21 Fixes For macOS Sonoma VPN Not Working Problem 

Safe and private connections are necessary in this age of cyber complexities, and navigating the digital environment comes with hurdles. VPNs, or Virtual Private Networks, provide an iron curtain that keeps our online activities safe and private.

Even the reliable macOS Sonoma VPN might sometimes experience hiccups, leaving users confused and disconnected. We must figure out what’s causing this and, more importantly, how to fix it.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to fix the VPN connection problem with macOS Sonoma. We share 21 viable fixes to help you regain a flawless VPN experience. Let’s dive into these solutions and say goodbye to VPN issues.

Why Is the macOS Sonoma VPN Not Working?

There are several reasons why your VPN might not be working. The most obvious reason might be the update causing an incompatibility issue. However, there can be several other reasons as well. Here are some of the most common reasons:

1. Internet Connection Issues: Inconsistent or weak internet connectivity can hinder the VPN’s functionality, causing it to falter.
2. Misconfigured Router: VPN connectivity issues can arise if the router’s settings cause conflicts.
3. Wi-Fi Connectivity Problems: Difficulty in connecting to the Wi-Fi network or wrong credentials can impair VPN operation.
4. VPN App Glitches: Technical faults inside the VPN app can prevent it from operating normally, resulting in a failed VPN connection.
5. Multiple VPNs Active: Having more than one VPN active concurrently can generate issues and hamper the smooth working of Sonoma VPN.
6. VPN Server Issues: Problems with the VPN server or VPN protocol can prevent the service from functioning as intended.
7. VPN Data Limit Reached: If your VPN has hit its data limit, it will stop working until you reset it.
8. Misconfigured VPN: Misconfigured VPN settings can disrupt your VPN connection and cause it to stop working.
9. Outdated VPN: Corrupt or outdated VPN profiles on your Mac can prevent the VPN from working as intended.
10. IPv6 Issues: Problems with VPN connectivity can arise from inadequate or wrong DNS and IPv6 configuration.
11. App Compatibility: Problems with the VPN app may occur if it is incompatible with the current macOS version. New macOS versions may cause problems with your VPN connection if they aren’t compatible.

21 Ways to Fix macOS Sonoma VPN Not Working Issue

Now that you understand why the VPN might not work, let’s get into the troubleshooting steps. We have prepared an extensive guide, so you should be able to find the right solution for you.

This is a detailed list of everything you can try to fix this issue, from checking your internet connection to adjusting VPN protocols to contacting VPN support. Make sure to keep trying until the issue is fixed. The key is not to lose hope.

Fix 1: Check your Internet Connection

Verifying your internet connection is the first crucial step in fixing the macOS Sonoma VPN problem. A VPN cannot function without a stable and persistent connection to the internet. You can eliminate network problems as the cause of the VPN not working by performing a thorough check of your connection.

Use a website to see how fast your internet is. Make sure your connection speed is adequate for a VPN connection. Use an Ethernet cable to connect your device straight to the network if possible. Forget about wires, cables, and dangling adapters. This solution will solve your connectivity issues.

Fix 2: Adjust Router Settings

Configuring a router properly is crucial to a VPN’s functioning. Incompatible settings may hurt the VPN connection. Setting up a virtual private network (VPN) needs fine-tuning the router to operate according to the VPN’s standards.

1. Open up a web browser and go to the address bar.
2. Enter your router’s IP address.
3. Enter your username and password for the router.
4. If you’re using a virtual private network (VPN), you must ensure your router allows traffic to pass through it. With these adjustments, the router will accept VPN connections.
5. If you haven’t already done so, forward ports 500, 1701, and 4500 (for L2TP/IPSec, for example) for the VPN protocols you’ll be using. This routes VPN data through the correct ports.
6. Verify if there are any accessible firmware updates for your router, and then apply them. There may be security holes or compatibility issues in old firmware.
7. Temporarily disable anti-virus or firewall protections on your router that could disrupt VPN connections.
8. Verify the Maximum Transmission Unit (MTU) settings on your router. VPN connection issues can arise from an incorrect MTU setting.

If you need help determining the best VPN settings for your router, don’t hesitate to contact the manufacturer for assistance.

