VPN not working

Using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are become an essential tool for enhance and secure online activity. VPN allows you to browse the Internet anonymously, bypass Geographical restrictions, and Protect Internet privacy and security by encrypting your data and masking your IP address. However, sometimes you may experience VPN Connection Fails to Establish or VPN Disconnects Frequently after Windows update. Also, a few users report slow internet speed with vpn connection or vpn not connecting. This article explores common reasons why VPN not working, and solutions to get your VPN working smoothly on Windows 11.

VPN not working Windows 11

There are several possible reasons why VPN Connection Fails to Establish, Incorrect VPN credentials, network connectivity issues or Firewall or antivirus interference are common.

  • Incorrect network settings can interfere with VPN connections.
  • Security software may block VPN traffic.
  • Outdated or incompatible network drivers can cause connectivity issues.
  • Misconfigured VPN settings can prevent successful connections.
  • Default DNS settings might not work well with some VPNs.
  • The VPN app you are using may be outdated and needs to be updated.

Restart Your Computer and Router

Whenever you experience a problem with your computer or internet connection, the first thing we recommend restart your PC and wifi router. This action clears temporary glitches and refreshes network connection, and resolves many connectivity issues

How to Restart Your Computer:

  1. Click on the Start button.
  2. Select the Power icon.
  3. Click Restart.

Restart windows 11

How to Restart Your Router:

  1. Locate the power button on your router.
  2. Press the power button to turn off the router.
  3. Wait for about 10 seconds.
  4. Press the power button again to turn the router back on.

Update Windows and VPN Software

Again Keeping your Windows Operating System and VPN client software updated ensures that you have the latest features, security patches, and bug fixes. This can also improve compatibility and stability, and reduce the probability of encountering VPN Connection errors.

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How to Install the Latest Windows Updates:

  1. Open Settings by pressing the Windows key + I
  2. Go to Update & Security then Windows Update.
  3. Select Check for updates and install any available updates.

Download update for Windows 11

How to Update Your VPN Client App:

  1. Open your VPN client application.
  2. Look for an Update option in the settings or help menu.
  3. Follow the prompts to download and install the latest version.

Check Firewall and Antivirus Settings

Sometimes, Firewalls or antivirus programs can block VPN connections, result VPN Connections Fails to Establish or Disconnects Frequently. Disable Windows Defender Firewall or Allow VPN Apps to Run Through the Firewall help bypass the errors.

How to Allow VPN Apps Through the Firewall:

  1. Open Settings by pressing Windows key + I.
  2. Go to Update & Security.
  3. Select Windows Security.
  4. Click on Firewall & network protection.
  5. Select Allow an app through firewall.
  6. Find your VPN client in the list and ensure both Private and Public boxes are checked.

Disable Internet Protocol Version 6 (IPv6)

Some VPNs do not support IPv6, which can cause connection issues. A few users report, Disabling IPv6 help them resolve VPN not working on Windows 11 or 10.

How to Disable IPv6:

  1. Open Settings by pressing Windows key + I
  2. Go to Network & Internet.
  3. Click on Change adapter options.
  4. Right-click on your network connection and select Properties.
  5. Uncheck Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6).
  6. Click OK.

disable IPv6

Flush DNS Cache

Again Flushing the DNS cache can help resolve issues related to outdated or corrupted DNS records, which can interfere with VPN connections.

How to Flush DNS Cache:

  • Press the Windows key and type cmd, right-click on Command prompt select run as administrator.
  • In the Command Prompt, type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.

In addition, perform following commands to reset TCP/IP configuration that help troubleshoot Internet problems as well.

“Ipconfig /renew”
“Netsh int ip reset”
“Netsh winsock reset”

Once the above commands are executed, reboot your PC and check if there is no more problem open or using VPN app on your computer.

Reset Network Settings

Resetting network settings can fix misconfigurations and restore your network to its default state, which can resolve connectivity issues.

  • Open Settings by pressing Win + I, and Go to Network & Internet.
  • Scroll down and click on Advanced network settings.
  • Select Network reset, This will reset the network settings of your PC to their default state and allow the VPN to work properly.

Confirm network reset

Update/Reinstall Network Drivers

Outdated or corrupted network drivers can cause connectivity issues. If VPN Disconnects Frequently, Updating or reinstalling Network drivers ensures your network hardware is functioning properly.

How to Update Network Drivers:

  1. Press the Windows key + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand Network adapters.
  3. Right-click your network adapter and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.

Follow on screen instructions to download the latest driver updates from Microsoft server.

Update WiFi or Network Adapter Driver on Windows 11

How to Reinstall Network Drivers:

  1. Press the Windows key + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand Network adapters.
  3. Right-click your network adapter and select Uninstall device.
  4. Restart your computer to automatically reinstall the driver.

Also, you can visit the Device Manufactures site or use the third-party driver update tool to download and install the latest network driver.

Run Windows Network Troubleshooter

The built-in Windows Network Troubleshooter can automatically detect and fix common network problems, including issues affecting VPN connections. If you are still experiencing problems with VPN connection Run Windows Network Troubleshooter by following steps.

  • Press Windows key + I to open the settings app and Go to System.
  • Select Troubleshoot then Click on Other troubleshooters.
  • Run the Internet Connections troubleshooter.

This will automatically detect and troubleshoot problems related to the network and the internet. Once the process is complete reboot your PC and check if VPN disconnect problem is resolved.

Uninstall and Reinstall the VPN App

Reinstalling the VPN app can resolve issues caused by corrupted installation files or misconfigurations.

How to Uninstall the VPN App:

  1. Right-click on the start menu and select installed app
  2. look for your VPN client in the list of the apps and click the three dots in front of it. Hit the Uninstall option from the drop down menu to remove it.
  3. Now Go to the VPN provider’s website and download the latest version of the VPN app.

Install the app and log in using VPN credentials. Double-check your VPN username, password, and server address. Incorrect credentials can prevent connection.

Did the above solutions help fix VPN Not Working or Disconnects Frequently issue on Windows 11? Share your feedback on the comments below.

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Steve Ballmer
Steve Ballmer
With over 7 years of experience in the IT industry, I have experience in IT support, helpdesk, sysadmin, network admin, and cloud computing. Certified in Microsoft Technologies (MCTS and MCSA) and also Cisco Certified Professional in Routing and Switching.

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