VPN Not Connecting? Try These Simple Fixes (2024)

Sometimes, fixing a VPN connection problem is as easy as following some fundamental troubleshooting steps. Before delving into more technical solutions, let’s try these basic techniques.

Check Your Internet Connection

Before blaming the VPN, make sure your internet connection is active and working properly at good speed. Open a browser and try to access a website without the VPN enabled. If you can’t access the internet, the problem might not be with the VPN at all.

If the internet is not working, try restarting your router and waiting for a few minutes before attempting to connect again.

Reboot Your Device and VPN

A simple restart usually solves many tech-related problems, including VPN connectivity issues. Reboot your device and try to connect to the VPN again.

If restarting the device doesn’t work, try restarting the VPN application. Close the application entirely and then reopen it to see if that resolves the issue.

Update Your VPN Application

Using an outdated VPN application might lead to connectivity problems. Check for updates within the app or on the provider’s website and install the latest version if available.

Check Credentials

Ensure that you’ve entered the correct username and password. Sometimes, a simple typo can prevent you from connecting. Or, if you changed the password, you will need to enter the new password on all the devices that use the VPN account.

These basic troubleshooting steps solve a majority of VPN connection problems without requiring any advanced knowledge. They should be your first line of defense when faced with connectivity issues. However, if the problem persists, you can try some more advanced steps.

Here are a few more technical solutions that are manageable even if you’re not an expert. However, you must always proceed with caution when adjusting advanced settings. And if you are not feeling confident about trying these, it is best to seek professional assistance or contact your VPN provider’s support.

Change VPN Protocols

VPN protocols are the methods by which your device connects to a VPN server. Some protocols might be blocked or slow in certain regions. In your VPN application settings, look for an option to change the protocol. Trying a different one, such as OpenVPN or IPSec/IKEv2, might resolve the connection issue.

Adjust Firewall and Security Software

Sometimes, firewall settings or antivirus software might block the VPN connection. Temporarily disabling them might resolve the issue. However, remember that doing this can expose your system to risks, so be sure to re-enable them after testing.

If disabling the firewall or antivirus works, add your VPN to the exceptions or “allowed” list to prevent future issues.

Configure Network Settings

If other internet-dependent applications are working fine, resetting your network settings to default might solve the problem.

DNS (Domain Name Server) issues could also prevent VPN connectivity. Flushing the DNS cache (using commands such as ipconfig /flushdns on Windows or sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder on Mac) might help. Know that flushing the DNS cache doesn’t affect your browsing history or saved password.

VPN connectivity issues can be frustrating, but they’re often solvable with a systematic approach. We have already discussed both basic and advanced troubleshooting techniques that can help find you a solution. Here we give you specific steps for some of the most common devices.

How To Fix VPN Connection on Wi-Fi

Connecting to a VPN over Wi-Fi should typically be a straightforward process but, sometimes, unforeseen issues can interrupt this connection. Whether it’s due to network restrictions, router compatibility or other underlying factors, the following steps provide a systematic approach to diagnosing and resolving common VPN connectivity issues on a Wi-Fi network:

1. Check and reconnect to Wi-Fi: Ensure you’re connected to the correct Wi-Fi network, and disconnect and reconnect if necessary.
2. Change Wi-Fi Networks (if possible): If you have access to multiple networks, switch to a different Wi-Fi network that might not have the same restrictions.
3. Modify Wi-Fi settings: If your router supports VPNs, log in and adjust any settings that might be restricting the connection or update the router’s firmware if needed.
4. Consider a wired connection: If Wi-Fi continues to fail, try connecting via Ethernet for a more stable connection.
5. Contact support: If all else fails and you still can’t connect, reach out to your VPN provider’s support team or your Internet Service Provider for assistance specific to your situation.

How To Fix VPN Connection on Mobile

Mobile devices are now a primary gateway to the online world, and using a VPN on your smartphone or tablet adds an essential layer of security and privacy. However, along with any technology, VPNs can sometimes encounter connectivity problems on mobile devices. Here’s how to tackle these issues methodically:

1. Check internet connection: Verify that your mobile device has a stable internet connection, either through Wi-Fi or cellular data.
2. Restart the VPN app: Close the VPN application entirely, and then reopen it to see if that resolves the connection issue.
3. Update the VPN app: Ensure that your VPN application is updated to the latest version, as outdated apps may lead to connectivity problems.
4. Try a different network: If you’re on Wi-Fi, try switching to cellular data, or vice versa, to see if the issue is related to a specific network.
5. Review app permissions: Make sure that the VPN app has the necessary permissions to operate on your device. You can usually find these settings in the device’s application management menu.
6. Reinstall the VPN app: If all else fails, uninstall and reinstall the VPN application. This can resolve any underlying issues with the app’s installation.

By following these steps, you can troubleshoot and resolve most VPN connectivity problems on your mobile device, ensuring that you maintain your privacy and security while on the go.

