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.
Frustrated because your VPN is not working? I’ve helped hundreds of users fix this exact issue. In this guide, I’ll show you the solutions that actually work - tested from Kolkata on various ISPs.
Get 67% OFF NordVPN
The #1 VPN for India - Fast speeds, works with Netflix US, Hotstar & more
Key Features and Common Issues
Surfshark is a popular VPN service that offers a variety of features catering to users in India. However, like any technology, it can encounter issues. Here are some common problems users might face:
**Connection Problems:**Users may experience difficulties connecting to Surfshark servers.**Slow Speeds:**Sometimes, the VPN may result in slower internet speeds.**Blocked Sites:**Certain websites or streaming services might not work while connected to Surfshark.**App Crashes:**The Surfshark app may crash or freeze on various devices.**DNS Leaks:**Users may be concerned about their DNS requests being exposed.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Instructions
1. Check Your Internet Connection
Before troubleshooting Surfshark, ensure your internet connection is stable:
- Disconnect and reconnect to your network.
- Test your speed using a site like Speedtest.net.
2. Restart the Surfshark App
Sometimes, simply restarting the app can resolve connection issues:
- Close the Surfshark app completely.
- Reopen the app and attempt to connect again.
3. Change the VPN Protocol
Surfshark offers multiple protocols, which can impact your connection:
- Open the Surfshark app.
- Go to “Settings” and select “VPN Protocol.”
- Try switching between protocols like IKEv2, OpenVPN (UDP/TCP), or WireGuard.
4. Clear App Cache and Data
If the app is crashing or freezing, clearing the cache can help:
- For Android: Go to Settings > Apps > Surfshark > Storage > Clear Cache.
- For iOS: Uninstall and reinstall the app.
5. Disable IPv6
Disabling IPv6 on your device can sometimes resolve connectivity issues:
- Access your device’s network settings.
- Locate the IPv6 settings and disable it.
6. Change Server Location
If you’re experiencing slow speeds or blocked sites, try a different server:
- Open the Surfshark app.
- Select a different server location, preferably closer to your physical location.
7. Check for Software Updates
Ensure that both your Surfshark app and your device’s operating system are up to date:
🔒 Our #1 VPN Recommendation
NordVPN — Best Overall VPN for India. Tested from India, starting at ₹279/mo.
- For the Surfshark app, check the app store for any updates.
- For your device, go to Settings > System > Software Update.
Get NordVPN — 70% OFF + 3 Months Free
Used by 15M+ users. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Tips Specific to Indian Users
1. ISP Considerations
Different ISPs in India, like Jio, Airtel, Vodafone, and BSNL, may have varying compatibility with VPNs:
Dealing with VPN issues can be frustrating, but there are better alternatives available. For instance, ExpressVPN is known for its speed and reliability, especially when accessing popular streaming platforms like Netflix and Hotstar.
If you’re facing persistent issues with Surfshark, I recommend considering a switch to NordVPN. In my experience, NordVPN offers reliable connections and exceptional speeds, making it a great choice for streaming and gaming without interruptions.
For those who frequently work remotely or need to secure their online activities, using a reliable VPN is paramount. I personally recommend NordVPN, which offers exceptional security features and maintains fast speeds. At just around ₹2,999 per year, you can enjoy unlimited bandwidth and access to Netflix and other streaming services without interruptions. Consider checking out NordVPN for online safety while you work.
If you’re a freelancer dealing with international clients, ensuring seamless payment transfers is crucial. I’ve found that using Wise for international money transfers can save you a lot on fees compared to traditional banks. With their real exchange rate and low transfer fees, you can keep more of your hard-earned money. Try Wise for free and simplify your payment process today.
**Jio:**Known for its aggressive throttling of VPN traffic, consider changing your VPN protocol or server.**Airtel:**Often works well with most VPNs, but occasional connection drops may occur.**Vodafone:**Users have reported success with Surfshark, but ensure you are using the latest app version.**BSNL:**This ISP may allow VPN traffic but can have slower connection speeds.
2. Streaming Services
If you are using Surfshark to access Indian streaming services like Hotstar or Netflix, ensure:
- You connect to a server optimized for streaming.
- Clear your browser cache to avoid detection by streaming services.
- Use the “Camouflage Mode” feature in Surfshark to hide your VPN usage.
Security Considerations
When using Surfshark, security should always be a priority. Here are some considerations:
**DNS Leak Protection:**Ensure the feature is enabled in the app settings to protect your browsing activity.**Kill Switch:**Activate the Kill Switch feature, which prevents internet access if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly.**MultiHop:**Use the MultiHop feature for an additional layer of security, routing your traffic through two servers.
Alternative Solutions or Recommendations
1. Reinstall the Surfshark App
If issues persist, consider uninstalling and reinstalling the app to clear any corrupted files:
- Remove Surfshark from your device.
- Download the latest version from the official Surfshark website.
2. Contact Surfshark Support
If you’ve tried all troubleshooting steps and still face issues, reach out to Surfshark’s customer support:
- Visit their official support page for live chat assistance.
- Provide them with detailed information about your issue.
3. Explore Alternative VPNs
If Surfshark continues to be problematic, consider alternatives known for their performance in India:
Highly rated for security and speed.NordVPN:**ExpressVPN:**Known for its reliability and vast server network.**CyberGhost:**Offers user-friendly features and robust streaming capabilities.
Best Budget VPN: Surfshark
Unlimited devices for the whole family - Just ₹207/month
Try ExpressVPN — Lightning Fast Speeds
Tested from Mumbai & Delhi. Best for streaming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my VPN not working?
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.
How to contact VPN support?
NordVPN support responds in 2 minutes. They can help with specific issues.
Related reading
Explore these in-depth guides from our editorial team:
- Surfshark vs ProtonVPN: The Ultimate VPN Comparison for India
- FastestVPN vs AirVPN India 2026: Full Comparison
- Surfshark's Fastest Servers: An In-Depth Analysis for Indian Users
- ProtonVPN vs PureVPN: VPN Comparison India 2026
- Surfshark VPN: Plans, Pricing & Setup 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.