Fix 3: Restart your Router

Over time, a router could develop minor faults that could significantly impact a VPN connection. A router restart fixes these difficulties and restores regular network performance. Despite its lack of complexity, this is often sufficient to restore normal VPN operation and restore connectivity. Follow the steps below:

1. Unplug your router and wait a few seconds for the power to drain.
2. Then, plug in your router again and turn it on.

Fix 4: Perform a Router Reset

It takes more than just turning the router off and on again to perform a reset. Performing this action will restore the router to its original configuration. This is extremely useful when disagreements or router problems prohibit the VPN from working. If the VPN stops working, resetting the router should restore it to its factory settings. Follow the steps below:

1. Find where the reset button is on your router. It is usually located on the back or the bottom of your router.
2. Please disconnect the power cord from the back of the router to turn it off.
3. For 10-15 seconds, press and hold the reset button with a paperclip or other pointed object. Don’t let go of the button until the router has started restarting.
4. After some time, release the reset button. The router will continue to reboot.
5. Allow the router to complete the reboot process, which may take a few minutes.
6. After the reboot, use a web browser to log into the router’s administration interface and change the settings to your liking.
7. Test the VPN connection on macOS Sonoma after reconnecting your devices to the Wi-Fi network.

Fix 5: Forget and Reconnect to Wi-Fi

If you’re having issues with your wireless network’s settings, disconnecting and reconnecting may help. If the VPN is experiencing interference, reconnecting the machine to the wireless network may fix the problem. This is essential for ensuring the continued availability and safety of the network upon which the VPN operates. Follow the steps below:

1. Click on the Apple Menu on the top left corner of the screen.
2. Click on System Settings.
3. From the left menu, click on Wi-Fi.
4. Click on the Details text next to your Wi-Fi network.
5. Click on Forget This Network.
6. Finally, click on Remove to confirm.
7. Return to the Wi-Fi page and click on the same Wi-Fi network again.
8. Enter the password (if any) to connect to it.
9. Try using the VPN and see if it is now working.

Fix 6: Toggle VPN On and Off

Toggling the VPN can sometimes do wonders when nothing else has worked. It’s possible that restarting the VPN will restore your connections. A quick refresh like this can address small faults that may lead to the VPN’s erratic behavior. Follow the steps below:

1. Click on the Apple Menu on the top left corner of the screen.
2. Click on System Settings.
3. From the left menu, click on Network.
4. Click on your VPN.
5. Click on Disconnect.
6. You can also disconnect the VPN from the client itself.
7. Now, go back to the VPN client and connect to the VPN.

Fix 7: Restart the VPN App

In the same way that restarting a router fixes any kinks or bugs, restarting a VPN program does the same thing. It removes any obstacles, so the VPN software can try connecting again, hopefully without the same issues or conflicts. Follow the steps below:

1. Open the VPN client on your Mac.
2. Click on the Apple Menu on the top left corner of the screen.
3. Click on Force Quit.
4. Now, re-open the client and connect to the VPN again.

Fix 8: Use One VPN at a Time

When many VPNs are in use, network conflicts and confusion might occur. If you just use one VPN, you can prevent traffic jams and provide your chosen service with your undivided bandwidth. The result is a VPN connection that is both more stable and easier to use.

Fix 9: Change your VPN Server

Try a different VPN server if you’re having issues with the one you’re currently using. Some servers may occasionally slow down your VPN connection due to technical issues or excessive traffic. If connecting to the VPN is causing issues, trying a different server might be the answer.

Fix 10: Adjust VPN Protocols

The VPN protocol governs information sent between your device and the VPN server. Certain protocols may cause conflicts or incompatibility in your network. You can increase the VPN’s stability and speed by switching to a protocol that works better with your existing network setup.

1. Launch the VPN client on macOS Sonoma, and then click the gear icon to access the preferences panel.
2. Check the available VPN protocol modification options. Many VPNs use protocols like IPSec, IKEv2, and SoftEthernet.
3. Switching various protocols might help you choose the VPN service that best meets your needs.
4. Try a VPN connection again after you’ve changed protocols to see whether the new one is faster.
5. Choose the most appropriate VPN protocol for your network’s throughput and uptime tests.

