---
title: 'Tutorial: Enable Always-on VPN in OpenVPN Connect on Android'
canonical: https://openvpn.net/connect-docs/tutorials/tutorial--enable-always-on-vpn-in-openvpn-connect-on-android/
product: OpenVPN Connect Docs
description: OpenVPN Connect for Android supports Android's Always-on VPN feature, providing automatic VPN protection the moment your device powers on.
keywords: Always-on VPN on Android
---

# Tutorial: Enable Always-on VPN in OpenVPN Connect on Android

OpenVPN Connect for Android now supports Android’s Always-on VPN feature, providing automatic VPN protection when your device powers on. With this setting enabled, the app automatically reconnects the VPN if it drops and can optionally block all non-VPN traffic to prevent data leaks.

This guide shows you how to enable Always-on VPN with OpenVPN Connect and explains additional options for enhanced security.

## Why use always-on VPN?

Always-on VPN helps protect your device by:

- Automatically connecting to the VPN after reboot.
- Preventing human error—no need to manually connect.
- Ensuring all network traffic is secured at all times.
- Helping meet compliance requirements like HIPAA, GDPR, or other data protection standards.

## Requirements

1. The latest Android version of OpenVPN Connect.
2. Android 10 or higher (required for some system-level settings).
3. At least one valid VPN profile imported into OpenVPN Connect.

## Steps to Enable Always-on VPN

1. Open your Android device's Settings app.
2. Tap **Network & internet** or **Connections**, depending on your device.
3. Tap **VPN** or **More connection settings \> VPN**, depending on your device.
   - The installed VPN apps display.
4. Tap the **gear icon** next to **OpenVPN Connect.**
   - The **OpenVPN Connect** system VPN settings display.
5. Toggle on **Always-on VPN**.
6. (Optional but recommended) Toggle on **Block connections without VPN** to prevent any network traffic from bypassing the VPN.

> **Tip**
>
> The exact menu names and steps may vary depending on your device and Android version. Refer to your device manufacturer’s support site if needed.

## What happens after enabling Always-on?

Once you've turned this feature on:

1. OpenVPN Connect will try to maintain a constant VPN connection.
2. If the connection drops, the app will attempt to reconnect automatically.
3. If you toggle on **Block connections without VPN**, internet access is paused until the VPN reconnects, ensuring no unprotected data is sent or received.

## Troubleshooting

- Ensure you have at least one VPN profile imported in OpenVPN Connect.
- If **Always-on VPN** doesn't appear as an option, check that you're using Android 10 or newer.
- For best results, ensure battery optimization is disabled for OpenVPN Connect under your device's appropriate settings.

## Related Resources

- [Import a profile into OpenVPN Connect](https://openvpn.net/connect-docs/import-profile.md)
- [Does OpenVPN Connect support Always-on VPN on Android devices? (FAQ)](https://openvpn.net/connect-docs/android-faqs/#does-openvpn-connect-support-always-on-vpn-on-android-devices-_body)

---

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