Proton VPN Not Connecting | Not Working | Error Fix

If you’re having trouble with Proton VPN not connecting or working, it’s usually due to a local issue on your device or network, or a temporary problem with the VPN server.

The most effective solutions involve a mix of simple resets and checking your system’s security settings.

If Proton VPN is not connecting, not working, or giving you errors, here’s a complete troubleshooting guide to help you fix it step by step.

✅ Quick Fixes First

Before going deep, try these basic fixes:

1. Restart your device.

2. Reconnect to a different server.

3. Update Proton VPN app (check for updates in your app store or on the official Proton VPN website).

🔧 Common Proton VPN Issues & Fixes

1. Stuck on “Connecting” or Doesn’t Connect

Fixes:

• 🔄 Switch to a different protocol:
  In the app:
  Settings > Connection > VPN Protocol → Try WireGuard, OpenVPN (UDP or TCP), or Stealth (if available).

• 🌐 Try a different server:
  Some servers might be down or overloaded. Pick another location.

• 📶 Switch networks:
  Try using mobile data or a different Wi-Fi to see if it’s a network-specific issue.

• 🔌 Restart the VPN app and your device

Also Read : North Dakota Department of Revenue

2. No Internet When VPN Is Connected

Fixes:

• ❌ Disable Kill Switch (temporarily):
  Settings > Kill Switch — toggle it off and try reconnecting.

• 🔀 Switch protocols (WireGuard usually works well here)

• 🔧 Manually configure DNS:
  Set your DNS to 8.8.8.8 or 1.1.1.1 in your device’s network settings.

3. Proton VPN Not Working on Windows

Fixes:

• 🔧 Run as Administrator:
  Right-click → “Run as Administrator”

• 🛡️ Temporarily disable firewall/antivirus:
  Some aggressive firewalls block VPN traffic.

• 💼 Check TAP adapter settings:
  Go to Control Panel > Network Connections and ensure the TAP adapter is enabled.

• 🧹 Reset Network Settings:

  netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns


  Run these in Command Prompt as Admin, then restart.

4. Proton VPN Not Working on Mac

Fixes:

• 🍎 Allow VPN in Mac firewall:
  Go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Firewall > Options and allow Proton VPN.

• 🔐 Reset network permissions:
  Try deleting the Proton VPN profile in System Preferences > Profiles, then reinstall the app.

5. Proton VPN Not Working on Android or iOS

Fixes:

• 📲 Reinstall the app from the App Store or Google Play.

• 🔌 Reset network settings (Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings)

• 🔄 Switch protocols (especially try WireGuard or Stealth)

• ⚠️ Check for battery or data restrictions that could block background VPN usage.

🛠️ Other Things to Try

• 🔐 Check subscription status:
  Make sure your Proton VPN plan is active, especially if you’re on a free tier with limited servers.

• 🌍 Geo-restrictions / Country Blocks:
  Some countries (like China, Iran, UAE) block VPNs. Try using Stealth protocol or contact Proton VPN support.

• 📧 Contact Support:
  Proton VPN Support