Turn Off or Enable iCloud Private Relay on iPhone, iPad, Mac

iCloud Private Relay helps hide your IP address and encrypts Safari traffic so websites and network providers can’t easily track you. However, you may want to turn off Apple iCloud Private Relay, such as when a website doesn’t load properly or when certain networks block it. Follow up to learn how to turn off iCloud Private Relay, how to enable it again, and what to do if iCloud Private Relay is not working.

How to Turn Off iCloud Private Relay

If a website or service isn’t functioning correctly, temporarily disabling the feature may help. Here’s how to turn off iCloud Private Relay on iPhone or iPad:

Step 1. Open Settings. Tap your Apple ID name at the top.

Step 2. Select iCloud. Tap Private Relay. Toggle Private Relay off.

Once completed, you’ve successfully turned off Apple iCloud Private Relay and your browsing traffic will no longer be routed through Apple’s privacy network.

Turn Off Private Relay for a Specific Network

Sometimes you only need to disable it on one Wi-Fi network.

Step 1. Open Settings > Wi-Fi. Tap the ⓘ icon next to your connected network.

Step 2. Turn off Limit IP Address Tracking.

This option essentially lets you turn off iCloud Private Relay for that network only.

If you want to enable iCloud Private Relay again, toggle it on.

What to Do If iCloud Private Relay is Not Working

Sometimes users report iCloud Private Relay not working properly. This can happen for several reasons.

Common fixes include:

• Check your iCloud+ subscription (Private Relay requires it).

• Update your device to the latest iOS or macOS version.

• Switch networks, as some Wi-Fi providers block the feature.

• Toggle the setting off and on again to refresh the connection.

Extra Privacy Tip: Use a VPN for Stronger Protection

While iCloud Private Relay mainly protects Safari browsing, it doesn’t secure all apps or system traffic. If you want broader protection across your entire device, using a VPN is a good idea. A free option like iTop VPN can encrypt all internet traffic, hide your real IP address, and help bypass network restrictions. Unlike Private Relay, it works with all apps, not just Safari.