How to Change Server in Mullvad VPN
If you want a different IP address, better speeds, or a server in another country, changing servers in Mullvad VPN takes only a few clicks.
This guide explains the exact steps, plus the reasons to switch, what affects server choice, and what to do if a new server does not work as expected.
Why Change Servers in Mullvad VPN?
Mullvad VPN uses a large network of privacy-focused servers across many countries, and switching between them can improve your experience in several ways.
The most common reasons include faster performance, lower latency, access to region-specific content, or simply rotating to a different exit node for privacy and testing.
- Speed: A nearby server often reduces latency and improves streaming or browsing performance.
- Location: A server in another country can give you an IP address from that region.
- Reliability: If one server is congested, another may work better.
- Privacy hygiene: Switching servers can reduce repeated exposure to the same exit IP.
- Testing: Developers and IT teams often use different servers to check how services behave by region.
How to Change Server in Mullvad VPN on Desktop
The Mullvad desktop app for Windows, macOS, and Linux makes server switching straightforward.
You can use the server list, the map view, or quick connect options depending on how you prefer to browse locations.
Step 1: Open the Mullvad app
Launch the Mullvad VPN application and make sure you are signed in.
If the app is not connected yet, you will see the current status on the main screen.
Step 2: Disconnect from the current server
To switch cleanly, click the disconnect button first.
Mullvad is designed to handle changes safely, but disconnecting makes the process easier to follow and confirm.
Step 3: Choose a new location
Open the location list or map and select a country, then pick a specific city or server if the app offers that option.
Mullvad typically lets you choose from available server locations based on its network.
Step 4: Connect to the new server
After selecting a location, click connect.
The app will establish a new tunnel and assign a new exit IP address associated with that server.
Step 5: Verify the new IP address
Check the app status or visit an IP lookup site to confirm the server change.
You should see the country, city, or network details matching the selected Mullvad server.
How to Change Server in Mullvad VPN on Mobile
The Mullvad mobile app for Android and iPhone follows the same basic flow, though the interface is streamlined for smaller screens.
The steps below help you switch locations quickly while on the go.
- Open the Mullvad app on your phone.
- Disconnect if you are currently connected.
- Tap the location selector or server list.
- Choose a new country or server location.
- Reconnect and confirm the new exit IP.
If you travel often, mobile server switching can be useful for matching local services, improving latency, or connecting through a region that works better for your app or website.
Can You Let Mullvad Choose the Best Server Automatically?
Yes.
Mullvad includes a fast and simple option that connects you to a server automatically.
This is useful when you want the app to pick a nearby or less crowded server without manual selection.
Automatic selection is often the best choice if your main goal is stable performance rather than a specific country.
It can also save time when you do not care which server you use, only that the connection is private and fast.
What Affects Which Server You Should Pick?
Not every server will perform the same.
Real-world speed depends on distance, congestion, routing, and your own network conditions, so the best server may change throughout the day.
- Geographic distance: Closer servers usually mean lower latency.
- Server load: Heavily used servers can slow down during peak hours.
- ISP routing: Your internet provider may route traffic more efficiently to some locations than others.
- Protocol choice: WireGuard often provides strong speed and efficiency in modern VPN setups.
- Local network quality: Home Wi-Fi, mobile data, and public hotspots can all affect results.
How to Troubleshoot a Server Change That Fails
If Mullvad does not connect to the new server, the issue is often temporary and easy to fix.
Try one of the following steps before assuming the server is down.
- Switch to another nearby server: The selected location may be temporarily overloaded.
- Restart the app: Closing and reopening Mullvad can clear a stale connection state.
- Check your internet connection: Confirm your base connection works without the VPN.
- Update the app: Older versions may have compatibility issues.
- Change protocol settings: If available, try a different tunneling option supported by Mullvad.
If the connection keeps failing, the server may be under maintenance, or your network may block VPN traffic.
In that case, trying another location is usually the fastest fix.
How to Confirm You Are Actually on a Different Server
After you change servers, it is smart to confirm the switch rather than relying only on the app label.
Verification helps ensure your traffic is exiting from the location you selected.
- Check the public IP address shown in the Mullvad app.
- Compare it with an IP lookup tool in your browser.
- Look at the reported country and city, if available.
- Reconnect once if the displayed location does not update immediately.
Because VPN connections can briefly cache data, the old IP may appear for a few seconds after switching.
A quick refresh usually resolves that.
Best Practices for Switching Mullvad Servers
Frequent server changes are normal, but a few habits make the process smoother and more reliable.
These also help keep your browsing session stable while preserving the privacy benefits of the VPN.
- Prefer nearby servers for general browsing and better latency.
- Use manual selection when you need a specific country.
- Test multiple servers if streaming or gaming performance changes.
- Keep the Mullvad app updated for the latest server list and fixes.
- Use automatic selection when you do not need a precise location.
Does Changing Servers Affect Privacy?
Changing servers does not reduce VPN privacy; it simply changes the exit node that routes your traffic to the public internet.
Your internet service provider and local network still see a VPN connection, while websites see the new Mullvad server IP instead of your real address.
For users who care about minimizing trackable patterns, occasional server rotation can be helpful.
Just remember that privacy also depends on browser settings, account hygiene, and whether you stay signed into services that can identify you separately from your IP address.
When Should You Change Servers Instead of Staying Put?
You should switch servers when your current one is slow, blocked, or geographically unsuitable for the site or app you are using.
It is also worth changing servers if you want to compare performance, access another region, or avoid a congested location during busy hours.
For many users, the best routine is simple: start with automatic selection, then switch manually only when you have a reason.
That approach gives you a balance of convenience, speed, and control without adding unnecessary complexity.