Alex Ruben
How to Fix the “Can’t Connect to VPN – A Connection to the Remote Computer Could Not Be Established” Error in 2025
If you’re facing the frustrating “Can’t Connect to VPN – A Connection to the Remote Computer Could Not Be Established” error, you’re not alone. This common issue can hinder your ability to securely connect to remote networks. In this guide, we will walk you through several effective solutions, including restarting VPN services, updating network drivers, resetting firewall settings, and adjusting VPN protocols to ensure a stable connection. By the end of this tutorial, you will have the tools and knowledge to resolve this issue quickly.
Before diving into the solutions, ensure you have administrative access on your device as some steps require elevated permissions. Additionally, make sure your VPN client is properly installed and configured for your specific network environment.
Step 1: Check Your Network Connections
Begin by verifying your network connections. This step is crucial as a stable internet connection is required for VPN functionality. Follow these instructions:
- Press Windows + S to open the search bar and type View Network Connections.
- Click on View Network Connections from the search results.
- In the Network Connections window, check if your VPN connection is listed and active.
Step 2: Adjust VPN Properties
If your VPN connection is active but still not working, you may need to adjust its properties. Here’s how:
- In the same Network Connections window, right-click your VPN connection and select Properties.
- Navigate to the Security tab.
- Find the option labeled Type of VPN and click the dropdown menu.
- Select Secure Socket Tunneling Protocol (SSTP) and click OK to save changes.
Step 3: Restart VPN Services
If adjusting the VPN properties did not resolve the issue, consider restarting the VPN services. This can refresh the connection and clear any temporary glitches:
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog, type
services.msc, and hit Enter. - In the Services window, locate the VPN service (it may vary based on the VPN software you are using).
- Right-click the service and select Restart.
Step 4: Update Network Drivers
Outdated network drivers can often lead to connectivity issues. To ensure your drivers are up to date, follow these steps:
- Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
- Expand the Network adapters section.
- Right-click on your network adapter and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software and follow the prompts.
Step 5: Reset Firewall Settings
Sometimes, firewall settings can block your VPN connection. To reset these settings, do the following:
- Open the Control Panel and navigate to System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.
- Click on Restore defaults on the left sidebar.
- Confirm the action and restart your computer to apply changes.
Step 6: Adjust VPN Protocols
If you’re still experiencing issues, try adjusting your VPN protocols in the VPN client settings. Different protocols may yield better results depending on your network environment. Check your VPN provider’s documentation for recommended protocols and how to change them.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
When troubleshooting VPN connections, remember to:
- Ensure that your internet connection is stable and functioning.
- Temporarily disable any third-party antivirus software to see if it’s interfering with the VPN connection.
- Check if the VPN server you are trying to connect to is online and operational.
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the “Can’t Connect to VPN” error effectively. If problems persist, consider reaching out to your VPN provider’s support for further assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my VPN connection is still not working after following these steps?
If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and still cannot connect, it might be worth reinstalling the VPN client or contacting your VPN provider for further assistance.
Can I use a different VPN protocol to improve my connection?
Yes, experimenting with different VPN protocols can sometimes yield better results, especially if your current protocol is being blocked or is not compatible with your network.
Are there any specific settings I should use for my VPN?
It largely depends on your VPN provider and the specific network you are trying to connect to. Always refer to your VPN provider’s official documentation for optimal settings.