The inability to access streaming content from a particular provider when connected to a virtual private network (VPN) is a common issue. This situation arises when a user attempts to circumvent geographical restrictions imposed by the content distributor by masking their actual location with a VPN server. The desired outcome, unrestricted access to regionally limited material, is not achieved.
Circumventing regional content blocks offers several advantages to the user, including access to a broader range of entertainment and the potential to view content unavailable in their physical location. Historically, VPNs have been effective tools for accessing geo-restricted services. However, content providers increasingly employ sophisticated detection mechanisms to identify and block VPN traffic, thereby preventing unauthorized access to their libraries.
This issue can stem from various causes, encompassing VPN server detection, protocol incompatibility, or specific configurations within the streaming service’s infrastructure. Troubleshooting often involves experimenting with different VPN servers, adjusting VPN protocols, or directly contacting the VPN provider for assistance.
1. VPN Server Detection
VPN server detection is a primary factor contributing to the inability to access Amazon Video while using a VPN. Content providers like Amazon Video employ sophisticated techniques to identify and block IP addresses associated with VPN servers, effectively preventing users from circumventing geographical restrictions.
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IP Address Reputation
Amazon Video, along with other streaming platforms, maintains databases or utilizes third-party services that track IP addresses known to be associated with VPN servers. These databases flag IPs with high usage patterns indicative of VPN traffic, leading to their blacklisting. For example, if numerous users from diverse geographical locations are simultaneously accessing Amazon Video through a single IP, it is highly likely the IP is a VPN server and will be blocked. This results in the error message “amazon video vpn not working.”
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Traffic Pattern Analysis
Beyond IP reputation, Amazon Video analyzes traffic patterns to identify characteristics typical of VPN usage. VPN connections often exhibit predictable traffic patterns, such as consistent connection speeds and encrypted data streams originating from a limited number of servers. Advanced algorithms can detect these patterns and flag the associated IP addresses. This can lead to intermittent access issues or complete blocking, demonstrating the impact of traffic pattern analysis on the “amazon video vpn not working” phenomenon.
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Heuristic Analysis
Heuristic analysis involves identifying anomalies in network behavior that suggest VPN usage. This includes examining connection durations, the frequency of IP address changes, and the types of protocols used. If a users behavior deviates significantly from typical user patterns, such as rapid IP address hopping, the system may infer VPN usage and restrict access. Heuristic analysis provides an additional layer of detection impacting how well a VPN functions with Amazon Video, directly tying into user complaints of “amazon video vpn not working.”
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Deep Packet Inspection (DPI)
DPI techniques allow Amazon Video to examine the content of data packets passing through its network. By analyzing packet headers and payloads, it can detect VPN protocols and identify VPN server signatures. This allows for precise blocking of VPN traffic at the packet level. Some advanced VPNs employ obfuscation techniques to mask VPN traffic, but DPI methods are constantly evolving to counteract these efforts. The effectiveness of DPI directly relates to the continued difficulties users experience when facing “amazon video vpn not working” outcomes.
These multifaceted detection methods underscore the challenges VPN users face when attempting to access geo-restricted content on Amazon Video. While VPN providers continuously adapt to circumvent these blocks, Amazon’s ongoing advancements in VPN detection technology contribute significantly to the issue of “amazon video vpn not working.”
2. IP Address Blacklisting
IP address blacklisting is a central mechanism in the “amazon video vpn not working” scenario. Amazon Video, in its efforts to enforce geographical content restrictions, actively identifies and blocks IP addresses associated with VPN servers. This process directly impacts users attempting to bypass these restrictions, leading to access denial and prompting the frustration captured in the phrase “amazon video vpn not working.”
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Dynamic Blacklisting
Amazon Video employs dynamic blacklisting techniques, continuously monitoring IP addresses for VPN-like activity. If an IP exhibits characteristics such as a high number of connections from diverse geographical locations or unusual traffic patterns, it is temporarily or permanently added to a blacklist. This dynamic nature means that IP addresses can be blocked and unblocked rapidly, causing intermittent access issues for VPN users. This directly corresponds with user reports of “amazon video vpn not working” sporadically.
