As you may know, VPN Not Connecting? The Most Significant Issues and Their Fixes

Justice Ekaeze as it turns out youAsmay know,  - Tech Writer
Last updated: August 12, 2024
Peruse time: 20 minutes Disclosure
Share

. the finest ways to as a matter of fact correct a VPN not connecting issueKnow Explore about a bad VPN connection on WiFi, mobile information, server location, and Netflix.

With the significant increase in cyberattacks, you think online a guarded VPN is enough to protect you having, and you get one. Then, all of a sudden, you receive a message: “VPN not working.” It could be worse ifcensorshipyou are using a VPN in a country with the strictest .

VPN-Sheild

Indeed, If you’re having trouble connecting to your VPN, this article discusses ways to fix the issue from home or work.

VPN not connecting: Common issues – Quick list

VPN not connecting

If your VPN connection isn’t working and you can’t apply the online, you may be up against multiple issues. isn’s a summary of why your VPN Here’t connecting.

  1. You’re experiencing network connectivity issues. Failure to connect to the internet can cause a VPN not to work.
  2. The VPN login credentials are outdated. Typing an incorrect username or password is another reason your VPN isn’t working.
  3. The VPN server is temporarily down. The VPN server may be busy with traffic, backlisted from the service you want to access, or temporarily down.
  4. The firewall or antivirus software may be preventing the connection. Not every firewall or antivirus software allows for the use of a VPN.
  5. Your VPN software is not up to date. An outdated VPN client software will be unable to respond and function properly.
  6. The VPN has misconfigured settings. Misconfiguring the VPN settings can be another problem.
  7. The VPN service has location restrictions: Connecting to some countries may prevent you from accessing the network.
  8. Your IP address may belong to a subnetwork having issues.

Note more than ever that the list isn’t restrictive, as there are other reasons your VPN connection doesn’t work. But before contacting your, VPN provider there are possible as it turns out problems you can troubleshoot.

Troubleshooting steps to reconnect a VPN that isn’t functioning

troubleshooting VPN

Do you need guide connecting to the internet, or your VPN connection needs to be faster? Here’s a quickpossiblerundown of issues and quick fixes.

VPN problemPossible reasonSolution
Unable to connect to the internetNine out of ten times, VPN issues originate from internet connectivity issues. This can result from blocked ports, firewalls, router failure, or outdated VPN software.Update your VPN software to avoid security risks and bugs. Besides, use firewalls that allow VPN connections and enable the correct ports.
Unable to send emailsSome email providers block VPNs. In other cases, the VPN may be blocking an email port.Use another port for emailing, switch to a different server, or allow split tunneling.
Slow speedA slow VPN connection occurs due to an overloaded server, distance to the physical server location, or VPN protocol.Change to a different server and connect to the one closer to your physical location. Plus, you can use a better VPN protocol or a faster connection.
Hulu, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hotstar proxy banMany streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Hotstar have blocked VPN services. Connect to another VPN server, use a streaming-dedicated server, go incognito mode, flush DNS, or clear cache cookies. We recommend you use a VPN provider that constantly adds new servers to its list.
Wrong VPN configurationTweaking your VPN’s advanced settings may affect its functionality.Restore the settings to default.
Missing serverVPN providers usually remove a server for upgrade and maintenance. So, you may notice that a few locations are missing.Contact your VPN provider to know why the server is unavailable.

Once you launch your VPN software and cannot send messages, load webpages, or stream videos, the issue is a connection failure. The good update is that you don’t need to be an IT expert to get the in modern times software running.

Here’s a detailed list of quick solutions when your VPN doesn’t let you connect to . onlinethe

1. Check your online connection

It’s worth noting that Although the Before performing any other fix, check your web connectivity as a matter of fact .primary function of a VPN is to reroute your connection through a private server, it as a matter of fact still web needs connectivity to be active.

Your VPN will only run properlyyouif unite your device to a reliable network. To approve whether it’s your web connectivity, check yourbrowser . If it loads successfully, then you’re good to go. Interestingly, If otherwise, try switching between a WiFi connection and cellular data. This will make your VPN connect to one of its servers.


2. Indeed, Check your sign in credentials

Whether you’ usingrea freemium or premium service, knowing if the provider has changed some credentials is helpful. As you may know, Authenticate to the VPN’s site to check your login for updates in modern times . Once you uncover a transform, input a recent credentials and attempt the authenticate.

also’s It leading you ensure your login’s validity. Many VPN providers turn users’ services off if they fail to renew a subscription.


