If you’re experiencing Hotspot Shield VPN connection issues on your Windows device, follow the basic troubleshooting steps below.
First, here are a few common reasons Hotspot Shield VPN might have trouble connecting:
- Another VPN/Proxy service is running when you try to connect Hotspot Shield
- A strictly configured firewall is preventing the VPN connection
- If you are connecting from one of the following countries which occasionally have government blocks: China, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Pakistan, Iran.
- If you are not signed in to an Admin account on your Windows computer.
Step 1: Check your internet connection
- Close the Hotspot Shield application.
- Then, open your browser and try browsing a website to confirm that your internet connection is working properly while not connected to Hotspot Shield.
If you can’t browse the internet when the VPN is off, turn off and back on Wi-Fi. If that doesn’t help, you may need to check your network settings or contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP).
Step 2: Relaunch Hotspot Shield
If you have Hotspot Shield open, but can’t connect to any virtual location, exit the Hotspot Shield app and then relaunch it.
Step 3: Change VPN protocol
Changing the VPN protocol in the app may help resolve the connection issue. You can try different VPN protocols to determine which one works best for your connection.
Click the “gear” icon on the left side of the application, then select the “Protocol” option at the top so you can choose the desired protocol.
Step 4: Change Virtual Location
If you are still not able to connect, follow these steps:
- Click in the bottom-left corner of the app (“Virtual Location”).
- Then, select a different virtual location from the list of available countries and cities.
If the issue persist, please reach support using the Chat bubble in the corner.