Here we can see, “Can’t Connect to Vpn on Public Wi-fi? Here’s How to Fix It”
- It’s a good idea to use a VPN to preserve your privacy and the security of your connection.
- However, when utilizing public WiFi, you may be unable to connect to a VPN at times.
- While not unheard of, blocking a VPN on particular networks might cause a slew of issues.
- In our in-depth explanation below, we’ll show you how to resolve this issue.
It’s a good idea to use a VPN to safeguard your privacy and the security of your connection, but what if you can’t connect to a VPN on public WiFi?
Without question, a public wireless network is one of the most dangerous places to be unprotected.
For example, did you realize that your traffic can be easily monitored, and you can be targeted by man in the middle (MITM) attacks while using public WiFi? Unfortunately, it happens a lot more frequently than we’d want.
A virtual private network (VPN) may appear to be nothing out of the norm. However, using such a service on a public network can save you a lot of hassles, thanks to its traffic encryption and re-routing capabilities.
But what if it doesn’t work in the first place? Let’s see what we can find out together.
Is it safe to use public WiFi?
Perhaps the most common issue raised by public WiFi is one of security. Because many people are attracted to the concept of free Internet, public WiFi is a great honeypot for potential attackers.
Unprotected WiFi networks, on the whole, are easy targets for a variety of attacks. On these networks, failing to safeguard yourself can have serious implications. Consider the following example:
- Your credit card information can be stolen.
- It was possible to sniff passwords and account names.
- It’s simple to keep track of your traffic.
- With a little luck, attackers may gain remote access to your device and listen in on your conversations.
The list could go on indefinitely. You’re basically a sitting duck on public WiFi networks if you don’t have a VPN.
Is it true that a VPN protects you when using public WiFi?
A reliable VPN service can significantly improve your security when using public WiFi networks. This is because they not only encrypt your data completely, rendering it unreadable and useless to intruders, but they also divert traffic.
As a result, MITM attacks performed by someone on the same network as you cannot target you. Nobody can see what you send over a public WiFi network, including ISPs, hackers, and the network owner.
It’s reasonable to state that utilizing a VPN on public WiFi can and does protect you.
What should you do if you can’t connect to a VPN on public Wi-Fi?
1. Make use of a reputable virtual private network (VPN)
- Using the link provided below, you can purchase a premium VPN membership plan.
- On your device, download and install the VPN client.
- Connect to your account using the VPN client.
- Establish a connection with a server of your choice.
- Connect to your preferred public Wi-Fi network.
- Accept the public Wi-terms Fi’s and conditions (if available).
It’s worth noting that some public Wi-Fi networks need you to open a web page and agree with certain terms and conditions before you can connect. Captive gateways are what they’re called.
You can simply get around these, but they don’t always work with a VPN. There are various reasons why this occurs, ranging from banned ports to UDP traffic throttling (to break certain protocols).
Check to see if your device (phone, laptop) is set to connect to public Wi-Fi networks automatically.
2. Pick a different protocol to use
As previously stated, certain public WiFi network administrators may go above and beyond to prohibit VPN usage. Throttling connection types like UDP is one technique to achieve this.
If that’s the case, simply enter your VPN’s setup area, select a different protocol, reconnect to the VPN, and try accessing the public WiFi network again.
It’s even better to use a data plan (LTE) to connect to the VPN server before connecting to the public WiFi network.
3. Try a different port
Blacklisting ports is another efficient approach to detect and stop VPN activity. For example, 443, one of the most popular VPN ports, is one of the most commonly used; therefore if you have any problems utilizing it on your VPN client, simply change it.
Many VPN companies allow you to select from various ports for your connection. Just make sure you completely review the configuration section of your VPN client before giving up.
4. Use a VPN that supports obfuscation
If you’re still having trouble connecting to a VPN on public WiFi, look into VPNs that offer obfuscation.
Depending on the VPN you’re using, these are sometimes known as obfuscated servers, stealth mode, or even Chameleon protocol.
Check out this list of obfuscation-capable VPN services:
| Product Name | Obfuscation | Company Name |
|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | Obfuscated Servers | Tefincom & Co., S.A. |
| Surfshark VPN | Camouflage Mode | Surfshark LTD |
| VyprVPN | Chameleon protocol | Golden Frog GmbH |
| IPVanish | Scramble OpenVPN traffic | StackPath, LLC |
| ExpressVPN | Stealth servers | Express VPN International Ltd. |
| TunnelBear | Stealth VPN | McAfee, LLC |
| Windscribe VPN | Stealth VPN | Windscribe Limited |
| VPN Unlimited | KeepSolid Wise | KeepSolid Inc. |
On the other hand, they all do the same thing for the most part. As though you were using your regular, unsecured protection, you can use these capabilities to connect to numerous services that have VPN detecting measures.
These providers disguised VPN traffic as regular traffic, making it harder to identify and block.
Final thoughts on using public WiFi to connect to a VPN
To summarize, using a VPN on public WiFi is no longer a luxury but rather a requirement, given the number of cyberthreats (and cyber-criminals) openly traversing the Internet.
On the other hand, some networks may prevent you from utilizing a VPN while connected to them. Don’t worry if this happens; just remember:
- On public WiFi networks, never turn off your VPN.
- If possible, use a VPN with obfuscation features to see if switching ports and/or protocols works.
- If nothing else works, use your data plan (believe us, it’ll be far better in the long run).
Conclusion
I hope you found this guide useful. If you’ve got any questions or comments, don’t hesitate to use the shape below.
User Questions:
1. Why isn’t my VPN working when I’m using public WiFi?
Most likely, your WiFi or firewall has banned the VPN’s unique port. Make sure your firewall or router isn’t blocking any VPN-specific ports by double-checking.
2. How can I get my VPN to connect to a public WiFi network?
- We propose NordVPN as a secure VPN to use at public wifi networks.
- Install the VPN’s software or browser extension.
- Connect to a server using the VPN app or browser extension.
- As a result of being connected to the VPN, you are now more secure!
3. Is it true that public WiFi blocks VPN?
Your internet communication is encrypted when you use a VPN, so no one can intercept it over public Wi-Fi. VPN encrypts your connection everywhere, so you don’t have to worry about external security.
4. How to get around public internet VPN problems? : r/nordvpn
How to get around public internet VPN problems? from nordvpn
5. Can’t connect to public wifi : r/nordvpn – Reddit
