Proton VPN is a popular choice among users who prioritize security, privacy, and unrestricted internet access. However, some users encounter an issue where Proton VPN keeps restarting unexpectedly. This can be frustrating, especially when you’re relying on the VPN for secure browsing, streaming, or bypassing geo-restrictions.
In this article, we will explore the common causes behind this issue and provide effective solutions to resolve it.
Common Causes of Proton VPN Restarting
There are several reasons why Proton VPN may keep restarting on your device. Understanding these causes can help you troubleshoot and fix the issue efficiently.
1. Unstable Internet Connection
Proton VPN relies on a stable network connection. If your internet connection frequently drops, the VPN client may continuously attempt to reconnect, leading to frequent restarts.
2. Conflicting VPN or Security Software
Having multiple VPN applications or security software running simultaneously can cause conflicts. This may lead to Proton VPN restarting as it attempts to establish a secure connection.
3. Outdated Proton VPN Software
Running an outdated version of Proton VPN can cause bugs and incompatibility issues, leading to frequent restarts. Developers regularly release updates to fix such issues.
4. Firewall or Antivirus Interference
Some firewalls and antivirus programs may block or interfere with Proton VPN, causing it to restart repeatedly as it tries to establish a connection.
5. VPN Protocol Issues
Proton VPN offers different connection protocols (e.g., OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2). If the selected protocol is not supported or is experiencing issues, the VPN may keep restarting.
6. Corrupted Installation Files
Corrupt or incomplete installation of Proton VPN can result in inconsistent performance. A broken installation can trigger restarts as the software struggles to function properly.
7. Server Overload or Maintenance
Sometimes, Proton VPN servers experience heavy traffic or undergo maintenance. If your selected server is overloaded or down, the client may attempt to reconnect repeatedly, causing frequent restarts.
How to Fix Proton VPN Restarting Issue
Now that we understand the possible causes, let’s look at some practical fixes to stop Proton VPN from restarting.
1. Check Your Internet Connection
A weak or unstable internet connection can force Proton VPN to reconnect frequently. Try these steps:
- Restart your router or modem.
- Switch to a different network (Wi-Fi or mobile data) to check if the issue persists.
- Run a speed test to ensure your connection is fast and stable.
2. Disable Conflicting VPNs or Security Software
If you have multiple VPNs or security software running, disable them to see if the issue resolves. Some security programs might block Proton VPN’s connections.
3. Update Proton VPN
Ensure you are using the latest version of Proton VPN:
- Go to the official Proton VPN website and check for updates.
- Update the app via your device’s app store or manually reinstall the latest version.
4. Adjust Firewall and Antivirus Settings
To prevent interference, add Proton VPN to the exception list in your firewall or antivirus software:
- Open your firewall or antivirus settings.
- Look for an option to whitelist or allow applications through the firewall.
- Add Proton VPN to the list of trusted programs.
5. Change VPN Protocol
Switching VPN protocols may resolve connection instability:
- Open the Proton VPN app.
- Go to “Settings” and navigate to the “Connection” tab.
- Try different protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, or IKEv2.
6. Reinstall Proton VPN
If your app is experiencing issues due to a corrupt installation, try reinstalling Proton VPN:
- Uninstall Proton VPN from your device.
- Restart your device.
- Download and install the latest version from the official website.
7. Choose a Different VPN Server
If the server you’re connecting to is overloaded or under maintenance, switching servers can help:
- Open the Proton VPN app.
- Select a different server from the list.
- Try connecting and see if the issue persists.
Final Thoughts
While Proton VPN is a reliable service for securing your internet connection, occasional issues like frequent restarts can occur. However, by following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, you can identify and resolve the problem effectively.
If none of these solutions work, consider reaching out to Proton VPN support for further assistance. With a stable setup, you can enjoy a seamless and private browsing experience without interruptions.