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Shared IP Addresses
VPN servers often utilize shared IP addresses, meaning that multiple users connect to the internet through the same IP. This concentration of traffic makes it easier for Amazon Video to identify and blacklist these IPs. When an IP address shared by many VPN users is blacklisted, all users connecting through that IP lose access to Amazon Video, even if they are legitimate customers. This shared risk demonstrates why “amazon video vpn not working” is frequently experienced by VPN users.
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Blacklist Databases
Amazon Video relies on comprehensive blacklist databases, often sourced from third-party providers, that catalog IP addresses associated with VPNs, proxies, and other anonymization services. These databases are constantly updated with newly identified VPN IP addresses, allowing Amazon to proactively block access. The efficacy of these databases directly influences the frequency with which users encounter “amazon video vpn not working.”
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Consequences of Blacklisting
When an IP address is blacklisted, users connecting through that IP receive an error message indicating that they cannot access Amazon Video, or experience buffering issues due to the throttled connection. This can lead users to believe that their VPN is malfunctioning or that Amazon Video is experiencing technical difficulties, masking the underlying issue of IP address blacklisting. The user experience is directly and negatively impacted, resulting in the common search query “amazon video vpn not working.”
The reliance on IP address blacklisting as a method for enforcing geo-restrictions highlights the ongoing challenge for VPN users attempting to access Amazon Video. The continuous evolution of blacklisting techniques, coupled with the use of shared IP addresses by VPN providers, contributes to the persistent problem of “amazon video vpn not working” and the need for users to seek alternative solutions or strategies.
3. Protocol Incompatibility
Protocol incompatibility is a significant contributing factor to instances where a VPN fails to grant access to Amazon Video, resulting in the issue summarized as “amazon video vpn not working.” The specific protocols used by a VPN to establish a secure connection may not align with the protocols supported or required by Amazon Video’s content delivery network. This mismatch can lead to failed connections, video buffering, or outright denial of access. For example, if a VPN employs an outdated protocol like PPTP (Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol), which is known for security vulnerabilities, Amazon Video may block the connection as a security measure, thereby preventing access and causing the “amazon video vpn not working” result.
The importance of protocol compatibility extends to encryption methods. Amazon Video typically mandates secure encryption protocols to protect its content from unauthorized access. If the VPN utilizes a weaker or unsupported encryption protocol, the connection will be flagged and blocked. A real-life example includes cases where users configure their VPN to use a less secure protocol for performance reasons, only to find that Amazon Video becomes inaccessible. The practical significance of understanding this is that users should prioritize VPNs that offer modern, secure protocols such as OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, or WireGuard. These protocols are more likely to be compatible with Amazon Video’s security requirements, improving the likelihood of successful access. Furthermore, understanding the settings of ones VPN and manually configuring the protocol to align with security standards becomes crucial.
In summary, protocol incompatibility, including both the tunneling and encryption protocols, plays a crucial role in the “amazon video vpn not working” problem. Selecting a VPN service that supports robust and up-to-date protocols is essential for mitigating this issue. While VPN providers may advertise compatibility with streaming services, it is advisable to verify the available protocols and their encryption standards. The challenge lies in the evolving security measures implemented by streaming services and the need for VPN providers to adapt proactively. Therefore, ongoing assessment and potential adjustment of VPN configurations may be necessary to maintain consistent access to Amazon Video content.
4. Geographical Restrictions
Geographical restrictions imposed by streaming services, including Amazon Video, are a primary cause of the amazon video vpn not working issue. Content licensing agreements often limit the availability of specific titles to certain regions. These limitations necessitate the implementation of geo-blocking technologies, preventing users outside the designated regions from accessing the content. When a user attempts to bypass these restrictions using a VPN, the effectiveness of the VPN directly impacts their ability to circumvent these geographical limitations. The inability to circumvent them results in the amazon video vpn not working error.
