It’s frustrating when your trusty ExpressVPN just decides to take a break right? Been there done that.
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to get it back up and running and I’d love to share them with you.
You’re tired of your VPN acting up, right? 😩 We’ve all been there, and it’s frustrating! 🤬
Let’s get your ExpressVPN working again, like a pro! 🦸♀️
Check out these pro tips to fix your VPN issues
The Usual Suspects: Common Causes of ExpressVPN Troubles
You’re tired of your VPN acting up, right? 😩 We’ve all been there, and it’s frustrating! 🤬
Let’s get your ExpressVPN working again, like a pro! 🦸♀️
Check out these pro tips to fix your VPN issues
Let’s start by exploring the usual suspects behind these VPN connection hiccups.
Think of it like troubleshooting a car engine – you need to know where to look first.
1. The Internet Connection Checkup
First things first check your internet connection.
It’s like making sure your car has gas! A simple way to test is by temporarily disconnecting ExpressVPN and browsing any website.
If everything loads smoothly your internet connection is fine.
If not then you’ve got a network issue to address.
Troubleshooting Your Network
- Windows: Head over to Microsoft’s website they have a fantastic guide on troubleshooting network problems in Windows.
- Mac: Apple also has a helpful guide for troubleshooting internet connections on your Mac.
2. Slow Internet Speed: The Silent Saboteur
Sometimes a slow internet connection can be the culprit even if it appears to be working.
Run a speed test to be sure I recommend using Ookla’s speed test tool.
If you’re getting snail-like speeds try moving closer to your router or connecting your device directly to the router using an Ethernet cable.
If that doesn’t help you might need to consider upgrading your internet plan or even switching to a different provider altogether.
Login Issues: A Common Stumbling Block
Ever forgotten a password? We’ve all been there.
Make sure your login details for your ExpressVPN account are correct.
A simple typo can be the reason your VPN isn’t working.
What to do if you can’t remember your login details:
- Password Reset: If you’ve forgotten your password use the password reset feature on your ExpressVPN account.
- Customer Support: If you can’t remember your username or if the password reset process isn’t working don’t hesitate to contact ExpressVPN’s customer support team. They’re usually very helpful and quick to respond.
ExpressVPN on Your Router: A Separate Login
If you’re using ExpressVPN on your router remember that the login details for your router are different from your VPN account credentials.
Double-check that you’ve entered the correct information.
Keeping Up-to-Date: Essential for Smooth Sailing
Like any software the ExpressVPN app receives regular updates.
These updates can range from minor interface changes to critical security and functionality improvements.
Staying Up-to-Date
- Notifications: ExpressVPN sends out notifications about the latest updates. Don’t ignore them!
- Auto-Updates: Enable auto-updates to ensure you’re always running the newest version of the app.
Restarting ExpressVPN: A Quick Fix
Sometimes a simple restart can do wonders.
Completely close the ExpressVPN app and then reopen it.
This can refresh the connection and solve minor glitches.
Restarting Instructions
- Windows/Mac: Close the app completely then reopen it.
- Mobile: Force-quit the app using your device’s task manager or swipe it off the screen to close it.
Reinstalling ExpressVPN: A Clean Slate
If restarting doesn’t work consider reinstalling the ExpressVPN app.
Reinstallation Steps
- Uninstall: Remove the current app from your device.
- Install: Download and install the latest version from the official website or app store.
- Sign In: Log back into your account.
- Connect: Attempt to connect to a VPN server to see if the issue is resolved.
Multiple VPNs: A Potential Problem
While it may seem like using more VPNs means more security running multiple VPN connections can actually lead to performance issues slow speeds and unstable connectivity.
If you’re connected to more than one VPN service disconnect or uninstall the others to see if it resolves the problem.
Switch Servers: Finding the Right Fit
ExpressVPN has a wide network of servers across 105 countries.
Sometimes a specific server might be experiencing downtime overloaded with traffic or have connectivity issues.
Trying Different Servers
- Recommended Tab: Check the “Recommended” tab in your ExpressVPN app. It suggests server locations that are usually the best for your connection.
- All Locations Tab: Browse the “All Locations” tab sorted by region. Select a server location based on your preference.
- Search Bar: Type the name of a specific server location into the search bar if you have one in mind.
VPN Protocols: The Language of Security
VPN protocols are like the language your device uses to communicate with the VPN server.
ExpressVPN offers several protocols and they recommend using the “Automatic” setting which chooses the most suitable protocol for your network.
If you’re experiencing connection issues try switching protocols manually.
Switching Protocols
- Open the ExpressVPN App: Locate the settings or preferences section.
- Choose a Protocol: Select a different protocol from the available options. Experiment with different protocols to see which one works best for you.
Firewall Issues: A Security Barrier
Firewalls are designed to protect your devices from online threats.
Sometimes a firewall’s settings can be too strict and block your VPN connection.
Temporarily Disabling Your Firewall
- Disable Your Firewall: Temporarily disable your firewall and try connecting to a VPN server.
