VPN Not Working on iPhone? Try These Quick Fixes

If you want to enjoy enhanced online privacy and security, using a VPN on your iPhone is essential. However, your VPN might stop working sometimes, a problem that stems from various causes like delayed app updates, overcrowded VPN servers, or outdated iOS versions. 

These connectivity issues are more than just annoyances – they could expose your real IP address and leave you vulnerable, especially in places with strict online surveillance. In this guide, we will show you how to fix a VPN not working on your iPhone in a matter of minutes.

12 Solutions to Fix a VPN Not Working on iPhone

We have compiled a list of common issues that might prevent your iPhone VPN from working along with simple fixes to tackle them:

1. Check your Internet Connection 

A strong internet connection is necessary for efficient VPN performance. Before getting into VPN-specific troubleshooting, make sure your internet connection is stable. A shaky connection can make it difficult for the VPN to function. 

If your internet connection is not strong enough, consider connecting to a different Wi-Fi network or switching to mobile data and check if the browsing quality improves. This helps in determining whether the problem is with the VPN or your internet connection. 

Related Read: 8 Tested Ways to Speed Up Your Internet 

2. Check the Status of Your VPN Server

VPN servers might sometimes experience downtime for reasons such as maintenance, technical difficulties, etc. You can check your VPN provider’s website or reach out to their customer support to confirm the server status. 

A quick solution is to connect to another VPN server and try accessing the internet again. We recommend subscribing to a VPN service with an extensive server network, such as PureVPN, to find working alternatives in any region.

3. Check for Server Congestion

When too many users try to connect to a VPN server at the same time, it can lead to server crashes. This situation is more likely with free iPhone VPNs, which often have limited servers catering to a large number of users.

Many VPN providers display how busy their servers are in their apps. For optimal performance, select a server with low traffic. Alternatively, you can use features that automatically connect you to the least crowded server like PureVPN’s Quick Connect option.

4. Switch the VPN Protocol

Certain firewall settings or network configurations might block with the ports used by various VPN protocols. Some protocols, like WireGuard, offer enhanced stability and security, while older ones like PPTP might result in connection errors.

To resolve this, switch to a different protocol in your VPN app’s settings. For instance, PureVPN offers options like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2. Trying out each protocol can help determine which one works best for you.

5. Reboot Your iPhone

Rebooting your iPhone is a commonly ignored approach for fixing VPN connection issues. This straightforward technique holds the ability to fix temporary faults and refresh critical network settings. 

When your iPhone operates for long periods of time, it can build up background activities or experience brief software problems that can interfere with VPN working. Restarting the device does a short reset, removing these potential barriers and offering a clean slate for the VPN connection. 

Just follow these steps to reboot your iPhone:

1. Hold down either one of the volume buttons (found on the left side) and the side button (on the right side) at the same time.
2. Release the buttons when the power-off slider appears on your screen.
3. Move the slider to turn off your iPhone, then wait for about 30 seconds.
4. To switch your iPhone back on, press and hold the side button until the Apple logo shows up.

6. Keep Your VPN App Up-to-Date

Ensuring your VPN app is updated is essential for maintaining a seamless connection. Outdated versions may harbor unresolved glitches or compatibility issues with the latest iOS updates, leading to frequent disruptions in service.

Although most VPN apps on iOS notify users about available updates, proactive checking is advisable. In the absence of automatic notifications, visit the Apple App Store, locate your VPN provider’s app, and initiate the update process manually. 

7. Update your iOS version

Having an older version of iOS might lead to problems with your VPN connection. Additionally, outdated iOS versions can leave your device exposed to security risks, despite having a functional VPN.

Here is how to update your iPhone’s iOS:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Select General.
3. Choose Software Update.
4. Enable Automatic Updates for iOS to download and install updates as they become available.

If you are still experiencing VPN issues, revisit ‘Software Update’ to manually check for any new updates, as some may not be automatically installed.

8. Double check your VPN credentials

For subscription-based VPN services, entering the correct login credentials are essential to access your account. If your credentials are incorrect, you may encounter an ‘Authentication Failed’ error when trying to connect to a VPN server.

Before attempting to connect, verify that you have entered the correct email address and password. Pay close attention to details like typos, the use of upper and lower case letters, special characters, and easily confused elements like the letter ‘O’ and the number ‘0’.

9. Reinstall your VPN app

VPN apps, similar to other types of software, can sometimes encounter configuration issues during installation or following updates. To address this, first close and then uninstall the VPN app from your iPhone. Next, head over to the Apple App Store, find your VPN service, and download the app again. 

Once reinstalled, log into the app using your credentials and attempt to connect to your preferred VPN server. This fresh installation might resolve any lingering issues and restore your VPN’s functionality.

10. Check router and firewall settings

VPN connections can sometimes be hindered by specific settings in your local network or firewall, which may block the VPN’s traffic and stop it from reaching the server.

If you are using your home Wi-Fi network for VPN access, it is a good idea to review the settings of your router and firewall. Consult your router’s manual to ensure that the necessary VPN ports are open and that your firewall settings permit VPN traffic. 

11. Reach Out to Your VPN Provider

At times, pinpointing the exact issue with your iPhone’s VPN can be challenging, no matter how thorough your troubleshooting is.

In these situations, it is best to get in touch with your VPN service provider’s customer support team for help. Most reliable VPNs offer 24/7 live chat; if that is not available, you can email their support team, explaining your VPN issue. 

12. Select a Better VPN 

If none of the solutions work for you, it is possible that your VPN does not work well with iPhones. In this scenario, you should research and select a more reliable VPN specifically suited for iPhone use.

Look for an iOS VPN with strong user reviews and a high rating on the Apple App Store. Key factors to consider include robust security features and dependable customer support. For a more secure and stable experience, opt for paid VPN services like PureVPN as opposed to free alternatives.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is VPN not working on my iPhone?

A VPN might not work on your iPhone for several reasons, such as a weak internet connection, issues with the VPN server, outdated VPN apps, or an older iOS version. To ensure optimal performance, consider using a high-quality VPN with a full-featured iOS app like PureVPN, which offers a variety of reliable VPN protocols.

How can I fix a VPN not working on my iPhone?

To troubleshoot VPN issues on your iPhone, start by checking your internet connection for stability. Next, confirm if there are any issues with your VPN server. You should also experiment with different VPN protocols, and ensure your VPN app and iOS are up-to-date.