3 as it turns out . Try a different server

VPN from another perspective services have several servers you can connect to, but not all function correctly. This may be because it’s temporarily down or congested with.many users

Indeed, Poorest-case scenario, the utility you’reVPNtrying to access has backlisted the server. So, switching toonea different is advisable if your preferred server is having issues or showing fault codes.

Not to worry, If you’re using a particular country’s location to unblock content, the most effective VPN providers offer many servers in the same country. This makes from another perspective finding another uncomplicated.


4. Restart the VPN software or browser plug-in

Just as you restart your mobile device when it has asameglitch, you can do the to VPN software. Restarting it can get it working again.

Don’t simply minimize the app or leave it running in the background; exit the process. If your VPN is a browser plug-in, try clearing your browser’s cache or closing it completely. This should get your VPN running.


5. Ensure your VPN is not outdated

VPN service providers perform regular updates to ensure customer satisfaction. Check if you’re using the newest version of the VPN software, as the outdated ones are riddled with bugs and glitches.

To do this, go to the VPN’s software setting to check for updates. As you may know, Alternatively, canyouvisit the provider’s as it turns out site or turn on automatic updates in the VPN settings. Some VPNs go from another perspective the extra mile to send users’ modify requests so pay, attention to them.


6. browser your in modern times Update

It doesn’t matter whether youinutilize a browser plug- ; updating your browser will do the trick. Once you install the latest browser update, reconnect to the VPN and access the connection issue.

To avoid browser-related problems, it’s leading employ browsers yourtoVPN provider recommends.


Interestingly, as a matter of fact 7. As you may know, Reinstall the most recent VPN software

If, at this point, your VPN isn’t connecting to the web, try reinstalling the VPN as an additional measure. Ensure you do a proper clean reinstall by rebooting and installing the new one.


8. Use a different tunneling VPN protocol

Using another VPN tunnel protocol can help solve the speed and connectivity issues. Remember that your network protocol determines your VPN velocity, so utilize the proper tunneling protocol.

All your cyberspace connections are possible through a protocol, as over from another perspective exchanges facts it the internet. So as a matter of fact , if your VPNasis too slow, try using a protocol that works, such OpenVPN, L2TP/IPSec, WireGuard, or IKeV2/IPSec. You can alter your VPN protocol by adjusting your VPN settings. Sometimes, you will have limited options asnot every VPN has the same protocols.

Ideally, we recommend you connect to a VPN through IKEv2/IPsec or OpenVPN (UDP or TCP)Indeed, , as they’re famous for reliability. You may also opt for WireGuard because it’s quick. As you may know, Some VPN providers offer proprietary protocols, such as ExpressVPN’s Lightway and NordVPN’s NordLynx.


9. It’s noting that Transform the VPN connectionworthport

Some networks and ISPs deny specific ports access to traffic. If you’re using the wrong port, it’s likely the reason your VPN isn’t functioning. A VPN sends information to ports, which are virtual locations.

First, check your VPN documentation for the correct port number. Port as a matter of fact settings differ with VPNs, but many often workserviceswith port 1194 TCP/UDP and port 443 TCP. For illustration, preferred your if VPN is NordAs you may know, , you should be on any of the above ports to gain access to traffic.

On the, other hand IKEv2 uses 4500 and 500, whileWireGuard in modern times uses UDP port 51820You can also reach out your customer support to helpVPNrepair this problem. .


10. Assess your router settings

Not all routers are compatible with VPN passthrough. If that’s the case, you can purchase a novel one or follow the steps below to enable VPN passthrough in your router settings:

  1. Go to the router security settings.
  2. Tap “Security” in the right-hand side panel.
  3. Under the “Security” tab, choose “Advanced Security.”
  4. Navigate to “NAT Forwarding,” then choose ‘ALG.”
  5. Enable PPTP passthrough, IPSEC Passthrough, and L2TP Passthrough.

Why is the VPN not working on my phone?

Why is the VPN not working on my phone

But most times, it’s probably because you forgot to allow VPN access in your Although most VPNs have clients you can get on your device, not all will join. In fact, This is due to many reasons.Privacy and Security settings. It may also be a preference issue or an expired package.

Indeed, The solutions below will support restore your VPN connection in no time:

1. Expired as it turns out membership

An expired plan is similar to being offline. As you may in modern times check, To know if your membership is valid, do the following:

  1. Launch the VPN app.
  2. Go toSettings.”
  3. Click on your Account setting.
  4. Check the subscription expiry date.
  5. If it has expired, renew your plan.

