Surfshark Not Working: How to Fix

Key Features and Common Issues

Surfshark is a popular VPN choice among Indian users due to its robust features and user-friendly interface. However, users might encounter issues that hinder performance. Here are some common problems:

• Connection Errors: Users may face difficulties connecting to Surfshark servers.
• Slow Speeds: VPN connections can slow down internet speeds, especially with certain ISPs.
• Streaming Problems: Users may find it challenging to access popular streaming services like Netflix or Hotstar.
• Incompatibility: Surfshark may not work well with specific devices or operating systems.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Fix Surfshark Issues

1. Check Your Internet Connection

Before troubleshooting Surfshark, ensure that your internet connection is stable. You can do this by:

• Disconnecting and reconnecting to your Wi-Fi network.
• Running a speed test using tools like Ookla to see if your internet speed is adequate.

2. Restart the Application

Sometimes, simply restarting the Surfshark application can resolve minor glitches. Close the app completely and then reopen it.

3. Change Your Server Location

Surfshark has a wide array of servers worldwide. If you encounter issues, try switching to a different server:

• Open the Surfshark app.
• Select a different server from the list.
• Reconnect and check if the issue persists.

4. Update the App

Ensure that you are using the latest version of Surfshark:

• Go to the app store on your device.
• Check for updates for Surfshark.
• Install any available updates and restart the app.

5. Adjust Protocol Settings

Surfshark allows users to choose different VPN protocols, which can impact connection stability and speed:

• Open the Surfshark app and navigate to Settings.
• Select the 'VPN Protocol' option.
• Try switching to different protocols like IKEv2, OpenVPN, or WireGuard.

6. Disable IPv6 and WebRTC

Some users may face leaks or connection issues due to IPv6 or WebRTC:

• Go to your device’s network settings.
• Disable IPv6.
• In Surfshark, go to Settings and toggle off WebRTC.

7. Reinstall the App

If all else fails, uninstall and then reinstall the Surfshark app:

• Uninstall Surfshark from your device.
• Visit the official Surfshark website to download the latest version.
• Install the app and log in again.

Tips Specific to Indian Users

1. Optimize for Local ISPs

Different ISPs in India like Jio, Airtel, Vodafone, and BSNL can affect VPN performance. Here are some tips:

• For Jio users, try connecting to servers closer to India for better speeds.
• Airtel users may experience better connectivity with the OpenVPN protocol.
• Vodafone users might need to experiment with various servers to find optimal performance.
• BSNL users should ensure their firewall settings are compatible with Surfshark.

2. Bypass Geo-Restrictions

If you're using Surfshark to access Indian streaming platforms like Hotstar, ensure you:

• Connect to an Indian server to access local content.
• Clear your browser’s cache and cookies if you encounter access issues.

Security Considerations

While troubleshooting, it's essential to keep security in mind:

• Ensure that your Surfshark application is always up to date to benefit from the latest security patches.
• Use strong, unique passwords for your Surfshark account to prevent unauthorized access.
• Enable the Kill Switch feature to safeguard your data if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly.

Alternative Solutions or Recommendations

1. Explore Other VPN Services

If problems persist with Surfshark, consider trying other VPN services that cater to Indian users:

• NordVPN: Known for its high-speed servers and strong security features.
• ExpressVPN: Offers excellent performance and is user-friendly.
• CyberGhost: Great for beginners with specific streaming servers.

2. Contact Surfshark Support

If you've tried all the troubleshooting steps and still encounter problems, reach out to Surfshark's customer support. They can provide personalized assistance and help resolve any ongoing issues.

3. Check Community Forums

Sometimes, other users may have experienced similar issues. Forums like Reddit or the Surfshark community can offer helpful tips and solutions based on real user experiences.

By following these steps and recommendations, Indian users can effectively troubleshoot and resolve issues with Surfshark, ensuring a smooth and secure browsing experience.