This article answers common questions about using Shadowrocket: how to import nodes or subscriptions on an iPhone or iPad, how to check whether your IP has changed after connecting, and how DNS and your browser environment can affect access. It’s intended to guide first-time Shadowrocket users through the process step by step.
1. Install and import nodes
Shadowrocket is a popular proxy client for iOS that supports protocols such as Shadowsocks, VMess, VLESS, and Trojan. After installing it, you don’t need to adjust complex settings—just import a working node correctly.
- Open Shadowrocket and tap “+” in the top-right corner of the main screen.
- If you have a link for a single node, choose “Import from Clipboard” or select the corresponding protocol and enter the details manually.
- If you have a subscription link, go to the relevant “Configuration” or “Subscription” section, paste the URL, and update it.
- Return to the home screen, select a node, and turn on the connection switch at the top.
- The first time you connect, you’ll be prompted to add a VPN configuration. Tap Allow, then confirm with Face ID or your passcode.
We collect some free nodes and subscription guides on this site. We recommend using them only to test connectivity. For long-term use, choose stable nodes from trusted sources.
2. How to check whether your connection is working
A successful connection doesn’t mean every app is necessarily using the proxy. Start by opening a browser and searching for “my IP” to see whether the displayed location matches your node’s location. If your IP hasn’t changed, first check that Shadowrocket shows “Connected” at the top, then review your routing mode.
Common modes include Global Proxy, Rule-based Proxy, and Direct. When troubleshooting, beginners can temporarily switch to Global Proxy to test. Once you’ve confirmed it works, switch back to Rule-based Proxy to avoid routing domestic apps through the proxy and slowing them down.
3. How IP, DNS, and your browser environment are related
Your IP determines the apparent location of your outgoing connection; DNS translates domain names into server addresses; and your browser environment includes details such as language, time zone, cache, cookies, and WebRTC. If these don’t line up, you may find that “your IP has changed, but websites still show your original region,” certain sites won’t open, or an account triggers a security warning.
- If a website still shows your original region: clear your browser cache or reopen it in a private window.
- If your DNS is leaking: enable remote DNS in Shadowrocket’s settings or use the DNS option recommended by the client.
- If WebRTC is exposing your local network: try another browser or restrict the relevant permissions in your browser’s privacy settings.
- If an app isn’t using the proxy: check whether the rules are set to route that domain directly.
4. Troubleshooting connection failures
If you can’t connect, don’t rush to reinstall the app. Check these items in order: whether the node has expired, whether the subscription is up to date, whether your phone’s clock is correct, whether switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data makes a difference, and whether the protocol type matches. TLS or handshake errors are usually related to the node configuration or route, so switching to another node is often quicker.
If you can connect but the speed is slow, try another node, stop background downloads, or switch routing modes. Remember: Shadowrocket is only a client. Your experience depends on the quality of the node, your network conditions, and the status of the website you’re visiting.