Why Your VPN Keeps Disconnecting & How to Fix It in 2024

There are several reasons why VPN connections can suddenly drop without warning. Unfortunately, most VPNs won’t tell you what’s causing the disconnection, which is incredibly frustrating — especially when it keeps happening over and over.

Luckily, there are straightforward fixes for the most common VPN disconnection issues. I've researched and compiled a list of the most frequent culprits behind dropping connections and solutions to quickly reconnect.

However, the best way to avoid disconnections is to use a top-tier VPN, like ExpressVPN. Its global network of fast and reliable servers drastically reduces the likelihood of disconnections and dropouts. Plus, it has a trustworthy 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test all its features risk-free. If you're not 100% satisfied, you can easily get a full refund. Editors' Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

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How to Fix a VPN That Disconnects Frequently

VPN disconnection issues can be caused by network and router problems, wrong DNS servers, and incorrect VPN settings. If your VPN connects but the connection keeps dropping, here are some troubleshooting tricks you can use to get your VPN working smoothly again.

1. Change Your VPN Settings

Incorrect VPN settings are the most common culprit for a VPN connection that keeps dropping. Here are a couple of things you can try to resolve the issue.

• Switch VPN servers. An unreliable server can cause disconnection issues, so try connecting to another server in the same country.
  Nearby servers are more likely to give you better stability and speed
• Try a different VPN protocol. Some VPN protocols don’t work well in certain network conditions, so try switching to a different protocol. For instance, if you’re on an unstable network, OpenVPN might work better than WireGuard. I recommend ExpressVPN's proprietary Lightway protocol for fast speeds, reliable connections, and robust security.
  Automatic chooses the optimal protocol based on your network conditions
• Change port number. If your VPN allows it, manually change the port number it uses to connect, as some networks may restrict specific ports.
• Adjust the encryption level. Higher-level encryption can increase the load on your network, so try lowering your encryption level to see if it stabilizes your connection. If you’re using the standard AES 256-bit, switch to AES 128-bit. However, not all VPNs allow you to change your encryption.
  Use AES 128-bit encryption when on unstable networks
• Configure DNS settings. If your VPN allows it, use the VPN DNS servers instead of your ISP’s to avoid conflicts.
• Switch off split tunneling. Disabling split tunneling can sometimes improve VPN stability since all traffic is routed through the VPN tunnel.
• Disable trusted networks. The trusted network feature allows you to bypass the VPN when connected to a network you trust, such as your home or office network. However, this feature can sometimes cause connectivity issues and unexpected disconnections. Turning off the feature keeps your VPN connection active regardless of the network you're connected to. Go to Settings on your VPN app and switch Trusted Networks off.
• Enable auto-reconnect. Set your VPN to auto-connect on startup or network changes to minimize dropout time. The VPN will automatically try to reconnect if it drops.
• Disable IPv6. Some VPNs have issues with IPv6 traffic. Disabling IPv6 on your device might help.
• Reinstall the VPN app. As a last resort, uninstalling and reinstalling the VPN client app can resolve corrupted settings.

2. Change Your WiFi Settings

Sometimes, the issue is your WiFi network or broadband connection. So, check whether the connection keeps dropping even without the VPN connected. If the connection becomes stable, your WiFi is okay.

If it keeps dropping, try a different WiFi network (your neighbor's, or use your laptop or smartphone as a hotspot). If this resolves the problem, there’s definitely something wrong with your WiFi network. Try repositioning your router to improve signal strength, or move it away from other electronic devices that can cause interference, such as microwaves and cordless phones. If you still experience disconnection issues, you’ll need to contact or change your ISP.

