8 Effective Solutions to Fix VPN Issues on Android Phones

VPN (Virtual Private Network) apps have gained popularity as they allow users to modify their IP address and create a private browsing experience on their phones and desktops. These apps also enable access to content that may be unavailable in a user's region. However, what happens when your preferred VPN app stops working on your Android phone? In this article, we will explore some of the best ways to troubleshoot VPN issues on your Android device.

1. Give the Required Permission

When setting up a VPN on your Android phone, it is crucial to grant the necessary permissions to establish a private connection. If, by mistake, you hit the cancel button when the dialog box appears, the VPN service won't work on your device. To rectify this, simply reconnect the VPN connection and tap “OK” on the dialog box to establish an active VPN network on your Android phone.

2. Check VPN Subscription

If your VPN subscription has expired or if there is outdated credit card information on file, the app won't work on your Android phone. To check the renewal date, open your VPN app on Android, navigate to Settings, select “My account,” and check the expiration date for your custom plan. If your plan has expired, visit the VPN website and update your payment information accordingly.

3. Try Another Server

VPN apps typically offer numerous servers worldwide. If one of your preferred servers is experiencing an outage, the VPN service may not work on your Android phone. To resolve this, connect to another server in the same region and try again. Open your VPN app, go to the Locations tab, choose another location or server, and attempt to activate the VPN service again.

4. Ensure an Active Internet Connection on Your Android Phone

For your VPN connection to function correctly, an active internet connection is essential. If you are experiencing connectivity issues, try resetting the network connection on your Android device. Swipe down from the home screen to access the quick toggles menu, enable Airplane mode, and disable it after a few seconds. Confirm an active internet connection using apps like Speedtest, and then reconnect to the VPN.

5. Lock the VPN App in the Background

Certain Android OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) may suspend background VPN services, leading to disruptions in the VPN app's functionality. To prevent this, you can lock essential apps like Gmail, WhatsApp, and VPN for uninterrupted operations. Open the recent apps menu on your Android phone, tap on the app icon at the top, and select “Lock this app.” Alternatively, you can keep VPN enabled all the time from Android Settings, under Network & internet > VPN > Settings > Always-on VPN.

6. Reset Network Settings

Incorrect network settings can cause VPN connectivity issues on Android phones. To resolve this, you can reset the network settings on your device. Please note that this process will delete your Wi-Fi networks, Bluetooth profiles, and saved VPN networks. Open Android Settings, scroll to System, select Reset options, tap Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth, and confirm the reset.

7. The Website Has Blocked VPN

Certain websites may block access when a VPN connection is active due to regional restrictions. If you encounter this issue, you need to change the VPN server to one that is not blocked by the website. Try connecting to a different server and attempt accessing the website again.

8. Update VPN

An outdated VPN app can lead to issues with its functionality on Android. To avoid this, ensure that you regularly update your VPN app to enjoy new features and bug fixes. Open the Google Play Store on your Android phone and download any pending VPN updates.

By following these effective solutions, you can quickly troubleshoot VPN issues on your Android phone and enjoy a seamless VPN experience. Remember to stay updated with the latest VPN app updates and maintain an active internet connection for optimal performance.