This guide explains how to import a subscription into Shadowrocket and troubleshoot issues that may occur afterward, such as connection failures, websites not loading, an incorrect IP address, DNS leaks, or browser environment problems. It’s intended for iPhone and iPad users who already have a V2Ray, VLESS, Trojan, SS, or other subscription link. Just follow the steps below.
1. Basic steps for importing a subscription into Shadowrocket
Shadowrocket usually refers to the iOS app. After installing it, you’ll need a valid subscription link, which typically starts with http or https and is provided by a service provider or a free-node page. This site also compiles information on free nodes. We recommend choosing subscriptions that have been updated recently and clearly specify their protocols.
- Copy the subscription link: Touch and hold the link, then choose Copy. Make sure there are no extra spaces.
- Open Shadowrocket and tap “+” in the upper-right corner.
- Select “Subscribe” as the type, then paste the subscription URL into the URL field.
- Enter a note such as “Free nodes” or a custom name to make it easy to identify.
- Tap Done or Save. Return to the home screen and pull down to refresh the subscription.
- Select a node from the list, then turn on the connection switch at the top.
The first time you connect, iOS will prompt you to add a VPN configuration. Tap Allow and enter your device passcode. If latency values appear next to the nodes, the subscription has usually been imported successfully. If all nodes time out, continue troubleshooting.
2. What IP, DNS, and browser environment affect
Many people assume that successfully importing a subscription guarantees internet access, but your IP, DNS, and browser environment can also affect the result. Your IP determines the apparent location of your traffic; DNS translates domain names into server addresses; and your browser environment includes details such as your cache, cookies, language, time zone, and WebRTC settings.
- IP address unchanged: You may not have enabled the proxy, may have selected the wrong routing mode, or the current website may be using a direct connection rule.
- DNS issues: Telegram connects, but websites won’t load, or some domain names fail to resolve.
- Browser cache interference: After switching nodes, you still see the old region or an account security warning from the previous session.
- WebRTC leaks: Your browser may expose local network information, affecting privacy test results.
After connecting, visit an IP lookup site to check your exit IP, then open the target website in a private browsing window. If you just want a quick test, select “Global Routing” in Shadowrocket. Once everything works, switch back to “Config/Rule” mode.
3. How to troubleshoot import or connection failures
If you see a subscription update error, first check that the link is complete. Be sure not to copy any accompanying Chinese instructions or line breaks. You can also paste the subscription link into Safari to test it. If it downloads a list of nodes, the link itself is probably accessible.
If the subscription imports but won’t connect, try these steps in order:
- Switch to another node in the same subscription in case one node is unavailable.
- Turn the VPN off and back on, or restart Shadowrocket.
- Temporarily switch the routing mode to Global to rule out rule-related issues.
- Try a different network, such as switching from Wi-Fi to cellular data.
- Delete the old subscription and add it again to avoid using cached node data.
If only certain websites won’t load, try clearing your browser cache, using a private window, or closing other proxy apps. For DNS, you can use a common public DNS server in Shadowrocket’s configuration, but most users don’t need to change this frequently. First, make sure the node is working.
4. Tips for using subscriptions
Your subscription link provides access to your nodes, so don’t share it publicly. Free subscriptions may stop working due to maintenance or network fluctuations. If you run into issues, first refresh the subscription, switch nodes, or try a different network. For everyday use, we recommend keeping 2–3 subscriptions from different sources as backups and regularly deleting unavailable nodes to keep the list tidy.
In short, importing a subscription into Shadowrocket involves “copy link—add subscription—refresh—select node—enable VPN.” If you experience issues after connecting, check your IP, DNS, and browser environment one by one to pinpoint the cause.