3. Restart Your Router

Just like laptops or phones, routers can occasionally get bogged down and start acting wonky. Luckily, giving your router a quick reboot allows it to clear out its temporary memory and restart with a clean slate. Here’s how to do it:

1. Unplug the router. Disconnect the power cord from the router. This ensures the router is completely turned off.
   Wait for 30 seconds. This allows the router to fully power down and reset, clearing any temporary issues or cache that might be causing connectivity problems.
2. Plug the router back in. Reconnect the power cord to the router and wait for it to restart fully. This can take a couple of minutes as the router re-establishes its connection to your internet service provider.
3. Reconnect to WiFi. Once the router is back online, reconnect your device to the WiFi network. Confirm that you’re connected to the correct network and that the signal strength is strong.
4. Reconnect the VPN. Open your VPN software and connect to your preferred server. Check if the connection has stabilized after the router restart.

4. Update Your Router Firmware

Updating your router's firmware can help resolve persistent VPN disconnection issues by fixing bugs and improving performance. Start by identifying your router model and accessing the router’s admin page via your browser. Log in with your admin credentials, then navigate to the firmware update section, usually found under Administration or Advanced settings.

Check for updates directly from the router or download the latest firmware from the manufacturer’s website. Upload the firmware file if needed, and follow the instructions to install it. After the update, restart your router, reconnect to WiFi, and then reconnect your VPN to see if the connection is now more stable.

5. Use a Different Port

Network ports act as communication endpoints, and they can become overcrowded and cause connectivity issues because they’re prone to interference by firewalls or network configurations.

You can manually change your port to resolve the disconnection issue if this occurs. Changing your port can affect your entire connection, so only attempt this if you know what you're doing. The safest way is to use a VPN that lets you change ports in the app, like PIA.

6. Bypass Device Limits

Most VPN providers limit the simultaneous device connections allowed under a single account (most support up to 5). Exceeding this limit can result in disconnections.

You can overcome this problem by installing a VPN on your router. By setting up the VPN on your router, all devices connected to your router can use the VPN without limitations.

How to Fix a VPN That Doesn't Connect

Sometimes, instead of connecting and dropping the connection, your VPN just won’t connect at all, yet your internet is working without the VPN. In this case, here are some things you can try:

1. Disable Your Firewall and Antivirus

Firewalls and antivirus programs can sometimes incorrectly identify a VPN connection as a potential threat and block it. By temporarily disabling them, you can determine if they are the issue.

Once your firewall and real-time antivirus scanning are disabled, try connecting to your VPN again. If it establishes a connection, you'll know one of those security programs was the culprit. From there, you can allowlist or add an exception for your VPN app to allow its traffic through. Don’t forget to re-enable your firewall and antivirus once you've tested your VPN connection to maintain your system's security.

2. Update Your Network Drivers

Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause various connectivity problems, including issues with establishing and maintaining a VPN connection. If you're having persistent VPN connection problems, it's worth checking that you're running the latest drivers for your particular network hardware.

To update your network drivers, go to your computer’s Device Manager, find the network adapters section, and locate your network device. Right-click on it and select Update driver, then choose the option to search automatically for updated driver software. If newer drivers are available, the system will download and install them. Restart your computer and try connecting to the VPN again.

3. Confirm Your Login Details

You could have easily misspelled your password or username, so either double-check or reset both. You can also use a VPN, like ExpressVPN, that offers a password manager included with all its subscriptions.

4. Enable Obfuscation

Enabling obfuscation or stealth mode can resolve VPN connection issues in areas where VPN traffic is actively blocked or restricted. For example, if you only have connection issues on specific networks, like at work or school, this could be a sign that VPN traffic is restricted on these networks. Obfuscation camouflages VPN traffic as regular traffic, making it more difficult to detect and block.

To enable obfuscation, go to your VPN’s settings and look for options like "stealth mode," "obfuscation," or "scramble." Once enabled, the VPN will mask its traffic, making it harder for firewalls and network filters to identify and block it.

5. Disable the Battery Saver on Your Device

Battery-saver modes extend battery life by limiting background activities and reducing the performance of certain apps. Unfortunately, these restrictions can sometimes interfere with your VPN's ability to establish a stable connection, as they often limit network activities and reduce the power allocated to networking components. Turning off this mode allows your VPN to utilize the necessary resources to establish and maintain a stable connection.

