This article addresses a common question among iPhone and iPad users: how to import a subscription into Shadowrocket, how to update nodes afterward, and why the same subscription may fail to load, show an unexpected location, or fail to connect under different IP, DNS, or browser settings. Follow the steps below to complete the basic setup.
1. Basic steps for importing a subscription into Shadowrocket
Shadowrocket is commonly used to add multiple nodes at once via a subscription link. You may get the link from a service provider you’ve purchased from or from a free-node page on this site. Free nodes are suitable for temporary testing, but their reliability can change over time, so it’s a good idea to update them regularly.
- Copy the subscription URL: Find a subscription link that starts with http/https on the website or in your account dashboard. Long-press to copy it, making sure not to include any extra spaces.
- Open Shadowrocket: Go to the home screen and tap the “+” in the top-right corner.
- Choose a type: Select “Subscribe” or “订阅” as the type.
- Paste the link: Paste the subscription URL into the URL field. You can enter “Free nodes” or the service provider’s name as the remark.
- Save and update: Tap Done, return to the list, then pull down to refresh or tap the subscription entry to update it.
- Select a node and connect: Return to the home screen, select a node, and turn on the switch at the top. The first time you use it, follow the prompts to allow a VPN configuration to be added.
If no nodes appear after importing, first check whether the subscription link has expired, requires you to sign in, or was truncated by the browser. You can also try copying it again while connected to a different network.
2. How subscriptions, IPs, DNS, and browser settings are related
Many people assume that successfully importing a subscription is all they need to do, but your browsing experience can also be affected by your IP, DNS, and browser settings. Once connected to a node, websites see your exit IP. If a website uses your IP to determine your location, it may show different languages, content, or verification prompts.
DNS translates domain names into IP addresses. If your DNS leaks or you’re still using your local carrier’s DNS, you may find that “the VPN is connected, but some websites won’t open” or that your detected location is inconsistent. You can check the DNS options in Shadowrocket’s configuration. Most users should stick with the settings recommended by the client and avoid entering unfamiliar DNS addresses.
Your browser settings can also affect the results. For example, cached data, cookies, account region, browser language, and WebRTC may reveal your location or retain outdated information. If a website still shows your previous location after you connect to a new node, try using a private browsing window, clearing your cookies, or testing with another browser.
3. Troubleshooting connection failures and subscription update issues
- Subscription won’t update: Check whether the link opens in Safari. If you see a 404 error, an access denied message, or a blank page, the link is unavailable or has expired.
- Node times out: Try another node. Free nodes are often unstable when many people are using them.
- Connected, but webpages won’t open: Turn the VPN off and back on, switch between Wi-Fi and cellular data, or restart Shadowrocket.
- Only some apps aren’t working: Check whether split-tunneling rules are enabled and try switching to global mode.
- Frequent verification prompts: Switch to a different exit IP, clear your browser cookies, and avoid frequent changes to the region associated with your account and IP.
4. Tips for use
After importing a subscription, test two or three nodes. Don’t rely only on latency numbers—try opening websites you use regularly, too. If you’re using the free nodes on this site, treat them as a temporary option for learning and testing. If they stop working, update the subscription or switch nodes. Keep your subscription URL private and don’t share it publicly, as misuse could cause it to stop working.