How to fix McAfee VPN not connecting issues

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) helps keep your online activity private by hiding your location and encrypting your data. If you're using McAfee® VPN, you expect it to work whenever you go online. But when it won't connect, it can leave you wondering what's going on.

That's where we come in. Asurion Experts help people solve tech issues like this every day, from VPN problems to antivirus settings. Here's what to do when McAfee VPN stops connecting to get your privacy back on track.

Why is my McAfee VPN not working?

McAfee VPN may stop working if you have an unstable internet connection. Too much traffic to a VPN's location server can also interfere with its performance and connection speed. Other potential causes include system or application conflicts and outdated software. 

Simple steps to fix McAfee VPN not connecting

If McAfee can't connect to VPN, try these troubleshooting solutions to fix the issue.

Check your internet connection

McAfee VPN requires a stable internet connection to run. Check your device and confirm it has internet access. If you can't access websites or internet-connected apps, there's a problem with the network connection.

Restarting your router clears temporary bugs that prevent a Wi-Fi connection. To restart the router, unplug it from its power source. Wait up to 30 seconds before plugging it back in. It may take several minutes to fully boot up and transmit a signal.

If restarting the router doesn't resolve connection issues, check with your internet provider. There may be an outage in your area.

Try another virtual location

McAfee VPN allows you to choose a location to browse from. If your current location isn't working, switching to another one may resolve the issue.

1. Open the McAfee app.
2. Click the My Protection tab.
3. Click Secure VPN.
4. Select a location from the dropdown menu.
5. Retry the VPN.

Restart your devices and VPN

Close the McAfee app and restart your device. After the device boots up, follow these steps to turn on McAfee VPN.

1. Open the McAfee app.
2. Locate Secure VPN. 
3. Turn the Secure VPN button On if necessary.

Verify VPN settings

The McAfee VPN connection may drop based on your settings. Confirm it's set to work anytime you connect your device to a network.

1. Open the McAfee app.
2. Click the Secure VPN tile.
3. Click VPN settings.
4. Locate Turn on VPN. Click All the time (Recommended).
5. Restart your computer and turn on McAfee VPN. 

Update McAfee software

Outdated McAfee software may cause your VPN to stop working. Take these steps to update it.

Windows PCs

1. Open the McAfee app.
2. Click the Account icon.
3. Click Update app > Check now. 
4. Follow the prompts to install available updates. 

Mac computers

1. Open the McAfee app.
2. Click the Updates tile.
3. Click Start in the Update window.
4. Wait for the update to finish before retrying the VPN. 

Check for operating system (OS) updates

Windows™ and macOS® release occasional updates to improve system functionality. If your device doesn't have the most recent updates, it could cause a conflict with McAfee VPN. 

Windows PCs

1. Click the Start menu. Open Settings.
2. Click Windows Update > Check for Windows updates.
3. Click Download & install. 
4. Restart your device after the installation completes. 

Macs

1. Click the Apple menu. 
2. Click System Settings > General > Software Update.
3. Click Update Now to install available updates.
4. Restart your device after the installation completes. 

Update network drivers

An outdated network driver may cause McAfee VPN connection issues. Check for network driver updates on your device. Mac users can ignore this step since MacOS software updates include drivers.

Windows PCs

1. Right-click the Start menu.
2. Click Device Manager.
3. Click the arrow next to Network adapters.
4. Right-click the network driver name. Click Update driver.
5. Click Search automatically for updated driver software.
6. Wait for the installation to complete before restarting the device.

How to prevent future McAfee VPN issues

McAfee VPN requires a stable internet connection and up-to-date system software. If you frequently experience internet connectivity issues, consider moving your Wi-Fi router closer to your device. A standard home router generally covers up to 150 feet of space, but walls may reduce its range. 

Set up your device to receive automatic operating system updates. Automatic updates keep your computer running smoothly and fix software conflicts that impact McAfee VPN. Follow these steps to turn on automatic updates.

Windows PCs

1. Click the Start menu. Open Settings.
2. Click Windows Update.
3. Toggle the button next to Get the latest updates as soon as they're available.

Macs

1. Click the Apple menu.
2. Click System Settings > General > Software Update.
3. Click the Information icon next to Automatic Updates.
4. Review the available Automatic Updates options and set your preferences.
5. Click Done.