your trusty ExpressVPN isn’t playing nice? Don’t panic it happens to the best of us! There are a bunch of reasons why your VPN might be acting up and believe me most of them are super easy to fix.
Let’s dive in and get your connection back up and running.
Having trouble with your VPN? 😠We’ve all been there! Check out this super helpful guide to get things back on track. Learn how to fix your VPN connection
The Usual Suspects: Common VPN Connection Problems
Having trouble with your VPN? 😠We’ve all been there! Check out this super helpful guide to get things back on track. Learn how to fix your VPN connection
Before we start digging deeper let’s run through some common culprits that often cause ExpressVPN to go kaput.
1. Check Your Internet Connection – It’s the Foundation!
First things first let’s make sure the foundation of your online world is solid.
Go ahead and disconnect ExpressVPN and try browsing a website.
If you’re sailing smoothly your internet connection isn’t the problem.
But if things are grinding to a halt we need to troubleshoot your network.
I know troubleshooting sounds intimidating but it’s not rocket science.
There are tons of online guides tailored to your specific operating system (Windows Mac etc.). You can find them with a simple search.
Pro Tip: If your internet is crawling consider upgrading your internet plan or maybe even switching to a different internet provider.
2. Slow Speed? Test Your Internet!
Sometimes a slow internet connection can make connecting to a VPN feel like a race against time.
It’s a good idea to run a speed test like the one from Ookla to see what’s going on.
If your speeds are lagging consider these solutions:
- Get closer to your router: The closer your device is to your router the better the signal strength.
- Try an ethernet cable: A wired connection is usually faster and more stable than Wi-Fi.
- Upgrade or Switch: If you’ve done all the above and your internet is still snail-paced it might be time to consider an upgrade or even switch providers.
3. Double-Check Your Credentials – A Typo Can Tank Everything!
Don’t laugh it’s happened to the best of us.
A simple typo in your username or password can derail your VPN connection.
So go ahead and double-check those details.
- Forgot your login info? No worries just reset your password or reach out to ExpressVPN’s customer support team. They’re usually pretty helpful.
- Using a router? Make sure you’re using the correct login info for your router. It’s different from your regular VPN account credentials.
4. Keep Your App Updated – Software Updates Aren’t Just for Fun!
Just like your phone or computer ExpressVPN needs updates too.
They often bring bug fixes security improvements and new features.
So it’s essential to make sure you’re running the latest version.
- ExpressVPN sends notifications: Don’t ignore those update prompts! They’re your friendly reminder that your VPN needs a refresh.
- Auto-update: You can usually set your app to automatically update so you never miss a beat.
Beyond the Basics: Digging Deeper into VPN Troubles
Alright we’ve tackled the basics.
If your VPN connection is still playing hard to get let’s move on to some more advanced troubleshooting.
5. Restart Your ExpressVPN App – Sometimes It’s As Simple As That!
Restarting your VPN app can sometimes clear up any glitches and give you a fresh start.
- Close it completely: Don’t just minimize the app. Force-quit it by using the task manager or swiping it off your screen.
- Wait a few seconds: Let the app fully shut down before reopening it.
- Sign in and try again: Fingers crossed this time it will connect!
6. Reinstall Your ExpressVPN App – A Clean Slate!
If restarting the app doesn’t do the trick it might be time for a clean slate.
- Uninstall the current app: Get rid of the existing ExpressVPN app from your device.
- Install the latest version: Download the newest version of ExpressVPN from their website or the app store.
- Sign in and test: After the installation sign back in and try connecting to a server.
7. Avoid Multiple VPN Connections – One At A Time!
You might think that using multiple VPNs provides extra security but in reality it can cause more problems than it solves.
Running several VPNs can lead to slow speeds instability and overall frustration.
- Disconnect or uninstall: If you’re running other VPN services disable or uninstall them. Let ExpressVPN take the reins.
8. Switch Server Locations – Explore the Global Network!
ExpressVPN has a vast network of servers in over 105 countries.
Sometimes a particular server location might be experiencing issues causing connectivity problems.
- Try the “Recommended” tab: ExpressVPN picks the best server locations for you.
- Browse “All Locations”: You can find servers by region and country.
- Use the search bar: Type in the server location you’re looking for.
9. Play with VPN Protocols – Find the Right Fit!
VPN protocols are the rules that govern the communication between your device and the VPN server.
ExpressVPN offers several protocols and they recommend using “Automatic” to let the system choose the best one for your network.
But if you’re having connection issues you might need to try some others:
- “Automatic”: The default setting.
- “OpenVPN”: Often recommended for security and stability.
- “IKEv2”: A popular choice known for its speed and reliability.
- “L2TP/IPsec”: A basic protocol that is usually good if you’re experiencing connection issues.
10. Firewall and Antivirus – Don’t Let Security Go Rogue!
Firewalls and antivirus software are designed to protect you but sometimes they can get a little overprotective and block your VPN connection.
- Temporarily disable your firewall: See if that solves the problem.
- Allowlist ExpressVPN: If your firewall is blocking the VPN add ExpressVPN to its exclusion list.
- The same goes for your antivirus: Disable it and see if the VPN starts working. If so you’ll need to allowlist ExpressVPN in your antivirus settings.
Last Resort: Calling In the Experts – ExpressVPN Customer Support!
If you’ve tried all the tips above and your ExpressVPN is still throwing you curveballs it’s time to reach out to the experts.
- Live chat: The easiest way to get help is through their live chat. Click “Need help? Chat with us!” in the bottom-right corner of their website.
- Try another VPN: If ExpressVPN just won’t cooperate consider giving another VPN provider a shot.
No Internet When ExpressVPN is On?
Having no internet connection while your VPN is running is a common frustration.
It can be caused by a few things including:
- Server location issues: The VPN server you’re connected to might be having technical difficulties.
- ISP interference: Your internet provider might be blocking or interfering with VPN traffic.
- Conflicting security software: Antivirus or security software might be interfering with the VPN connection.
- Proxy settings: Your web browser’s proxy settings could be causing issues.
Here’s how to tackle these issues:
- Update ExpressVPN: Make sure you’re running the latest version.
- Change server location: Try connecting to a different server.
- Change VPN protocol: Experiment with different VPN protocols.
- Add ExpressVPN to your security software’s exclusion list: Tell your antivirus or security software to leave ExpressVPN alone.
- Disable proxy settings: Check your browser’s settings and make sure the proxy is disabled.
Checking If Your VPN is Working: Simple Tests
Want to know if your VPN is actually doing its job? There are a few simple ways to tell:
- Check your IP address: Before connecting to the VPN note your IP address. Then connect to a VPN and check your IP again. If the IP address has changed your VPN is working.
- Check the VPN status: Most VPN apps have a status indicator that tells you if you’re connected to a VPN server.
Connecting ExpressVPN to Your Router: A Few More Things to Consider
If you’re having trouble connecting ExpressVPN to your router it could be due to a few things:
- Router compatibility: Not all routers are compatible with ExpressVPN. Check their compatibility list.
- Incorrect router configuration: Make sure you’ve followed the proper steps to configure your router.
- Other VPN connections: If you have other VPN connections on your devices it could cause conflicts.
- Other services: Services like Secure DNS or iCloud Private Relay could interfere with VPN access.
I hope this guide has helped you get to the bottom of your ExpressVPN issues.
It might seem a bit daunting but remember most problems are easy to fix with a little bit of patience and troubleshooting.
Happy browsing!
Having trouble with your VPN? 😠We’ve all been there! Check out this super helpful guide to get things back on track. Learn how to fix your VPN connection