Install Shadowrocket on iOS Without App Store
Complete guide to install Shadowrocket on iPhone and iPad using Apple ID methods, IPA sideloading, and AltStore. Works when the app is not available in your App Store region.
Important Notice
Installing apps outside the App Store requires careful attention to security. Only use trusted sources and Apple IDs from verified providers. We recommend using your own Apple ID when possible.
Safety Tips:
- • Never share your personal Apple ID credentials
- • Use VPN when logging into shared accounts
- • Don't save payment information on shared accounts
- • Log out immediately after installation
Choose Your Installation Method
Apple ID Method
Use shared Apple ID to download directly from App Store in supported regions.
AltStore Method
Sideload IPA using AltStore with your own Apple ID (free developer account).
Sideloadly Method
Advanced sideloading with enterprise certificates or signed IPA files.
Method 1: Apple ID Installation
Get Shared Apple ID
Obtain Apple ID credentials from a trusted source. Many community sites provide free shared accounts.
Security Warning: Only use Apple IDs from trusted sources. Use VPN and never save payment info.
Sign Out of Current Apple ID
Go to Settings → [Your Name] → Sign Out. This will temporarily sign you out of your personal Apple ID.
Note: Your personal data and apps will remain on the device. Only App Store access changes.
Sign In with Shared Apple ID
Open App Store → Sign In → Use the shared Apple ID credentials. Skip two-factor authentication if prompted.
• Don't enable automatic downloads
• Don't sync with iCloud
• Choose "Not Now" for additional security prompts
Download Shadowrocket
Search for "Shadowrocket" in App Store and download. The app should appear in the shared account's purchased list.
✅ If successful, Shadowrocket will install and appear on your home screen.
Sign Back Into Your Apple ID
Go to App Store → Sign Out → Sign back into your personal Apple ID. Shadowrocket will remain installed.
Important: You won't receive automatic updates, but the app will continue working.
Method 2: AltStore Sideloading
Prerequisites:
- • Windows or Mac computer
- • iTunes installed (Windows) or Finder (Mac)
- • USB cable for iPhone
- • Free Apple Developer account
Install AltStore on Computer
Download AltStore from altstore.io
Install AltServer on your computer
Enable "iTunes WiFi sync" in iTunes preferences
Install AltStore on iPhone
Connect iPhone to computer via USB
Click AltServer icon in system tray → Install AltStore → [Your iPhone]
Enter your Apple ID credentials when prompted
Trust the developer in Settings → General → VPN & Device Management
Sideload Shadowrocket IPA
Download Shadowrocket IPA file to computer
Open AltStore on iPhone → My Apps → "+" icon
Select the IPA file and install
App will be signed with your Apple ID for 7 days
Renewal Requirement:
Free Apple IDs require renewal every 7 days. AltStore can automate this process when your devices are on the same WiFi network.
🔧 Common iOS Installation Issues
"App not available in your region"
- • Use Apple ID from supported region (US, UK, etc.)
- • Switch App Store region temporarily
- • Use sideloading method instead
"Untrusted Developer" error
- • Go to Settings → General → VPN & Device Management
- • Find the developer profile and tap "Trust"
- • Confirm by tapping "Trust" again
"Certificate revoked" or app won't open
- • Delete app and reinstall with fresh certificate
- • Use different signing source
- • Switch to AltStore for auto-renewal
"Unable to install" during sideloading
- • Ensure IPA file is not corrupted
- • Check iOS version compatibility
- • Free up storage space (need 100MB+)
- • Restart iPhone and try again
🎯 Next Steps: VPN Profile Setup
After successful installation, you'll need to setup VPN permissions:
1. Allow VPN Configuration
When you first connect, iOS will ask permission to add VPN configurations. Tap "Allow" and enter your passcode.
2. Add Your First Server
Follow our server setup guide to configure your first proxy connection.