How to Fix VPN Authentication Errors: An Overview of the Main Solutions

VPN authentication errors can be a frustrating obstacle when trying to protect your data online. The causes of such failures range from software issues to unstable internet connections. In this article, we will consider the main reasons for such errors and offer the most effective ways to eliminate them.

The main reasons for VPN authentication errors

VPN authentication errors can occur for various reasons, each of which has its own characteristics. Let's consider the main factors that can lead to such failures:

• An antivirus or firewall is blocking the VPN. This happens because VPN traffic can be perceived as suspicious, especially if encryption or data tunneling is used. Antiviruses and firewalls are configured to protect the system by blocking any unknown connections, which can lead to a failure to connect to the VPN. Such a problem as a connection error appears after activating the VPN or when the VPN client does not work correctly.
• Slow or overloaded VPN server. VPN servers, especially free or public ones, are usually overloaded with users during peak hours. This causes connection delays or even complete inability to establish a connection. As a result, the server does not have time to process the authentication request, which leads to an error. It manifests itself as a long connection wait or an unstable connection, frequent interruptions when connecting to the server.
• Outdated or damaged version of VPN software. If the VPN client is outdated or was installed incorrectly, this leads to authentication errors. In this case, crashes occur during the use of the program, or some updates are incompatible with the user's system. Another cause may be file corruption during installation or update. Appears as an error immediately after launching the VPN client or when trying to connect to any server.
• Exceeding the limit of connected devices. Many VPN services impose a limit on the number of devices that can simultaneously connect from one account. For example, if you are connected to the VPN from several devices at the same time, the system may block an additional connection, since the number of allowed connections has been exceeded. Appears as an authentication error when trying to connect another device. In this case, there should be a notification from the VPN client about exceeding the connection limit.
• Unstable Wi-Fi connection. VPN requires a stable and fast Internet connection to maintain a secure data tunnel. If the Internet connection is unstable, for example, with a low Wi-Fi signal or frequent network failures, the VPN does not have time to correctly process the authentication request, which leads to an error. It manifests itself like this: VPN connects, but immediately disconnects and an authentication error message appears after trying to connect via Wi-Fi.

How to fix VPN authentication errors

VPN authentication errors can be fixed by using one of the suggested methods:

• Restarting the device. Sometimes, the simplest reboot of the device can help solve the problem by clearing the memory and resetting crashes in the applications.
• Disabling antivirus and firewall. Antivirus programs and firewalls often block the VPN. To check if this is the cause of the error, you can temporarily disable both elements. However, it is important to remember that this is a temporary solution, as disabling protection can leave the device vulnerable to attack.
• Using a wired connection or connecting to a different Wi-Fi network. If your network is not stable enough, this may cause authentication errors. Try connecting through a different network, for example, at a cafe or at a friend's. Or organize a connection via an Ethernet cable.
• Reinstalling the VPN. Incorrect installation of the VPN client is also a problem. Uninstall the VPN, and then reinstall it. This will help update the application and fix known errors.
• Check your login and subscription. Make sure that you are entering your login details correctly and that your VPN subscription is active.
• Manage the number of connected devices. If you have exceeded the allowed number of simultaneous connections, disconnect unused devices and try connecting again.
• Clean boot Windows. Check if other programs are interfering with your VPN by booting Windows in clean mode. This will help determine if there are any conflicts between applications.
• Try a different VPN service. If none of the solutions help, you may want to consider using a different VPN service. Paid VPNs usually provide more stable performance.

If none of the solutions help, there may be a problem with the VPN service itself. In this case, try reliable and proven VPN services one by one, such as ExpressVPN or CyberGhost.

Private VPN Server: Eliminates Problems

Using a private VPN server eliminates most of the above authentication problems and is a great solution for anyone looking to protect their online assets.

If online security is a priority for you, buying a private VPN server on Private VPN server is a great solution. Personalized settings for user requests help reduce the risks of surveillance, data leaks and minimize all kinds of problems associated with the operation of the service.

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