Struggling to get your Surfshark VPN to route traffic the way you want? I know that feeling, it’s super frustrating when your online security suddenly hits a roadblock, especially when you’ve gone through the trouble of setting it up on your router. A lot of times, when your Surfshark VPN isn’t routing correctly, it comes down to a few common culprits, whether it’s a simple app glitch, a tricky network setting, or sometimes, a deeper configuration issue with your router.

This guide will walk you through all the usual suspects and give you clear, actionable steps to get your connection back on track, whether you’re using the app on your phone, computer, or a full-blown VPN-enabled router. We’re going to tackle everything from the quick fixes that often work wonders to the more in-depth technical adjustments you might need, especially if your whole network is supposed to be routing through Surfshark. The goal here isn’t just to point out problems, but to empower you with the solutions, so you can enjoy that secure, unrestricted internet access you signed up for. And don’t worry, we’ll also cover how to double-check that your VPN is actually doing its job once you think you’ve fixed things, because peace of mind is pretty important when it comes to online privacy.

When Surfshark isn’t routing your traffic the way you expect, it can feel like a guessing game. But from my experience, and looking at what a lot of people run into, there are usually a handful of reasons behind it. Let’s break down the most common ones so you can start narrowing down the problem.

App Glitches & Outdated Software

Think of your Surfshark app like any other piece of software on your computer or phone. Sometimes it gets a little buggy, or maybe it’s just not the latest version. An outdated app might not be compatible with recent operating system updates or even new network configurations, leading to connectivity headaches. If the app itself is having a moment, it can prevent your VPN from connecting or routing traffic properly, even if everything else is perfect.

Network & Internet Hiccups

This one’s a biggie, and honestly, it’s often overlooked. Your VPN needs a solid internet connection to do its job. If your Wi-Fi is spotty, your connection is unstable, or your internet service provider ISP is having issues, your VPN will struggle to establish and maintain a connection. We’re talking about anything from network congestion too many people on the same network to strict network restrictions like at a public Wi-Fi hotspot or even your home ISP that might intentionally or unintentionally block VPN traffic. Another common, silent problem is IPv6 – many VPNs, including Surfshark, don’t fully support IPv6 yet, and if your network is using it, it can cause connection issues and even data leaks.

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Overloaded or Problematic VPN Servers

Surfshark has a ton of servers, which is great, but even the best VPNs can have server-side issues. Sometimes a particular server gets overcrowded, slowing things down to a crawl, or it might be undergoing maintenance. Other times, a server could be temporarily down or experiencing technical problems, making it impossible to connect or route traffic through it. It’s a common problem with all premium VPN services.

Conflicting Software Antivirus, Firewalls, Other VPNs

Your antivirus software, firewall, or even another VPN app can be a real troublemaker. These programs are designed to control your network traffic and protect your device, which is usually a good thing. However, they can sometimes see your VPN’s attempt to reroute traffic as a threat and block it entirely. I’ve seen it happen where two VPNs clash over network configurations, essentially canceling each other out. Surfshark VPN in Russia: What You Really Need to Know

Router-Specific Headaches Crucial for “Route via VPN”

Now, if you’re trying to route all your network traffic through Surfshark by setting it up on your router, this section is especially for you. This setup is awesome because it protects every device connected to your Wi-Fi, even those that don’t support VPN apps natively, like smart TVs or gaming consoles. But it also adds a layer of complexity.

Here are the typical router-related culprits:

• Router Compatibility: Not all routers are built to handle VPN client software. You might need a router that specifically supports OpenVPN or WireGuard, or one that can run custom firmware like DD-WRT or Tomato. Most ISP-provided routers, for example, often lack this capability.
• Incorrect Manual Configuration: Setting up Surfshark on a router usually involves a manual process using OpenVPN or WireGuard configuration files and service credentials which are different from your Surfshark account login!. Any small mistake in entering server addresses, private keys, or other details can prevent the VPN from connecting or routing traffic correctly.
• VPN Passthrough Settings: Some routers have a “VPN passthrough” option that needs to be enabled for VPN traffic to flow freely.
• Outdated Router Firmware: Just like your apps, your router’s firmware needs to be updated. Old firmware can have bugs or lack the necessary features to maintain a stable VPN connection.
• Router Firewall: Your router also has a firewall that might be blocking the VPN’s ports like UDP port 51820 for WireGuard or 1194 for OpenVPN.