6. Check if Another VPN Is Running

Running multiple VPNs simultaneously can cause conflicts, as each VPN tries to control the network settings and create a secure tunnel. These conflicts can prevent either VPN from establishing a stable connection. By checking that only one VPN is active at a time, you eliminate potential interference and allow your chosen VPN to function properly.

To check if another VPN is running, look through your active applications and system tray for any VPN software that might be operating in the background. Close or disconnect any other VPNs before attempting to connect with your preferred one.

7. Contact Customer Support

If everything else fails, contact your VPN's customer support for assistance. Top-tier VPNs usually provide 24/7 live chat assistance, as well as other support channels like email, phone, and FAQ/troubleshooting pages.

How to Fix Speed Issues in a VPN

Speed issues with VPNs are quite common since the encryption and traffic routing process slows down your connection to some degree. However, there are some things you can do if your connection is too slow:

1. Fix Your Internet Connection

Poor connectivity can significantly impact your VPN speeds. Disconnect from the VPN and run a speed test. If your speed test results indicate slower speeds than usual, reset your router or contact your ISP to solve the issue. Alternatively, connect an ethernet cable from your laptop to your router.

If your baseline internet speeds are slow to begin with, upgrading to a higher-tier plan from your ISP may resolve VPN speed issues.

2. Connect to a Nearby Server

When you connect to servers far away from your location, your traffic has to travel a longer distance, which can lead to slower speeds. To resolve this, connect to a different server that is geographically closer to your location. This can reduce latency and improve connection speeds. Some VPNs, like PIA, even show each server’s load and latency, making it easy to find the fastest one.

3. Disable Multi-Hop

The multi-hop feature routes your traffic through two or more VPN servers instead of just one. While this provides an extra layer of security and anonymity, it can significantly slow down your connection due to the additional encryption and routing processes involved.

When you turn off multi-hop, your traffic is routed through a single VPN server, reducing latency and processing time. This simplification can lead to faster connection speeds, making your browsing, streaming, and other online activities more efficient.

4. Change Your Packets and MTU Settings

MTU setting determines the largest size of a packet that can be sent over your network. If the MTU is set too high, packets may need to be fragmented, leading to inefficiencies and slower speeds.

Many premium VPNs allow you to manually tweak the MTU size. Playing around with different MTU values can help you find the optimal setting for your VPN tunnel without fragmenting data unnecessarily.

5. Disable Bandwidth-Intensive Applications

Close any applications or processes that consume a lot of bandwidth, such as streaming services, large downloads, or online games, to allocate more bandwidth to your VPN connection.

6. Upgrade to a Fast VPN

If none of the above solutions work, consider trying a different VPN provider. Some VPNs offer better speeds and more reliable performance than others. Avoid free and cheap VPNs because they usually have small server networks with overcrowded servers. Instead, go for a premium VPN like ExpressVPN, which has 3,000+ servers in 105 countries, so there’s hardly any chance of finding an overloaded server.

How to Fix a VPN With Software Problems

Sometimes, the VPN app itself can be the root cause behind frequent VPN disconnection issues. This happens when there’s something wrong with the app (such as bugs or compatibility issues) or if it conflicts with other apps running on your device. If you suspect this might be the problem, here are some things you can try:

1. Revert to Default VPN Settings

Reverting to default VPN settings can often resolve connection issues by eliminating any configuration errors or conflicts you might have introduced through manual adjustments. These changes can sometimes result in instability or incompatibility, leading to frequent disconnections or an inability to connect at all.

Resetting all the VPN settings back to their original default state wipes away any errant customized configurations that could have been sending things askew.

2. Update Your VPN Software

Using the latest version of your VPN reduces the likelihood of connection issues and crashes, so always update it when prompted. Software updates incorporate the latest bug fixes, performance enhancements, and security updates that might address issues affecting the stability and reliability of the VPN connection.

Regular updates help maintain optimal performance and security, providing a more stable and secure VPN experience.