- Allowlisting ExpressVPN: If your firewall is blocking the connection add ExpressVPN as an exclusion to your firewall settings.
Allowlisting ExpressVPN on Windows:
- Open Control Panel: Search for “Control Panel” in the Windows search bar.
- Navigate to Windows Defender Firewall: Go to “System and Security” > “Windows Defender Firewall.”
- Allow an App or Feature Through Windows Defender Firewall: Click on “Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.”
- Change Settings: Click on “Change settings.”
- Find ExpressVPN: Locate the ExpressVPN application in the list.
- Check the Boxes: Check the boxes for “Private” and “Public” networks.
- Click OK: Click “OK” to save the changes.
Allowlisting ExpressVPN on macOS:
- Open System Preferences: Click on the Apple logo in the top-left corner of the screen and select “System Preferences.”
- Choose Security & Privacy: Click on “Security & Privacy.”
- Go to Firewall: Select “Firewall.”
- Unlock Firewall Settings: Click on the lock icon to unlock the settings. Enter your administrator password when prompted.
- Add ExpressVPN: Click the “+” button to add ExpressVPN to the Firewall list.
- Choose the Correct Application: Select the ExpressVPN application from the list of available applications.
- Confirm: Click “Add” to confirm the addition.
Antivirus Software: A Potential Blocker
Antivirus software is crucial for online safety but it can sometimes interfere with your VPN connection.
Temporarily Disabling Your Antivirus
- Disable Antivirus: Temporarily disable your antivirus software and try connecting to a VPN server.
- Allowlisting ExpressVPN: If the antivirus is the culprit you’ll need to add ExpressVPN to your antivirus’s list of trusted applications or exclusions. The specific steps for allowlisting will vary depending on your antivirus software so check your antivirus provider’s documentation or contact their customer support for assistance.
When All Else Fails: Contact Support
If none of the above solutions work it’s time to reach out to the ExpressVPN support team.
Reaching Out to ExpressVPN Support
- Live Chat: The easiest and quickest way to contact them is through the live chat available on their website.
- Email: You can also send an email to their support team.
- Phone: If you prefer to speak with someone directly they also offer phone support.
Exploring Alternatives: Surfshark VPN
If you’ve tried everything and still can’t get ExpressVPN working consider trying a different VPN service.
Surfshark VPN is a reputable provider with a strong track record for reliable and secure connections.
Why Consider Surfshark?
- Stable Connections: Surfshark is known for its stable connections.
- Top-Notch Security: It prioritizes security features.
- Fast Speeds: Surfshark boasts fast speeds for a smooth browsing experience.
- Customer Satisfaction Guarantee: They offer a customer satisfaction guarantee to ensure you’re happy with their service.
Understanding “No Internet Connection” with ExpressVPN
There are several reasons why you might see “no internet connection” when ExpressVPN is turned on:
- Server Issues: Connectivity problems at the chosen server location could be the cause.
- ISP Interference: Your internet service provider (ISP) might be interfering with VPN protocols.
- Antivirus/Security App Conflicts: Your antivirus or online security application settings could be interfering with the VPN connection.
- Browser Proxy Interference: Your web browser’s proxy settings might be preventing the connection.
Troubleshooting No Internet Connection
- Update ExpressVPN: Make sure you’re using the latest version.
- Change Servers: Connect to a different VPN server location.
- Change VPN Protocol: Try switching to a different VPN protocol.
- Allowlist ExpressVPN: Add ExpressVPN as an exclusion in your antivirus or online security application settings.
- Disable Browser Proxy: Temporarily disable proxy settings in your browser.
Checking if Your VPN is Actually Working
There are a few ways to verify if your VPN is working correctly:
- Check Your IP Address: Note your IP address before connecting to the VPN and then check it again after connecting. If the IP address has changed it means your VPN is working.
- VPN Status: Most VPN providers have a VPN status indicator on their app. Check to see if it’s showing that you’re connected.
ExpressVPN and Your Router: Troubleshooting Tips
Connecting ExpressVPN to your router can sometimes be tricky.
Here are some common reasons why you might be having trouble:
- Router Compatibility: Not all routers are compatible with ExpressVPN. Check your router’s documentation or contact the manufacturer to see if it supports VPN connections.
- Incorrect Router Setup: Make sure you’ve set up your router correctly to work with ExpressVPN. Follow the instructions provided by ExpressVPN for setting up a VPN on your router.
- Other VPN Connections: If you have other VPN connections on your devices these can interfere with the router’s connection. Disconnect any other VPNs before attempting to connect ExpressVPN to your router.
- Conflicting Services: Services like Secure DNS or iCloud Private Relay might interfere with the VPN connection. Temporarily disable these services to see if it resolves the issue.
I hope this comprehensive guide helps you troubleshoot those pesky ExpressVPN connection issues.
Remember it’s a common experience and with a little patience and the right troubleshooting steps you can usually get back online in no time!
You’re tired of your VPN acting up, right? 😩 We’ve all been there, and it’s frustrating! 🤬
Let’s get your ExpressVPN working again, like a pro! 🦸♀️