The practical significance of understanding the role of geographical restrictions lies in troubleshooting access issues. For example, if a user in Europe attempts to access content available only in the United States, and their VPN is not functioning correctly, Amazon Video will detect their true location and block access. This necessitates verifying that the VPN server selected is located in the correct region. Furthermore, the user must ensure that their VPN is not leaking their actual IP address, which would defeat the purpose of using a VPN to bypass geographical restrictions. If a VPN’s DNS servers are not masking the user’s actual IP the Amazon servers will use DNS to find out the actual location.
In summary, geographical restrictions are the underlying reason why users employ VPNs to access Amazon Video content. The failure of a VPN to effectively mask a user’s location, coupled with Amazon’s geo-blocking technology, leads directly to the amazon video vpn not working problem. Addressing this requires careful selection of VPN servers and thorough verification of the VPN’s functionality in masking the user’s true location.
5. VPN Configuration Errors
VPN configuration errors constitute a significant, often overlooked, factor contributing to the inability to access Amazon Video when utilizing a VPN, resulting in the problem articulated as “amazon video vpn not working.” Incorrect settings within the VPN client, operating system, or network environment can undermine the VPN’s functionality, preventing it from effectively masking the user’s true location or establishing a secure connection to Amazon Video’s servers. These errors effectively negate the intended benefits of using a VPN, leading to the familiar “amazon video vpn not working” experience. For instance, a misconfigured DNS setting can leak the user’s actual IP address, even if the VPN appears to be connected, thereby exposing their true geographical location to Amazon Video’s detection systems. A similar effect occurs if the VPN’s kill switch, designed to terminate the internet connection if the VPN drops, is not properly configured or is disabled, leaving the user vulnerable to IP address exposure during brief disconnections.
The practical significance of understanding the role of configuration errors lies in the ability to diagnose and rectify the root cause of access problems. A common example involves the MTU (Maximum Transmission Unit) setting. If the MTU is set too high for the VPN connection, it can result in fragmented packets and connection instability, manifesting as buffering issues or outright denial of access to Amazon Video. Manually adjusting the MTU setting to a lower value, such as 1400 or 1450, can resolve this issue. Furthermore, neglecting to update the VPN client to the latest version can introduce compatibility issues with Amazon Video’s evolving security protocols. Similarly, using incorrect encryption settings or selecting an incompatible VPN protocol can hinder the establishment of a secure and reliable connection. Verifying these settings and aligning them with the recommended configurations from the VPN provider can often resolve access problems. In cases of more complex network configurations, such as those involving firewalls or routers, it may be necessary to adjust firewall rules to allow VPN traffic or to configure port forwarding to ensure proper VPN functionality.
In conclusion, VPN configuration errors are a critical component of the “amazon video vpn not working” issue. Addressing these errors requires a systematic approach to troubleshooting, involving a thorough review of VPN client settings, operating system configurations, and network parameters. While VPN providers often offer default configurations, these may not be optimal for all users or network environments. Therefore, understanding the potential impact of various configuration settings and being prepared to make adjustments is essential for achieving consistent and reliable access to Amazon Video content while using a VPN. The challenge lies in the technical complexity of VPN configurations and the need for users to possess a sufficient level of technical knowledge to diagnose and resolve configuration-related problems. However, with careful attention to detail and a systematic approach to troubleshooting, many of the issues contributing to “amazon video vpn not working” can be effectively mitigated.
6. Amazon’s Detection Systems
Amazon employs a sophisticated suite of detection systems designed to identify and block VPN usage, directly contributing to instances of “amazon video vpn not working.” These systems operate on multiple levels, analyzing network traffic, user behavior, and IP address characteristics to enforce geographical content restrictions and prevent unauthorized access. The effectiveness of these detection mechanisms is central to understanding why users encounter difficulties accessing Amazon Video content when connected to a VPN.