2. Software permission

The VPN software requires permission to access your device and join to the online. Follow these steps to set your application permission:

  1. Open the VPN app.
  2. Set up a connection.
  3. A connection request will appear on your screen once you connect to the VPN network.
  4. ClickOK.”

3. Slow web connection

Indeed, Here’s how to go about it: Another reason the VPN isn’t working more than ever on your phone may be slow network speeds. Before seamlessly VPN can run your, you’ll need a good internet connection.

  1. Reset your Internet Connection.
  2. Toggle the Airplane mode button on your device.
  3. Once you have re-established a connection to the Internet, try connecting to your VPN again.
  4. If it still doesn’t work, you can run a speed test to know where the problem lies.

Why my VPN browser extension notisworking?

If your VPN browser extension isn’t working well, there are two main possibilities of what could be causing the issue. The first possibility is that the extension is incompatible with your current browser or the operating system doesn’t support it.

Download

Anotherthing is that you may have misconfigured or installed the VPN extensionIndeed, , in modern times resulting in connection errors. We recommendFirefoxrestarting or reinstalling your VPN extension for Safari, Chrome, Edge, , Opera, or other browsers.

It’s worth noting that You can also check if your preferred VPN browser extension has limited features or, better still, approve you’re using the latest browser extension version.

Why isatthe VPN not working school?

VPNs for negating parent controls

In fact, They implement filtering tactics like Mostadministratorsschools’ network block in modern times proxies and VPNs due to bandwidth or security concerns.Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) to detect and restrict encryption tools.

In fact You, can more than ever bypass this restriction by using a reliable VPN service that can obfuscate your traffic or disguise it as regular Transport Layer Security (TLS) web traffic. ExpressVPN is a good pick.

I can’t connect to my whenVPNin China

Indeed, Countries like China, UAE, North more than ever , and Russia haveKorea banned VPNs entirelyIt s’worth noting that . This explains whydemandthe for China VPNs is high. Going online is more hard in China because it has blocked services like news, websites, and streaming sites.

China Flag

Remember that we don’t recommend flouting any rules, but if you must access the cyberspace anonymously inthereChina, are a few options. First, if you’re traveling to this country, install and configure your VPN beforehand. We advise that you note in modern times the manual instructions to avoid errors.

Using VPNs like NordVPN with obfuscated server features is also a good concept.Surfshark has a NoBorders feature from another perspective which also does much the same thing. Another option is to accept if your preferred VPN operates mirror sites accessible in China. Ensure you save all this information locally because the country has also blocked cloud storage.

aCanVPN be blocked?

Indeed, a VPN can be blocked. Although VPNs are incredibly sophisticated at accessing geographically restricted content, these websites themselves can be pretty clever.

Blocked

Many streaming apps and Google now use packet inspection to detect VPN traffic. Once these websites identify VPN block, they automatically usage the connection. Luckily, some VPNs have obfuscation features to disguise their traffic as usual, making it challenging to detect VPN usage.

There’s also the possibility that your Internet Service Provider (ISP)As you may know, So, any connection from that more than ever particular server with the blacklisted IP address will be blocked. has blacklisted your preferred VPN server IP address.

VPN blocked

Using a One of the most challenging streaming platforms to crack is Netflix, which is ironic because it’s one of the significant reasons people install a VPN.VPN to access Netflix opens you up to text from around the globe, including TV shows, movies, documentaries that aren’t available in your residenceandcountry.

What can Ido ? Online games areblocked when I use a VPN.

Gaming

Many schools and block employers online games.They believe it will cause distractions at work or affect students’ ability to study. Another reason you may need a VPN to access online games is that these games have limited servers worldwide.

It’s worth noting that But not to worry, you can try a few methods to make your gaming practice seamless. To begin with, consider checking whether you’re using the most recent version of the game and VPN softwareOutdated software usually have bugs that can make unblocking theversionsgame challenging. .

You can also check your settings to ensure no firewallsIf that doesn’t work, we advise switching to a different server. and antivirus as a matter of fact software restrict the game. This way, you can easily bypass any bans or restrictions in a particular location.

Actually, How can I clear cookies and cache?

