Symptoms
- Internet stops working entirely when VPN is on
- Certain apps fail to load only when connected to VPN
- VPN shows connected but nothing loads
- Turning VPN off restores normal internet immediately
Likely causes
- CommonVPN server experiencing an outage or overloadA specific VPN server location can go down or become overloaded, blocking traffic through it.
- CommonVPN app configuration or expired subscriptionAn expired subscription or misconfigured setting can silently block traffic while showing 'connected'.
- PossibleDNS settings conflict introduced by the VPNSome VPNs override DNS settings in a way that conflicts with certain networks or apps.
- PossibleApp specifically blocking VPN connectionsSome banking or streaming apps intentionally block known VPN IP addresses.
- Less commonVPN protocol incompatible with the current networkCertain restrictive networks block the specific VPN protocol being used.
What to do
- Turn off the VPN and confirm internet works normally without it, to isolate the VPN as the cause.
- Switch to a different VPN server location within the same app.
- Check that your VPN subscription is active and not expired.
- Try a different VPN protocol if the app offers a choice (like switching from one option to another in settings).
- Restart the VPN app and reconnect.
- Update the VPN app to its latest version.
- If a specific app fails only with VPN on, this may be intentional VPN blocking by that app or service.
- If the VPN itself won't connect properly across servers, contact the VPN provider's support.
When to call a pro
If the VPN fails consistently across multiple servers and protocols, contact the VPN provider's support for account or service-level troubleshooting.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.