VPN or Virtual Private Network is an essential tool for keeping our browsing activity private and anonymous. It allows us to explore the internet without being tracked by anyone. But what if you experience no internet connection after connecting to a VPN server on Windows?
Suppose you are dealing with the same issue and are not sure what you should be doing. Then not to worry, as I have got your back. I will be sharing some of the easiest tips and tricks with you. So you can get rid of the error instantly on Windows 11 and Windows 10.
Fix No Internet Connection After Connecting to VPN Server
The issue may appear because of a wide range of reasons. However, here are a few fixes that can help you to get rid of the error:
- Change VPN Server.
- Release and Renew IP address.
- Check Kill Switch.
- Check for incorrect date and time settings.
- Change your DNS server configuration.
- Change VPN Protocol.
- Reinstall VPN Application.
So let’s go ahead and have a look at all the methods one by one:
1] Change VPN Server
One of the first things that you can try out is to change the VPN server. As you already know that VPN provides offers you lots of server locations. And there is a chance that the server you have connected to is down or facing issues. So you can try switching to a few other locations and see if the internet starts working again.
2] Release and Renew IP address
As VPN apps are meant to change your IP address, Windows might be having issues accepting the new IP address. And it is still using the previous one. In this case, you can release and renew the IP address. To do this, follow the below steps:
- Go to the Windows search bar and type down CMD.
- Right-click on cmd and select Run as administrator > Yes.
- Now run these two commands one by one: ipconfig /release and then ipconfig /renew.
- Finally, check if your internet started working or not.
3] Check Kill Switch
Most VPN software comes with a tool called kill switch. This one is an essential feature that kills your internet connection when you disconnect from a VPN server. As a result, your real IP address doesn’t get exposed.
However, in case if you have intentionally deactivated the VPN. And now, trying to connect to the internet, then you may have to use the kill switch feature.
So do look in your VPN software if you find anything related to it. Else, you can close the VPN server and restart your PC, and it will do the job.
4] Check for Incorrect Date and Time Settings
Incorrect date and time could also result in no connection after connecting to the VPN server issue. So make sure you are using the right time and date.
If you are not using the correct date and time, right-click on the Time and Date widget from your taskbar and select Adjust date/time.
Next, disable, Set time automatically, and click on the change button. Next, enter the correct date and time and save the settings.
Finally, re-launch your VPN application and try to connect to the internet, and see if you find any issues.
5] Change Your DNS Server Configuration
You can also try manually configuring Windows computer with other DNS server address to fix the issue. It will also help you to enjoy faster internet speed.
To configure the DNS server, you have to follow these below steps:
- Press Windows Key + R to launch Run.
- Type down ncpa.cpl and press Enter.
- From the Network connections window, select your internet connection between LAN or Wireless.
- Then right-click on the connection and go to Properties.
- Next, double-click on the Internet Protocol Version 4 (IPv4).
- From the below, select Use the following DNS server addresses.
- Over here, enter these two Google DNS server address: Preferred DNS server 8.8.8.8 | Alternate DNS server 8.8.4.4. You can also use any Public DNS.
- Next, click on OK.
After that, try connecting to your VPN connection and then the internet and see if it has worked for you or not.
6] Change VPN Protocol
VPN uses different methods to connect to servers. These methods are known as protocols. Some VPN applications use TCP or Transmission Control Protocol, some use L2TP or Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol, and some use DP or User Datagram Protocol.
However, UDP is the most common type of protocol used by most VPNs. However, it might not be suitable for your internet settings. Hence, it is recommended that you change it.
To change this, you can go to your VPN’s settings and see if you have any change protocol options or not.
7] Reinstall VPN Application
If, in the end, nothing works out for you, then you can try reinstalling your VPN application as there is a chance that the issue might be appearing because of some bug.
To uninstall your VPN application go to Control Panel > Uninstall a Program > Right-click on VPN program > Uninstall.
Once uninstalled, download the VPN client from its official website and install it by following all the steps and then check if this resolved the issue for you or not.
Why Can’t I Connect to a VPN When in WiFi?
There are a few reasons why you may find issues connecting to VPN WiFi. One of the common reasons is that your IPS is not allowing VPN to establish a connection.
Or your system settings are misconfigured, and it is failing to establish a connection. Or maybe, your VPN service is dealing with some issues. So do check everything, and you should get rid of the issue pretty soon.
What to Do If VPN Is Not Connecting?
If VPN is not connecting, then you should try changing the server location. If that didn’t help, change the VPN protocol and switch to the recommended port by your VPN provider. Most times, it is a temporary issue, so do wait. If it’s taking too much time, contact your VPN provider.
What Is Blocking My VPN Connection?
If your VPN connection is getting blocked, then it might be your Antivirus program that is causing the issue. So do disable it for a while and then check. If it is not your antivirus, then do check your network settings.
Why Is VPN Not Working on My Phone?
Start by turning off your Mobile data to check if it’s working; if not, switch to Mobile data only, and see if it works. If any of this works, then you know what is causing the issue. Sometimes Mobile networks block the use of VPN and can create these sorts of problems.
So that was all for no internet connection after connection to VPN server. Even after all the hacks, you still face the same issue; then, I would advise you to contact your VPN service provider for further help. Also, for any other questions, you can comment below.
