This article answers the question “How do I import nodes into sing-box?” It’s for users who have just installed a sing-box client. Follow the steps to import a subscription or add a node manually, then check whether your IP, DNS, and browser are working correctly after connecting. This helps avoid issues such as being connected but unable to open webpages, or your IP staying the same.
1. Before you import
sing-box is a proxy core. Most users access it through a client with a graphical interface, such as a sing-box GUI or a sing-box-based client on Android, Windows, or macOS. Before importing a node, check the following:
- You’ve installed a client that can manage sing-box configurations and granted it VPN/network permissions.
- You have a working node link or subscription URL. Common formats include VLESS, VMess, Trojan, and Shadowsocks.
- Your system clock is correct. A significant time difference can cause TLS connection failures.
If you’re using the free nodes provided on this site, we recommend copying the “subscription link” first, as subscriptions are easier to update. Individual nodes are more suitable for temporary testing.
2. Import nodes using a subscription
- Open the sing-box client and go to “Configuration,” “Profiles,” or “Subscriptions.” The name varies by client.
- Tap “Add,” “+,” or “Import from URL.”
- Paste the subscription URL. Enter a name such as “freevpn-x” or a custom label to make it easier to identify.
- Save it, then tap “Update subscription” or “Update” and wait for the client to retrieve the configuration.
- Return to the home screen, select a node, connect, and open a webpage in your browser to test it.
If no nodes appear after importing the subscription, first check that the link is complete, especially that it starts with https://. Some clients require you to select an outbound group manually. We recommend choosing automatic selection, lowest latency, or a node in your preferred region.
3. Manually import a single node
If you only have one node link, select “Import from clipboard” in the client. Copy the complete node link, then return to the client and tap the import option. If successful, the client will usually create a configuration or node entry.
Keep in mind: don’t split VLESS, Trojan, or other links and enter their details manually unless the client specifically asks you to provide the address, port, UUID, transport method, and TLS settings. For most users, it’s best to copy the complete share link to reduce the chance of entering incorrect settings.
4. Check your IP, DNS, and browser after connecting
Successfully importing a node doesn’t necessarily mean your proxy is configured correctly. After connecting, check the following in order:
- Visit an IP-checking website and confirm that your public IP has changed and roughly matches the region of your selected node.
- If your IP hasn’t changed, check whether the client’s system proxy or VPN mode is enabled.
- If the connection works but some websites won’t open, try switching nodes or using global mode to test.
- If you have a DNS leak or resolution issues, enable the built-in DNS in the client settings or switch to the DNS recommended by the client.
- If your browser has a proxy extension installed, it may override the system proxy. Try disabling the extension before testing.
Many cases where “sing-box is connected but not working” are actually caused by traffic bypassing the proxy, DNS resolution errors, or browser proxy conflicts. Start by testing in global mode, then switch back to rule mode step by step for more efficient troubleshooting.
5. Common causes of failure and how to fix them
If the import fails, first check whether the subscription URL has expired and whether your network can access it. If the connection fails, try another node rather than focusing on just one. If you see a certificate, TLS, or handshake error, check your system clock and update the client. If the connection is unstable, the cause may be node load, your local network, or your carrier’s routing. Try nodes in different regions and compare.
In summary, importing nodes into sing-box follows this basic process: “Copy a subscription or node link—import it into the client—update the configuration—select a node—connect—check your IP, DNS, and browser.” Following these steps should help you identify most common issues.