Struggling to get Surfshark connected because it keeps telling you “another VPN was detected and may interfere with Surfshark”? Trust me, you’re not alone! It’s a pretty common hiccup that can throw a wrench into your online privacy plans. When this message pops up, Surfshark is essentially saying, “Hey, I think there’s another piece of software on your device trying to do what I do, and we’re clashing.” It can be super frustrating, especially when you’re just trying to get your VPN working seamlessly.

This guide is your go-to resource to figure out exactly why Surfshark is flagging this message and, more importantly, how to get rid of it for good. We’re going to walk through all the usual suspects, from other VPN apps hogging your connection to sneaky background programs, and give you clear, actionable steps to troubleshoot and fix the issue. My goal is to help you get your Surfshark VPN up and running smoothly, ensuring your online activities stay private and secure without any annoying interruptions. By the end of this, you’ll be a pro at handling these pesky “another VPN detected” warnings!

Table of Contents

Understanding Why Surfshark Detects Another VPN

So, what’s really going on when Surfshark throws up that “different VPN detected” alert? It’s usually a sign of a conflict, where two or more programs are trying to control your network connection in similar ways. Think of it like two drivers trying to steer the same car at the same time – it’s just not going to work out smoothly.

Conflict with Other VPN Clients

This is probably the most straightforward reason. If you’ve ever used another VPN service, like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or even a free one, and it’s still installed or running in the background, Surfshark is likely to spot it. VPN applications make “minor modifications to your connection settings” to create their secure tunnel, and when another VPN tries to do the same, they essentially “use conflicting connection configurations, leading to connection cancellation”. This isn’t just about having the app open. sometimes, even after you close one VPN, its lingering processes or drivers can still be active, causing Surfshark to think “another VPN was detected and may interfere with Surfshark connection.”

Interference from Other Security Software

It’s not always another VPN. Sometimes, other security programs you rely on can be the culprits.

Firewalls: While essential for protection, firewalls can be a bit overzealous. They might see Surfshark’s attempt to modify your network settings as a threat and block it, leading to the “another VPN was detected and may interfere with Surfshark traffic” message.
Antivirus Software: Similar to firewalls, antivirus programs are designed to shield your device from malicious activity. However, they can sometimes “interfere with legitimate applications” like Surfshark, either by blocking its connection attempts or flagging its modifications as suspicious.
Security Suites: If you’re running a comprehensive security suite, it might include its own network monitoring tools that clash with Surfshark.

Built-in VPNs in Browsers or Apps

This is a trickier one! You might not even realize you have another VPN running. Some web browsers, like Opera, have a built-in VPN feature. Certain ad-blockers, such as Blockada, can also “register as a VPN” because of how they route and filter traffic. If you’ve got one of these enabled, Surfshark might mistake it for an independent VPN client. It’s like having a tiny, hidden VPN running that you forgot about! Does Surfshark VPN Work in Russia? Here’s What You Need to Know in 2025

Network Configuration Conflicts: IPv6 and DNS

Our devices use network protocols to connect to the internet. IPv4 is the old reliable, but IPv6 is the newer standard. Here’s the thing: Surfshark doesn’t fully support IPv6. If your device has IPv6 enabled, it can cause “various connection issues” and Surfshark might struggle to establish a stable connection, sometimes manifesting as a “different VPN detected” error or simply “Surfshark vpn not connecting.”

Similarly, your Domain Name System DNS settings play a crucial role in how your device finds websites. If these settings are incorrect or conflicting, or if your Internet Service Provider ISP is using a default DNS that interferes, it can lead to instability or connection problems that Surfshark might interpret as another VPN interfering. Sometimes, “DNS problems can affect stability” and cause the VPN to disconnect.

Your Step-by-Step Fix Guide for “Different VPN Detected”

Alright, let’s get down to business. If Surfshark is giving you that “another VPN detected” message, don’t worry. We’ve got a solid plan to get things working again. This isn’t just about clicking “ignore”. we’re going to tackle the root causes.

