Managing Devices
Obscura gives you 3 simultaneous connection slots per account. This isn’t a device limit, you can install Obscura on as many devices as you want. The limit is on how many devices can be actively connected to Obscura at the same time.
How It Works with the Obscura App
Section titled “How It Works with the Obscura App”When you use the Obscura app, your device only uses a slot while it’s actively connected. The moment you disconnect, that slot is freed up for another device. If all 3 slots are in use and you want to connect another device, just disconnect one first.
How It Works with WireGuard
Section titled “How It Works with WireGuard”WireGuard configs work differently. Each config you create permanently reserves one of your 3 slots, even when the device using it isn’t connected.
This is because WireGuard doesn’t have an explicit connect/disconnect process. We reserve the slot for as long as the config exists. This guarantees your device can always reconnect instantly without competing for an available slot.
Here’s what that means in practice:
- 1 WireGuard config = 1 slot used at all times, leaving 2 for the Obscura app
- 2 WireGuard configs = 2 slots used, leaving 1 for the app
- 3 WireGuard configs = all slots used, you will not be able to connect with the app
To free a slot, you need to delete the WireGuard config from your account. You can do this from the Manage WireGuard configs page in your account.
Mixing the App and WireGuard
Section titled “Mixing the App and WireGuard”| Setup | Slots Used | Available for App |
|---|---|---|
| App only | 0 (until connected) | Up to 3 simultaneous |
| 1 WireGuard config | 1 (always) | Up to 2 simultaneous |
| 2 WireGuard configs | 2 (always) | Up to 1 at a time |
| 3 WireGuard configs | 3 (always) | None |
Tips for Managing Your Slots
Section titled “Tips for Managing Your Slots”- Prefer the Obscura app when possible. It’s more slot-efficient since it only uses a slot while connected.
- Use WireGuard for always-on devices like routers, servers, or headless machines where you can’t run the app.
- Clean up old configs you’re not using. Forgotten WireGuard configs silently eat slots. Check your account page periodically.
- No need to log out of the Obscura app on devices you’re not using. It won’t consume a slot until you actively connect.