Troubleshooting

Fix common connection problems and stay online on networks that restrict standard VPN protocols.

Most connection problems clear up in a few steps. Work through the ones that match what you're seeing, and if it still won't connect, send us a diagnostic report at the bottom of this page.

The app won't connect

Toggle the connection off and on. Press disconnect, wait a moment, then connect again — the app re-picks a fresh, fast route.
Try another location. Open the location list and choose a different country. If one location is congested, another usually connects instantly.
Check the rest of your internet. Open any website with the VPN off. If nothing loads, the problem is your underlying network, not ForestVPN.
Update the app. An out-of-date app can miss recent network improvements. Install the latest version from your app store.
Restart the device. A stale network state on the device itself is a surprisingly common cause.

It connects but nothing loads

Turn the kill switch off briefly to check whether it's blocking traffic during a reconnect, then turn it back on.
Switch to a nearer location — a very distant exit can feel slow enough to look broken.
If you use a VSpace exit or your own device as an exit, confirm that device is online.

Connecting on restrictive networks

Some networks — on certain public Wi-Fi, and in some countries — use deep packet inspection (DPI) to slow down or block standard VPN protocols. You don't need to change any settings for this. ForestVPN adapts automatically: it reshapes its traffic with obfuscated transports and, if a direct path is blocked, falls back to a ForestVPN relay, so your connection keeps working.

If a restrictive network is being especially aggressive:

Give the app a few extra seconds on the first connect — it may be stepping through its adaptation options to find one the network allows.
Try a different location; some routes are less contested than others.
Keep the app updated so it has the latest transport options.

ForestVPN adapts your connection so it keeps working on hard networks. It does not promise to hide that you are using a VPN.

Send a diagnostic report

If none of the above helps, the app can send us a diagnostic report with the technical context we need — without any of your browsing activity. Open Dashboard → Help at /dash/help, describe what's happening, and submit. You can also email [email protected].

Where to next

Getting started — the basics, start to finish.
Devices — when a specific device won't connect.
FAQ — quick answers to common questions.