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Geolocation Technology
Amazon utilizes advanced geolocation technology to pinpoint the geographical location of users accessing its services. This technology goes beyond simple IP address lookups, incorporating data from various sources, including GPS signals (when available), Wi-Fi network information, and cellular triangulation. If the reported location from these sources conflicts with the VPN’s claimed location, Amazon’s systems flag the connection as suspicious, potentially blocking access and leading to “amazon video vpn not working.” For example, if a user claims to be in the United States via a VPN but their browser’s geolocation API reports a European location, Amazon’s systems will likely deny access.
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VPN IP Address Databases
Amazon maintains extensive databases of IP addresses known to be associated with VPN servers. These databases are compiled from a variety of sources, including third-party providers and Amazon’s own monitoring of network traffic. When a user connects to Amazon Video through an IP address listed in these databases, the connection is automatically flagged and may be blocked. This proactive approach to identifying and blocking VPN IP addresses is a significant reason why “amazon video vpn not working” is a persistent issue.
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Behavioral Analysis
Amazon’s detection systems also incorporate behavioral analysis to identify patterns of activity that are indicative of VPN usage. This includes monitoring connection speeds, traffic volumes, and the frequency of IP address changes. For example, if a user rapidly switches between multiple IP addresses in different geographical locations, this behavior is likely to be flagged as suspicious and could result in access restrictions. Such behavioral analysis contributes to the comprehensive approach Amazon employs to detect and prevent VPN usage, furthering the “amazon video vpn not working” problem.
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Deep Packet Inspection (DPI)
Amazon employs deep packet inspection (DPI) techniques to analyze the content of network packets and identify VPN protocols and encryption methods. DPI allows Amazon to detect VPN traffic even when it is encrypted, by examining the packet headers and payloads for characteristic signatures. This allows for precise blocking of VPN traffic at the packet level. While some advanced VPNs employ obfuscation techniques to mask VPN traffic, DPI methods are constantly evolving to counteract these efforts. The effectiveness of DPI directly relates to the continued difficulties users experience when facing “amazon video vpn not working” outcomes.
The multifaceted nature of Amazon’s detection systems underscores the challenges faced by VPN users attempting to access geo-restricted content. These systems continuously evolve and adapt to new VPN techniques, making it increasingly difficult to circumvent geographical restrictions. While VPN providers continue to develop methods to bypass these detection mechanisms, Amazon’s proactive approach ensures that “amazon video vpn not working” remains a common issue for many users.
7. Encryption Protocol Issues
Encryption protocol issues represent a significant barrier for users attempting to access Amazon Video with a VPN, frequently resulting in the “amazon video vpn not working” scenario. The encryption protocols employed by a VPN are fundamental to establishing a secure and private connection, and any vulnerabilities or incompatibilities in these protocols can lead to access restrictions.
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Outdated Encryption Protocols
The use of outdated encryption protocols, such as PPTP (Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol) or L2TP (Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol) without IPsec, can lead to connection failures. These protocols are known to have security vulnerabilities and are often blocked by streaming services like Amazon Video. A real-life example includes a user configuring their VPN with PPTP for perceived speed benefits, only to find that Amazon Video is inaccessible due to the protocol’s inherent insecurity. The implication is that users should prioritize VPNs offering modern, secure protocols such as OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, or WireGuard.
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Incompatible Cipher Suites
Cipher suites are sets of cryptographic algorithms used to secure a VPN connection. If the cipher suites supported by the VPN are incompatible with those required by Amazon Video, the connection will fail. This can occur when a VPN utilizes weak or outdated cipher suites that do not meet Amazon’s security standards. For instance, if a VPN only supports cipher suites using SHA-1 hashing, which is considered insecure, Amazon Video may reject the connection. Selecting a VPN that offers a variety of strong and up-to-date cipher suites is crucial for ensuring compatibility and avoiding “amazon video vpn not working” situations.
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Improper Protocol Configuration
Even when a VPN supports strong encryption protocols, improper configuration can still lead to access issues. This includes using incorrect settings for encryption levels, authentication methods, or key exchange algorithms. For example, if a user configures their VPN to use a lower encryption level for testing purposes and forgets to revert to a higher setting, their connection may be vulnerable and blocked by Amazon Video. Verifying and aligning the VPN’s configuration with the provider’s recommended settings is essential for maintaining a secure and compatible connection.
