Why Does My VPN Keep Disconnecting

Your VPN is the ultimate tool when streaming and browsing the internet. However, it can be frustrating when your connection is constantly down or buffering, especially when the “kill switch” feature is set to “ON”. This is a great safety feature as it leaves no gaps in your safety or connection.

There is nothing worse than when you are in the middle of your favorite TV series “marathon” and you are interrupted by that dreaded spinning wheel of death. In the following article, you will learn common reasons why your VPN disconnects, and find a detailed step-by-step guide to fixing your VPN connection.

Why Does My VPN Keep Disconnecting?

VPN disconnects are often related to the VPN software itself or your web browser, so resolving such a problem is usually a process of elimination. However, your VPN might not be working due to an overloaded VPN server, outdated VPN software, or a wrong VPN protocol. The main reasons for VPN disconnecting are described as follows.

Antivirus

Any third-party firewall or antivirus program installed on your device might affect your VPN connection. These programs always run in the background and consume a lot of bandwidth.

Disable all firewall or antivirus programs on your device, and reconnect to your VPN. If your connection is back on, your problem is solved. If the problem persists, then there is another reason for it.

Server Location or Connection

There is a possibility that your problem is the VPN server connection. Try connecting to a server location near you; your connection will be faster and more stable when you connect to a server in the country you live.

If you wish to bypass geographical restrictions and track content from the US, but your connection to the US server is constantly declining your request, then you might need to change your VPN provider.

Protocol

The VPN protocol you are using might be the reason why your connection is constantly falling. You can check it by changing protocols and testing your connection every time. If you find a protocol that keeps your connection stable, your problem is solved. Of course, the whole process might take some time to experiment, until you find the best one for your case.

Domain Name System (DNS) Settings

Although a less common solution, changing your DNS settings can help you overcome connection problems. This is of course a lot of experimentation, but you can find the solution after trying different settings.

Internet Connection

There can be many different problems that cause VPN disconnecting, most of which end up with a faulty internet connection. Check the speed at which you connect to the Internet without being connected to your VPN to see if it is as good as you thought.

Although unprotected, you should try streaming with the VPN turned “off”. If your connection continues to drop, then you will know that it is your internet connection that is to blame and not the VPN. In such a case, you should probably change your ISP.

VPN Connection

If you use a free VPN, its performance and speed may lag. No matter how valuable a VPN may be to you, it is always better to use a paid service. This is not only because free VPNs offer less protection, but also because they limit your speed and bandwidth, making your streaming experience less enjoyable.

With a paid VPN service, you will be able to access features such as unlimited bandwidth, unlimited speeds, interchangeable kill switch function, and a strong and secure connection. When choosing a new VPN, find out what features it offers and which ones are streaming optimized for a better experience. Sign up for free trials or use the money-back guarantee to avoid unwanted charges.

11 Steps to Fix VPN Disconnects

Most of the time, VPN services work without obstacles. This can cause confusion or frustration if you suddenly have trouble connecting to your VPN. When your VPN seems a bit unstable and refuses to connect, this step-by-step troubleshooting guide can help you get started again.

Step 1: Check your internet connection

It might seem obvious, but make sure your network connection is working. In particular, if the WiFi connection is not working, check that your device is connected to the correct access point.

Step 2: Check your login credentials

Not having the correct or up-to-date login credentials is another obvious but often overlooked detail. If you are using a free VPN service, check the website to see if the credentials provided by the VPN service have changed or if your password needs to be updated.

Step 3: Change the VPN server connection

VPNs generally offer a choice of servers to connect to. However, sometimes the server you are trying to connect to has problems. It might be temporarily down or overloaded with too many connections. Try a different server and see if this solves the problem.

Step 4: Restart the VPN software or Browser Addon

If changing the VPN server does not work, restart the VPN software or add a browser. Do not simply disconnect from the VPN server. Shut down and restart the software. In case of browser addons, close completely and reopen your browser. You might need to clear your browser cache for the add-on to work again.

Step 5: Make sure your VPN software is up to date

VPN software is frequently updated. To eliminate the possibility of errors and maximize performance, make sure you are using the latest software available. In most cases, you can check for updates in the VPN menu to get the latest update. You can also set your VPN to automatically update to VPN settings.

Step 6: Make sure your browser is up to date

To eliminate common browser-based problems, use a browser that is supported by your VPN provider. Also, make sure that you have the latest browser updates installed.

Step 7: Reinstall the latest VPN software package

If nothing else works, reinstall the VPN software. It is recommended to go to the VPN provider’s website and find and reinstall the latest software package for your operating system or device. You might want to uninstall the old packages first to make sure you are starting with a clean slate.

Step 8: Change the VPN routing protocol

If you are still trying to connect, the problem could be with the VPN tunnel protocol. Go to VPN or network settings and try using different protocols: for example OpenVPN, L2TP / IPSec, or IKeV2 / IPSec. The location of these settings varies depending on the VPN product, device, or operating system.

If you have any questions, please contact your VPN provider. Whenever possible you should have all four of these components in place for launch to maximize profits.

Step 9: Change the connection port

Some ISPs and networks block traffic to certain ports. Check the VPN documentation to see if it recommends using a specific port number. If so, using a different port can solve the problem.

Step 10: Check your router settings

Some routers do not support VPN (a feature on a router that allows free Internet traffic). On your home network, check your router and personal firewall settings for these options. You will need administrator access to make any changes.

