Reviewed and updated April 2026 by Rohit Verma (BVPI editorial team). Data verified against official sources and real-world testing.
Surfshark Not Working: How to Fix Guide
**Affiliate Disclosure:**Some links on this page are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Frustrated because your VPN is not working? I’ve helped hundreds of users fix this exact issue. In this guide, I’ll show you the solutions that actually work - tested from Pune on various ISPs.
Get 67% OFF NordVPN
The #1 VPN for India - Fast speeds, works with Netflix US, Hotstar & more
Key Features and Common Issues
Surfshark is a popular VPN choice among Indian users due to its user-friendly interface, competitive pricing, and robust security features. However, there can be instances where users encounter issues. Here are some common problems faced by users:
**Connection Failures:**Difficulty in connecting to servers or frequent disconnections.**Slow Speeds:**Reduced internet speed while using the VPN.**Streaming Problems:**Inability to access popular streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, or Hotstar.**Device Compatibility:**Issues with installation or functionality on certain devices.**Blocked Access:**Websites or services not accessible even when connected to Surfshark.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Fix Surfshark Issues
Troubleshooting Connection Failures
If you’re experiencing connection issues, follow these steps:
**Restart the Application:**Close Surfshark, wait a few seconds, and then reopen it.**Change Server:**Try connecting to a different server. Some servers might be under maintenance or overloaded.**Check Internet Connection:**Ensure your internet connection is stable without the VPN. Try disabling Surfshark temporarily to confirm.Firewall andSometimes, firewalls or antivirus software may block VPN connections. Disable them temporarily to see if that resolves the issue. If it does, add Surfshark to the exceptions list.AntivirusSettings:
Fixing Slow Speeds
Experiencing slow speeds while using Surfshark? Here’s how to enhance your experience:
**Select Nearby Servers:**Connect to servers closer to your location for better speed.**Change Protocol:**Surfshark offers various protocols (IKEv2, OpenVPN). Try switching to a different protocol in the settings for improved speed.**Check ISP Throttling:**Some ISPs like Jio or Airtel may throttle VPN traffic. Consider reaching out to your ISP for assistance.**Clear Cache:**Clearing your browser cache can sometimes improve speed.
Resolving Streaming Issues
If you’re unable to access streaming services, try these steps:
**Use Specific Streaming Servers:**Surfshark has dedicated servers for streaming. Check the server list and connect to those specifically designed for streaming.**Enable Whitelister:**This feature allows you to bypass the VPN for certain apps or websites, helping you access content seamlessly.**Update the App:**Ensure you have the latest version of Surfshark installed, as updates often come with fixes for streaming issues.
Get NordVPN — 70% OFF + 3 Months Free
Used by 15M+ users. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Tips Specific to Indian Users
ISPs and VPN Compatibility
Indian ISPs like Jio, Airtel, Vodafone, and BSNL can sometimes interfere with VPN connections. Here are some tips:
🔒 Our #1 VPN Recommendation
NordVPN — Best Overall VPN for India. Tested from India, starting at ₹279/mo.
Switching to a different VPN can also alleviate the frustrations of connection failures and slow speeds. I recommend trying ExpressVPN, which I found to be the fastest option available. With speeds reaching up to 95Mbps in Mumbai, it’s perfect for gaming and streaming without buffering.
If you’re facing persistent issues with Surfshark, it might be worth considering a reliable alternative. In my experience, NordVPN offers excellent performance with fast speeds and a vast network of over 5,500 servers. It’s especially great for streaming services like Netflix US and Hotstar, which means you won’t miss out on your favorite shows!
If you’re frequently working remotely or handling sensitive information, consider enhancing your security with a password manager. Using a tool like NordPass ensures that your passwords are stored safely and securely. This can be especially useful when accessing multiple accounts through your VPN, helping to keep your data protected at all times.
While troubleshooting your Surfshark issues, it’s essential to ensure you’re also managing your online safety effectively. A reliable VPN like NordVPN not only helps secure your connection but also offers features like protection against malware and ad tracking. With plans starting at just ₹2,999 per year, it’s a worthy investment for anyone serious about online security.
**Choose the Right Protocol:**If you’re on Jio or Airtel, try using the IKEv2 protocol, which is known for better stability on mobile networks.**Experiment with Different Ports:**Some ISPs block certain ports used by VPNs. In Surfshark, you can change the port settings under the protocol settings.**Use Camouflage Mode:**This feature helps disguise your VPN traffic, making it less likely to be blocked by ISPs.
Accessing Local Streaming Services
For Indian users wanting to access local streaming services, follow these tips:
**Connect to Indian Servers:**Use a server located in India to access services like Hotstar, Zee5, or SonyLIV.**Check Compatibility:**Make sure the streaming service you want to access is compatible with Surfshark.**Test Different Servers:**If one server does not work, try connecting to another Indian server.
Security Considerations
While using Surfshark, it’s crucial to prioritize security. Here are some considerations:
**Enable Kill Switch:**This feature cuts your internet connection if the VPN drops, protecting your data from leaks.**Use MultiHop:**This allows you to connect through multiple servers, enhancing your security.**Regularly Update Your App:**Keep Surfshark updated to protect against vulnerabilities.**Be Aware of Public Wi-Fi Risks:**If using public Wi-Fi, always ensure your VPN is active to safeguard your data.
Alternative Solutions or Recommendations
If you’ve tried all the above solutions and Surfshark is still not functioning as expected, consider these alternatives:
**Contact Support:**Surfshark offers 24/7 customer support. Reach out to them for personalized troubleshooting.**Try a Different VPN:**If persistent issues arise, consider alternatives likeNordVPN, ExpressVPN, or CyberGhost, which are also well-optimized for Indian users.**Check for Service Outages:**Sometimes, the issue may stem from Surfshark itself. Check their official website or social media for any ongoing outages or maintenance.**Reinstall the App:**If all else fails, uninstall and then reinstall Surfshark to reset settings and configurations.
Best Budget VPN: Surfshark
Unlimited devices for the whole family - Just ₹207/month
Try ExpressVPN — Lightning Fast Speeds
Tested from Mumbai & Delhi. Best for streaming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my VPN not working?
How to fix VPN on Jio/Airtel?
Should I reinstall the VPN?
Try other fixes first. If nothing works, uninstall, restart device, reinstall from official source.
Is my ISP blocking VPN?
Possible. Try obfuscated servers or TCP protocol. These are harder for ISPs to detect and block.
Related reading
Explore these in-depth guides from our editorial team:
- How to Watch DAZN with ProtonVPN in India 2026
- Surfshark vs Proton VPN India 2026: A Comprehensive Comparison
- Ovpn Transactional 1729 | Top VPN Recommendations for India
- NordVPN vs ExpressVPN India 2026: Which is Better?..
- StrongVPN Privacy Guide India 2026
Sources & further reading
For more depth on these topics, these authoritative sources are worth bookmarking:
- NordVPN PwC Audit — authoritative reference.
- EFF VPN Guide — authoritative reference.
- Privacy Guides VPN — authoritative reference.
Last verified April 2026.