How to Fix VPN Error 806

VPNs are essential tools for securing your online activity and accessing restricted content. However, just like any software, VPNs sometimes encounter errors that hinder their functionality. One such error is VPN Error 806, which can be frustrating when you need to establish a secure connection.

VPN Error 806 typically occurs when the connection between your device and the VPN server fails due to issues with the network or VPN server settings. The error message that accompanies this issue may read: “Error 806: The connection between your computer and the VPN server could not be established because the remote server is not responding.”

If you’ve encountered this error, don’t worry. This guide will walk you through the potential causes of VPN Error 806 and provide effective solutions to help you get your VPN up and running again.

What is VPN Error 806?

VPN Error 806 typically occurs when your device is unable to establish a connection with the VPN server. It happens when your VPN client fails to communicate with the server, often due to misconfigurations, network-related issues, or problems with your VPN provider’s server.

The error message associated with this issue usually reads something like: “Error 806: The connection between your computer and the VPN server could not be established because the remote server is not responding.”

This means that your computer tried to connect to the VPN server, but either the server wasn’t reachable, or there was an issue preventing the connection.

Causes of VPN Error 806

There are several potential reasons why you might encounter VPN Error 806. Below, we will explore the most common causes of this issue:

1. Incorrect VPN Configuration

One of the most frequent causes of VPN Error 806 is incorrect configuration settings in your VPN client. If the server address, port number, or authentication settings are not properly set up, the connection may fail.

• Solution: Double-check your VPN settings and make sure they match the details provided by your VPN provider. Verify the server address, protocol type, and authentication credentials.

2. Network Issues

Your local network could be causing the VPN connection to fail. If your internet connection is unstable, slow, or blocked by a network configuration, you might not be able to connect to the VPN server.

• Solution: Test your internet connection by browsing websites without the VPN. If you notice issues with your connection, troubleshoot your network or contact your ISP.

3. VPN Server-Side Problems

The issue might not be on your end at all. If the VPN server is down or experiencing high traffic or technical issues, it may not be able to respond to your connection request.

• Solution: If possible, check the status of the VPN server. If the server is down, wait for the issue to be resolved by the VPN provider. You can also try connecting to a different VPN server if available.

4. Firewall or Antivirus Interference

Sometimes, security software such as firewalls and antivirus programs can interfere with VPN connections. They might block VPN traffic, thinking it is a security threat, resulting in VPN Error 806.

• Solution: Temporarily disable your firewall or antivirus software and test the connection. If the VPN connects successfully, you’ll need to configure your firewall or antivirus software to allow VPN traffic.

5. Blocked VPN Ports

VPNs require certain ports to be open in order to work. If these ports are blocked by your firewall, router, or ISP, you may encounter Error 806.

• Solution: Check the required ports for your VPN service and ensure that they are open. You may need to configure port forwarding on your router or contact your ISP for assistance.

6. VPN Protocol Mismatches

Some VPN services use different protocols for connection, such as OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP, or IKEv2. If there’s an issue with the protocol selected, it can lead to connection failures and Error 806.

• Solution: Try switching to a different VPN protocol in your VPN client’s settings. Commonly, OpenVPN and IKEv2 are reliable choices that work well for most users.

7. Corrupted VPN Client or Drivers

Corrupted or outdated VPN client software or drivers can cause VPN errors like Error 806. If your VPN software is out of date or its installation files are damaged, it may fail to connect to the server.

• Solution: Ensure that your VPN client is up-to-date. If updating doesn’t work, try reinstalling the VPN client to restore corrupted files.

How to Fix VPN Error 806

Now that we’ve discussed the common causes of Error 806, let’s go over the solutions you can try to fix this issue.

1. Verify VPN Configuration Settings

The first thing you should do is verify your VPN configuration settings. Ensure that the VPN server address, username, password, and other configuration details match those provided by your VPN provider.

• Step 1: Open your VPN client and navigate to the configuration or settings page.
• Step 2: Check that the server address, username, password, and other settings are correct.
• Step 3: Save any changes and attempt to reconnect.

2. Reboot Your Computer and Router

A simple restart can often resolve temporary issues that might be affecting your VPN connection. Restarting your computer and router will help reset your network and eliminate any glitches.

• Step 1: Turn off your computer and unplug your router.
• Step 2: Wait for about 1-2 minutes before plugging the router back in and turning on your computer.
• Step 3: Reattempt the VPN connection.

3. Check VPN Server Availability

If the VPN server you are trying to connect to is down or unavailable, you won’t be able to connect. If you’re using a third-party VPN service, check their website or app for any service status updates.

• Step 1: Check the status of your VPN server or ask your VPN provider if the server is experiencing issues.
• Step 2: If possible, switch to another server location offered by your VPN provider and attempt to reconnect.

4. Temporarily Disable Firewall and Antivirus Software

Your firewall or antivirus software may be blocking your VPN connection. To determine if this is the case, temporarily disable your firewall and antivirus software.

• Step 1: Open your antivirus or firewall settings and disable them temporarily.
• Step 2: Try connecting to the VPN again.
• Step 3: If this works, re-enable your firewall/antivirus and configure it to allow VPN traffic.

5. Open or Forward VPN Ports

If certain VPN ports are being blocked, you can try forwarding them through your router settings.

• Step 1: Identify the VPN ports required by your VPN provider.
• Step 2: Log in to your router’s settings page.
• Step 3: Forward the necessary ports for your VPN and save the settings.
• Step 4: Try connecting to the VPN again.

6. Switch VPN Protocols

If you are using a protocol that is incompatible or causing issues, try switching to another protocol that may work better.

• Step 1: Open your VPN client and go to the settings or connection options.
• Step 2: Look for an option to change the protocol (e.g., OpenVPN, IKEv2, L2TP, etc.).
• Step 3: Select a different protocol and save the changes.
• Step 4: Attempt to reconnect to the VPN.

7. Update or Reinstall VPN Client and Drivers

Outdated or corrupted VPN clients can cause connection issues. Updating or reinstalling your VPN software can restore functionality.

• Step 1: Check for updates for your VPN client software.
• Step 2: Install any available updates and restart your device.
• Step 3: If the problem persists, uninstall and reinstall the VPN client to restore missing or corrupted files.

8. Test Your Internet Connection

A slow or unstable internet connection can also cause issues with VPN Error 806. Make sure your internet connection is working properly.

• Step 1: Try connecting to the internet without the VPN enabled.
• Step 2: If your internet connection is slow or unreliable, troubleshoot your network or contact your ISP for assistance.

Preventing VPN Error 806 in the Future

To prevent encountering VPN Error 806 in the future, consider the following best practices:

1. Keep Your VPN Software Updated: Regularly update your VPN client to ensure it’s running the latest version with bug fixes and improvements.
2. Check Server Status: If possible, choose a VPN provider that offers a server status page where you can check if a particular server is down.
3. Ensure Network Stability: Use a stable and high-speed internet connection when connecting to your VPN.
4. Configure Firewall/Antivirus: Make sure that your firewall and antivirus settings are not blocking your VPN connection.

FAQs

Conclusion

VPN Error 806 can be frustrating, but with the right troubleshooting steps, you can resolve it and restore your secure connection. By verifying your configuration, checking network stability, and making sure your VPN client and firewall settings are correct, you’ll be able to avoid this issue in the future. If the error persists, contact your VPN provider for additional support.