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Incorrect VPN Settings Protocols, Features

Inside the Surfshark app itself, there are settings that can sometimes throw a wrench in the works.

• VPN Protocols: Surfshark offers different protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN UDP/TCP, and IKEv2. Each protocol has its strengths and weaknesses, and sometimes one just works better with your specific network or the server you’re trying to reach. If you’re on the wrong one, you might not connect.
• App Features: Features like CleanWeb ad/malware blocker, Kill Switch blocks internet if VPN drops, or Bypasser split tunneling, known as Whitelister on some versions can occasionally interfere with your connection, especially if configured incorrectly or clashing with your network. The Kill Switch, for instance, might be doing its job a bit too well, blocking all internet if it detects even a momentary VPN instability.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting to Get You Back Online

Alright, let’s roll up our sleeves and fix this! We’ll start with the easy stuff and then move to more advanced troubleshooting, especially for those router-based setups. Remember, it’s often a process of elimination.

The Basics Always Start Here

Before you dive into complex settings, let’s clear out the simplest, most common issues. You’d be surprised how often these quick steps do the trick! Setting Up Surfshark VPN on Your Router: Your Ultimate Home Network Protector

Check Your Internet Connection

First things first: Is your regular internet working? Turn off Surfshark for a moment and try to browse a few websites or run a speed test like Speedtest.net. If your internet is slow or non-existent without the VPN, then the problem isn’t Surfshark, it’s your basic connection. You might need to restart your modem/router or contact your ISP. A VPN needs a stable connection to work, and if yours is spotty, the VPN will struggle.

Restart Everything App, Device, Router

I know, it sounds cliché, but seriously, turning things off and on again fixes a surprising number of tech issues.

• Restart the Surfshark app: Close it completely and reopen it.
• Restart your device: Give your computer, phone, or tablet a full restart.
• Restart your router: Unplug your Wi-Fi router from the power outlet, wait about 30 seconds, and then plug it back in. This can refresh your network and clear temporary glitches.

Update Your Surfshark App

An outdated app is a common cause of connectivity problems. Surfshark regularly releases updates to improve performance, fix bugs, and adapt to new network restrictions.

• On desktop: Open the Surfshark app, go to Settings or About, and check for updates. If available, install them. Sometimes, a full reinstallation uninstalling then downloading the latest version from Surfshark’s website is even better.
• On mobile: Head to your device’s app store Google Play Store for Android, Apple App Store for iOS and see if there’s an update pending for Surfshark.

Try Different Servers

VPN servers can get overloaded or experience temporary issues. If you can’t connect to one server, simply switch to another. Surfshark VPN Review UK: The Lowdown for 2025

• Open the Surfshark app, go to the Locations tab, and try connecting to a few different servers, especially ones that show a lower “load” if the app displays that information.
• If you were trying a server far away, try one closer to your physical location. Distance can impact speed and stability.
• If you’re trying to access geo-restricted content, try a few different servers in that country.

Tweaking Your Surfshark Settings

Sometimes the issue is within the app’s configuration. Let’s dig into those settings.

Experiment with VPN Protocols

This is often a must! Different VPN protocols use different methods to encrypt your data and connect to servers. Some might be faster, others more stable, and some might even be blocked by your network.

• Open your Surfshark app.
• Go to Settings > VPN Settings > Protocol.
• Try switching to different protocols one by one.
  • WireGuard is often the fastest and most modern protocol, so it’s a great one to try first if you’re looking for speed.
  • OpenVPN UDP is widely recommended for its balance of speed and security and is good at bypassing network restrictions.
  • If UDP doesn’t work, try OpenVPN TCP. It’s usually slower but more reliable on unstable networks.
  • IKEv2 is another option, often good for mobile devices due to its ability to quickly switch networks.
• After changing the protocol, try connecting again.

Disable Interfering Features CleanWeb, Kill Switch, Bypasser

Surfshark’s extra features are super useful, but they can sometimes cause unintended issues. NordVPN vs. Surfshark: The Real Talk from Reddit and Beyond (2025 Edition)

• Go to your Surfshark app Settings > VPN Settings or Connectivity on some versions.
• Temporarily disable CleanWeb, Kill Switch, and Bypasser also known as Whitelister.
  • The Kill Switch is designed to block internet access if your VPN connection drops. If it’s overly sensitive or experiencing a bug, it might be preventing any internet access at all, even when the VPN seems connected.
  • CleanWeb blocks ads and malware, but on rare occasions, it might interfere with certain websites or network functions.
  • Bypasser allows specific apps or websites to bypass the VPN. If you’ve misconfigured it, it might be routing traffic you think should be secured, outside the VPN.
• Try connecting again with these features turned off. If it works, you can try re-enabling them one by one to see which one was the culprit.

