VPN Not Working? 10 Fixes That Actually Work (2026)

Updated: February 22, 2026 · 3 min read

VPN not connecting? Streaming still blocked? Speeds terrible? Here are 10 proven fixes for the most common VPN problems.

Fix 1: Switch Servers

The most common fix. Your current server might be overloaded or blocked.

• Try a server in the same country but different city
• NordVPN has 6,400+ servers — plenty of alternatives

Fix 2: Change Protocol

Switch between WireGuard, OpenVPN UDP, OpenVPN TCP, and IKEv2.

• WireGuard → fastest, try first
• OpenVPN TCP → best for restrictive networks
• IKEv2 → best for mobile network switching

Fix 3: Restart Your Device

Classic IT fix that works surprisingly often. Restart your phone, laptop, or router to clear network state.

Fix 4: Update Your VPN App

Outdated apps may have bugs or use blocked server IPs. Always use the latest version.

Fix 5: Disable Firewall/Antivirus Temporarily

Some security software blocks VPN connections. Temporarily disable to test, then add your VPN as an exception.

Fix 6: Clear VPN App Cache (Mobile)

• Android: Settings → Apps → [VPN App] → Storage → Clear Cache
• iPhone: Delete and reinstall the app

Fix 7: Try a Different Network

If VPN works on mobile data but not WiFi (or vice versa), the problem is your network, not the VPN.

Fix 8: Use Obfuscated Servers

If your ISP or network blocks VPN protocols:

• NordVPN: Enable Obfuscated Servers in settings
• Surfshark: Enable Camouflage Mode
• ExpressVPN: Automatic with Lightway

Fix 9: Change DNS Settings

• Set DNS to your VPN’s DNS servers
• Or try 1.1.1.1 (Cloudflare) or 8.8.8.8 (Google)
• DNS leaks can cause websites to still see your real location

Fix 10: Contact Support

If nothing works, use your VPN’s live chat:

• NordVPN: 24/7 live chat
• ExpressVPN: 24/7 live chat
• Surfshark: 24/7 live chat

Problem-Specific Fixes

“Netflix/Streaming Still Blocked”

1. Clear browser cookies and cache
2. Switch servers (try 3-4 different ones)
3. Disable IPv6 in your network settings
4. Try a different browser or the streaming app
5. Use a dedicated streaming server (CyberGhost has these)

“VPN Connected But No Internet”

1. Switch protocols
2. Disable kill switch → reconnect → re-enable
3. Flush DNS: ipconfig /flushdns (Windows) or sudo dscacheutil -flushcache (Mac)
4. Try a different server

“VPN Extremely Slow”

1. Connect to a closer server
2. Switch to WireGuard protocol
3. Disable features you don’t need (Double VPN, ad blocker)
4. Check if your base internet speed is the problem (disconnect VPN and test)
5. Try a different VPN — speed varies by provider

“VPN Keeps Disconnecting”

1. Switch protocols (UDP is more stable than TCP for some networks)
2. Disable battery optimization for the VPN app (Android)
3. Enable auto-reconnect in VPN settings
4. Update the app

When to Switch VPN Providers

If you consistently have problems, your VPN might be the issue:

• Free VPNs → Upgrade to NordVPN or Surfshark
• Slow VPN → Try NordVPN (fastest in 2026)
• Blocked VPN → Try ExpressVPN (best obfuscation)

All top VPNs offer 30-day money-back guarantees, so you can test risk-free.