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How to Fix Strong VPN Not Working on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Strong VPN is a popular tool for securing your internet connection and protecting your privacy. However, sometimes it may stop working on Windows 11 due to various reasons. This guide will help you fix common issues step-by-step to get your VPN running smoothly again.

We’ll start with simple checks and move on to more detailed solutions. Each step is explained clearly so even beginners can follow along without confusion.

By the end, you will understand how to troubleshoot Strong VPN issues and know when to seek further help. Let’s begin with some quick notes before diving into the fixes.

Follow these instructions carefully, and you should be able to restore your VPN connection on Windows 11 quickly.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

  • Check your internet connection: Ensure your PC is connected to the internet. Strong VPN won’t work without an active connection.
  • Confirm your Strong VPN subscription is active: Expired accounts can prevent connection.
  • Restart your computer: Sometimes a simple reboot fixes temporary glitches.
  • Update Windows 11: Running the latest system updates can resolve compatibility problems.
  • Make sure Strong VPN app is updated: Outdated software may not work properly on Windows 11.

Step 1: Restart Strong VPN and Your Network Devices

Often, connection issues are temporary and can be fixed by restarting the VPN app and your network hardware. This refreshes your system and network settings.

  1. Close the Strong VPN application completely.
  2. Turn off your Wi-Fi router or unplug your modem for 30 seconds.
  3. Turn your router/modem back on and wait until it fully reconnects.
  4. Restart your Windows 11 PC.
  5. Open Strong VPN and try connecting again.

This process can clear network glitches and reset your VPN’s connection attempt.

Step 2: Run Strong VPN as Administrator

Windows 11 security sometimes blocks VPNs from running correctly unless they have administrator rights. Running Strong VPN as an admin can help bypass this.

  1. Close Strong VPN if it is open.
  2. Right-click the Strong VPN shortcut or executable file.
  3. Select Run as administrator from the context menu.
  4. Try connecting to the VPN server again.

If this works, you can set Strong VPN to always run as administrator by:

  • Right-clicking the Strong VPN icon and choosing Properties.
  • Switch to the Compatibility tab.
  • Check the box for Run this program as an administrator.
  • Click Apply and then OK.

Step 3: Disable Windows Firewall or Add Exception for Strong VPN

Windows Firewall may block Strong VPN from establishing a connection. Temporarily disabling it or adding an exception can help diagnose if it’s causing the issue.

  1. Press Win + S, type Windows Defender Firewall, and open it.
  2. Click on Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off from the sidebar.
  3. Temporarily select Turn off Windows Defender Firewall for both private and public networks.
  4. Click OK and try connecting Strong VPN again.

Note: If the VPN works after disabling the firewall, add Strong VPN as an exception rather than leaving the firewall off. To do this:

  1. Go back to Windows Defender Firewall settings.
  2. Click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
  3. Click Change settings and then Allow another app....
  4. Browse to the Strong VPN executable and add it.
  5. Ensure both private and public checkboxes are checked.
  6. Save changes and re-enable the firewall.

Step 4: Reset Network Settings on Windows 11

If your network configuration is causing issues, resetting network settings can clear problematic configurations and allow Strong VPN to work properly.

  1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Network & internet > Advanced network settings.
  3. Scroll down and click Network reset.
  4. Click the Reset now button.
  5. Your PC will restart automatically. After reboot, try running Strong VPN again.

This resets all your network adapters and settings to default, which can fix many VPN connection problems.

Step 5: Change VPN Protocol in Strong VPN Settings

Strong VPN supports multiple VPN protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard. Sometimes a specific protocol might be blocked or not work well with your network.

  1. Open Strong VPN and go to its Settings or Preferences.
  2. Look for VPN Protocol options.
  3. Switch the protocol to a different one (for example, from OpenVPN UDP to OpenVPN TCP or IKEv2).
  4. Save changes and try connecting again.

Changing protocols helps bypass firewall restrictions or network filtering that could block VPN traffic.

Step 6: Reinstall Strong VPN

If none of the above solutions work, your Strong VPN installation might be corrupted or incomplete. Reinstalling the app ensures you have a fresh and updated version.

  1. Press Win + I and go to Apps > Installed apps.
  2. Find Strong VPN in the list and click the three-dot menu next to it.
  3. Select Uninstall and confirm.
  4. Restart your computer.
  5. Download the latest Strong VPN version from the official website.
  6. Install the app and try connecting again.

FAQs About Strong VPN Not Working on Windows 11

Why won’t Strong VPN connect even with the correct credentials?

This can be due to network restrictions, firewall blocking, or protocol issues. Try changing VPN protocols or disabling firewall temporarily to test.

Is Strong VPN compatible with Windows 11?

Yes, Strong VPN is compatible with Windows 11, but you should ensure both the OS and VPN app are updated to the latest versions.

Can antivirus software block Strong VPN?

Yes, some antivirus programs may block VPN connections. Temporarily disable antivirus or add Strong VPN to the antivirus exceptions list.

What if Strong VPN connects but internet doesn’t work?

This can happen due to DNS or IP configuration issues. Resetting network settings or changing VPN protocol usually solves it.

How can I check if Strong VPN servers are down?

Visit Strong VPN’s official website or social media channels for announcements about server status or outages.

When Nothing Works

If you’ve followed all the steps and Strong VPN still does not work on your Windows 11 PC, consider these final options:

  • Contact Strong VPN Support: They can provide server-specific troubleshooting or check for account issues.
  • Check for Windows 11 updates: Sometimes new patches fix underlying network bugs.
  • Try using Strong VPN on another device: This helps determine if the issue is specific to your PC.
  • Use an alternative VPN client: Some users may find temporary relief by using OpenVPN GUI with Strong VPN credentials.

Official Strong VPN support page: https://strongvpn.com/support

Conclusion

Strong VPN not working on Windows 11 can be frustrating, but most issues can be fixed with simple troubleshooting. Start by checking your internet connection and restarting your devices. Running the VPN as administrator and adjusting firewall settings often solves permission and blocking problems.

Resetting network settings and changing VPN protocols help resolve deeper connectivity conflicts. If needed, reinstall the app to ensure it is up-to-date and properly installed.

Remember to use the FAQs and final support options if you get stuck. With these steps, you should be able to enjoy a secure and private internet connection on your Windows 11 device using Strong VPN.

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