Reset Your VPN Profile

Sometimes the app’s internal configuration files can get corrupted. Surfshark offers a way to reset these.

• In the Surfshark app, go to Settings > Get Help or similar.
• Look for an option like “Reset VPN profile” or “Reset network settings”. This will often clear out any problematic configurations and set things back to default.
• After resetting, restart your device and try connecting again.

Digging Into Your Network Settings

Now we’re moving beyond the Surfshark app and looking at your device’s overall network configuration.

Check for Conflicting Apps & Firewalls

Remember how we talked about antivirus and firewalls? They can definitely cause problems. Review Surfshark VPN: Is It Really That Good in 2025?

• Temporarily disable your antivirus software and firewall including Windows Defender if you’re on Windows.
  • Important: Only do this for troubleshooting and for a very short period. Your device will be vulnerable without them.
• Try connecting to Surfshark. If it works, you’ve found your issue!
• Now, you’ll need to add Surfshark to your security software’s exception list or whitelist it. This tells your antivirus/firewall to let Surfshark do its thing without interference. Re-enable your security software immediately after adding the exception.
• Also, make sure you don’t have any other VPN applications or network management tools running that might conflict with Surfshark. If you do, uninstall them or ensure they are completely disabled.

Disable IPv6 It’s often the silent culprit!

Many VPNs, including Surfshark, don’t fully support IPv6, and having it enabled on your device or router can lead to connection failures or even IP leaks. Disabling IPv6 usually doesn’t negatively affect your network in any significant way for most home users.

The steps vary by operating system, but generally:

• Windows:
  1. Go to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center.
  2. Click Change adapter settings on the left.
  3. Right-click on your active network adapter Ethernet or Wi-Fi and select Properties.
  4. Uncheck the box next to Internet Protocol Version 6 TCP/IPv6.
  5. Click OK and restart your computer.
• macOS:
  1. Go to System Settings or System Preferences.
  2. Click Network.
  3. Select your active network connection Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
  4. Click Details or Advanced.
  5. Go to the TCP/IP tab.
  6. Set Configure IPv6 to Link-local only or Off.
  7. Click OK and Apply.
• iOS/Android: This usually requires resetting network settings, which we’ll cover next. Some guides suggest disabling IPv6 in router settings if your device doesn’t offer a direct toggle.

Set Custom DNS

Your internet service provider ISP automatically assigns you DNS servers, but sometimes these can cause issues with VPN connections or even block access to certain content. Switching to a public DNS server can help.

• Surfshark recommends using their own DNS servers: 162.252.172.57 and 149.154.159.92.
• Windows same area as IPv6:
  2. Click Change adapter settings.
  3. Right-click your active network adapter and select Properties.
  4. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 TCP/IPv4 and click Properties.
  5. Select Use the following DNS server addresses and enter Surfshark’s DNS Preferred and Alternate.
  6. Click OK and restart.
• macOS same area as IPv6:
  3. Select your active network connection.
  4. Go to the DNS tab.
  5. Click the + button to add Surfshark’s DNS servers and remove any existing ones.
• iOS/Android: You can often set custom DNS in your Wi-Fi network settings or through specific apps. Sometimes resetting network settings next step can also help clear DNS issues.

Reset Network Settings on Your Device

This is a more drastic step for individual devices, but it can clear out any lingering network configurations that might be causing conflicts. It will reset Wi-Fi passwords, Bluetooth connections, and other network-related settings, so be prepared to re-enter them.

• Android: Go to Settings > System > Advanced > Reset options > Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth.
• iOS iPhone/iPad: Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
• After the reset, reconnect to your Wi-Fi and try Surfshark again.

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Router-Specific Troubleshooting The “Route Via VPN” Deep Dive

If you’ve installed Surfshark directly on your router, troubleshooting needs a specialized approach. This is where the “route via VPN not working” problem often hits hardest, affecting all your connected devices.

Confirm Router Compatibility

Not all routers can run VPN client software. This is a critical first step.

