account’s region, or your browser fingerprint. When testing, try using a private browsing window or clearing the target site’s cache before visiting it again.
4. Recommended everyday usage
- Use “Rule Mode” by default to send domestic websites directly and route international websites through the proxy. This usually offers better speed and stability.
- If a node stops working, try another one and then update your subscription. There’s no need to keep reinstalling the app.
- If a site behaves unexpectedly, check your IP, DNS, and browser cache—not just whether the VPN icon is on.
- Don’t import configuration files from unknown sources, as they may contain suspicious rules or DNS settings.
5. Connection troubleshooting checklist
If Shadowrocket shows a connection failure, first check whether your subscription has expired, the node has been removed, and your phone’s network connection is working. If it shows as connected but webpages won’t open, try switching to Global Mode. If Global Mode works but Rule Mode doesn’t, the issue is likely with your rules or DNS. If only one website is affected, try another node, private browsing, or clearing your cookies.
Finally, make sure your iOS system time is correct, and close any other VPN or security proxy apps to prevent multiple proxies from taking over your network at once. Once you understand these basics, using Shadowrocket comes down to importing a node, choosing a routing mode, testing the connection, and troubleshooting IP, DNS, and browser settings one by one.