Reviewed and updated April 2026 by Rohit Verma (BVPI editorial team). Data verified against official sources and real-world testing. **Affiliate Disclosure:**Some links on this page are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more Frustrated because your VPN is not connecting? I’ve helped hundreds of users fix this exact issue. In this guide, I’ll show you the solutions that actually work - tested from Delhi on various ISPs.
Get 67% OFF NordVPN
The #1 VPN for India - Fast speeds, works with Netflix US, Hotstar & more Try NordVPN Risk-Free
Key Features and Common Issues
Surfshark is a popular VPN service known for its robust security features, unlimited device connections, and user-friendly interface. However, users may occasionally encounter issues that prevent them from connecting to the VPN. Here are some common problems: **Server Connectivity Issues:**Sometimes, the selected server may be down or overloaded.Firewall orYour firewall or antivirus software might block the VPN connection.AntivirusInterference:**Incorrect Configuration:**Misconfigured settings can lead to connection failures.**ISP Restrictions:**Some Indian ISPs like Jio, Airtel, Vodafone, and BSNL may restrict VPN traffic.**Obsolete Software:**Using an outdated version of the Surfshark app may lead to connectivity issues.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Fix Connection Issues
1. Restart the Application and Device
Begin by quitting the Surfshark application and restarting it. If the issue persists, reboot your device. This simple step can often resolve temporary glitches.
2. Check Your Internet Connection
Ensure your internet connection is stable. Try accessing a website without the VPN to confirm that your network is functioning correctly. If you experience issues, troubleshoot your internet connection first.
3. Change the VPN Server
If you’re having trouble connecting, the server you are trying to access may be down. Follow these steps:
- Open the Surfshark app.
- Go to the “Locations” tab.
- Select a different server from the list.
4. Update the Surfshark App
Ensure that you are using the latest version of the Surfshark application. To update:
- Open the app.
- Navigate to the settings.
- Select “Check for Updates.”
- Install any available updates.
5. Adjust Protocol Settings
Changing the VPN protocol may help resolve connectivity issues. To do this:
- Go to the “Settings” in the Surfshark app.
- Select the “VPN Protocol” option.
- Try switching between protocols such as IKEv2, OpenVPN (UDP/TCP), or WireGuard.
6. Disable Firewall and Antivirus Temporarily
Your firewall or antivirus software might be blocking the VPN connection. Temporarily disable them to check if that resolves the issue:
- Find your firewall/antivirus application.
- Disable it temporarily.
- Try connecting to Surfshark again. If this works, consider adding Surfshark to the exceptions list of your security software.
7. Change DNS Settings
Sometimes, DNS settings can cause connectivity issues. To change the DNS settings on your device:
🔒 Our #1 VPN Recommendation
NordVPN — Best Overall VPN for India. Tested from India, starting at ₹279/mo. 70% OFF + 3 months free →
- Go to your device’s network settings.
- Find the DNS settings.
- Set the DNS to 1.1.1.1 and 8.8.8.8 (Cloudflare and Google DNS respectively).
8. Contact Surfshark Support
If none of the above solutions work, reach out to Surfshark’s customer support. They can provide personalized assistance and diagnose specific issues with your account or device.
Get NordVPN — 70% OFF + 3 Months Free
Used by 15M+ users. 30-day money-back guarantee. Get Started Free →
Tips Specific to Indian Users
1. Choose the Right Server
Indian ISPs like Jio, Airtel, Vodafone, and BSNL can throttle VPN traffic. To avoid this, choose servers that are closer to India or those optimized for streaming. In my experience, switching to ExpressVPN, the fastest VPN, can make a significant difference. It not only enhances your connection speed but also provides seamless access to popular streaming services like Netflix US and Hotstar without any hiccups. If you’re still having trouble with your current VPN, I recommend considering NordVPN — Best overall VPN for India. With 5,500+ servers and fast speeds, it’s a reliable choice for streaming and gaming, ensuring you stay connected without interruptions. If you’re handling international payments as a freelancer, you might want to consider how you manage your earnings. Using Wise can save you money on conversion fees and allow for quick transfers in multiple currencies. This can be vital if your clients are spread across the globe and you want to keep your earnings as high as possible. While resolving your Surfshark connection issues, it’s also a good time to think about enhancing your online security. I personally recommend using NordVPN. With features like military-grade encryption and a strict no-logs policy, it ensures that your browsing remains private and secure, especially if you’re working remotely.
2. Use Split Tunneling
If you face restrictions from your ISP, consider using the split tunneling feature. This allows you to choose which apps use the VPN while others access the internet normally. This can enhance speed and bypass restrictions.
3. Check for ISP Restrictions
Some ISPs may block specific VPN protocols. If you’re using Surfshark with an ISP that has known restrictions, try switching to a different protocol or server location.
4. Access Streaming Services
If you are trying to access streaming services like Netflix, Disney+ Hotstar, or Amazon Prime Video, ensure you choose servers that are optimized for streaming. Surfshark provides dedicated servers for this purpose.
Security Considerations
While troubleshooting, it’s essential to maintain your security and privacy. Here are some tips: **Enable the Kill Switch:**This feature ensures that your internet connection is severed if your VPN disconnects unexpectedly, preventing any data leakage.**Use MultiHop:**Surfshark offers a MultiHop feature that routes your connection through multiple servers for added security.**Regularly Change Your Password:**For added security, frequently update your Surfshark account password and enable two-factor authentication if available.
Alternative Solutions or Recommendations
If Surfshark continues to give you trouble, consider exploring the following alternatives: **ExpressVPN:**Known for its speed and reliability, it’s a great alternative for Indian users.Offers a large server network and strong security features, making it a solid option.NordVPN:**CyberGhost:**Tailored for streaming and torrenting, it’s user-friendly and effective. Each of these VPN services comes with unique features that may better suit your needs, especially if you’re facing ongoing connectivity issues with Surfshark. Always consider your specific requirements such as price, speed, and security when making a choice.
Best Budget VPN: Surfshark
Unlimited devices for the whole family - Just ₹207/month Get 81% OFF Surfshark
Try ExpressVPN — Lightning Fast Speeds
Tested from Mumbai & Delhi. Best for streaming. Get Started Free →
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my VPN not connecting?
How to fix VPN on Jio/Airtel?
Should I reinstall the VPN?
Try other fixes first. If nothing works, uninstall, restart device, reinstall from official source.
Is my ISP blocking VPN?
Possible. Try obfuscated servers or TCP protocol. These are harder for ISPs to detect and block.
Related reading
Explore these in-depth guides from our editorial team:
- Top PureVPN Alternatives in India | Best VPN Options
- VPN for Valorant 2026: Lower Ping and Better Routing
- Dedicated Ip Vpn India — Complete Guide 2026
- Surfshark for Hotstar India: Does It Work? Guide…
- StrongVPN vs VPN Unlimited: VPN Comparison India 2026
Sources & further reading
For more depth on these topics, these authoritative sources are worth bookmarking:
- NordVPN PwC Audit — authoritative reference.
- EFF VPN Guide — authoritative reference.
- Privacy Guides VPN — authoritative reference. Last verified April 2026.