Experiencing issues with NordVPN not connecting can be frustrating, especially when you rely on a VPN for privacy and security.
In this article, we’ll explore some common reasons for NordVPN connection problems and provide you with helpful solutions to get you back online.
Sometimes, the issue might be server-related, protocol settings, or even app configuration issues.
Trying different NordVPN servers, switching between TCP and UDP protocols, and resetting the app are all viable options to resolve connectivity problems.
Don’t worry; we’ll guide you through these steps to get your NordVPN connection up and running again.
While NordVPN is a popular choice, it’s always good to have a backup plan.
If you’re looking for a top alternative, we highly recommend Surfshark.
With robust security features, consistent speeds, and user-friendly interface, Surfshark will keep your online activities secure and private without any hassle.
Common Reasons for NordVPN Not Connecting
Firewall and Antivirus Interference
Sometimes, your firewall or antivirus software can interfere with NordVPN’s connection.
To determine if this is the case, temporarily disable your firewall and antivirus, and then try connecting to a NordVPN server.
If the connection works, you’ll need to adjust your firewall and antivirus settings to allow NordVPN to connect.
Make sure you re-enable the firewall and antivirus after testing.
Incorrect Account Credentials
Another possible reason for NordVPN not connecting is due to incorrect account credentials.
Ensure that you’re using the correct email address and password associated with your NordVPN account.
If you’ve forgotten your password, you can reset it by following the instructions on the NordVPN website.
Additionally, make sure your subscription hasn’t expired, as this might also cause connection issues.
Network Issues
Network issues can also affect your NordVPN connection.
Here are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot:
- Check your internet connection: Ensure that your Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection is stable, and that you are able to browse the web without any issues.
- Restart your router or modem: Power off your router or modem for a minute and then power it back on. This can sometimes resolve connection issues.
- Change VPN servers: If the particular NordVPN server you’re attempting to connect to is down or overcrowded, try connecting to a different server.
- Update NordVPN app: Ensure that you have the latest version of the NordVPN app installed on your device.
- Reset NordVPN app: If none of these steps work, you can try resetting the NordVPN app. To do this, open the app settings, select Advanced, and click Run Diagnostics Tool. In the window that opens, select Reset app.
By addressing these common reasons for NordVPN not connecting, you should be able to establish a successful connection and enjoy secure and private browsing.
Troubleshooting Steps for Various Devices
This section will provide you with troubleshooting steps to address NordVPN connectivity issues on different devices.
Follow the steps outlined in each sub-section according to your device’s operating system.
Windows
- Check your internet connection: Ensure you have a stable internet connection before connecting to NordVPN.
- Verify your login credentials: Make sure you’re using the correct NordVPN login details.
- Update the VPN app: Ensure you have the latest version of NordVPN for Windows.
- Reset the app: Open Settings in the NordVPN app, go to Advanced, click Run Diagnostics Tool, and select Reset app.
- Reinstall NordVPN: Uninstall the app, reboot your device, and reinstall NordVPN for Windows.
- Examine Windows Defender settings: Ensure Windows Defender isn’t blocking the VPN connection.
- Update TAP drivers: Go to Device Manager, locate the TAP adapter, and ensure the TAP drivers are up-to-date.
- Try different protocols: Switch between NordLynx and OpenVPN protocols in NordVPN’s Settings.
MacOS
- Check your internet connection: Verify that your Mac has a stable connection to the internet.
- Verify your login credentials: Double-check your NordVPN username and password.
- Update the VPN app: Download and install the latest version of NordVPN for MacOS.
- Reinstall NordVPN: Uninstall and reinstall the NordVPN MacOS app.
- Check your DNS addresses: Make sure your DNS settings are properly configured.
- Reset the app: Follow the same steps outlined in the Windows sub-section.
Android
- Check your internet connection: Ensure your Android device has a stable Wi-Fi or mobile data connection.
- Update NordVPN: Visit the Google Play Store and install the latest version of NordVPN.
- Log back in: Log out of the NordVPN app, then sign in again.
- Reinstall the app: Uninstall and reinstall the NordVPN Android app.
- Try different protocols: Switch between NordLynx and OpenVPN protocols in NordVPN’s Settings.
iOS
- Check your connection: Confirm your iOS device has a reliable Wi-Fi or cellular connection.