• Check Surfshark’s website: They have detailed guides and lists of compatible routers, often categorized by firmware AsusWRT, DD-WRT, OpenWRT, GL.iNet, Keenetic, FRITZ!Box, etc..
• Your router’s manual or manufacturer’s website: Look for VPN client support not just VPN server support.
• Popular compatible routers include certain Asus, GL.iNet, TP-Link Deco, and routers that can run custom firmware like DD-WRT or OpenWRT. Most routers provided by ISPs typically don’t support VPN clients.
• If your router isn’t compatible, you might need to consider flashing it with compatible firmware like DD-WRT, which can be complex and risky or investing in a new VPN-compatible router. There are even “FlashRouters” that come pre-configured with VPN software.

Verify Manual Configuration Credentials, OVPN/WireGuard Files

When setting up Surfshark on a router manually, accuracy is key.

• Surfshark Service Credentials: Remember, these are not your regular Surfshark login email and password. You need to get specific service credentials username, password, and possibly a private key for WireGuard from your Surfshark account page, usually under “Manual setup” or “Credentials”.
• Configuration Files: For OpenVPN, you’ll download .ovpn files for specific server locations from Surfshark’s website. For WireGuard, you’ll generate a key pair and a configuration file.
• Double-check every detail: Make sure server addresses, port numbers, private keys, public keys, and DNS entries are entered exactly as provided by Surfshark into your router’s VPN client settings. A single typo can break the connection.
• Server Location: Ensure you’re using the configuration file for the desired server location. If you want to change locations, you’ll often need to upload a new .ovpn file or update the WireGuard endpoint.

Check VPN Passthrough and Router Firewall

Some routers have settings that can interfere with VPN traffic. Surfshark VPN Quality: Is It Really as Good as Everyone Says?

• VPN Passthrough: Log into your router’s admin panel usually by typing 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 into a browser. Look for “VPN Passthrough” options often under WAN or Advanced settings and ensure they are enabled for the protocol you’re using e.g., OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2.
• Router Firewall: Check your router’s firewall settings. If it’s set to a very high security level or has custom rules, it might be blocking the ports Surfshark needs e.g., UDP 51820 for WireGuard, 1194 for OpenVPN. You might need to temporarily lower the firewall’s intensity or add exceptions for these ports.

Update Router Firmware

Just like your apps, your router’s firmware can get outdated and cause issues.

• Check your router manufacturer’s website for the latest firmware updates for your specific model.
• Follow their instructions carefully to update your router’s firmware. This can sometimes resolve compatibility issues and improve stability.

Test Different Protocols on Your Router

If your router supports both OpenVPN and WireGuard as VPN client options, try switching between them, similar to what you’d do in the app.

• Log into your router’s admin panel and navigate to the VPN client settings.
• If you’re using OpenVPN, try switching between UDP and TCP configurations if your router allows it. UDP is typically faster, but TCP can be more stable.
• If your router supports WireGuard, try setting up a WireGuard connection instead of OpenVPN, as it’s often more efficient and less prone to blockages. Remember to generate the correct key pairs and configuration from your Surfshark account.

Consider a “FlashRouter” or VPN-Preconfigured Router

If router setup is proving to be a persistent headache, or if your current router simply isn’t up to the task, specialized VPN routers might be worth looking into. Companies like FlashRouters offer routers with VPN firmware pre-installed and even pre-configured for services like Surfshark, which can simplify the process significantly and reduce “route via VPN not working” issues.

How to Confirm Your Surfshark VPN is Actually Working Don’t Skip This!

You’ve done all the troubleshooting, and you think everything is working. But how do you really know your VPN is protecting you and routing traffic correctly? This step is crucial for peace of mind.

Check Your IP Address

This is the most fundamental test. If your VPN is working, your public IP address should reflect the location of the VPN server you’re connected to, not your actual physical location. Surfshark VPN: Your Ultimate Guide to Online Freedom

• Connect to Surfshark VPN.
• Go to a website like surfshark.com/what-is-my-ip or whatismyipaddress.com.
• The IP address displayed should match the location of your chosen Surfshark server. If it shows your real location or an unexpected IP, your VPN isn’t working correctly.

Run a DNS Leak Test

A DNS leak happens when your device sends DNS requests which translate website names into IP addresses to your ISP’s DNS servers instead of the VPN’s secure DNS servers. This can reveal your browsing activity to your ISP, even if your IP is hidden.

• Go to surfshark.com/dns-leak-test or dnsleaktest.com.
• The test should show only Surfshark’s DNS servers or DNS servers in the country you’re connected to, not your ISP’s. If it shows your actual ISP’s DNS, you have a DNS leak.