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Step 1: Disable or Uninstall Other VPNs and Proxies

This is probably the most crucial step if you’re seeing the “different VPN detected” warning. Surfshark explicitly states that running multiple VPN applications simultaneously can lead to “interferences and connectivity problems”.

Check for installed VPNs: Go through your installed programs or apps list on your computer or mobile device. Look for any other VPN clients you might have downloaded and forgotten about.
Disable them: If you want to keep them, just make sure they’re completely turned off. This often means closing the application entirely and making sure it’s not running in the background. On Windows, you can check your system tray bottom right corner or Task Manager Ctrl+Shift+Esc. For macOS, check your menu bar top right and Activity Monitor. On mobile, force-close the app.
Uninstall them: The safest bet, if you don’t use them anymore, is to completely uninstall any other VPN software. This ensures no lingering processes are causing issues. Once uninstalled, it’s a good idea to restart your device.

Step 2: Check for Interfering Security Software Antivirus/Firewall

Your security software is there to protect you, but sometimes it can be a bit overprotective.

Temporarily disable: Try temporarily disabling your antivirus and firewall software like Windows Defender and then attempt to connect Surfshark. If it connects, you know where the problem lies.
Add an exception: If disabling helps, you’ll need to add Surfshark to your antivirus or firewall’s “exceptions” or “whitelist” list. This tells your security software that Surfshark is a trusted application and shouldn’t be blocked. Steps vary depending on your specific security software, but usually involve going into its settings. Remember to re-enable your security software after adding the exception.

Step 3: Look for Built-in VPNs in Browsers or Apps

Some applications have hidden VPN-like features that can clash with Surfshark.

Browser VPNs: Check your web browser settings e.g., Opera’s built-in VPN, or any VPN extensions you might have installed. Make sure these are turned off.
Ad-blockers/Privacy tools: Some advanced ad-blockers or privacy tools use VPN-like mechanisms to filter traffic. Review the settings of any such apps you have installed and disable any network-proxying or VPN-like features.

Step 4: Update Your Surfshark App

An outdated app can lead to all sorts of compatibility and connection problems, including the “different VPN detected” message.

Check for updates: Open your Surfshark application and look for an option to check for updates. Make sure you’re running the latest version. Surfshark’s team is “working on bypassing in every single update,” so keeping it current is key.
Reinstall: If updating doesn’t work, or if you suspect a corrupt installation, a complete reinstallation might be necessary. Uninstall Surfshark, restart your device, then download the latest version from the official Surfshark website and install it.

Step 5: Try Different VPN Protocols

VPN protocols are the rules that govern how your secure connection is established. Sometimes, a specific protocol might be struggling with your network or clashing with something else. Surfshark offers a few options: WireGuard, OpenVPN UDP/TCP, and IKEv2. Routing Your Digital Life: How to Use Surfshark to Route Via VPN

Change in settings: Go into Surfshark’s settings, find the “VPN Settings” or “Protocol” section, and try switching to a different one.
OpenVPN UDP often helps: Many users find that OpenVPN UDP is a reliable choice for bypassing network restrictions and generally offers good speeds. If that doesn’t work, try OpenVPN TCP, then IKEv2, and finally WireGuard if available though WireGuard is often the fastest, sometimes another protocol might be more stable in a specific network environment.

Step 6: Switch to a Different Surfshark Server

Sometimes, the issue isn’t with your device but with the VPN server you’re trying to connect to. Servers can become “overcrowded at times” or might be “under maintenance”.

Select a new server: In the Surfshark app, simply go to the “Locations” tab and try connecting to a different server, preferably one that’s close to your physical location for better speeds. You might even try connecting to a server in a completely different country to see if the problem persists. Surfshark’s app often shows server load, so pick one that isn’t too busy.

Step 7: Reset Network Settings

Your device’s network configuration can sometimes get messed up, causing conflicts with VPNs. This can be due to “incorrect IP settings, conflicting proxy settings, or other network configurations.”