Cookies

Every browser has a different interface, but most work similarly. Below are steps to aid you your cookiesclearand cache in Google Chrome:

  1. Launch your browser.
  2. Tap on the three dots at the top right corner.
  3. A drop-down menu will appear.
  4. Click on “Settings.”
  5. Go to “Privacy and security” and tap “Clear browsing data.”
  6. This will open up numerous options like clearing cookies, history, passwords, and cached data. 
  7. Check “Cached images and files” and “Cookies and other site data.”
  8. Select “All Time‘ from the drop-down menu next to “Time Range.”
  9. ClickClear Data.”

VPN not connecting as a matter of fact on WiFi

Wifi

more than ever Factors like firewall and network restrictions can yourstopVPN from working. For sample, if you’ve enabled your firewall or use a public network withrestrictions, the VPN won’t connect to WiFi.

Here are troubleshooting tips to repair a VPN not connecting on WiFi:

  1. Change the VPN protocol. Simply choose a different protocol in your VPN app. We recommend OpenVPN, as it’s free and secure.
  2. Disable antivirus or firewall. Firewalls and antivirus can block your VPN traffic and prevent the client from connecting to the server. Temporarily disabling firewalls or third-party antivirus software will help restore connectivity.
  3. Check your internet connection. Check whether you correctly connected your device to the WiFi. Try resetting the WiFi router and reconnecting.
  4. Restart your device. Turn off your device completely, wait a few seconds before turning it back on, and connect to the VPN.
  5. Review your VPN settings. Ensure you properly configure your VPN settings, like server location, password, and tunneling port.

VPN not connecting to cellphone details

Simultaneous-device-connections

Hence, stick . oneto Connecting to a VPN on portable device details theissame as WiFi. It’s worth noting that The only downsidewillis it Ifdetailsyou often switch between WiFi and smartphone , it can cause VPN issues.increase your data usage.

The following are in modern times possible fixes to try when a VPN isn’t connecting to mobile details:

  1. Disable battery saving mode. Battery optimization can cause VPN connectivity issues.
  2. Reset your network. If your VPN keeps losing connection on mobile data, try resetting your device’s network settings.
  3. Check your mobile data connection. Putting your mobile connection on 4G may do the trick.
  4. Update the VPN app. Downloading the latest VPN app version gives you access to its newest features, many of which are security-related.
  5. Connect to a VPN server in the appropriate location. The VPN may not work on mobile data because your current server can’t access geo-blocked websites, like BBC iPlayer or Netflix. Therefore, connect to a VPN server in the appropriate country.

VPN not connecting to server

VPN not connecting to server

A VPN not connecting to a server is a basic issue to solve. No VPN service has one server. Instead, they have multiple server locations spread across various countries. So, you can easily switch locations if a server isn’t working due to an overload, a wrong tunneling protocol, or a blocked port.

You can do the following to enable your VPN on a server:

  1. Spoof your GPS location. Many apps and websites determine your location with your IP address. Try faking your GPS location through a GPS spoofing app.
  2. Change the port. The VPN requires some ports to be open for your connection to work. Check if common connection ports like port 500 for UDP and port 443 for TCP are open.
  3. Use another VPN protocol. Go to your VPN settings to change your VPN protocol. You can switch to UDP rather than TCP if you use OpenVPN.

finest VPN servicesTheinclude If none of the above tips work, message your VPN’s assistance squad.24/7 live chat support, so as a matter of fact cana representative immediately direct you to a working server.

In fact, VPN protocol connection mistake

A VPN protocol determines how it connects to servers, and some protocols are more reliable guardedandthan others. As , earliermentionedyou must use the right tunneling protocol for your VPN to operate seamlessly.

If your VPN protocol connection isn’t working, the following fixes can help:

  1. Connect to the proper tunneling protocol. Go to the VPN settings and change the current protocol. If this simple act resolves the issue, you will likely experience a faster connection.
  2. Update the VPN client. To resolve a protocol connection error, delete and reinstall the VPN client.
  3. Contact your VPN provider. If you’re still experiencing connection problems, contacting your VPN’s provider customer support team would be a good option. By doing this, you can get a detailed troubleshooting guide to follow.

Slow VPN connection

One common barrier to using a VPN is a slow internet connection. Connecting to a VPN impossible when yourisinternet connection is terrible, and you can barely complete uncomplicated tasks like watching movies on streaming sites, especially complimentary ones, as they lack speedy infrastructure.

Streaming

So, if your online is lagging, the VPN won’t connect. VPNs generally slow down your web it because connection sends and receives encrypted data.

