VPN Not Working: Complete Fix Guide

Quick Answer: If your VPN is not working in India, try troubleshooting by checking your internet connection, switching servers, or updating the VPN app. Additionally, ensure that your firewall or antivirus isn’t blocking the VPN connection.

Pro Tips

• Use Wired Connection: Whenever possible, connect your device directly to your router using an Ethernet cable. This will reduce latency and provide a more stable connection, improving your VPN performance.
• Change VPN Protocols: Most VPN applications allow you to switch between different protocols (like OpenVPN, IKEv2, L2TP, etc.). Experiment with different protocols to see which one works best with your network.
• Clear Your DNS Cache: Sometimes DNS caching can cause issues with VPN connections. You can clear your DNS cache by running the command 'ipconfig /flushdns' in the command prompt (Windows) or 'sudo dscacheutil -flushcache' in the terminal (Mac).
• Check for IP Leaks: Use online tools to check for IP leaks while connected to your VPN. If your real IP is exposed, consider switching to a different server or contacting your VPN provider for assistance.
• Reboot Your Devices: A simple reboot of your computer or router can sometimes resolve temporary connectivity issues that are affecting your VPN.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Neglecting Updates: Failing to regularly update your VPN application can lead to compatibility issues and security vulnerabilities. Always ensure that you are using the latest version of your VPN software.
• Using Free VPNs: Many free VPN services have limited bandwidth, slow speeds, and can often compromise your privacy. Consider investing in a paid service for better performance and security.
• Ignoring Firewall Settings: Firewalls can block VPN traffic. Make sure that your firewall settings allow your VPN application to communicate properly. Sometimes, you may need to add your VPN as an exception.
• Connecting to Overloaded Servers: If you consistently face issues, it might be because you are connecting to a crowded server. Switching to a less populated server can result in improved speeds and connectivity.

More Details, Examples, and Specific Numbers

VPN issues can arise due to various factors, and understanding these can help you troubleshoot effectively. For instance, if you notice that your VPN connection drops frequently, it might be worth checking the server load. Many VPN providers offer statistics on server load. For example, if a server shows a load of over 80%, it may be beneficial to switch to a different server with lower traffic.

Moreover, consider the impact of ISP throttling. In India, many ISPs are known to throttle bandwidth for certain types of traffic, including VPNs. If you are experiencing slower speeds while connected to your VPN, try running a speed test both with and without the VPN to gauge the difference. You might find that your speeds drop significantly when the VPN is active, indicating potential throttling.

Lastly, it’s important to know that not all VPNs are created equal. For example, according to recent studies, NordVPN users can expect average download speeds of 150 Mbps on their servers, while other providers may only offer around 50 Mbps under similar conditions. Always choose a provider with a strong reputation for speed and reliability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Most VPN issues can be fixed by restarting, changing servers, or switching protocols. If you're consistently having problems, it might be time to try a more reliable VPN like NordVPN or ExpressVPN. Get 67% OFF NordVPN with 30-day money-back guarantee - if it doesn't work for you, get a full refund.