VPN Routing

There might be an option in the security settings to enable IPSec or PPTP (two common types of VPN protocols). Note that not all routers have this setting.

Port forwarding and protocols

Your firewall on the router and any firewall programs installed might need to have specific ports forwarded and protocols opened. Check your router’s manual or site documentation and if in doubt, contact your VPN provider.

Step 11: Talk to your VPN provider

If the VPN is still not connected, contact your VPN provider. A technician will ask you what solutions you have tried, the type of installation you are having (router type, internet connection, and operating system), as well as any error messages you have received. As a VPN specialist, the provider should be able to help you.

Best VPN Service Providers

If you’ve decided to try a new VPN service, you need to choose something you trust. Therefore, we present to you our top 5 VPNs that offer strong connections, but also fast, and reliable speeds.

#1. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is known as one of the best VPN services on the market. The company offers excellent performance, strong connections near and far, as well as secure servers in 94 countries.

In addition, you have the option of testing the VPN for 30 days to decide if the service meets your needs and request a refund if you are not completely satisfied. Finally, you have full access to the 24/7 customer service to help you with any problem you might encounter.

Price

$12.95 billed each month.
$59.95 billed every six months.
$99.95 billed annually.

Key Features

30-day money-back guarantee.
Impressive speed.
Strong connections.
Fast and reliable customer service.
Downloads torrents at good speeds with the UDP protocol enabled.
Compatibility with all operating systems.
Not affected by WebRTC.
OpenVPN and VPN Kill Switch.
DNS protection.
Allows switching protocols.
Many servers from many countries and unlimited traffic.
Purchase routers with integrated VPN capability through custom firmware.
Absolute privacy; it does not record your activity, and accepts anonymous subscriptions with cryptocurrency.
24/7 support and Live Chat with Asian working hours.
Money back guarantee within thirty days.

#2. IPVanish

IPVanish has a large number of positive reviews. It is undoubtedly one of the best options for fast VPNs based in the United States. The application has the excellent function to change the IP at regular intervals, at the time you wish, stating that with this option, there will be a short interruption in your VPN connection.

Price

$3.99 per month for the first year’s subscription.
$89.99 annually (after the first year).
$7.50 per month (after the first year).

Key Features

Compatibility with all operating systems.
Very good torrent download speeds.
Stable and fast VPN.
Not affected by WebRTC.
Many servers from several countries and unlimited traffic.
Automatically connection to computer startup.
Very fast connection.
Purchase routers with integrated VPN capability through custom firmware.
Absolute privacy; it does not record activity and accepts anonymous cryptocurrency subscriptions.
Continuous technical support 24/7.

#3. NordVPN

NordVPN is not unjustly considered one of the top VPNs, and according to independent studies by large labs, it is the fastest VPN on the market that also does not record the slightest user activity.

A big advantage of NordVPN is that it works on all popular platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android TV, and iOS. It should be noted that especially in TV Boxes, NordVPN is probably the only one that works so efficiently.

Price

$11.95 per month.
$99 annually.

Key Features

The fastest VPN.
Impressive security with high dual encryption and capabilities on Tor.
One of the lowest subscriptions.
Compatibility with all operating systems.
Six simultaneous connections to different devices.
Downloads torrent (P2P) at high speeds.
VPN Kill Switch.
DNS Leak protection.
A large number of servers depending on the use, from many countries and with unlimited traffic.
Instant switching to servers, without having to disconnect from the current one.
Automatically connection to computer startup.
Friendly and simple environment.
Purchase of routers with integrated VPN capability through custom firmware.
Absolute privacy
Money back guarantee within 30 days.
24/7 support.

#4. PureVPN

PureVPN is considered to be one of the most trusted VPNs and is a proposition of many reputable technology websites. The service was established in 2007 and is based in Hong Kong.

The PureVPN client is one of the simplest, as you do not need to do much, nor get lost in translation. Comes with five useful sections – profiles, each of which concerns the reason why you want to use the VPN.

Price

$10.95 per month.

Key Features

One of the cheapest VPNs.
Very good protection with high encryption, which you can change.
Compatibility with most functionalities.
Five simultaneous connections.
Kill Switch and Split Tunneling.
DNS and IPV6 Leak protection.
Automatically connection to computer startup.
Extensions for Chrome and Firefox.
Add-on for Kodi.
Purchase routers with integrated VPN capability through custom firmware.
24/7 support and fast Live chat.
Money back guarantee within fifteen days.

#5. CyberGhost

CyberGhost VPN has a great “try before you buy” trial offer. However, if you eventually register as a subscriber, you will also have a 30-day money-back guarantee.

With high performance and unlimited bandwidth, you will be able to stream from any of your devices with almost zero chance of experiencing an outage. Although CyberGhost offers 24/7 customer support, the company does not have live chat on its website.

Price

$12.99 per month.

Key Features

Free trial.
High speeds.
Unlimited bandwidth.
Supports all known devices.
One of the cheapest VPNs.
Money back guarantee within 45 days.
Downloads torrent with good speeds.
Instant switching to servers, without having to disconnect from the current server.
Automatically connection to computer startup.
Automatic VPN connection to unsecured public networks.
Complete protection against malware on all devices.
IPv6 Leak protection.
Not affected by WebRTC.
Absolute privacy; does not record activity under Romanian law.
Continuous and fast support 24/7.
Compatibility with all operating systems.

Conclusion

We hope this article has helped solve your VPN disconnect problem. If it did, be sure to check out some other articles we think you might be interested in: