Struggling to get online when your Surfshark VPN is connected? You’re definitely not alone. It’s a surprisingly common hiccup that many VPN users, myself included, have run into. It feels frustrating when you’re trying to boost your online privacy or access content, and suddenly your internet just… stops. If you’ve ever found yourself asking, “Why is my VPN blocking my internet?” or “Why is Surfshark connected but no internet access?”, then you’re in the right place. We’re going to walk through all the common culprits and, more importantly, how to fix them.

A Virtual Private Network VPN like Surfshark is designed to secure your internet connection, encrypt your data, and mask your IP address, but sometimes things go a little sideways. Think of it like this: a VPN creates a secure tunnel for your internet traffic. If there’s a problem with the tunnel – maybe it’s blocked, too slow, or configured incorrectly – your data can’t get through, and you lose internet access. This guide is all about getting that tunnel working perfectly again.

And hey, while we’re on the topic of reliable connections, if you find yourself constantly battling VPN issues, it might be worth exploring other options that offer consistently smooth performance. Sometimes, a change of scenery can make all the difference. Check out NordVPN for a highly-rated alternative known for its strong performance and reliability. You can explore their offerings and see if it’s a better fit for your needs right here: . It’s always good to have options, especially when your online privacy and access are at stake!

Let’s dig into the common reasons why Surfshark might be blocking your internet connection and what you can do about it.

0.0

0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews)

Excellent0%

Very good0%

Average0%

Poor0%

Terrible0%

There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.

Amazon.com: Check Amazon for Surfshark VPN Blocking
Latest Discussions & Reviews:

Table of Contents

Common Reasons Surfshark Blocks Your Internet

When Surfshark connects but leaves you without internet, it usually boils down to a few key areas. It’s like a puzzle, and we need to check each piece to see where the fit is wrong.

1. Weak or Unstable Internet Connection

This might sound too simple, but it’s often the first thing to check. A VPN needs a stable and fast underlying internet connection to work properly. If your regular internet is already spotty or slow, adding a VPN on top can make it seem like the VPN is the problem, when it’s really just struggling with a shaky foundation.

2. Conflicting Applications or Software

Your device isn’t just running Surfshark, right? Other apps can sometimes get in the way.

Antivirus/Firewall: Security software, while essential, can sometimes be overprotective and flag your VPN as a threat, blocking its connection. It makes sense if you think about it – a VPN is changing your network settings, and an antivirus might see that as suspicious.
Other VPNs: If you have another VPN application installed on your device, even if it’s not active, it can conflict with Surfshark. Different VPNs can use conflicting connection configurations, leading to issues.
System-wide ad blockers: While Surfshark has its own excellent ad-blocking features more on CleanWeb later, other ad blockers or network-modifying applications can also cause interference.

3. Outdated Surfshark Application

Just like any software, VPN apps get regular updates. These updates often include bug fixes, performance improvements, and, crucially, ways to bypass new network restrictions. If you’re running an old version, it might struggle to connect or maintain a stable connection. How to invest in eth

4. Server Overload or Issues

VPN servers aren’t invincible. Sometimes, a specific server location can be overloaded with users, experiencing technical issues, or undergoing maintenance. Connecting to an ailing server is a surefire way to lose internet access.

5. VPN Protocol Problems

VPN protocols are the rules and methods your VPN uses to establish a secure connection. Some protocols are better at bypassing certain network restrictions, while others offer faster speeds. If your current protocol isn’t compatible with your network or ISP, it can cause connection problems. Surfshark uses protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2.

6. Network or ISP Restrictions

This is a big one, especially if you’re on a public Wi-Fi network like at a school, workplace, or hotel or in a country with strict internet censorship. Some networks and Internet Service Providers ISPs actively block VPN traffic. They might block specific ports that VPNs commonly use.

7. IPv6 Conflicts

Surfshark, at the moment, doesn’t fully support the IPv6 protocol. If your network has IPv6 enabled, it can sometimes complicate the VPN connection and lead to a “connected but no internet” scenario.

8. Surfshark’s CleanWeb or Kill Switch Features

While super useful, sometimes Surfshark’s own features can cause unintended internet blockage if not configured correctly or if they encounter a specific network setup. Mastering the Stitch: Everything You Need to Know About Sewing Machine Vectors

CleanWeb: This feature blocks ads, trackers, and malware. While fantastic for a cleaner browsing experience, it can sometimes block legitimate content or interfere with certain websites that rely heavily on ad scripts.
Kill Switch: The Kill Switch is designed to cut your internet connection if the VPN connection drops, preventing your real IP from being exposed. If the VPN connection is unstable, the Kill Switch might be constantly engaging, making it seem like you have no internet.

Troubleshooting Steps: Get Your Surfshark Back Online

Now that we know why Surfshark might be blocking your internet, let’s get into the actionable steps to fix it. We’ll start with the simplest solutions and move to more advanced ones.

1. Check Your Basic Internet Connection

First things first, make sure your internet works without the VPN.

Disconnect Surfshark: Completely disconnect from Surfshark.
Test your internet: Try to browse a few websites, watch a video, or check your email.
Restart your router: If your internet isn’t working even without Surfshark, a quick router restart can often clear up temporary network glitches. Unplug it for about 30 seconds, then plug it back in.
Check your speed: Use an online speed test to see if your internet is stable and fast enough. A weak internet connection can struggle with the added encryption of a VPN.

2. Update Your Surfshark Application

This is often overlooked but can be a quick fix. An outdated app might have bugs or lack the latest methods to bypass network restrictions. Where to buy dji drones near me

Check for updates: Open your Surfshark app and look for an “Update” option or check your device’s app store. Ensure you have the latest version installed.
Reinstall if necessary: If updating doesn’t work or you suspect a corrupted installation, try a full reinstallation. Uninstall the app completely, restart your device, then download and install the latest version from Surfshark’s official website.

3. Try Different VPN Servers and Locations

A single server might be overloaded or experiencing issues.

Switch to a different server: In the Surfshark app, go to the “Locations” tab and try connecting to a few different servers, especially ones close to your physical location. Sometimes, servers in the same city or country can have varying performance.
Check server load: Some VPNs, including Surfshark, show a server load indicator. Aim for servers with lower loads for potentially better speeds and stability.

4. Change Your VPN Protocol

This is a powerful troubleshooting step as different protocols handle data differently.

Navigate to VPN Settings: Open the Surfshark app, go to “Settings,” then “VPN Settings,” and find the “Protocol” section.
Experiment with protocols:
- OpenVPN UDP/TCP: OpenVPN UDP is often recommended for bypassing network restrictions and good speeds. If UDP doesn’t work, try OpenVPN TCP.
- WireGuard: Known for its speed and efficiency, but might be blocked on some networks.
- IKEv2: Another solid option, often good for mobile devices.
Test each one: Switch to a different protocol, reconnect Surfshark, and test your internet. Repeat until you find one that works.

5. Disable Potentially Interfering Applications

Temporarily turning off other software can help pinpoint if they’re the cause.

Antivirus/Firewall: Temporarily disable your antivirus or firewall software and try connecting to Surfshark. If it works, you’ll need to add Surfshark to your security software’s exception or whitelist list. Remember to re-enable your security software afterwards!
Other VPNs: If you have any other VPN applications installed, uninstall them completely. They can create conflicts even when not active.
Ad Blockers: If you’re using a system-wide ad blocker or another browser extension, try disabling it temporarily.

6. Disable IPv6

Since Surfshark currently doesn’t fully support IPv6, disabling it can resolve connectivity issues.

How to check: You can go to surfshark.com/whatismy-ip to see if you have an IPv6 address they look long and complex, unlike the shorter IPv4 addresses.
How to disable: The process varies by device and router.
- On your device: Look for network adapter settings e.g., in Windows Control Panel, Network and Sharing Center, then Adapter Settings. on macOS, Network Preferences, Advanced, TCP/IP. Deselect the IPv6 option.
- On your router: This is often the most effective method if you have access to your router’s admin panel. Look for an IPv6 setting and disable it. If you can’t find it, contact your internet service provider ISP for assistance. Disabling IPv6 typically won’t negatively affect your network.

7. Adjust Surfshark’s Built-in Features

Sometimes, the very features designed to protect you can be a bit too enthusiastic. Arialief tablets

CleanWeb: While excellent for blocking ads and trackers, CleanWeb can sometimes interfere with certain websites.
- Disable it: Go to Surfshark’s settings, find “VPN Settings” or “Connectivity” on older versions, and toggle CleanWeb off. Test if your internet comes back.
- Use Bypasser/Whitelister: If CleanWeb is the issue and you still want ad blocking on most sites, you can use Surfshark’s Bypasser sometimes called Whitelister feature to exclude specific websites or apps from the VPN or CleanWeb’s filtering.
Kill Switch: If your internet connection is unstable, the Kill Switch might be activating too frequently.
- Temporarily disable it: In Surfshark’s settings, under “VPN Settings,” try turning the Kill Switch off. If this fixes the internet, your underlying connection might be too unstable for the Kill Switch to operate smoothly. You might then need to troubleshoot your internet connection itself.
IP Rotator: This feature automatically changes your IP address every few minutes. While good for privacy, it can sometimes cause instability if your network isn’t robust. Try disabling it in advanced settings if you’re having issues.

8. Reset Network Settings

This is a more drastic step but can clear out corrupted network configurations.

On Windows: Surfshark often has a “Troubleshooting Tools” option in its “Help” section which includes a “Reset network” function. You can also do a manual network reset through Windows settings.
On Android/iOS: You can usually find an option to “Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth” Android or “Reset Network Settings” iOS in your device’s general settings. Be aware this will remove all saved Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth pairings.

9. Use Custom DNS Settings

Your ISP’s default DNS servers might be causing issues or even blocking VPN connections. Switching to a reliable, privacy-focused DNS like Surfshark’s own DNS, Google DNS 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4, or Cloudflare DNS 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1 can help.

Change DNS in Surfshark app: Some VPNs allow you to set custom DNS directly within their app.
Change DNS on your device: This varies by operating system. You’ll typically find DNS settings in your network adapter’s properties Windows or Wi-Fi settings macOS/mobile. For example, on iOS, you go to Settings > Wi-Fi, tap the “i” next to your network, then “Configure DNS” and switch to Manual. You can use Surfshark’s DNS addresses, for instance, by adding them manually.

10. Test Different Networks

If possible, try connecting to Surfshark on a completely different network e.g., switch from Wi-Fi to mobile data hotspot, or try a friend’s Wi-Fi. If Surfshark works perfectly on another network, it strongly suggests your primary network or ISP is imposing restrictions.

11. Clear Browser Cache and Cookies / Use Incognito Mode

Sometimes, websites store information that conflicts with your VPN connection, especially if you’re trying to access geo-restricted content. Clearing your browser’s cache and cookies can resolve these issues. Alternatively, try accessing the website in an incognito or private browsing window, which doesn’t use stored cookies or cache.

12. Contact Surfshark Support

If you’ve tried all these steps and still can’t get your internet working with Surfshark, don’t hesitate to reach out to their customer support team. They’re available 24/7 and can offer personalized advice and deeper troubleshooting, including server-specific recommendations or manual connection setups. They might even have specific servers optimized for certain services you’re trying to access. Your Ultimate Guide to Scoring BTS Concert Tickets

When to Consider an Alternative VPN

Look, even with the best troubleshooting, sometimes a VPN just isn’t cutting it for your specific network or usage. If you’re constantly fighting with connection issues, slow speeds, or persistent internet blocks even after trying all these tips, it might be time to consider if Surfshark is the best fit for your needs.

There are many great VPN providers out there, and some might simply work better with your local network conditions or offer features that better suit your requirements. For example, if you’re looking for a highly reliable alternative with a strong track record for speed and unblocking capabilities, NordVPN is often recommended by many users and experts alike. They offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free to see if it provides a smoother experience without the constant internet blocking headaches. You can check out NordVPN here: . It’s all about finding the tool that serves you best.

No matter which VPN you choose, the goal is uninterrupted, secure internet access. Hopefully, these troubleshooting steps get your Surfshark VPN running smoothly again! Surfshark per app vpn

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean when my VPN is connected but no internet?

When your VPN shows it’s connected but you can’t access any websites or online services, it means the VPN tunnel has been established, but data isn’t flowing through it to the internet. This can happen for various reasons, such as conflicting software, incorrect VPN settings, overloaded servers, or network restrictions.

Why is my Surfshark VPN not connecting at all?

If Surfshark isn’t connecting, it could be due to a weak underlying internet connection, an outdated app version, interference from other applications like antivirus software or firewalls, issues with the chosen VPN server or protocol, or even blocked ports by your ISP or network administrator. Updating the app, trying different servers/protocols, or temporarily disabling other security software are good first steps.

Can CleanWeb block my internet connection or specific websites?

Yes, Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature, designed to block ads, trackers, and malware, can sometimes inadvertently block legitimate content or interfere with certain websites that rely on scripts it flags. If you suspect CleanWeb is the culprit, try disabling it in the app’s settings. You can also use the Bypasser/Whitelister feature to exempt specific sites. AI Voice vs. Voice Synthesizer: Unpacking the Differences in Modern Audio

How do I reset Surfshark’s settings to default?

To reset Surfshark’s settings, typically you can go into the app’s “Settings” or “Help” section. Many versions, especially on Windows, have a “Troubleshooting Tools” option where you can select “Restore original settings” or “Reset network settings”. After resetting, it’s a good idea to restart your device.

Does IPv6 cause problems with Surfshark VPN?

Yes, it can. Surfshark currently doesn’t fully support IPv6, so having IPv6 enabled on your network can sometimes lead to connectivity issues or prevent your VPN from working correctly. Disabling IPv6 on your device or router is a common troubleshooting step that often resolves these conflicts.

What should I do if my ISP is blocking my VPN?

If you suspect your Internet Service Provider ISP is blocking your VPN, try changing your VPN protocol within the Surfshark app. Protocols like OpenVPN TCP or WireGuard can sometimes be more effective at bypassing deep packet inspection used by ISPs to detect and block VPN traffic. You might also try connecting to different server locations or enabling features like “NoBorders mode” if available, which is designed for restrictive networks. If the issue persists, contacting Surfshark support might help as they can advise on specific servers or manual connection methods that work best in restrictive environments.

Massage chair free shipping

Partners

Surfshark VPN Blocking Internet Connection: Your Ultimate Troubleshooting Guide