VPN Not Connecting? Common Reasons and How to Fix It

Quick Fixes for VPN Not Connecting

If your VPN client isn’t connecting, try these basic fixes:

1. Restart the VPN app. A quick restart often fixes any problems with the VPN connection. Close it completely, reopen, and try connecting to a VPN server again.
2. Check your internet connection. Make sure that you are connected to your network and it’s working properly. Without a stable internet connection, the VPN software won’t function as it should. Try restarting your router and connecting again.
3. Restart your device. If any of the above didn’t work, try restarting your device. It may clear temporary glitches that could be interrupting your VPN connection.

Common Reasons Why Your VPN App is Not Connecting

There could be a handful of different reasons why your VPN connection is failing. Here are some common ones:

• Firewall or antivirus interference. Some VPN providers encounter traffic blocks by antivirus software and this may cause connectivity issues. Try disabling them temporarily or adding your VPN app in the antivirus or firewall as a trusted and safe file.
• Incorrect VPN configuration. Wrong server addresses or protocols can prevent your VPN app from establishing a connection. Check your VPN protocol settings.
• Network congestion or server overload. Too many users at the same time can cause a failed VPN connection. Try less crowded servers.
• Outdated VPN software. Make sure that your VPN app is always up to date to avoid connectivity issues.
• IP or DNS issues. IP address conflicts and DNS issues can cause a failed VPN connection. Try flushing your DNS to resolve it.
• Restricted network policies. Some school and workplace network settings can block VPN software traffic. Try switching your VPN protocol or using a different network.

In-Depth Troubleshooting Guide

Now that we know some of the most common VPN connection issues, let’s see how you can fix it.

Step 1: Check Your VPN Credentials

1. Verify your VPN account login details. Make sure that your username and password are correct.
2. Check your subscription status. If your subscription has ended, it may restrict your access to the VPN service.

Step 2: Switch VPN Connection Servers

1. Open the VPN app.
2. Go to the VPN server selection window.
3. Select a different VPN server.

Step 3: Update or Reinstall the VPN Client

1. Check for VPN software updates.
1. Open the app.
2. Find VPN settings.
3. Check for available updates.
2. Reinstall the VPN app.
1. Uninstall the app.
2. Download the newest version from the VPN provider.
3. Log in to your VPN account.
4. Connect to a VPN server.

Step 4: Check for VPN Protocols

1. Open VPN settings.
2. Try different VPN protocols.

Most VPNs allow you to switch between protocols such as OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2.

• OpenVPN is most widely used but may be blocked by some networks.
• WireGuard is known for its speed and security and is newer, which could result in less connectivity issues.
• IKEv2 provides a good balance between security and speed, especially for mobile users.

Step 5: Disable Local Firewalls Temporarily

1. On Windows:
1. Go to “Control Panel”.
2. Open “System and Security”.
3. Click on “Windows Defender Firewall”.
4. Select “Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off”.
5. Disable the firewall and test your VPN.
6. If it works, add the VPN client to your firewall as an exception.
7. Turn the firewall back on.
2. On macOS:
1. Go to “System Preferences”.
2. Open “Security & Privacy”.
3. Select “Firewall”.
4. Click the lock and turn off the firewall.
5. Test your VPN connection.
6. If it works, configure the firewall to allow this VPN service.
7. Turn the firewall back on.

Step 6: Flush DNS and Clear Browser Cache

1. How to flush DNS on Windows:
1. Open the “Command Prompt” as an administrator.
2. Type “ipconfig /flushdns” and press “Enter”.
3. Restart your computer and try the VPN app again.
2. How to flush DNS on macOS:
1. Open “Terminal”.
2. Type “sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder” and press “Enter”.
3. If needed, enter your password and restart your computer.
3. How to clear browser cache:
1. Go to your browser’s settings.
2. Go to “Privacy and Security”.
3. Select “Clear browsing data”.
4. Choose “Cached images and files”.
5. Clear the cache and restart your browser.

Step 7: Contact Support or Check VPN Provider’s Status Page

If you tried all the solutions mentioned above and none of them worked, it’s time to contact your VPN’s support or check their VPN status page for any outages or server downtimes.

Provide the support member with details about your issue such as error messages, device type, and any solutions you’ve already tried.

VPN Not Connecting on Specific Networks

• Public Wi-Fi. These networks often have restrictions on VPNs. Try switching to a different server or protocol to successfully connect your VPN.
• At work. Work networks often have their own recognized VPN connection and other ones will not function. Use the designated connection to ensure security.
• Hotels and public spaces. Whoever hosts the connection, they select the terms of use. Try switching servers or changing the protocol.

Preventing VPN Connection Problems in the Future

It’s not possible to completely eliminate any VPN connection problems in the future, but here are some key steps you can take to minimize them:

• Keep your VPN app updated. One of the ways to prevent VPN connection issues is to always make sure that the VPN software is up to date.
• Choose a reliable VPN provider. There are many VPN providers out there and it's essential to select one that allows you to easily access VPN settings in case of connectivity issues and provides great customer support.
• Use auto-reconnect features. Go to VPN settings and enable auto-reconnect so every time you have an internet connection, the VPN software will automatically connect you to an encrypted VPN server.
• Set up a kill switch for enhanced security. Most VPN providers install a kill switch that will kill the internet connection if VPN connection issues occur. However, you need to manually enable it in your VPN settings.
• Regularly test VPN server speed. Use speed testing sites to check the performance of your VPN software and internet connection. After doing some tests, select the server that works best for you.

If you’re considering switching your VPN provider, make sure to check out CometVPN. It’s secure, it’s fast, and you can connect all your devices to one account. We have servers in 27 countries so if any of those fail to connect, you will have a handful of other servers to choose from.