3. Delete Old VPN Software

Deleting old VPN software can fix connection issues by eliminating potential conflicts. When multiple VPNs are installed on the same device, they might interfere with each other, leading to disconnections, slow speeds, or the inability to connect at all. Removing outdated or unused VPN software ensures that only the current VPN client is managing your network settings, reducing the likelihood of conflicts and improving overall stability.

4. Reinstall Your VPN

Uninstalling and reinstalling your VPN software resets the application to its default state. It removes any potentially corrupted configuration files, cached data, or system registry entries that may have been causing problems. It also ensures all the necessary components are properly installed and configured according to the latest requirements.

Additionally, reinstalling a VPN app gives you the most recent version, which includes the latest bug fixes, security patches, and compatibility updates. These updates can address known issues that may have been preventing a stable VPN connection or causing conflicts with your operating system or other software on your device.

5. Update Your Device’s Operating System

Updating your operating system makes it compatible with the latest VPN software. Operating system updates often include essential security patches, performance improvements, and bug fixes that can directly affect network functionality.

Outdated operating system versions might have unresolved issues or lack support for newer VPN technologies, leading to frequent disconnections or the inability to establish a connection. By updating your operating system, you align it with the latest standards and enhancements, providing a more stable environment for your VPN to operate.

ExpressVPN can help you avoid this issue since it’s compatible with all major operating systems and frequently updates its software to keep up with these operating systems.

Best VPNs for Reliable Connections — Full Analysis (Updated 2024)

Choosing the right VPN is crucial if you want to enjoy fast, stable connections while keeping you safe online. All the VPNs I recommend prioritize fast server speeds, robust, reliable infrastructure, advanced encryption protocols, and user-friendly interfaces.

1. ExpressVPN — Overall Best VPN for Fast and Reliable Connections

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested July 2024

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN’s impressive speeds mean you’re unlikely to experience drops caused by laggy connections. It achieves such speeds due to its Lighway protocol, crafted for top performance. I tested several ExpressVPN servers and my average download speed was reduced by only 3%. Not once did my connection drop. Unlike most VPNs, Lightway keeps you connected to the same server when switching between networks, like WiFi to mobile data.

With its extensive server network, it's possible to avoid congestion due to overcrowding and stream in HD from anywhere. It also makes it easier to find servers close to your location, which are likely to give you better speeds and minimal lag.

The only drawback is the cost — plans start at $6.67/month. However, ExpressVPN often has deals that can reduce the price by up to 49%. Plus, you can try it out risk-free as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

2. CyberGhost — Dedicated Servers That Reduce Chances of Disconnecting

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost has servers optimized to provide stable connections for specific activities like streaming, torrenting, and gaming. These servers are specially configured for peak performance. For instance, its streaming servers are tailored to specific sites, allowing uninterrupted access from anywhere. When I tested CyberGhost’s Netflix and Hulu servers, I enjoyed smooth HD streams without any disconnection issues.

This VPN lets you switch between protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard to get the right balance of speed and security for your network. For example, if you’re experiencing connection drops due to an unstable network, you can switch from WireGuard to OpenVPN TCP to stabilize your connection. You can try CyberGhost for 45 days without risk using its generous money-back guarantee.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Advanced Settings So You Can Customize Your Connection to Avoid Disconnection Issues

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ FIFA+ Netflix

Disney+ APV More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

PIA gives you a ton of ways to customize your settings to get that perfect balance of privacy and speed and avoid disconnection issues. For instance, you can change DNS servers, use different ports, and switch protocols on its desktop apps. During my tests, its WireGuard protocol gave me the most consistent connections. Plus, you can use PIA on all your devices without getting kicked out and stream content.

You can get PIA for only $2.19/month, and like ExpressVPN, it has a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans. It also has a global network of servers for secure streaming from anywhere.

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to strict testing methodology.

Our Methodology for Testing VPNs for Reliable Connections

When creating my list of the best VPNs for a reliable connection, I evaluated several key factors. First, I only chose VPNs with reliable infrastructure and performance. I also focused on VPNs that offer high speeds to maintain a smooth online experience. Finally, I prioritized VPNs with strong encryption protocols and compatibility with various platforms and operating systems.