Windows: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Status and then click on Network Reset. This will reinstall your network adapters and reset network components to their original settings.
macOS: Go to System Settings > Network. Select your active network connection, click Details..., then TCP/IP and Renew DHCP Lease. You might also try deleting network preferences files if issues persist more advanced.
Android: Go to Settings > System > Reset options > Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth.
iOS: Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
Reconfigure: After a network reset, you’ll need to reconfigure your Wi-Fi connections. Restart your device and try Surfshark again.

Step 8: Disable IPv6

As mentioned earlier, Surfshark “doesn’t support IPv6”. Having it enabled can sometimes cause connection issues. Don’t worry, disabling IPv6 usually “will not negatively affect your network in any way.”

Windows:
1. Search for “Control Panel” and open it.
2. Go to Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center.
3. On the left, click Change adapter settings.
4. Right-click on your active network adapter Wi-Fi or Ethernet and select Properties.
5. Uncheck the box next to Internet Protocol Version 6 TCP/IPv6.
6. Click OK and restart your computer.
macOS:
1. Go to System Settings > Network.
2. Select your active network adapter e.g., Wi-Fi.
3. Click Details... > TCP/IP.
4. Next to Configure IPv6, select Link-local only or Off.
5. Click OK and then Apply.

Step 9: Configure Custom DNS

Sometimes your ISP’s default DNS servers can be slow or cause issues. Switching to public DNS servers can improve stability and connectivity.

Google DNS or Cloudflare DNS: Popular choices include Google DNS 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4 or Cloudflare DNS 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1.
Windows: Follow steps 1-4 from “Disable IPv6,” but this time, in the adapter properties, select Internet Protocol Version 4 TCP/IPv4 and click Properties. Then, select “Use the following DNS server addresses” and enter the custom DNS servers.
macOS: Follow steps 1-3 from “Disable IPv6,” but then navigate to the DNS tab. Click the + button to add new DNS servers and enter them.
Router settings: You can also configure custom DNS directly on your router, which applies it to all devices on your network. Consult your router’s manual for specific instructions. Surfshark suggests using their own DNS: 162.252.172.57 and 149.154.159.92.

Step 10: Restart Everything Device and Router

I know, it sounds cliché, but seriously, a good old-fashioned restart can work wonders. It clears out temporary glitches, refreshes network connections, and stops any hidden processes that might be interfering. Surfshark VPN in Russia: What You Really Need to Know

Restart your device: Give your computer or phone a full restart.
Restart your router: Unplug your internet router and modem for about 30 seconds, then plug them back in. Wait a few minutes for them to fully boot up and establish an internet connection. Then try connecting Surfshark.

Step 11: Contact Surfshark Support

If you’ve tried all these steps and Surfshark is still giving you grief, it’s time to reach out to their support team. They are generally available 24/7 and can provide more specific, personalized troubleshooting, and might even be aware of specific server issues or known bugs like the “false positive pop up” some users experienced with update 5.0.0 on Windows 10.

What Type of VPN Is Surfshark?

Understanding what kind of VPN Surfshark is can give you a better appreciation of its capabilities and why it’s a popular choice for many, even when these little glitches pop up.

Surfshark is a premium commercial VPN service known for its robust security features, strong privacy policy, and excellent value. It’s designed to provide users with a secure and private internet connection by encrypting their online traffic and routing it through a server in a location of their choice. Why You Can’t Just Download Surfshark on Roku

Here’s a quick rundown of what makes Surfshark tick:

Strong Encryption: Surfshark uses industry-standard AES-256-GCM encryption, ensuring your data is highly secure.
Secure Protocols: It supports modern VPN protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN UDP/TCP, and IKEv2. These protocols balance speed and security, giving you options depending on your needs. WireGuard, for instance, is often praised for its speed and efficiency.
No-Logs Policy: A critical aspect of any trustworthy VPN, Surfshark operates under a strict no-logs policy, meaning they don’t collect or store your online activities, IP addresses, or connection timestamps. This is super important for privacy.
Server Network: Surfshark boasts a large network of servers across many countries, which helps with unblocking geo-restricted content and providing fast connections by allowing you to choose a server closer to your physical location.
Unlimited Devices: One of its standout features is allowing “unlimited devices” on a single subscription, making it a great option for families or individuals with many gadgets.
Advanced Features: Beyond basic VPN functionality, Surfshark includes features like:
- CleanWeb: An ad, tracker, and malware blocker.
- Kill Switch: Automatically disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing data leaks.
- Bypasser Split Tunneling: Lets you choose which apps or websites use the VPN and which go through your regular internet connection.
- Camouflage Mode Obfuscation: Makes your VPN traffic look like regular internet traffic, helping to bypass VPN detection by ISPs or governments in restrictive regions.
- NoBorders Mode: Designed to work in environments with heavy internet restrictions.
- Dynamic MultiHop: Routes your connection through two VPN servers for extra security.

Essentially, Surfshark is built to be a fast, secure, and feature-rich VPN that prioritizes user privacy. When you see “different VPN detected,” it’s usually because some element on your system is interfering with these carefully designed mechanisms, not because Surfshark itself is faulty.

Common Surfshark VPN Issues Beyond “Different VPN Detected”

While “different VPN detected” is a specific message, it often hints at broader connectivity problems. If you’re encountering that message, you might also experience other issues. Here are some common Surfshark VPN problems and how they relate to what we’ve discussed:

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Surfshark VPN Not Connecting or Not Changing Location

This is probably the most common frustration. You click ‘connect,’ and nothing happens, or it says you’re connected, but your IP address hasn’t changed.

Related to “Different VPN Detected”: Often, the underlying causes for “different VPN detected” like conflicting software, firewalls, or network settings are also why Surfshark won’t connect at all. If another VPN client or security program is blocking Surfshark, it simply won’t be able to establish a connection.
Weak Internet Connection: If your “internet connection isn’t strong enough” or is unstable, the VPN might “struggle” to connect. Check your Wi-Fi signal, restart your router, or try connecting via Ethernet.
Server Issues: The specific server you’re trying to reach might be overloaded or down for maintenance. Switching to another server is always a good first step.
Outdated App: An old version of the Surfshark app can have bugs that prevent proper connection.
Restrictive Networks: Some Wi-Fi networks like those at work, school, or public hotspots have “parental controls and firewalls” that block VPN connections. Trying a different network like your mobile data hotspot can help diagnose this.

Slow VPN Speeds

You’re connected, but your internet feels like it’s crawling. This defeats the purpose of a fast VPN.

Server Load: A heavily loaded VPN server will naturally slow you down. Choose a server with lower load often indicated in the app or one geographically closer to you.
VPN Protocol: Some protocols offer better speeds than others. WireGuard is generally faster, while OpenVPN can be more stable but might be a bit slower. Experiment with different protocols as discussed in Step 5.
ISP Throttling: Your Internet Service Provider ISP might be intentionally slowing down your connection if they detect high bandwidth usage. Using Surfshark’s Camouflage Mode obfuscation can help hide your VPN usage from your ISP.
Internet Connection: Again, if your underlying internet connection is slow, the VPN will only exacerbate it, not fix it.
Background Activity: Large downloads, updates, or other devices on your network hogging bandwidth can also slow things down.
Device Performance: Your device’s own performance can “impact VPN stability” and speed.

Frequent Disconnects

Your VPN connects, but then drops out constantly, forcing you to reconnect repeatedly.

Unstable Internet: An unstable Wi-Fi signal or a frequently dropping internet connection will cause your VPN to disconnect.
Server Overload/Issues: If a server is experiencing problems, it might frequently drop connections.
VPN Protocol Problems: Some protocols might have “compatibility issues” with your network, leading to frequent disconnections. Try different ones.
Firewall/Antivirus Interference: As with connection issues, overzealous security software can prematurely cut off your VPN connection.
Power-Saving Settings: On mobile devices or laptops, aggressive power-saving modes can limit background app activity, including your VPN, causing it to disconnect. Check your device’s power settings and ensure Surfshark is exempt.
Outdated Software: Bugs in older Surfshark versions can cause instability.

