Is iCloud Private Relay a VPN?

No, iCloud Private Relay is a privacy feature, not a full VPN. While it encrypts Safari traffic and hides your IP address, it doesn't provide system-wide protection or offer advanced features like server selection, app-level encryption, or full anonymity across all internet activity.

How do you enable iCloud Private Relay?

To enable Private Relay, go to Settings (or System Preferences on a Mac) > iCloud > Private Relay, then toggle it on. If you’re not already subscribed to iCloud+, follow the on-screen prompts to upgrade before activating the feature.

Can I use iCloud Private Relay with a VPN?

Yes, you can use a VPN while iCloud Private Relay is enabled, but they won’t operate simultaneously. If a VPN is active, traffic will bypass Private Relay and follow the VPN’s routing instead. You’ll benefit from whichever is active at the time, but not both on the same data stream.

How reliable is iCloud Private Relay?

Users report that iCloud Private Relay is sufficiently reliable for regular use, but note that it doesn’t offer the same level of privacy enforcement or versatility as a premium VPN.

What is a private relay on an iPhone?

A Private Relay on an iPhone is an Apple feature that helps protect your privacy by encrypting your Safari browser traffic and routing it through two separate relays. This masks your IP address and location from websites and network providers, making it harder for anyone to track your online activity or pinpoint your exact location.

Does private relay work with Chrome?

No, Apple's iCloud Private Relay is Safari-only. It doesn't protect activity in Chrome, Firefox, or other third-party browsers, nor does it secure in-app traffic. For full-funnel protection, you need a VPN.

iCloud Private Relay vs. VPN: Which is better and why?

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