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100% FIX: VPN Is Not Working on Windows 7 Computers
Easily fix VPN running issues on Windows 7 with our effective steps
7 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Are you having issues with getting your VPN to work with yourWindows 7PC? We have the best solutions for you.
Windows users reported having a problem with theVPNnot working with theirWindows 7PC. The reasons for this problem vary. However, we have compiled the following fixes applicable.
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What to do if VPN isn’t working on Windows 7?
1. Change your VPN
While Windows 7 might not be the latest and greatest OS anymore, it is still a popular choice for users worldwide.
You will need a strong tool to protect your privacy and secure your data, and PIA VPN is perfectly suited to grant you the security you seek on Windows 7, 8, and 10 running devices.
Supporting all the major protocols likeOpenVPN, PPTP, IPSEC/L2TP, and SOCKS5 (Proxy), Kape Technologies-owned Private Internet Access offers you the highest level of encryption via secure VPN tunnels.
Speaking about tunneling technology, Private Internet Access uses a global VPN Tunnel Network powered by multiple gateways with worldwide access and unlimitedbandwidthfor top speed.
Do not believe that this powerful VPN is all about speed – high privacy, and enhanced security are also privileged through IP cloaking, anonymous browsing, and a strict no-logs policy.
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2. Change your Internet connection
Windows users reported that limited/inactive internet connection can cause theVPNnot to work withWindows 7. Hence, you may consider changing your Internet connection and try to use theVPNafterward.
For instance, if you are using a dialup modem internet connection, then you may need to consider changing your Internet connection mode to LAN, broadband or Wi-Fi connection, or any other internet connection modes available to you.
Furthermore, test your internet connection by disconnecting from theVPNservice and try to access any website on your browser to see if it works. If the problem persists, proceed to the next method.
3. Check your regional Date and Time Settings
Windows 7 users reported that theirVPNdoesn’t work with their PC because of theincorrect date and time settings. Check the date and time settings to ensure they are correct.
Disable automatic update of date and time using the Internet, and set the date/time parameters manually. In addition, you should also consider changing your region/location to reflect the selected server location on your VPN settings.
4. Temporarily disable your security software
Some antivirus programs mayblock your VPN connection. Hence, you may need to temporarily disable your antivirus or firewall so as to be able to use it on yourWindows 7PC.
However, some Antivirus programs have atemporarily disable protectionoption which you can use while others do not.
Alternatively, you can also enable theVPNsoftware in the Windows Firewall. Here’s how to do this:
Note: Check your IP address for information such as your city or region (country) next to the location you selected in the VPN windows.
You can use a web service such as IPLocation and WhatIsMyIPAddress to check your IP address location.
5. Connect using Windows feature
Another way to resolve theVPNnot working withWindows 7problem is to connect manually using the Windows VPN feature. Here’s how to do this:
Note: Furthermore, once connected, you can click the network icon in your system tray to view your VPN connections.
While connected to aVPN, all your network traffic will be sent over it. You can connect add moreVPNconnections to your VPN connection list.
6. Flush the DNS/Clear cache
Another way of fixing theVPNproblem is by flushing yourDNSand clearing your web browser’s cache.DNSentries from your Internet Service Provider may be wrong.
Hence, you need to flush yourDNSand clear your web browser’s cache afterward. Here’s how to do this:
Step 1: Flush theDNS
Step 2: Clear Web Browser Cache
Note: Ctrl + Shift + Delete can also be used to clear the cache on otherweb browserssuch as Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, Opera, Microsoft Edge, etc.
7. Run Windows Update
Another way of fixing theVPNnot working onWindows 7is by updating your Windows to the latest version. The latest Windows updates improve the system’s stability and fix various issues you may encounter.
Follow these steps to update any Windows OS:
8. Reinstall the VPN client
In addition, you may consider reinstalling your VPN client, and then try to use theVPNagain. Here’s how to do this:
After complete uninstall, proceed to install theVPNclient on your PC, and then use it afterward.
9. Check your network connection settings
If VPN isn’t working on Windows 7, try changing your network settings. To do that, follow these steps:
After making these changes, check if the problem is still there.
The solutions listed above should fix yourVPNnot working withWindows 7problem. However, if the problem still persists, you may consider contacting your VPN provider’s customer support center.
Let us know if any of these methods worked for you by leaving a comment in the section below.
More about the topics:Fix VPN,VPN,windows 7
Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Passionate about all elements related to Windows and combined with his innate curiosity, Ivan has delved deep into understanding this operating system, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
When he’s not tackling diverse driver-related problems, Ivan enjoys watching good movies and spending time hiking with his family and friends.
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Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Ivan has delved deep into understanding the Windows OS, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
