This article explains how to import a subscription into Shadowrocket and, from a team-use perspective, why the same subscription may perform differently across devices and account environments—and how to reduce disconnections, failed nodes, and configuration issues.
1. What to prepare before importing a subscription
Shadowrocket typically refers to the iOS app. Before you begin, make sure you have a working subscription link. It usually starts with https:// and may come from a paid service, be distributed centrally by your team, or be a free node subscription curated on this site. Keep in mind that free nodes are best for testing or temporary use, as their reliability can vary with network conditions.
- Make sure Shadowrocket is installed on your iPhone or iPad.
- Have your subscription link ready, without extra spaces or Chinese instructions.
- Make sure your current network can access the subscription URL.
- For team use, we recommend having an administrator distribute the same version of the link to everyone.
2. How to import a subscription into Shadowrocket
Follow these steps to import your subscription:
- Open Shadowrocket and go to the node list on the home screen.
- Tap the “+” in the upper-right corner.
- Select Subscribe as the type.
- Paste the subscription link into the URL field. You can add a note such as “Team Subscription” or “Backup Subscription.”
- Tap Save, then return to the node list.
- Pull down to refresh the subscription and wait for the nodes to load.
- Select a node and turn on the connection switch at the top. Follow the prompt to allow Shadowrocket to add a VPN configuration.
If no nodes appear after importing, first check that the link is complete. If the nodes appear but won’t connect, check the proxy rules, system time, and network permissions.
3. Why teams should pay attention to account-environment stability
When multiple team members use the same subscription, stability depends not only on the nodes themselves but also on the usage environment. For example, frequently switching between regions, devices, and networks may trigger server-side risk controls, cause subscription refresh failures, or prevent the connection handshake from completing.
We recommend that teams establish a few basic guidelines: don’t share subscription links externally; have each member stick to one device where possible; after traveling or switching networks, refresh the subscription before connecting; and if an issue occurs, record the error instead of repeatedly toggling nodes on and off. This can reduce the risk of account issues and false alarms.
4. Troubleshooting common connection failures
- Subscription won’t update: Check whether the URL has expired or was copied incompletely, and whether your current network can access the subscription address.
- Nodes import but won’t connect: Try another node, or switch between Wi-Fi and cellular data to rule out local network restrictions.
- Connected, but webpages won’t open: Check Shadowrocket’s rule mode. Try Global mode as a test, then switch back to Rule mode.
- Multiple team members have issues at once: Contact the subscription provider or administrator first to check the connection status. Don’t have everyone reset their configuration separately.
5. Tips for team use
Administrators can designate “primary” and “backup” subscriptions and use a group announcement to specify update times, supported clients, and how to report issues. Members only need to follow the instructions to import the subscription; they should not modify protocol settings on their own. For most users, keeping the client up to date, refreshing the subscription regularly, and switching nodes as needed are the most direct ways to improve connection stability.
In summary, importing a subscription into Shadowrocket is straightforward. The key is to use the correct link, refresh it successfully, and set the right rules. In a team setting, it’s also important to manage account environments, device habits, and configurations consistently to avoid individual mistakes affecting overall availability.