This guide addresses the practical question of how to import a subscription into Shadowrocket (often called “Shadowrocket” or “Little Rocket”): you’ll learn how to add a subscription link, update nodes, choose a working route, and understand how IP, DNS, and browser settings affect connection success. It’s suitable for first-time users and anyone who can’t get online after importing a subscription.
1. What to prepare before importing a subscription into Shadowrocket
Shadowrocket is a commonly used proxy client for iOS. A subscription is usually a link beginning with http or https that contains configurations for multiple nodes. Before importing it, check three things: the subscription link is complete, your phone has a working network connection, and the system time is correct. This site also provides guides to free nodes and subscriptions. You can copy a working subscription to your clipboard before proceeding.
- Don’t edit the subscription link manually—even one missing character can prevent it from being parsed.
- We recommend turning off other VPNs or proxy apps first to avoid routing conflicts.
- If it doesn’t work over public Wi-Fi, try switching to mobile data.
2. How to import a subscription into Shadowrocket
Here’s the standard process. It doesn’t involve configuring your own server, so regular users can follow these steps:
- Open Shadowrocket and tap “+” in the upper-right corner of the home screen to add a configuration.
- Select “Subscribe” or the equivalent option. The name may vary slightly between versions.
- Paste the subscription link into the URL field. For the label, enter something like “Free Nodes” or choose a custom name.
- Tap Done or Save. Return to the home screen and pull down to refresh the subscription.
- Once the refresh succeeds, several nodes will appear. Choose one with low latency or a suitable name.
- Turn on the connection switch at the top. The first time you connect, follow the prompt to allow the VPN configuration to be added.
If no nodes appear after importing the subscription, try opening the link in a browser. If content is displayed, the link is usually valid. If you see an expired-link message, a 404 error, or a blank page, you’ll need a different subscription source.
3. How IP, DNS, and browser settings are related
Many people assume that successfully importing a subscription guarantees access to websites, but it also depends on your current IP, DNS, and browser settings. When you visit a website through Shadowrocket, the site will usually see the proxy node’s exit IP. If it still shows your local IP, the proxy isn’t working or the rules don’t cover your traffic.
DNS affects domain name resolution. Some pages may fail to load even when the node itself is working, because DNS requests are being intercepted or sent over your local network. Check the DNS settings in Shadowrocket and use the client’s recommended default whenever possible. If you’re not familiar with DNS, don’t enter an unfamiliar address at random.
Browser settings can also affect your results. For example, Safari or Chrome may retain old regional information in their cache, cookies, or website login state. When testing, try an incognito window or clear the target site’s cache before visiting an IP lookup page. If one browser behaves oddly, test with another to help narrow down the cause.
4. How to troubleshoot connection failures after importing a subscription
- Subscription refresh fails: Check that the link is complete, try switching networks, or refresh again later.
- Connected, but webpages won’t load: Switch nodes, turn the VPN off and back on, and check whether global mode or the correct rules are enabled.
- Only some websites won’t load: Clear the browser cache, switch DNS settings, or try a node in a different region.
- Frequent disconnections: Avoid unstable Wi-Fi, update Shadowrocket, or reimport the subscription.
We recommend changing one setting at a time and testing the result before moving on. This makes it easier to identify the cause. Free nodes may become unavailable over time, so if a connection fails, first refresh the subscription or switch nodes rather than assuming the client is at fault.
In summary, importing a subscription into Shadowrocket comes down to “add the subscription link, refresh the nodes, choose a route, and connect.” If the import succeeds but access is still unreliable, check whether your IP has changed, DNS is working properly, and browser caching isn’t interfering. These steps usually help you pinpoint the problem quickly.