Your VPN service’s documentation or support team might be invaluable when narrowing down your options to find the best VPN protocol for your needs. Contact your VPN provider for further assistance.

Fix 11: Check VPN Data Limit

Every VPN has a maximum monthly data transfer that, if exceeded, disables the VPN connection. If you want to avoid having your VPN service interrupted because you’ve reached your data limit, it’s a good idea to keep tabs on your usage and, if required, upgrade your plan or keep a close eye on your data consumption.

Fix 12: Disable Unwanted VPN Settings

Unwanted or unused VPN settings may occasionally conflict with one another or hinder the app’s normal operation. Turning off these configurations eliminates potential points of contention, making it easier for the VPN to perform normally.

Fix 13: Remove VPN Profile from Mac

Problems with VPN connections can arise when user profiles get corrupted or out of current. Removing and resetting the VPN profile can help fix these problems and establish a fresh and properly functioning connection. Follow the steps below:

1. Click on the Apple Menu on the top left corner of the screen.
2. Click on System Settings.
3. From the left menu, click on Network.
4. Click on your VPN connection.
5. To delete the VPN profile, select it and then click the minus (-) button beneath your network connections list.
6. Click Remove to confirm that you want to delete the VPN profile.
7. After deleting the VPN profile, you can create a new VPN connection by creating a new VPN profile and configuring it to your liking.

Fix 14: Modify DNS Settings

You can make the VPN operate better with your network by modifying your DNS (Domain Name System) settings. Incorrect or out-of-date DNS settings may prevent the VPN from successfully resolving domain names.

Modifying these parameters can optimize the VPN’s interactions with the network and boost its functioning. Follow the steps below to change the DNS settings:

1. Click on the Apple Menu on the top left corner of the screen.
2. Click on System Settings.
3. From the left menu, click on Network.
4. Click on your Wi-Fi network.
5. Click on Details.
6. Scroll down and click on DNS.
7. Under DNS Servers, click the (-) icon to remove all the current DNS servers.
8. Then, click the (+) icon to add a new DNS address or server.
9. Enter the DNS server addresses provided by your VPN service or other reliable DNS servers.
10. Enter the details and click on OK.

Google Public DNS:

• Primary DNS: 8.8.8.8
• Secondary DNS: 8.8.4.4

Cloudflare DNS:

• Primary DNS: 1.1.1.1
• Secondary DNS: 1.0.0.1

OpenDNS:

• Primary DNS: 208.67.222.222
• Secondary DNS: 208.67.220.220

Fix 15: Disable IPv6

IPv6 can sometimes interfere with VPN connections, resulting in service disruptions. By turning off IPv6, you can rest assured that your VPN only uses IPv4, which will prevent compatibility concerns and make for a more seamless connection. Follow the steps below:

1. Click on the Apple Menu on the top left corner of the screen.
2. Click on System Settings.
3. From the left menu, click on Wi-Fi.
4. Click on Details next to your Wi-Fi network.
5. Now, click on TCP/IP.
6. Click on the IPv6 drop-down and select Off.

Fix 16: Reset the VPN

If you experience any temporary problems with the VPN app, a quick reset will fix everything. This fix restores the VPN program to its factory settings, removing any faulty setups or issues that may have been preventing it from connecting properly. Follow the steps below:

1. Open the VPN client on your Mac.
2. Click on the Apple Menu on the top left corner of the screen.
3. Click on Force Quit.
4. There should be a “clear cache” or “erasing temporary files” option in the VPN app’s options or settings. We must now flush the cache.
5. You should relaunch the VPN client and re-enter your credentials. It’s time to reset the VPN to factory settings.
6. If asked, or if you think it would be best, adjust the VPN settings to your liking.
7. After resetting and reconfiguring your VPN, you should test its functionality.