Other VPN Connection Issues (and How to Fix Them)

Why Does My VPN Keep Turning Off on My iPhone?

One of the main reasons a VPN disconnects on an iPhone is battery optimization features. By default, iOS is designed to optimize battery life by suspending certain background processes, including VPN connections. This can cause your VPN to disconnect frequently. To mitigate this, disable Low Power Mode when using the VPN, or consider adjusting your VPN app settings to allow it to run continuously in the background.

Another possible cause could be related to network settings or connectivity issues. If you frequently switch between WiFi and cellular data or have unstable internet connections, your VPN may disconnect intermittently. To address this, connect to a more stable network or enable the Connect on Demand feature if your VPN supports it. This feature helps the VPN automatically reconnect whenever the connection drops.

Additionally, outdated VPN apps or conflicting software on your iPhone could also cause VPN disconnections. Update your VPN app to the latest version and consider uninstalling any potentially conflicting third-party security or privacy apps that may be interfering with your VPN's functionality.

How Do I Stop My VPN From Disconnecting on Android?

To prevent your VPN from disconnecting on Android, check if your VPN has a setting to permanently keep the connection active or an always-on option. With this feature enabled, the VPN automatically reconnects if it gets disconnected for any reason.

Another potential solution is to prevent your Android device from automatically switching between mobile data and WiFi networks. Frequent network switching can cause VPN disconnections. Go to your device's settings, find the WiFi or Connections option, and disable the feature that automatically switches between WiFi and mobile data.

You should also check whether your VPN app is allowed to run in the background and is not being aggressively closed by your device's battery optimization features. Go to your device's settings, find the Battery or Battery Optimization option, and confirm that your VPN isn’t being restricted or optimized for battery saving.

Finally, keep your VPN app and Android operating system updated to the latest versions. Outdated software can sometimes cause compatibility issues and lead to VPN disconnections. Check for updates regularly and install them promptly.

Why Does My VPN Keep Disconnecting on Windows?

One possible reason is conflicting software or security programs. Certain antivirus software, firewalls, or other security tools may interfere with the VPN connection, causing it to drop intermittently. Try temporarily turning off these programs or adding exceptions for your VPN software to see if that resolves the issue.

Another potential culprit could be your network settings or unstable internet connection. If you frequently switch between WiFi and ethernet connections or experience frequent internet outages or fluctuations, your VPN connection may drop as a result. Check whether your network settings are configured correctly, and avoid unnecessary switching between different network types. Consider contacting your ISP if you suspect connectivity issues on their end.

Additionally, outdated VPN software or an outdated Windows operating system could also cause compatibility issues and disconnections. Always make sure that your VPN client, Windows, and network drivers are up-to-date with the latest updates and patches installed.

My VPN Doesn’t Work With Streaming Sites Like Netflix

A lot of VPNs claim to work with popular streaming sites, but most of them can’t. The best option is to use a premium VPN like ExpressVPN, which routinely monitors its IP addresses to access popular streaming platforms from anywhere without causing buffering.

Even amongst premium VPNs, there can be instances where they don’t work. If you’re in this situation, it’s advisable to connect to a different server in the country or ask your VPN provider for a list of working servers. I recommend the latter option, especially if you are concerned about time.

Why Does Nordvpn Keep Disconnecting?

NordVPN is a reliable VPN that doesn’t typically have issues. However, if it keeps disconnecting on your device, here are some possible causes:

• Unstable connection. If your network experiences frequent interruptions, NordVPN may disconnect in response to these internet connectivity issues. Try troubleshooting your internet connection by restarting your router, checking for service outages from your internet service provider, or running internet speed tests to identify potential performance issues.
• Conflicting software. Certain antivirus software, firewalls, or other security tools may interfere with NordVPN's connection, causing it to drop intermittently. Try temporarily disabling these programs or adding exceptions for NordVPN to see if the disconnections stop.

