This article explains how to import a subscription into Shadowrocket and troubleshoot issues such as being unable to access websites, no change in IP address, DNS leaks, or unusual browser behavior after importing. It’s for users who already have a Clash/V2Ray/SS/SSR subscription link and want to import it quickly into Shadowrocket on an iPhone or iPad and check their connection.
1. Basic steps for importing a subscription into Shadowrocket
Before you begin, make sure the subscription link is a complete URL, usually starting with http:// or https://; your phone has working internet access; and your system clock is accurate. We also put together free nodes and subscriptions you can try, but free connections can be unstable, so follow the steps below to verify them first.
- Open Shadowrocket, go to the home screen, and tap “+” in the upper-right corner.
- Select Subscribe/订阅 as the type. Don’t select the option for manually entering a node.
- Paste your subscription link into the URL field. You can add a note such as “Backup subscription” or “freevpn.”
- Tap Done. Return to the home screen and pull down to refresh, then wait for the node list to appear.
- Select a node and turn on the connection toggle at the top. The first time you connect, follow the prompts to allow the VPN configuration to be added.
If the subscription appears blank after importing, first copy the link and open it in Safari to test it. If you see a long block of configuration text or an automatic download, the link is working. If you get a 404, expired, or no permission error, you’ll need to replace the subscription or obtain it again.
2. How to confirm your IP has changed
Many users assume that seeing “Connected” in Shadowrocket means everything is working, but you should also check your exit IP. After connecting, open a browser, search for “my IP,” or visit an IP lookup website and check whether the country or region matches your selected node. If you still see your local carrier’s IP, common causes include traffic not being routed through the proxy, an unavailable node, or the system VPN not actually taking over the connection.
- On the Shadowrocket home screen, make sure the selected node has a checkmark next to it.
- For testing, start with Global Proxy, then switch back to rule mode once it works.
- After changing nodes, wait 5-10 seconds before refreshing the IP lookup page.
- If your IP keeps switching back to your local one, try turning the VPN off and on again, or restart Shadowrocket.
3. How DNS and your browser environment are related
If you’ve imported the subscription successfully but some websites won’t open, DNS may be the cause. DNS translates domain names into IP addresses. If you’re still using your local carrier’s DNS, you may encounter DNS spoofing, unexpected redirects, or slow loading. In Shadowrocket, open the configuration or settings and check the DNS options. Automatic or remote DNS is usually the best choice; ordinary users should avoid entering unfamiliar addresses.
Your browser environment can also affect what you see. For example, Safari and Chrome may retain cache, cookies, and website location permissions. Some websites also consider your IP, language, time zone, WebRTC, and account login history. If you only want to confirm that the proxy is working, test in a private browsing window and disable website location access. Keep in mind that a VPN only changes your network exit point; it doesn’t guarantee that all browser fingerprint details will change as well.
4. Quick checklist for troubleshooting connection failures
- Subscription won’t update: Check whether the link has expired, whether you copied any extra spaces, and whether your network can reach the subscription server.
- Can’t connect to a node: Try another node in the same subscription, or test over Wi-Fi and cellular data.
- Connected but webpages won’t open: Try Global mode first, then check DNS, your rules configuration, and the browser cache.
- An app can’t connect to the internet: Make sure the VPN is connected in iOS Settings and that Shadowrocket is allowed to use cellular data.
- Frequent disconnections: Turn off Low Power Mode to prevent iOS from suspending the app in the background, and avoid testing too many nodes at once.
In summary, importing a subscription into Shadowrocket comes down to “add the subscription URL—update the nodes—select a node—turn on the VPN—check your IP.” If something goes wrong, don’t rely only on the connection toggle. Check your IP, DNS, and browser environment one by one to determine whether the issue is with the subscription, the node, or your device settings.