You’re all set to stream your favorite show, shop safely online, or browse privately, and suddenly—poof—your VPN disconnects. Few things are as frustrating as a VPN that won’t stay connected, especially when you’re relying on it for privacy or to bypass pesky geo-blocks.
At MbombelaTech, we get it. So, let’s tackle the question that’s driving you mad: “Why does my VPN keep disconnecting?” We’ll also serve up solutions to keep your VPN running smoothly.
Why Does My VPN Keep Disconnecting?
A VPN disconnecting constantly isn’t just annoying—it’s a red flag that something’s not quite right. Here are the most common culprits behind those pesky drops:
1. Weak or Unstable Internet Connection
Your VPN is only as strong as your internet connection. If your Wi-Fi or mobile data is spotty, your VPN might struggle to maintain a stable connection.
Signs to Look For:
- Your internet disconnects frequently, even without a VPN.
- You experience slow speeds or lagging when streaming or browsing.
2. Overloaded VPN Servers
VPN servers can only handle so many users at once. If you’re connected to a crowded server, the load might cause your connection to drop.
Signs to Look For:
- Disconnections happen more often during peak hours (like evenings or weekends).
- The issue resolves when you switch to a less popular server.
3. Network Settings and Firewalls
Sometimes, your own devices can work against you. Overzealous firewalls, outdated network settings, or even certain ISPs (Internet Service Providers) can interfere with your VPN connection.
Signs to Look For:
- Your VPN disconnects only on specific networks (e.g., at work or on public Wi-Fi).
- Disabling your firewall or antivirus temporarily fixes the issue.
4. VPN Protocol Issues
VPNs use specific protocols (like OpenVPN, IKEv2, or WireGuard) to establish secure connections. If the protocol you’re using is outdated or incompatible with your network, disconnections can occur.
Signs to Look For:
- Switching protocols in your VPN settings reduces the frequency of disconnects.
- Disconnections happen when you switch between networks (like Wi-Fi to mobile data).
5. Device Power-Saving Settings
Your device might be trying to “help” by cutting off apps running in the background—including your VPN. This is common on mobile devices with aggressive battery-saving settings.
Signs to Look For:
- Your VPN disconnects after your device goes idle or the screen turns off.
- The issue happens more on mobile than on desktop.
6. Incompatible Apps or Software Conflicts
Certain apps or software—like other security tools or network-heavy applications—can conflict with your VPN and cause it to disconnect.
Signs to Look For:
- Disconnections happen only when specific apps are open.
- The issue resolves when you temporarily disable conflicting software.
7. VPN Provider Limitations
Let’s be real: not all VPNs are created equal. Free or budget VPNs often lack the infrastructure to provide a stable connection, leading to frequent drops.
Signs to Look For:
- The issue persists no matter what device, network, or server you use.
- Switching to a premium VPN provider resolves the problem.
8. ISP Throttling
Some ISPs actively throttle VPN traffic, especially if they suspect you’re using it to bypass restrictions or consume high bandwidth (looking at you, streamers!).
Signs to Look For:
- Your VPN disconnects only on certain ISPs or network connections.
- Speeds improve noticeably when the VPN is off.
How to Fix a Disconnecting VPN
Now that you know the why, let’s focus on the how. Here are some effective solutions to keep your VPN connected:
1. Check Your Internet Connection
Start with the basics: ensure your Wi-Fi or mobile data is stable.
- Try this: Restart your router or switch to a wired connection for better stability.
- Pro Tip: Test your speed using an online tool. A VPN needs at least 10 Mbps for a smooth experience.
2. Switch to a Different Server
If one server is overloaded, try connecting to another. Most VPNs allow you to pick from a list of servers in different locations.
- Try this: Choose a server closer to your physical location for better performance.
3. Adjust Your VPN Protocol
Most VPN apps let you change the protocol in their settings. Experiment with options like OpenVPN, IKEv2, or WireGuard.
- Try this: If you’re unsure, let your VPN app automatically select the best protocol for your connection.
4. Configure Your Network Settings
Sometimes, tweaking your network settings can make a big difference.
- Try this:
- Add your VPN to your firewall’s list of trusted apps.
- Check your router settings to ensure VPN traffic isn’t being blocked.
5. Disable Power-Saving Features
On mobile devices, make sure your VPN app is excluded from battery-saving settings.
- For Android: Go to Settings > Battery > Optimize apps, and select your VPN app to exclude it.
- For iOS: Turn off “Low Power Mode” when using your VPN.
6. Close Conflicting Apps
If certain apps are hogging your bandwidth or interfering with your VPN, close them or adjust their permissions.
- Try this: Temporarily disable your antivirus or firewall to see if it’s the cause.
7. Upgrade Your VPN Provider
If you’re using a free or unreliable VPN, consider investing in a premium provider like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or Surfshark. These offer better server infrastructure, faster speeds, and 24/7 support.
8. Contact Your VPN Support Team
Still stuck? Reach out to your VPN’s customer support. They can provide troubleshooting steps tailored to their service.
The MbombelaTech Verdict
A VPN is a fantastic tool, but like any technology, it’s not immune to hiccups. If your VPN keeps disconnecting, the key is to identify the root cause—whether it’s your internet, settings, or the VPN itself—and apply the right fix.
At the end of the day, a stable VPN connection means peace of mind: private browsing, secure connections, and unrestricted access to the internet. And who doesn’t want that?
If you’ve tried all these tips and your VPN is still acting up, it might be time to switch to a more reliable provider. Because when it comes to your online safety, you deserve the best.
Got more tech troubles? Drop your questions below or hit us up on social media—MbombelaTech is here to help!