Run a WebRTC Leak Test

WebRTC Web Real-Time Communication is a technology that allows browsers to communicate directly, and it can sometimes leak your real IP address, even with a VPN active.

• Go to surfshark.com/webrtc-leak-test or a similar WebRTC leak test site.
• The test should not reveal your real IP address. If it does, you have a WebRTC leak.

Monitor Connection Status in the App

The Surfshark app itself provides visual cues.

• When connected, it should clearly display “Connected” and “Safe,” often showing the protocol in use, your connection time, and the VPN IP address.
• Pay attention to any notifications or alerts from the app that might indicate a dropped connection or an issue.

Tips for a Smoother Surfshark Experience

Beyond troubleshooting, a few habits can help you maintain a robust and reliable VPN connection.

Choose Servers Wisely

• Proximity matters: For the best speeds, try to connect to a server geographically closer to you. Less distance for your data to travel usually means faster speeds.
• Server Load: If the app shows server load the “bubble” icon in Surfshark, opt for less crowded servers if possible. Lower load often means better performance.
• Static IP or MultiHop: If you need a consistent IP or extra security, consider Surfshark’s Static IP or MultiHop connecting through two VPN servers options, though these might slightly impact speed.

Keep Everything Updated

This isn’t just a troubleshooting step. it’s a preventative measure. Regularly update: Surfshark VPN: ¿Qué es, para qué sirve y por qué deberías usarlo?

• Your Surfshark app: Ensures you have the latest bug fixes, security patches, and performance improvements.
• Your operating system: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android updates often include network stack improvements.
• Your router firmware: Crucial for VPN-enabled routers, as manufacturers release updates to improve stability and add new features.

Understand Your Protocols

Get a little familiar with the different VPN protocols Surfshark offers WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2. Knowing their general characteristics e.g., WireGuard for speed, OpenVPN for bypassing restrictions can help you quickly switch to the best option for your current needs or if you encounter issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Surfshark VPN down?

It’s unlikely that Surfshark VPN is entirely down globally, as major VPN providers maintain a vast network with redundancies. However, specific servers can experience issues or maintenance. If you’re having trouble connecting, first check if the issue is local to you by trying a different server or checking community forums like Reddit r/surfshark. You can also visit unofficial status pages like UpdownRadar or IsDown.ca to see if other users are reporting problems. Often, changing your connection protocol in the app can help resolve a local connection problem.

How do I know if my Surfshark VPN is working?

The best way to confirm Surfshark is working is to perform an IP address check, a DNS leak test, and a WebRTC leak test. First, connect to Surfshark, then visit surfshark.com/what-is-my-ip to see if your IP address matches the VPN server location. Next, go to surfshark.com/dns-leak-test and surfshark.com/webrtc-leak-test to ensure no leaks are revealing your real location or DNS servers. The Surfshark app itself will also display a “Connected” and “Safe” status.

Why won’t my Surfshark VPN connect?

There are several common reasons Surfshark might not connect. It could be an unstable internet connection, an outdated Surfshark app, overcrowded or problematic VPN servers, or interference from other software like your antivirus or firewall. Other culprits include incorrect VPN protocol settings, IPv6 being enabled on your device, or network restrictions imposed by your ISP or local network. Trying to switch servers, update the app, change protocols, or temporarily disable conflicting software are good first steps.

Does Surfshark VPN work on routers?

Yes, Surfshark VPN does work on compatible routers, allowing you to encrypt your entire home network and protect all connected devices, including those that don’t support VPN apps natively like smart TVs or gaming consoles. However, not all routers are compatible, and setting it up usually requires a manual configuration process using OpenVPN or WireGuard protocols, specific Surfshark service credentials, and configuration files. Surfshark provides detailed setup guides for various router models on its support page. Unlocking Surfshark Automation with Python: Your Guide to Smarter VPN Control

Does Surfshark VPN slow down internet?

Yes, using any VPN, including Surfshark, will inherently slow down your internet connection to some extent because your traffic has to be encrypted and routed through a VPN server. This process adds a small amount of latency. However, premium VPNs like Surfshark are optimized to minimize this impact, often resulting in only a 10-20% speed reduction that might barely be noticeable. Factors like the distance to the VPN server, server load, the VPN protocol used WireGuard is generally faster than OpenVPN, and your original internet speed all play a role in how much speed is affected. You can often improve speeds by choosing a closer server, switching to a faster protocol, or disabling certain VPN features.

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