Restricted Networks

You can’t connect to Surfshark at all on certain networks, like at school, work, or in countries with strict internet censorship.

Network Firewalls: These networks often have strict firewalls that block common VPN ports and protocols.
Solutions: Try Surfshark’s NoBorders mode or Camouflage mode obfuscation, which are designed to bypass these restrictions by making VPN traffic look like regular HTTPS traffic. Changing protocols especially to OpenVPN TCP can also sometimes help.

Dealing with VPN issues can be a bit like detective work, but by systematically going through these troubleshooting steps, you can usually pinpoint the problem and get back to secure, unrestricted browsing with Surfshark. Surfshark VPN Review UK: The Lowdown for 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “another VPN was detected and may interfere with Surfshark” mean?

This message pops up when the Surfshark app identifies another program on your device that’s trying to manage your network connection in a way similar to a VPN. This usually means you have another VPN application installed and running, or a piece of security software like an ad-blocker or firewall that uses VPN-like technology, which can “use conflicting connection configurations, leading to connection cancellation”. It’s Surfshark’s way of warning you about a potential conflict that could prevent it from working correctly.

How do I fix “another VPN detected” on Surfshark?

The best way to fix “another VPN detected” on Surfshark is to identify and disable or uninstall any other VPN applications on your device first. If that doesn’t work, check for and disable any built-in browser VPNs, ad-blockers, or security software that might be interfering. After that, update your Surfshark app, try switching VPN protocols, or reset your network settings. If you’ve got IPv6 enabled on your device, turn it off too, as Surfshark doesn’t fully support it and it can cause conflicts.

Can I run two VPNs at the same time?

Generally, no, you cannot reliably run two different VPN applications at the same time on the same device. VPNs modify your device’s network settings and routing tables to create a secure tunnel. When two VPNs try to do this simultaneously, they usually “cause interferences and connectivity problems” because they’re both trying to control the same network resources, leading to instability or preventing either VPN from connecting properly. NordVPN vs. Surfshark: The Real Talk from Reddit and Beyond (2025 Edition)

Why is my Surfshark VPN not connecting even after disabling other VPNs?

If Surfshark isn’t connecting even after you’ve disabled other VPNs, the issue might stem from other conflicting software like an aggressive antivirus or firewall that’s blocking Surfshark. It could also be due to an outdated Surfshark app, a problem with the specific server you’re trying to connect to, or underlying network issues like an unstable internet connection or restrictive network settings e.g., IPv6 enabled or a router with parental controls. Checking your protocols and resetting network settings can also help.

Does Surfshark support IPv6?

No, Surfshark does not currently support IPv6. While many networks are transitioning to IPv6, Surfshark primarily operates over IPv4. If your device has IPv6 enabled, it can sometimes lead to connectivity problems or error messages with Surfshark. It’s often recommended to disable IPv6 on your device if you’re experiencing issues with your Surfshark VPN connection.

What type of encryption does Surfshark use?

Surfshark uses AES-256-GCM encryption, which is a highly secure, industry-standard cipher. This level of encryption is trusted by security experts worldwide and ensures that your online data remains private and protected from eavesdropping. In addition to strong encryption, Surfshark offers robust security protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 to further secure your connection.

Can my ISP detect that I am using Surfshark?

It’s “possible for software to detect the use of a VPN,” including by your ISP, but “identifying that it’s specifically Surfshark can be more challenging”. While ISPs can often detect that some encrypted traffic is flowing through your network which might suggest VPN use, Surfshark has features like Camouflage Mode obfuscation and NoBorders Mode that are designed to make your VPN traffic appear as regular internet traffic, making it much harder for ISPs or other entities to detect and block your VPN usage.

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Surfshark Says “Different VPN Detected”: Here’s What to Do