Fix 17: Downgrade your VPN App

Occasionally, there will be issues with the VPN app’s performance due to bugs or incompatibilities in the latest version. Avoiding these problems by reverting to an older, tried-and-true program version can provide a more pleasant VPN experience overall. Follow the steps below:

1. Ensure that the VPN app’s previous version is compatible with your macOS version.
2. You can search for compatible versions of the VPN program on its official website or in an app repository.
3. Keep a copy of your current VPN configuration and data before making any changes. This could contain any preferences, stored servers, or configurations.
4. If you’re already using a VPN, delete it.
5. Locate the VPN client you wish to uninstall and click and drag it to the Trash.
6. Get an older version of the VPN client from the developer’s site or another reliable source.
7. Find the previous VPN program version you downloaded (it should be in your Downloads folder).
8. To begin the installation, double-click the file you downloaded.
9. Follow the on-screen prompts to get the previous VPN app version up and running.
10. Open the VPN client and set up the VPN program how you want it to work. This may involve configuring servers, user accounts, and other settings.
11. Test the VPN connection after downgrading the software and adjusting the settings to ensure everything works as it should. Check for stability by connecting to many servers.
12. Launch the App Store and disable automatic upgrades.
13. Click on the Apple Menu on the top left corner of the screen.
14. Uncheck “Automatically check for updates” and “Download newly available updates in the background.”

Fix 18: Update your VPN App

On the other hand, keeping the VPN software up-to-date is essential for getting the most recent patches, upgrades, and features. Incompatibilities between an older app and more recent updates may exist. When you update the app, your VPN connection will be more reliable and secure. Follow the steps below:

1. Get the latest version of the VPN client from the developer’s site or another reliable source.
2. Find the VPN program version you downloaded (it should be in your Downloads folder).
3. To begin the installation, double-click the file you downloaded.
4. Follow the on-screen prompts to get the VPN app’s latest update up and running.
5. Open the VPN client and see if the issue has been resolved.

Fix 19: Reinstall the VPN App

When you want to reinstall the VPN program, you must first uninstall it. By following these steps, you can rest assured that your new installation of the VPN program will be free of any corrupted or otherwise non-functioning components of the prior one. Follow the steps below:

1. Locate the VPN client you wish to uninstall and click and drag it to the Trash.
2. Get the latest version of the VPN client from the developer’s site or another reliable source.
3. Find the VPN program version you downloaded (it should be in your Downloads folder).
4. To begin the installation, double-click the file you downloaded.
5. Follow the on-screen prompts to get the VPN app’s latest update up and running.
6. Test the VPN connection after downgrading the software and adjusting the settings to ensure everything works as it should. Check for stability by connecting to many servers.

Fix 20: Update macOS

Keeping your macOS up-to-date ensures continued software compatibility, including with your VPN. By keeping macOS up to date, you can prevent security flaws and take advantage of the latest features, which may fix the VPN’s incompatibility issues. Follow the steps below:

1. Click on the Apple Menu on the top left corner of the screen.
2. Click on System Settings.
3. Select General from the left pane.
4. Then, click on Software Update.
5. Download and install any available updates.
6. Restart your Mac.

Fix 21: Reach out to VPN Support for Assistance

Getting in touch with the VPN service’s support staff can be a game-changer if everything else fails. Most VPN services have some customer assistance available, whether email, live chat, or a phone number.

Reaching out to them allows you to elaborate on the precise nature of your problem. With their knowledge and experience, you may get the specific help you need to fix the macOS Sonoma VPN problem. Follow the steps below:

1. Open the VPN client on your Mac.
2. Click on the Apple Menu on the top left corner of the screen.
3. Click on Get Help.
4. Click on Report a Bug.

Get in Touch with Apple

In other instances, the origin of the VPN issue may reside within the macOS system itself. If the issue appears to be software-related, it may be helpful to contact Apple Support.

If your VPN connection fails to establish on macOS Sonoma, Apple Support can walk you through alternative remedies relating to macOS or escalate the issue if necessary.

Final Words

That’s how you fix VPN issues on macOS Sonoma. Make sure to try all the solutions mentioned in this article before you reach out for external support or assistance. VPN issues can be dreadful, especially when you ought to be doing something important. These fixes should help you resolve the VPN issues on macOS Sonoma.

Always ensure that you are running on the latest version of macOS to avoid getting into issues such as this one. Which one of these solutions worked for you? Do you know of any other solutions that might work? Let us know in the comments section below.