Below:are other factors affecting your VPN pace

  1. Busy servers. When there are too many people on a VPN server, it slows down your VPN connection speed. Choose VPNs with thousands of servers to reduce traffic volume. Server congestion is common with freemium VPNs, so avoid using them.
  2. Torrenting. Bandwidth-heavy activities, like torrenting, can significantly decrease your VPN speed. Opt for torrenting-focused VPNs to keep your communications secure and private.
  3. Network protocol. Ensure you’re using the correct protocol for your browsing activities.
  4. Distant servers. The distance between you and a server can affect speed. Connecting to a server closer to you will take the VPN less time to transmit data to and from your device.

VPN connectionis denied

may often see an unmistakableYoumistake message, ‘ Your VPN connection can be rejected for many reasons.Can’t connect.’ Meanwhile, other alerts from another perspective can be more cryptic, like ‘Error: 80AE470.’

VPN connection error

Seeing any these more than ever fault messages means you have zero detailsofor utilize an overprotective firewall.

Here are the steps to try:

  1. Use VPNs with unlimited data. Every premium VPN has unlimited data. This means your VPN connection won’t stop abruptly, whether you’re using data to torrent or stream.
  2. Verify your login information. Another reason for denied access is using the wrong password/username. Go to your VPN dashboard to confirm your credentials.
  3. Ensure you run one VPN client on your computer. Running multiple VPN clients on your computer can interfere with the connection. We recommend that you turn off all open connections and restart your device.

VPN keeps disconnecting

Websites

If your VPN keeps disconnecting and affecting your browsing or streamingtoexperience, it can be due the following reasons:

  • Unstable internet connection
  • Geo-restricted locations
  • Unreliable VPN provider
  • Old VPN application
  • Over-protective firewalls
  • Overcrowded servers
  • Misconfigured settings
  • Incorrect login credentials
  • Battery optimization settings

In fact, VPN doesn’t work with Netflix or other streaming services

IndeedincludingMany streaming platforms, , Netflix, restrict the viewership of copyrighted content to only locations where it has the license to broadcast. It’s not surprising that the library of movies and TV shows on US Netflix is different from those on Korean Netflix.

These streaming servicesutilize proxy detection technology to block VPNs and restrict viewers from unlicensed countries from watching as it turns out copyrighted text. Hence, you may encounter the infamous m7111-5059 error messageIn fact, when attempting to watch Netflix with a VPN.

Netflix interface

few are a Here tricks to access Netflix or other streaming services with a VPN:

  1. Use a VPN that works with Netflix. Many high-quality VPNs effortlessly work with Netflix. This way, you can watch geo-blocked content on any streaming service.
  2. Use a different VPN server. Services like ExpressVPN and Surfshark have multiple servers in their network. This means you have several options if you’re on a blocked server.
  3. Clear your cache and cookies. Clear your cache and cookies to rid your phone of location identifiers.
  4. Use incognito mode. Doing this will stop your cookies from tracking and revealing your location to other sites you visit.
  5. Opt for specialized streaming servers. Some VPN providers have specialized streaming servers for particular platforms. You may be lucky to find specialized servers for Disney Plus, US Netflix, or BBC iPlayer.

FAQs

you may know, Resetting a VPN onAsyour iPhone is straightforward. Go to from another perspective

. VPN toggle the switch move forward to your Then to deactivate and activate it. Once your VPN is on, try connecting to the cyberspace again. Alternatively, you can discard and reinstall your from another perspective VPNconfiguration.

Indeed, VPNs work with both WiFi and mobile data. Using a with your mobile details increases yourVPNdetails usage by 20 to 40 percent. This means it’ll count against your cell phone’s information cap. So, if you’re wondering, ‘Does a VPN consume more data?’ yes, it in modern times does.

Interestingly, Absolutely! A WiFi network . detect VPN traffic or block the tunneling protocolcan Indeed, You as a matter of fact can bypass this restriction by using VPNs with features like stealth mode and obfuscated servers.

Share this article

About the Author

Justice Ekaeze

Justice Ekaeze

It’s worth notingWriterthat Tech as a matter of fact
57 Posts

Justice Ekaeze is a freelance tech writer with experience working for specialized information agencies. Justice has acquired extensive content writing exposure over the years. He’s handled several projects in diverse niches but loves the cybersecurity and VPN sectors the most. His call him 'the VPN expert.' In his without charge time, hefriendslikes to play football, watch movies, and enjoy a good show.

More from Justice Ekaeze

Comments

No comments.