This part includes the 6 basic solutions to solve the VPN not working on iPhone issue. Normally, these solutions will fix the problem; if not, go to the ultimate solution to get the problem dealt with more effectively.
Solution 1: Check the Internet Connection
VPN is intended to protect your Internet privacy, not to boost its speed. Therefore, it will naturally slow down the connection speed, or hinder it when the connection is not stable or fast enough. Therefore, if you find that your VPN is not working on iPhone, check if the WiFi is still good by examining the connection of other devices. Or you can switch between the cellular data and the WiFi to test which one enables the VPN to connect properly. One of the workarounds that worth trying is to go to "Settings" > "Wi-Fi", then tap the WiFi you are using and forget it. Reconnect it and the network may resume.
Solution 2: Adjust the VPN Configuration
False configuration often happens to the new VPN users. Since you configure the VPN for the first time, you might misconfigure something, select the wrong server or choose the wrong mode. These mistakes are normal, and they also happen to old users sometimes. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the VPN configuration is strictly in line with what the VPN provider tells you to set. You can also contact the providers, telling them to examine which parts go wrong. If necessary, follow the steps below to delete the VPN then add it again.
Step 1: Go to "Settings" > "General" > "VPN";
Step 2: Tap the "i" icon beside you VPN, then tap the "Delete VPN" option to delete it;
Step 3: go back to the "VPN" menu, and tap the "Add VPN Configuration" to add the VPN again
Solution 3: Force Restart the iPhone
A force restart is a quick fix to many iOS issues, including the VPN not working issue. It is equal to take out the battery and put it back in. To force restart iPhone of different models requires different processes, so we have enclosed a tutorial below.
iPhone 8 and later iPhones: Quickly press and release the "Volume +" and "Volume -" buttons. Hold the "Side" button until the Apple logo shows up.
iPhone 7/7 Plus: Press and hold both "Side" and "Volume -" buttons at the same time. Release them when the Apple logo shows up.
iPhone 6 and older iPhones: Hold the "Top" or "Side" button and the "Home" button until the Apple logo appears on the screen.
Solution 4: Check VPN Account
The malfunction of your VPN can be traced back to the account. We have seen many cases where users forgot to pay for their VPN subscriptions but still assume that their accounts are still usable. It wouldn't harm to check if your account has expired. While doing this, you might stumble upon the notice that the providers' servers go down and cause your VPN to become unusable.
Solution 5: Reinstall the VPN App
Normally, update the app from the App Store would be enough, but in case that is not thorough enough, we suggest you reinstall it. Reinstalling the VPN app means that you should uninstall the app from your phone and download it again from the App Store. This can effectively prevent the problems caused by outdated apps, especially when you have just updated to the latest iOS.
Solution 6: Switch to Other VPN Servers
When VPN not working, for instance, NordVPN not working on the iPhone, you might as well browse through the server list and select another server with better connections. If you just use a random VPN you find on the Internet, it is likely that it doesn't work in your region. Therefore, it is important to consult or test if the VPN works in your region. The best way to find a reliable VPN is to find a VPN that people in your region are using.