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Certificate Validation Failures
Certificate validation is a critical step in establishing a secure VPN connection. If the VPN client fails to properly validate the server’s certificate, the connection may be compromised, leading to a denial of access. This can occur if the VPN’s certificate is expired, invalid, or issued by an untrusted authority. For instance, if a VPN user manually installs a custom configuration file containing an outdated or invalid certificate, their connection will likely be rejected by Amazon Video. Ensuring that the VPN client is configured to automatically validate certificates and that the certificates are up-to-date is vital for preventing connection failures.
In summary, encryption protocol issues are a key determinant in the “amazon video vpn not working” problem. The selection of a VPN with robust encryption protocols, proper configuration, and valid certificate validation are essential for mitigating these issues and achieving consistent access to Amazon Video content. The challenge lies in the technical complexity of encryption protocols and the need for users to be informed about the security implications of their VPN configuration.
8. Location Data Mismatch
Location data mismatch is a critical factor contributing to the “amazon video vpn not working” issue. The problem arises when the geographical location inferred by Amazon Video from various data points contradicts the location asserted by the VPN. This discrepancy triggers access restrictions, as Amazon’s systems interpret the mismatch as an attempt to circumvent geographical content limitations. The cause stems from Amazon’s reliance on multiple sources of location data, including IP addresses, DNS server locations, browser geolocation APIs, and device-specific location services. When these sources provide conflicting information, the platform prioritizes data that indicates the user’s actual location, overriding the VPN’s intended masking effect. The importance of location data accuracy is underscored by the streaming service’s need to comply with licensing agreements that restrict content distribution to specific regions. A real-life example is a user connecting to a US-based VPN server but having their browser’s geolocation settings enabled, revealing a European location; Amazon Video will likely block access in such cases. This underscores the practical significance of disabling location-revealing services and ensuring DNS leak protection when using a VPN.
Further complicating the scenario is the use of “smart DNS” services by some VPN providers. While these services can facilitate access to geographically restricted content, they can also introduce inconsistencies in location data. For instance, a smart DNS server located in a different region than the selected VPN server can create a conflict that Amazon’s systems detect. Furthermore, the caching of location data by browsers and operating systems can lead to persistent mismatches, even after the VPN connection is established. To mitigate this, users should clear their browser cache, disable location services, and flush their DNS cache before connecting to Amazon Video via a VPN. The persistence of the location data mismatch issue also highlights the ongoing battle between content providers and VPN services, with each side continuously developing more sophisticated detection and circumvention techniques.
In conclusion, location data mismatch is a significant hurdle in accessing Amazon Video with a VPN, directly contributing to the “amazon video vpn not working” problem. Successfully masking a user’s location requires a comprehensive approach that addresses all potential sources of location data leakage. While VPNs can provide a layer of anonymity, their effectiveness is contingent upon proper configuration and a thorough understanding of the various factors that can reveal a user’s true location. The challenge lies in the complexity of these systems and the constant need to adapt to Amazon’s evolving detection methods. Ultimately, resolving the “amazon video vpn not working” issue requires diligent attention to detail and a proactive approach to preventing location data discrepancies.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the inability to access Amazon Video while using a Virtual Private Network (VPN), typically resulting in the “amazon video vpn not working” problem.
Question 1: Why does a VPN sometimes fail to provide access to Amazon Video?
A VPN’s failure to grant access often stems from Amazon’s sophisticated VPN detection systems, which identify and block IP addresses associated with VPN servers. Other factors include protocol incompatibility, location data mismatch, and VPN configuration errors.
Question 2: What steps can be taken to troubleshoot the “amazon video vpn not working” issue?
Troubleshooting involves verifying the VPN server’s location, ensuring DNS leak protection is enabled, clearing browser caches, and updating the VPN client. Adjusting VPN protocols and encryption settings may also prove beneficial.
