VPN Not Working: Complete Fix Guide

Quick Answer: If your VPN is not working in India, try troubleshooting by checking your internet connection, restarting the VPN app, or switching servers. Additionally, ensure your VPN is updated and not blocked by your ISP or firewall settings.

Pro Tips

• Choose the Right Protocol: If your VPN offers multiple protocols, switch between them. OpenVPN is generally recommended for its balance of speed and security, but if you're facing issues, try IKEv2 or L2TP/IPsec.
• Regularly Clear Cache: Sometimes, cached data can cause connectivity issues. Clear your VPN app’s cache regularly to ensure it operates optimally.
• Check for DNS Leaks: Use online tools to check if your DNS queries are leaking outside the VPN tunnel. If they are, adjust the settings in your VPN app or change your DNS server to a more secure option like Google DNS or Cloudflare DNS.
• Use Split Tunneling Wisely: If your VPN supports split tunneling, use it to route only specific traffic through the VPN. This can improve speed and help identify if the VPN is the cause of the problem.
• Consult Your VPN Provider: If issues persist, reach out to your VPN provider's customer support. They can often provide tailored solutions based on your specific situation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring Updates: Many users forget to update their VPN software. Always keep your VPN app up to date to ensure you have the latest features and security patches.
• Using Free VPNs: While free VPNs may seem appealing, they often come with limitations, including data caps, slower speeds, and potential security risks. Invest in a reputable paid VPN service for better performance.
• Neglecting Firewall Settings: Your computer's firewall may block the VPN connection. Ensure that your VPN app is whitelisted in your firewall settings to avoid connectivity issues.
• Not Checking Server Load: Connecting to a heavily loaded server can significantly reduce speed and stability. Always check the server load and switch to a less crowded server if necessary.

More Details, Examples, and Specific Numbers

When troubleshooting a non-working VPN, here are some examples of what you might encounter:

• Internet Connection: Before diving into VPN-specific solutions, ensure your base internet connection is stable. You can do this by running a speed test. Ideally, you should have at least 5 Mbps for standard browsing and 25 Mbps for streaming.
• Server Switching: If your VPN provider has 1000+ servers, try switching to a different one within the same country or to a nearby country. For example, if you're in India and connected to a server in Mumbai, try a server in Bangalore or even Singapore.
• ISP Throttling: Some ISPs may throttle VPN traffic. This can be tested by connecting to your VPN and running a speed test. If you notice a significant drop in speed, your ISP may be limiting your connection. Consider using obfuscated servers that hide VPN traffic.
• VPN Logs and Usage: Many premium VPN providers have a no-logs policy. Always check if your provider keeps logs of your activity, as this can impact your privacy and security. For instance, ExpressVPN and NordVPN are known for their strict no-logs policies.

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.