Contents
- 1 Top 9 Ways to Fix Google Chrome Not Working With VPN
- 1.1 1. The Website Has Enabled VPN Protection
- 1.2 2. Check Network Connection
- 1.3 3. Try Another VPN Server
- 1.4 4. Check VPN Subscription
- 1.5 5. Install a VPN Extension
- 1.6 6. Update VPN App
- 1.7 7. Clear Google Chrome Cache
- 1.8 8. Disable Other Extensions
- 1.9 9. Update Chrome
- 1.10 Access Your Favorite Websites With a VPN Network
Top 9 Ways to Fix Google Chrome Not Working With VPN
Google updates Chrome regularly with new features and bug fixes. However, you might still encounter some issues. Common problems include Chrome changing search engine to Yahoo, closing automatically, and not working with VPN for browsing regional sites or streaming Netflix.
A VPN allows you to use a different IP address for your computer or mobile, masking your original IP address to access blocked websites and services. If Chrome is not working or loading websites while the VPN is on, you can try the following tricks to resolve the issue.
1. The Website Has Enabled VPN Protection
Some sports and streaming services can detect active VPN networks and block the connection to websites that are not available in your region. This can prevent you from accessing the content. The issue is not specific to Google Chrome. You may try using a different browser, but you will likely encounter the same error. In such cases, you will need to wait for the service to become available in your country.
2. Check Network Connection
An active VPN network only changes the IP address on your device. It needs an internet connection on your desktop or Mac to work properly. Before connecting to a VPN network, ensure that you have a high-speed Wi-Fi setup. Once connected to a Wi-Fi or Ethernet network, visit fast.com to test your speeds (in Mbps). If you experience connection issues on your Windows or Mac, refer to our guides for troubleshooting.
Apps like ExpressVPN offer speed tests for connected servers. Open the VPN app and select ‘Show Speed Test.’ Connect to a server with higher download speeds to avoid errors.
3. Try Another VPN Server
Most VPN apps have many servers. If one server is down, switch to another server and try in Google Chrome.
Step 1: Open your VPN app on Windows or Mac, like ExpressVPN. Step 2: Choose Show all locations. Step 3: Connect to a different VPN server and you’re done.
4. Check VPN Subscription
If your VPN subscription has expired, you may encounter issues using the service in Google Chrome. To resolve this, update your payment method on the VPN network’s official website by signing in with your account details. Once signed in, go to the account page to verify your subscription details. If it has passed the due date, update the payment details and try again.
5. Install a VPN Extension
An outdated VPN app may cause issues with Google Chrome on desktop. Ditch the native app and switch to an extension. Most VPN apps offer a Chrome Web Store extension. Downloading the extension on your browser will only take a couple of minutes.
Step 1: Launch Google Chrome and go to the Chrome Web Store. Step 2: Look for a VPN extension and download it for Chrome.
Step 3: Access the VPN extension from the top-right corner and connect to a preferred server.
6. Update VPN App
VPN apps often release updates to add features and fix bugs. Update the VPN app and try again.
7. Clear Google Chrome Cache
Google Chrome collects cache in the background; some websites may load content from these saved files. Even when connected to a VPN, the same webpage can still appear. There are two options: enable private browsing or clear the Chrome cache. Follow these steps:
1. Open Google Chrome and click the three-dot menu at the top.
2. Expand more tools and select clear browsing data.
Step 3: Clear cache.
8. Disable Other Extensions
One of the installed extensions may interfere with the VPN on Chrome. Disable or delete irrelevant extensions from Chrome.
Step 1: Launch Chrome and click the three-dot menu.
Step 2: Select extensions and open Manage Extensions.
Step 3: Disable or delete extensions from the menu.
9. Update Chrome
When the tricks fail, update Google Chrome and try again.
Step 1: Go to Chrome Settings from the top-right corner.
Step 2: Select About Chrome.
The browser automatically downloads the new version.
Access Your Favorite Websites With a VPN Network
If you’re experiencing VPN issues on Google Chrome, consider changing your VPN provider. There are many reliable VPN apps available, so choose one with a high uptime rate for paid users.
As Fred Humiston, the author behind Twothirds.us, I focus on providing practical and easy-to-follow guides and solutions for a variety of technical issues that people commonly face.
My articles cover a wide range of topics, from troubleshooting out-of-sync audio on TikTok and managing Firestick devices, to understanding the impact of Capcut on video quality and resolving sound issues on Hisense Roku TVs.
I also delve into more general tech tips, like how to block numbers on landlines or use VPNs without Wi-Fi. My goal is to make technology more accessible and less intimidating for everyone, whether you’re a tech novice or a seasoned user. I strive to offer clear, concise, and helpful advice to make your digital experience smoother and more enjoyable.