- Update NordVPN: Update the NordVPN app through the App Store.
- Log back in: Sign out of the app and log back in.
- Reinstall NordVPN: Remove and reinstall the NordVPN iOS app.
- Adjust VPN settings: Go to your iOS device’s VPN settings and ensure the configuration is correct.
Linux
- Confirm your internet connection: Make sure your Linux device is connected to a stable network.
- Verify your login credentials: Double-check your NordVPN username and password.
- Update the app: Update NordVPN to the latest version available for Linux.
- Reinstall the app: Uninstall and reinstall NordVPN on your Linux device.
- Examine your DNS settings: Confirm your DNS settings are correctly configured.
- Check app configuration: Ensure the app configuration is correct by referring to the NordVPN documentation for Linux.
Remember to follow the troubleshooting steps for your specific device to resolve NordVPN connectivity issues efficiently.
Resolving Connection Issues with Different VPN Protocols
In this section, we’ll go over some steps you can take to resolve connection issues with different VPN protocols provided by NordVPN.
NordLynx
NordLynx is a protocol based on WireGuard technology. If you’re facing connection issues using NordLynx, follow these steps:
- Log out and log back in: Try logging out of your NordVPN account, then log back in.
- Switch to a different protocol: Temporarily switch to OpenVPN (TCP) or OpenVPN (UDP) in the app’s settings.
- Reinstall NordVPN: Uninstall the VPN app, reboot your device, and reinstall the app.
Remember to switch back to NordLynx once your connection issues have been resolved.
OpenVPN TCP
If you’re having issues connecting with OpenVPN TCP, try the following:
- Change the server: Manually select a different VPN server from your NordVPN app or website.
- Switch to a different protocol: Try connecting using NordLynx or OpenVPN UDP instead.
- Check your Internet connection: Ensure that your network connection is active and functioning properly.
OpenVPN UDP
In case of connection problems with OpenVPN UDP, follow these steps:
- Select another server: Choose a different VPN server using your NordVPN app or the website.
- Switch protocols: Give NordLynx or OpenVPN TCP protocol a go.
- Test your Internet connection: Make sure you have a stable and active connection on your device.
Obfuscated Servers
NordVPN offers obfuscated servers, which can bypass Internet restrictions or VPN blocks.
If you’re unable to connect to these servers, follow these methods:
- Ensure you have an active subscription: Check if your NordVPN subscription is current and active.
- Update your VPN client: Make sure your NordVPN app is up-to-date to ensure seamless connectivity.
- Reset the app: Perform a reset on your NordVPN app to restore default settings. In the app settings, click on the “Run Diagnostics Tool” and select the “Reset app” option.
By trying out these steps depending on the protocol you’re using, you should be able to resolve connection issues with NordVPN.
Contacting NordVPN Customer Support
If you’re experiencing issues with NordVPN not connecting, don’t worry; their customer support is available to help you resolve your connectivity problems.
You can reach out to the NordVPN customer support team through chat and email.
Simply click the chat bubble in the bottom-right corner of their website or send them an email at [email protected].
When reaching out to customer support, it’s good to have some information handy, such as your NordVPN account status, your username, the server location you’re trying to connect to, and any relevant error messages (e.g., tap driver error or fatal: blocking DNS failed).
This will help the support agent to better diagnose your issue and provide a faster resolution.
Make sure to also mention if you’ve already tried any troubleshooting steps like changing connection ports, reinstalling the NordVPN app, or disabling any conflicting cybersecurity software.
This information will help the support team to narrow down the cause of your connection problems.
If you’re new to NordVPN and considering whether to sign up, keep in mind they offer a 30-day money-back guarantee.
This ensures that you can give their service a try without any risk.
As you test out NordVPN, be sure to pay attention to aspects that matter to you, like the overall reliability of the service and the level of cybersecurity provided.
Compare these to other free VPNs and VPN subscription options available on the market to make an informed decision.
In the meantime, while waiting for customer support to assist you, consider checking out NordVPN’s numerous resources on their website.
You’ll find helpful articles addressing common connectivity issues and other topics related to the use of their VPN service.
These resources, combined with their helpful customer support, can help you to swiftly resolve any issues you may be experiencing with your NordVPN connection.