How To Fix VPN Connection to Server

You may face challenges in maintaining a VPN connection to a server due to a variety of reasons, from server overload to geographical restrictions. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you resolve VPN connection issues to a specific server:

1. Choose a different server: Many VPN providers offer multiple servers. Try connecting to a different server in the same region or a different region altogether.
2. Check server status: Some VPN providers display the status of their servers. Check if the server you’re trying to connect to is down or overloaded.
3. Reset the VPN connection: Disconnect from the VPN entirely and reconnect. Sometimes, simply reestablishing the connection can resolve server-related issues.
4. Review security settings: Your firewall or antivirus software might be blocking the connection to the server. Temporarily disable them to see if that’s the issue, but remember to re-enable them afterward.
5. Change VPN protocols: Switch to a different VPN protocol, as some might be blocked or slow in connecting to specific servers.
6. Contact VPN support: If you’ve tried all the above steps and still can’t connect, reach out to your VPN provider’s support. They can provide server-specific guidance and help you resolve the issue.
7. Consider changing VPN providers: If server connectivity issues persist regularly with your current provider, it may be time to research and consider other VPN services with better server reliability.

How To Fix VPN Connection on Desktop

By approaching VPN connection issues on your desktop with a systematic method, you can isolate and address the underlying problem. Whether you’re facing issues due to software conflicts, network settings or other factors, here are the steps to troubleshoot and fix VPN connection problems on your desktop:

1. Restart the VPN client: Often, simply closing and reopening the VPN client can resolve a temporary glitch or connection error.
2. Check Your internet connection: Make sure your desktop is connected to the internet and that the connection is stable. Try browsing without the VPN to verify, as discussed earlier.
3. Update the VPN software: Ensure your VPN client is updated to the latest version. Outdated software may contain bugs that can prevent successful connections.
4. Review firewall and antivirus settings: Sometimes, security software can interfere with VPN connections. Consider temporarily disabling these to see if they are causing the issue, and add an exception for your VPN if necessary.
5. Adjust network settings: If you’re connecting via Wi-Fi, try a wired connection or check your Wi-Fi settings for any anomalies that might be blocking the VPN connection.
6. Reconfigure VPN settings: Check the configuration settings within your VPN client. Incorrect settings, such as an improperly selected protocol or wrong server information, could hinder the connection.
7. Reinstall the VPN client: If all else fails, uninstalling and reinstalling the VPN client can eliminate any corrupted files or settings that may be causing the problem.
8. Contact technical support: If the problem persists, don’t hesitate to contact your VPN provider’s technical support. They have the tools and knowledge to diagnose and fix desktop-specific connection issues.

How To Fix VPN Not Connecting on Router

Using a VPN on a router can extend privacy and security to all devices on your network. However, setting up and maintaining a VPN connection on a router can be more complex. If you encounter a situation where the VPN is not connecting on your router, here are some steps to help diagnose and resolve the issue:

1. Check the router’s internet connection: Ensure that your router is connected to the internet. Try accessing a website without the VPN to verify the connection.
2. Reboot the router: Sometimes, simply restarting the router can resolve connection glitches. Unplug it, wait for 10 to 15 seconds and then plug it back in.
3. Verify VPN compatibility: Not all routers support VPN connections. Check your router’s documentation to ensure that it is VPN-compatible.
4. Update router firmware: Outdated firmware can lead to connection issues. Visit the router’s administrative panel and look for updates from the manufacturer.
5. Review VPN configuration settings: Log in to the router’s administrative panel and carefully review the VPN settings. Ensure that all the details including server address, username, password and protocols are entered correctly.
6. Change VPN server or protocol: Try connecting to a different VPN server or change the connection protocol. Some servers or protocols might be blocked or slow in your region.
7. Consider factory reset: If you’ve tried everything and still cannot connect, performing a factory reset on the router and reconfiguring the VPN might solve the issue. Be cautious, as this will erase all settings on the router.
8. Seek professional support: If all else fails, contact your VPN provider’s support team or a network professional. They can guide you through more advanced troubleshooting specific to your router and VPN service.
9. Consider a VPN-compatible router: If your current router continues to struggle with VPN connections, investing in a router that is specifically designed to support VPNs might be the best solution.

Configuring a VPN on a router can be a more technical process, so don’t hesitate to consult the router’s manual, the VPN’s support documentation or professional support if needed.

VPN Not Connecting to Netflix or Other Streaming Services

VPNs may not connect to Netflix or other streaming services due to geo-restrictions and deliberate blocking. Streaming platforms often identify and block VPN IP addresses to enforce regional content licensing agreements. Some services also detect VPN traffic using algorithms, leading to blocked access. Compatibility issues and terms of service compliance can further contribute to connection difficulties.

If you are adhering to the terms of service of both the VPN provider and the streaming service (some services explicitly forbid the use of VPNs to bypass regional restrictions) but are still unable to connect, try these steps:

1. Switch servers: Some streaming services block known VPN servers, so try connecting to a different server in your desired region.
2. Clear cache and cookies: Your browser’s cache and cookies might store location data. Clearing them can help you appear in the correct region.
3. Check with your VPN provider: Some VPNs have specific servers optimized for streaming. Contacting customer support or checking their documentation may reveal the best servers you should use.
4. Update or reinstall VPN software: Ensure your VPN software is up to date, as outdated versions might cause compatibility issues. Sometimes a reinstallation might be needed to fix the issues.
5. Consider a different VPN: Not all VPNs can bypass streaming geo-restrictions. If connecting to streaming services is a priority, research and choose a VPN known for its ability to access streaming services.