topic VPN requires secure screen lock in Tablets

VPN requires secure screen lock

oobleck — Mon, 04 May 2026 22:09:47 GMT

I have a new Galaxy Tab A11+ running Android 16. When I try to activate a VPN I get a message saying, "To add a VPN, you need to protect your phone with a pattern, PIN, or password." I've never used any of those things on other devices, including Samsung phones, in the past because I like the convenience of just turning the device on. Is there any way to get around this new restriction?

-- oobleck

Re: VPN requires secure screen lock

Mujibar — Mon, 04 May 2026 22:16:26 GMT

Nope

Re: VPN requires secure screen lock

meself — Mon, 04 May 2026 23:04:50 GMT

Don't see issue

Re: VPN requires secure screen lock

AAbbott — Mon, 04 May 2026 23:18:24 GMT

You can put protection credentials on and then use extend unlock (or a routine) to keep the tablet unlocked under certain conditions, such as connected to your home wifi.

Re: Re: VPN requires secure screen lock

TangoUniform — Tue, 05 May 2026 00:10:15 GMT

Oooooooh! Never thought of that one! Going to have to give that one a try!

Re: VPN requires secure screen lock

oobleck — Tue, 05 May 2026 00:44:24 GMT

Thanks for the helpful hint. I don't seem to have the option to designate my wifi as a trusted place, but my home address should work just as well.

-- oobleck

Re: Re: VPN requires secure screen lock

AAbbott — Tue, 05 May 2026 00:51:47 GMT

If you do a routine for it, instead of extend unlock, you will be able to add a wi fi network. You can even use the routine in conjuction with extend unlock, although you can also add your home as a location within the routine.