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Full Fix: Firewall Blocking VPN [8 Expert-Tested Solutions]

Make sure you use a reliable VPN, like the one we recommend below

6 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

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Millions of Internet users across the globe are usingVPNsto encrypt and secure their data while keeping their browsing anonymous online.

VPNs also help users bypass geo-restrictions and unblock content from sites they otherwise wouldn’t be able to access, while anonymous.

However, many of these users face difficulties when trying to install and/or launch their VPN client on Windows, and usually, it is blocked by a firewall or other security software in place.

If you experience your VPN block issues byWindows Firewall, in most cases it is a default setting, but there are ways to get around it and get connected again. Use the solutions below to do this.

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Why is the Firewall a problem for VPNs?

Your firewall handles your network security, blocking access to and from suspicious platforms/services. It can sometimes flag your VPN as dangerous, even if it’s not.

➡️How to check if VPN is blockedOpen your firewall’s settings and scroll to the Blocked applications section.

➡️How to stop the firewall from blocking VPN?Head to settings and find the Add exception to firewall option. You’ll get a list of all the apps installed on your device. Select your VPN and save your settings.

What can I do if my VPN got blocked by Windows Firewall?

1. Change your VPN

You can change your VPN and see if it resolves the issue. Normally, an established VPN provider has a good client that will work great together with Windows Firewall.

A great VPN, recommended below, is owned by Kape Technologies and has servers located all around the world.

It supports high data speeds, which makes it a fast VPN for Windows operating system, besides its powerful features and performance.

It is a favorite among the best VPN software for laptops as it not only protects your privacy on a multi-platform privacy solution but also offers reliable connections.

ExpressVPN

2. Add an exclusion

Note:Most VPN clients use ports 500 and 4500 UDP, and port 1723 for TCP. If these don’t work, add a new rule to allow them in Windows Firewall Advanced settings.

3. Allow VPN through firewall settings

4. Change adapter settings

5. Create a new inbound rule

You should then be able to connect to your home devices through your VPN

6. Enable rule for PPTP

If your VPN requires PPTP, do the following:

7. Open ports

In order to allow your VPN traffic to pass through the firewall, open the following ports:

8. Turn off SSL monitoring

Depending on your firewall or security software, there are steps to take to fix VPN blocked by Windows firewall. Here’s what to do if you’re usingESET NOD32orKaspersky:

NOD32:

Any luck fixing VPN blocked by the Windows firewall using the solutions above? Share with us by leaving a comment in the section below.

After you whitelist your VPN you should be able to allow PPTP through the firewall.

Many people report having to whitelist VPNs. It seems that you oftentimes have to allow Cisco Anyconnect through a firewall as well as other reputable VPNs:

Also, leave there any other suggestions or questions that you may have and we’ll be sure to check them out.

Full Fix: Firewall Blocking VPN [8 Expert-Tested Solutions]#

Why is the Firewall a problem for VPNs?#

What can I do if my VPN got blocked by Windows Firewall?#

1. Change your VPN#

ExpressVPN#

2. Add an exclusion#

3. Allow VPN through firewall settings#

4. Change adapter settings#

5. Create a new inbound rule#

6. Enable rule for PPTP#

7. Open ports#

8. Turn off SSL monitoring#