Question 3: How does Amazon Video detect and block VPN usage?
Amazon employs various methods, including IP address blacklisting, geolocation technology, behavioral analysis, and deep packet inspection (DPI). These techniques allow for the identification of VPN traffic and the enforcement of geographical restrictions.
Question 4: Are all VPN protocols equally effective in circumventing Amazon Video’s geo-restrictions?
No. Outdated protocols like PPTP are easily detectable and often blocked. Modern protocols such as OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and WireGuard offer superior security and are more likely to be effective, though success is not guaranteed.
Question 5: What is the role of location data mismatch in the “amazon video vpn not working” problem?
Location data mismatch occurs when Amazon identifies discrepancies between the VPN’s asserted location and other data sources, such as browser geolocation APIs or DNS server locations. Such inconsistencies trigger access restrictions.
Question 6: Does the VPN provider influence the likelihood of successful access to Amazon Video?
Yes. VPN providers vary in their ability to circumvent Amazon’s VPN detection systems. Providers that regularly update their server IP addresses and offer robust security features are more likely to provide consistent access.
Successfully accessing Amazon Video via a VPN requires understanding the technical challenges involved and implementing appropriate troubleshooting steps. No single solution guarantees success, and ongoing adaptation may be necessary.
The subsequent section explores potential alternatives to VPNs for accessing geographically restricted content.
Mitigating “Amazon Video VPN Not Working” Issues
This section provides actionable strategies for addressing the “amazon video vpn not working” problem, offering guidance to improve the likelihood of successful access.
Tip 1: Employ Reputable VPN Services
Select VPN providers known for regularly updating server IP addresses and employing robust obfuscation techniques. Avoid free or low-cost options, as these often lack the resources to effectively circumvent Amazon’s detection mechanisms.
Tip 2: Utilize Dedicated IP Addresses
Consider using a dedicated IP address provided by the VPN service. A dedicated IP is less likely to be blacklisted compared to shared IPs, as it is exclusively used by a single user.
Tip 3: Experiment with VPN Protocols
Test different VPN protocols such as OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, or WireGuard. Some protocols may perform better than others in specific network environments. Manual configuration may be required.
Tip 4: Clear Browser Cache and Cookies
Prior to connecting to Amazon Video via a VPN, clear the browser’s cache and cookies. This removes any stored location data that may conflict with the VPN’s asserted location.
Tip 5: Disable Location Services
Disable browser and operating system location services. These services can reveal the user’s actual location, even when connected to a VPN, creating a location data mismatch.
Tip 6: Implement DNS Leak Protection
Ensure that DNS leak protection is enabled within the VPN client. DNS leaks can expose the user’s actual IP address and geographical location, negating the VPN’s anonymity.
Tip 7: Update VPN Client Software
Maintain an updated VPN client to benefit from the latest security patches, protocol improvements, and server IP address updates. Outdated software is more vulnerable to detection.
Implementing these strategies can enhance the likelihood of successfully accessing Amazon Video with a VPN. However, it is important to recognize that Amazon’s detection methods are constantly evolving, and consistent access is not guaranteed.
The final section offers concluding remarks and summarizes the key points discussed.
Conclusion
The persistent issue of “amazon video vpn not working” arises from the complex interplay between VPN technology and Amazon’s robust content protection measures. The preceding discussion has explored the multifaceted reasons behind this problem, encompassing VPN server detection, IP address blacklisting, protocol incompatibility, geographical restrictions, VPN configuration errors, Amazon’s detection systems, encryption protocol issues, and location data mismatch. These factors collectively contribute to the challenge users face in accessing geographically restricted content via VPNs.
As content distribution strategies evolve and technological countermeasures advance, continued vigilance and adaptation are essential for those seeking unrestricted access. Understanding the intricacies of VPN functionality and content provider detection methods is crucial for navigating the ever-changing landscape of online media access. Ongoing research and testing of VPN configurations remain vital for mitigating the “amazon video vpn not working” problem.
