If you’re having trouble connecting to a VPN server from your iPhone, some tips and tricks can help you get around it. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) enhances your privacy and security by encrypting your internet traffic and masking your IP address, ensuring your data is safe and protected and cannot be deciphered by malicious actors and other third parties. Your data is routed through a secure and encrypted VPN tunnel. However, if you’re having trouble connecting to the VPN on your iPhone, then this guide is here to help.

Various factors can prevent you from establishing a connection to the VPN, which can be a result of anything from an unstable internet connection to technical issues with the VPN provider. The good news is that you can troubleshoot these issues and resolve them as quickly as possible. Establishing a VPN connection is necessary when you’re trying to enhance your privacy and make sure that your sensitive and confidential data does not get compromised. So, without further ado, let’s get into this guide!

How Can I Test A VPN On an iPhone?

If you’re experiencing connecting to the VPN on your iPhone, then one way you can solve this problem is by testing your VPN to ensure it works properly. The most essential thing you need to check to ensure that your VPN is working as it should is to check for IP leaks, DNS leaks, and WebRTC leaks. All three leaks can cause significant problems, and it is essential to resolve them as soon as possible. Let’s go over the following:

1) IP Leaks

If your VPN is not configured to handle IPv6 traffic, your actual IPv6 address could get exposed; even if your IPv4 traffic is secured through the VPN when your IP leaks, your IP address gets exposed to third parties even when you’re using a VPN to keep your internet traffic anonymous. The primary purpose of a VPN is to hide your IP address and replace it with a different IP address assigned by your VPN provider.

2) DNS Leaks

When your DNS queries aren’t correctly routed through a VPN tunnel, your ISP (Internet Service Provider) and other intermediaries can see the websites you’re trying to access and your browsing history, compromising your privacy.

3) WebRTC Leaks

Web Real-Time Communication is a browser feature that reveals your local and public IP addresses even when using a VPN. WebRTC is a technology commonly used for features like video and voice calling, as well as for screen sharing and file sharing directly from within a browser. You would not require additional plugins or software.

Read Also: Is a VPN Worth the Investment? Get the Facts!

What Are The Quick Fixes When You’re Not Able To Connect To A VPN On iPhone?

If you’ve done all of the above tests and they’re all in the clear, and you still find that you’re not able to connect to the VPN, then here are some quick fixes that you can implement to resolve this issue.

1) Connect To An Alternative Server

Sometimes, your VPN provider may face issues connecting to a server in specific regions. If you’re failing to connect to a VPN server from a particular country or region, then you can try connecting to a server from a different region and then check if that helps resolve things.

2) Check The Internet Connection On Your iPhone

A VPN can only function effectively if you’re connected to the internet. You should check your network (WiFi or cellular) and see whether you have an active internet connection. The VPN cannot perform its primary functions if it’s not connected to the internet. Disconnecting and connecting from the VPN also helps. Open your VPN application and disconnect from the service. After a couple of minutes, reconnect to the VPN.

3) Check VPN Server Congestion

VPN providers have a limited number of servers from a specific region or country. If many people are using the same server, it increases the utilization rate, which results in a slower speed. You can check the utilization rate from within the VPN app. If the server is congested with many people, it’s a good idea to switch to a server that only a few users occupy. It will offer faster and more reliable connectivity.

4) Change The VPN Tunneling Protocol On iPhone

A VPN Protocol ensures your data is routed from your iPhone to the VPN servers. VPN apps support several different protocols and, by default, use the best one. Some VPNs can smartly switch between the various protocols to ensure a smooth, fast, and stable connection. If you cannot connect, open the VPN app on your iPhone and go to its settings. After that, tap the Protocol button and choose another option. Switch to a different protocol and check if that helps establish a stable connection.

5) Reset Network Settings

It’s unnecessary to reset your iPhone because you’re having trouble with a particular device aspect. You only have to reset the settings for the issue at hand. If you cannot connect to the VPN with your iPhone despite being connected to WiFi or cellular data, you can reset network settings to ensure it starts working again. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Open Settings on your iPhone.
2. Head to General.
3. Tap Transfer or Reset iPhone.
4. Tap Reset.
5. After that, select Reset Network Settings.
6. Confirm your choice by tapping Reset Network Settings.

6) Delete VPN Profile

When you connect to a VPN app for the first time, the app asks for permission to create a new VPN profile. The VPN profile ensures that a device connects to a private network securely. When you grant permission, the app makes a VPN profile, and the VPN can filter or monitor your iPhone’s network activity. However, corruption of VPN Profiles can negatively impact your connection. Deleting the profile and then adding it again can rule out this possibility. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Go to your iPhone’s Settings.
2. Go to General > VPN & Device Management.
3. Tap VPN.
4. Find the VPN profile associated with your primary VPN that isn’t connecting.
5. Tap Info (i) next to the relevant VPN profile.
6. Tap Delete VPN and then tap Delete in the confirmation pop-up.

Wrapping Up

There are several different factors for which you may not be able to connect to a VPN using your iPhone. This guide outlines how you can resolve this issue to continue using a VPN on your iPhone.