Blog

How to Fix VPN Not Working After KB5014746 Update on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

If your VPN stopped working after installing the KB5014746 update on Windows 11, you are not alone. Many users have reported connectivity issues linked to this update. Fortunately, there are several straightforward fixes you can try to get your VPN back up and running.

This article will guide you through simple, step-by-step solutions to resolve VPN problems caused by the update. Each step is explained in detail so even beginners can follow along with ease. By following these instructions, you can quickly restore your VPN connection and improve your online security.

We will start with quick checks and easy fixes before moving on to more advanced troubleshooting methods. This will help you save time and avoid unnecessary complications.

Let’s begin by understanding some important points to check before troubleshooting.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

Before diving into fixes, make sure to do the following:

  • Restart your computer: Sometimes, a simple reboot clears temporary issues caused by updates.
  • Check your internet connection: Ensure that your internet is working properly without the VPN.
  • Verify VPN service status: Confirm that your VPN provider is not experiencing outages by visiting their website or support page.
  • Run Windows Update: Make sure all updates are fully installed, including any patches released after KB5014746.

These quick checks can sometimes solve the problem without further troubleshooting.

Step 1: Reset Your Network Settings

Network settings might have been affected by the update, causing VPN issues. Resetting these settings can often resolve conflicts.

How to reset network settings:

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Click on Network & Internet from the sidebar.
  3. Scroll down and click Advanced network settings.
  4. Under More settings, select Network reset.
  5. Click Reset now and confirm by clicking Yes.
  6. Your PC will restart automatically.

Why this helps: Network reset removes all network adapters and reinstalls them, clearing any misconfigurations that may interfere with VPN connections.

Step 2: Update or Reinstall Your VPN Client

Sometimes, the VPN software itself may not be fully compatible with the latest Windows update. Updating or reinstalling it can fix compatibility issues.

To update your VPN client:

  1. Open your VPN application.
  2. Look for an update option in the settings or help menu.
  3. If available, follow prompts to download and install the latest version.

To reinstall your VPN client:

  1. Press Windows + R, type appwiz.cpl, and press Enter to open Programs and Features.
  2. Find your VPN software in the list, select it, and click Uninstall.
  3. After uninstalling, restart your computer.
  4. Download the latest version of your VPN from the official website.
  5. Install the VPN and try connecting again.

Why this helps: Reinstalling ensures that your VPN client has all necessary files updated and configured correctly for Windows 11.

Step 3: Check VPN Protocol and Network Adapter Settings

VPNs use different protocols to connect. The update might have affected protocol settings or network adapters.

Try switching VPN protocols:

  • Open your VPN client settings.
  • Locate the connection or protocol options (commonly OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard, or SSTP).
  • Switch to a different protocol and attempt to connect.

Check VPN network adapter status:

  1. Press Windows + X and choose Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Network adapters section.
  3. Look for any VPN-related adapters (their names usually include your VPN provider or “TAP”).
  4. If you see a warning icon (yellow triangle), right-click the adapter and select Update driver.
  5. If updating does not help, right-click and choose Uninstall device, then restart your PC to reinstall automatically.

Why this helps: Protocol incompatibility or faulty drivers can block VPN connections. Adjusting these can restore functionality.

Step 4: Disable IPv6 (Advanced but Helpful)

IPv6 can sometimes cause conflicts with VPN connections, especially after updates.

To disable IPv6:

  1. Press Windows + R, type ncpa.cpl, and press Enter to open Network Connections.
  2. Right-click your active network connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) and select Properties.
  3. In the list, uncheck Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6).
  4. Click OK and restart your computer.
  5. Try to connect to your VPN again.

Why this helps: Disabling IPv6 can prevent conflicts with VPN tunneling protocols that prefer IPv4 for stable connections.

Step 5: Use Windows Troubleshooter for Network and VPN

Windows has built-in troubleshooters that can automatically detect and fix common network problems.

How to run the troubleshooter:

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  3. Find Internet Connections and click Run.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
  5. Next, run the Network Adapter troubleshooter the same way.

Why this helps: The troubleshooter can detect misconfigurations or missing files and attempt automatic repairs.

FAQs

Why did the KB5014746 update break my VPN?

The KB5014746 update introduced changes to Windows network components that may conflict with VPN drivers or protocols, causing connection failures.

Can I uninstall the KB5014746 update to fix VPN issues?

Yes, uninstalling the update can temporarily restore VPN functionality, but it is not recommended as it may leave your system vulnerable. Instead, try the fixes above first.

Is this issue affecting all VPN providers?

No, the issue mainly affects VPNs that use certain network adapters or protocols. Some VPN clients have already released patches to fix compatibility.

Do I need administrator rights to perform these fixes?

Yes, most troubleshooting steps like network reset, driver updates, or disabling IPv6 require administrator permissions.

Will disabling IPv6 affect my internet speed or security?

Disabling IPv6 generally does not impact most home users and can improve VPN stability. However, if your ISP relies on IPv6, this may affect connectivity.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above solutions solve your VPN problems, consider the following options:

  • Contact your VPN provider’s support: They may have specific fixes or updates for Windows 11 issues.
  • Visit Microsoft Support: Look for any official patches or advisories related to KB5014746 on the Microsoft Support website.
  • Use System Restore: Restore your PC to a point before installing the KB5014746 update (if you have restore points enabled).
  • Consider alternative VPN software: Some VPN clients may be more compatible with recent Windows updates.

Conclusion

VPN issues after the KB5014746 update on Windows 11 can be frustrating but are usually fixable with basic troubleshooting. Start with simple steps like restarting your PC and resetting network settings, then move to reinstalling VPN software and adjusting protocols.

Disabling IPv6 and using Windows troubleshooters can further help resolve conflicts introduced by the update. Always keep your VPN client updated and check with your provider for any known issues.

By following this guide, you should be able to restore your VPN connection safely and securely without needing to uninstall important Windows updates.

Leave a Reply