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Can’t connect to VPN on PC

Our efficient and practical steps can repair VPN connection errors

4 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

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Key notes

If you simplycan’t connect to a VPN on Windows 10, follow the troubleshooting steps listed in this article to fix this problem.

Most VPN connection failures are triggered by various elements preventing your PC from connecting to VPN servers.

For example, it can happen that yourPC doesn’t connect to the VPNdue to improper VPN protocols or outdated software.

As well, if youcan’t connect to a VPN from homeit can be due to the same reasons and can be fixed accordingly.

In this troubleshooting guide, we’re going to list the most common factors blocking VPN connections orVPN stops working. We’ll also show you how to fix them.

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How can I fixVPN connection issues?

Before going more in-depth with our guides, you should first check these quick fixes that may resolve the issue.

In case you have checked these resolutions, you can now dive deep into the solutions in order to fix it for good.

1. Update your router

If you haven’t updated your router/ modem in a long time, this may explain why your system won’t support VPN connections.

Install the latest firmware updates available for your modem, restart the device and then try to connect to your VPN network again.

Updating your firmware is an advanced procedure. If you’re not careful you can cause permanent damage to your router, therefore use extra caution.

2. Change the port/connection

Your VPN connection may not be available due to port issues. As a result, go to your VPN’s settings page and set the connection to another port.

3. Try another VPN solution

The VPN recommended below is a highly reliable solution that works flawlessly and will never bother you with such connection issues.

Developed by Kape Technologies, it has a solid track record on privacy thanks to its policy of no registrations in the sessions of its users.

This VPN will even hide all of your online activity from your ISP. It encrypts your Internet traffic and provides server-grade firewalls so you can browse without looking over your shoulder.

It’s worth noting that ExpressVPN comes with unblocking tools for restricted web content, multiple servers in 94 regions, or DNS protection for each server.

ExpressVPN

4. Disable your antivirus/firewall

Sometimes, antivirus software or firewalls may prevent you from enabling your VPN. Temporarily disable these tools and turn on your VPN.

If this works, this means that your antivirus/ firewall is conflicting with your VPN connection.

In this case, add the VPN to your exceptions list and you’ll be able to use it with the antivirus/ firewall running on your PC.

5. Uninstall network adapters

6. Restart your DHCP Client

7. Change your VPN type to PPTP/ SSTP

Some users reported that they managed to fix the VPN connection issues that they encountered after having changed the VPN type from Automatic to PPTP or SSTP.

Try this solution and see if it works for you as well.

We hope that one of the workarounds listed in this article helped you restore your VPN connection.

As always, if you’ve come across other solutions to fix this issue, you can help the Windows community by listing the troubleshooting steps in the comments section below.

Can’t connect to VPN on PC#

How can I fixVPN connection issues?#

1. Update your router#

2. Change the port/connection#

3. Try another VPN solution#

ExpressVPN#

4. Disable your antivirus/firewall#

5. Uninstall network adapters#

6. Restart your DHCP Client#

7. Change your VPN type to PPTP/ SSTP#