Why Does My VPN Keep Disconnecting? Reasons and Fixes

If you are using VPN services, one question that you may frequently ask is why does my VPN keep disconnecting. VPN drops are a common problem amongst users and when this occurs, the intended protection becomes ineffective and heightens your risk to data exposure.  

So let’s explore what causes VPN disconnections and how to resolve them!

Network Congestion

Network congestion happens when virtual private networks are overwhelmed by their clients’ voluminous data traffic which results in client disconnections.  In today’s online digital world, it's not surprising that so much data is being transferred over VPN servers resulting in such crashes. 

As such, when seeking the best VPN, ensure there are adequate servers available to help mitigate network congestion. Some services even have features to identify and use less congested servers to reduce the risk of being dropped.  

Poor Signal Strength

When connected to a weak Wi-Fi signal, your VPN will disconnect regularly. Public Wi-Fi is often too sluggish to sustain a VPN connection. 

Device Sleep Mode Settings

For better battery and device performance, devices will often automatically put background applications to sleep. As a result, VPN connections are lost. Furthermore, if your device is not actively engaging the internet, you may also lose connection. It’s best to check your device’s settings to ensure they enable your VPN service to stay online.  

High Latency in the Network

Your vpn won’t stay connected with a high latency network as they often experience data losses and connection timeouts. As such, VPNs associated with a high latency network will suffer from recurring drops. It’s best to use VPNs known for having low to no latency issues.  

Improper Router or Firewall Configuration

When not careful enough, your firewall or router can cause your VPN connection to drop. However, this loss of VPN connectivity can be rectified by adjusting your router or firewall configuration to help stem future drops. 

Let's now explore some additional means of securing your VPN connectivity.

How To Fix It?

While the above is a start to preventing drops, we’ve gone ahead and outlined additional means to securing your VPN’s connectivity.  

Inspect Your VPN Subscription Validity

Keeping tabs on your subscription is always a good way to prevent connectivity drops. Ideally, you will receive notifications from your VPN providers, but I wouldn’t count on it. As such, keep track of any instantaneous connection limits.   

Update Your VPN

Perhaps often overlooked, but by simply updating your VPN, you can possibly resolve any connectivity issues.  

Change Your Port or IP Protocol

If your vpn keeps disconnecting and reconnecting, maybe it’s time to optimize your configuration. For example, changing your ports to more VPN and ISP-friendly ones can increase connectivity. Additionally, changing your protocol from TCP to UDP may also reduce droppage.  

What do you have to lose?

Give it a shot!  

Turn Off Battery Saving Features

Disabling battery optimization features can often lead to higher rates of connectivity. While this comes at the expense of battery life, you can be more assured your VPN will remain connected. 

With That Said…

And with the many insights provided, you hopefully no longer need to ask yourself, why does my VPN keep disconnecting. VPNs are helpful in our everyday digital lives, but at times, they can cause frustration when drops occur. In such situations, check against our list of the many reasons your VPN keeps on disconnecting, and hopefully, you’ll find an easy fix.