VPN Keeps Disconnecting: Find the Pattern
Check sleep, network changes, app background limits, and the underlying connection before changing multiple settings.
Note when the connection drops. A failure after sleep, during a Wi-Fi change, or after a fixed period gives support a more useful clue than “it disconnects sometimes.”
Check whether the network also drops
A VPN needs a working connection underneath it. Look for weak Wi-Fi, cellular changes, or a portal that requires another sign-in. If ordinary internet access also fails, start with the network.
Separate reconnection from traffic blocking
An app can be trying to reconnect while a kill switch deliberately blocks traffic. Learn whether the current setting blocks only after a tunnel failure or also while disconnected generally.
Do not permanently turn off the protection simply to remove a symptom. Use documented recovery instructions and restore the intended setting after diagnosis.
Check sleep and background behavior
Record the operating system and app version. On a phone, review the provider’s instructions for the manufacturer’s background or battery controls. Change only the relevant setting rather than disabling unrelated protections.
Try a controlled comparison
Keep the network and server steady while trying one supported protocol alternative. Then check a different network separately. This helps distinguish a transport issue from a device or location problem.
Keep a short event log
Record the time, network transition, protocol, and whether the app recovered. A screenshot can help, but remove account details and addresses before sharing it publicly. If you depend on persistent coverage, test the final setup again after sleep and network changes instead of assuming the new setting solved every case.