All VPNs have failed after I tried a bunch of different VPN

Troubleshooting VPN Connectivity Issues on Windows 11: A Case Study

Persistent VPN connectivity problems can be frustrating, especially when multiple VPN services fail simultaneously. This article explores a real-world scenario where a Windows 11 user experienced widespread VPN failures after experimenting with various providers, including ProtonVPN, Hotspot Shield, TunnelBear, Windscribe, and Tailscale. We delve into the troubleshooting steps undertaken and offer insights into resolving such issues.

Background

The user’s setup involved a Windows 11 laptop primarily using ProtonVPN. Recently, due to specific circumstances, they tested several alternative VPN services to address connectivity challenges. Unfortunately, following these tests, all VPN connections—including the original ProtonVPN—ceased to function properly. The primary symptom observed was a failure at the connection stage across all VPN clients.

VPNs Tested
– Hotspot Shield
– TunnelBear
– Windscribe
– Tailscale

Attempts to Resolve

Several troubleshooting measures were executed, including:
– Resetting network settings to their default configurations
– Removing all VPN profiles and reinstalling only ProtonVPN
– Uninstalling outdated network devices and drivers, then allowing the system to reinstall necessary network adapters automatically

Despite these efforts, the connection failures persisted, indicating a deeper underlying issue.

Possible Causes and Recommendations

While specific root causes are not detailed here, common factors leading to universal VPN failures after such interventions include:
– Corrupted network configuration or driver conflicts
– Firewall or security software interfering with VPN connections
– Changes in network settings or system files caused by VPN installations or removals
– DNS or IP routing issues

To address these challenges, consider the following steps:

1. Check Network Adapter Status
2. Open Device Manager and verify that all network adapters are functioning correctly.

3. Update network drivers from the manufacturer’s website.

4. Reset Network Settings Thoroughly

5. Use Windows’ built-in network reset tool:
   • Settings > Network & Internet > Status > Network reset

6. Restart the device afterward.

7. Flush DNS and Reset IP Stack

8. Open Command Prompt as administrator and execute:
   ipconfig /flushdns
netsh int ip reset
netsh winsock reset

9. Reboot the system.

10. Verify Firewall and Security Software

11. Temporarily disable third-party firewalls or antivirus programs to test VPN connectivity.

12. If VPN works with security software disabled, configure appropriate exceptions.

13. **Reinstall