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10 Common VPN Troubleshooting Issues and How to Solve Them

Liam Smith | Updated on 28th March 2023
International tech geek, Conference speaker, Cybersecurity journalist

Learn how to troubleshoot common VPN issues on Windows, Mac, and mobile devices with these helpful tips. From connection errors to login issues, our comprehensive guide has you covered.

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Problem 1: VPN Won't Connect

If you’re having trouble connecting to your VPN, there are a few things you can try. First, make sure that you’re using the correct login credentials. 

Double-check that your username and password are correct, and that you’re using the right protocol (such as OpenVPN or L2TP/IPSec). 

If you’re still having issues, try connecting to a different server location. Sometimes, server overload can cause connection issues, so switching to a different location may help. 

You can also try restarting your device, as this can sometimes resolve connection issues.

Problem 2: Slow VPN Speeds

Slow VPN speeds can be frustrating, but there are a few things you can do to improve them. First, make sure that you’re connected to the closest server location. 

The further away the server is, the slower your speeds are likely to be. You can also try switching to a different protocol. 

Some protocols are faster than others, so experimenting with different options can sometimes help. Finally, try restarting your device and modem/router to see if that helps to improve speeds.

Problem 3: VPN Disconnects Frequently

If your VPN is disconnecting frequently, there are a few things you can try. First, check your internet connection to make sure that it’s stable. 

If your connection is unstable, your VPN may disconnect frequently as a result. You can also try switching to a different server location, as server overload can sometimes cause disconnects. 

Finally, make sure that your VPN client software is up to date, as older versions can sometimes be less stable.

Problem 4: DNS Leaks

DNS leaks occur when your device sends DNS queries outside of the VPN tunnel, potentially exposing your online activity to your ISP or other third parties. 

To fix DNS leaks, you can try disabling IPv6 on your device, as this can sometimes be the cause of the issue. 

You can also try using a DNS leak test tool to check for leaks, and use a VPN provider that offers DNS leak protection as a feature.

Problem 5: Unable to Access Local Network Resources

If you’re unable to access local network resources while connected to your VPN, there are a few things you can try. 

First, check that your VPN client software is configured to allow access to local network resources. You can also try disabling your firewall or antivirus temporarily to see if that helps. 

Finally, make sure that your local network is configured correctly, as issues with your network settings can sometimes cause this problem.

Problem 6: VPN Blocking Access to Websites or Applications

If your VPN is blocking access to certain websites or applications, there are a few things you can try.

First, make sure that your VPN client software is up to date.

Older versions of VPN software can sometimes cause issues with website and application access.

You can also try connecting to a different server location, as server overload can sometimes cause these issues.

Finally, check your VPN settings to make sure that your connection is configured correctly.

Problem 7: Incorrect Login Credentials

If you’re having trouble logging in to your VPN, make sure that you’re using the correct login credentials. 

Double-check your username and password, and make sure that you’re using the right protocol (such as OpenVPN or L2TP/IPSec). 

If you’ve forgotten your password, try resetting it through your VPN provider’s website or contact their customer support for assistance.

Problem 8: VPN Client Software Crashes

If your VPN client software keeps crashing, there are a few things you can try. First, make sure that your VPN client software is up to date. 

Older versions of software can sometimes be less stable. You can also try restarting your device, as this can sometimes resolve crashes. 

If the issue persists, contact your VPN provider’s customer support for assistance.

Problem 9: Firewall Blocking VPN Connection

If your firewall is blocking your VPN connection, you can try adding an exception for your VPN client software in your firewall settings. 

You can also try temporarily disabling your firewall to see if that helps. 

If the issue persists, contact your VPN provider’s customer support for assistance.

Problem 10: VPN Not Compatible with Your Device or Operating System

If your VPN is not compatible with your device or operating system, you may need to switch to a different VPN provider that offers compatibility with your device. 

Alternatively, you can try using a different protocol or configuration that is compatible with your device. 

Contact your VPN provider’s customer support for assistance in resolving compatibility issues.

How to Troubleshoot VPN Issues on Windows, Mac, and Mobile Devices

Troubleshooting VPN Issues on Windows:

If you’re experiencing VPN issues on Windows, there are a few things you can try. First, make sure that your VPN client software is up to date. 

You can also try restarting your device and modem/router, as this can sometimes resolve issues. If the issue persists, try connecting to a different server location or protocol. 

Contact your VPN provider’s customer support for additional assistance.

Troubleshooting VPN Issues on Mac:

If you’re experiencing VPN issues on a Mac, there are a few things you can try. First, make sure that your VPN client software is up to date. 

You can also try restarting your device and modem/router, as this can sometimes resolve issues. If the issue persists, try connecting to a different server location or protocol. 

Contact your VPN provider’s customer support for additional assistance.

Troubleshooting VPN Issues on Mobile Devices:

If you’re experiencing VPN issues on a mobile device, there are a few things you can try. First, make sure that your VPN client app is up to date. 

You can also try restarting your device and modem/router, as this can sometimes resolve issues. If the issue persists, try connecting to a different server location or protocol. 

Contact your VPN provider’s customer support for additional assistance.