If the issue persists, contact NordVPN's customer support team for further assistance. They may be able to provide specific troubleshooting steps or configuration settings tailored to your setup and the issues you're experiencing.

My VPN Won’t Work in Restrictive Countries Like China

Some countries, such as China and Russia, impose firewalls to block access to certain websites, including social media sites, news sites, and even VPN sites. Your best option is to get a VPN with strong obfuscation features like ExpressVPN, preferably before arriving in the country. Once in the country, it’s also a good idea to use your VPN’s obfuscation or stealth features to conceal your VPN traffic.

Before doing that, familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations of the country you’re going to so you don’t get into trouble. There have been no publicly reported cases of people getting penalized for using a non-governmental-approved VPN in China, but these types of VPN are still not permitted, so tread carefully.

My VPN Server Is in the Wrong Location

Most VPNs will usually have physical servers located in the designated country, but some might use virtual servers for dangerous or expensive regions. Virtual servers are located in a different country from your chosen location, but they configure your traffic to make it seem like you’re in your chosen country. The problem is that some IP-checking services can’t tell the difference and will show the server’s physical location instead of its virtual location.

If you’re concerned about virtual servers, you can find out which servers are virtual from your VPN and avoid them. Some VPN providers label their virtual servers to make them easier to identify. Virtual servers are usually only a tiny percentage of the entire server network, so the risk of connecting to the wrong location is low.

I Can’t Find a VPN Server I Previously Used

The best way to quickly find a server you previously used is to bookmark it or add it to favorites. Still, it’s possible to find a server you used previously missing. This sometimes happens when a server is taken down for maintenance and upgrades. While this is usually temporary and uncommon, it can happen for an extended period. For example, a VPN might take down all its servers in an authoritarian country that issues new privacy laws.

How Do I Prevent My VPN From Disconnecting When Streaming or Gaming?

To prevent your VPN from disconnecting when streaming or gaming, start by ensuring a stable and strong internet connection. Use a wired Ethernet connection instead of WiFi if necessary, as it provides a more reliable and faster connection, reducing the chances of disconnections. If you must use WiFi, position yourself close to the router and minimize interference from other electronic devices.

You can also try choosing a VPN server close to your physical location to minimize latency and improve connection stability. Some VPNs also offer specialized servers optimized for streaming or gaming, which can provide better performance.

FAQs on VPN Connection Issues

What happens if my VPN disconnects?

If your VPN disconnects, your internet traffic is no longer encrypted and routed through the VPN's servers. This can potentially expose your online activities and personal information to your ISP and any third parties monitoring your network. The best way to protect yourself from these risks is to use a VPN with a kill switch. A kill switch instantly cuts you off from the internet if your VPN disconnects, which means your data won’t be exposed.

VPN disconnection can also interrupt your online activities, such as streaming, browsing, or gaming. For instance, if you’re browsing websites from a different country, a disconnection might interrupt your session and kick you off these websites.

What should I do if my VPN keeps connecting and disconnecting?

Several solutions exist because there’s a wide range of VPN connection issues. The most common fixes you should try first include checking your WiFi network, trying a different VPN server, and disabling your firewall and antivirus. Ultimately, the solution depends on the issue causing the VPN to keep disconnecting.

Why does connecting to a VPN disconnect my internet?

When you connect to a VPN, the process of rerouting your traffic through an encrypted tunnel can temporarily interrupt your internet connectivity. This can also happen when switching servers. However, your connection should resume after a few seconds. If you still can’t access the internet after a few minutes, there are other reasons with easy fixes. For example, you can check whether there is a software issue or conflict between the VPN and your firewall or antivirus.

Why won't my free VPN connect?

Free VPN services often have a limited number of servers and a large user base, which can result in overcrowded servers and connectivity issues. Additionally, some free VPNs throttle connection speeds or impose data limits, which could make it difficult to establish a stable connection. A quality VPN with a money-back guarantee is a more reliable alternative since it has a global network of fast servers and unlimited bandwidth.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for disconnection issues…

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Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to strict testing methodology.