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ExpressVPN Keeps Disconnecting

Workaround available Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, routers Updated October 21, 2026

Quick answer

Drops are usually caused by phone battery optimisation, Wi-Fi/mobile-data switching, a weak server or security software. Set ExpressVPN's battery usage to Unrestricted, turn off Wi-Fi Assist or auto-switch to mobile data, and try another server or protocol.

Most likely fix: Disable battery optimisation for ExpressVPN (Android).

Symptoms

The VPN disconnects right after connecting or after some time, drops when the phone sleeps, or shows 'The VPN connection has unexpectedly dropped.'

Why it happens

  • Android battery optimisation stops the app in the background
  • Phone switches between Wi-Fi and mobile data (Wi-Fi Assist, Adaptive connectivity)
  • Poor connectivity at the chosen server location
  • ISP interference with the VPN protocol
  • Antivirus interfering with outgoing packets

How to fix it

Try these in order — the most common fix is first.

  1. 1. Disable battery optimisation for ExpressVPN (Android)

    1. Samsung: Settings > Apps > ExpressVPN > Battery, change Optimized to Unrestricted
    2. OnePlus: Settings > Battery > Power Saver Settings > App Battery Management > ExpressVPN > Allow background activity
    3. Other phones: Settings > Apps > ExpressVPN > Battery and choose Don't optimize or Unrestricted

  2. 2. Stop automatic network switching

    1. iPhone: Settings > Cellular (Mobile Data) and turn off Wi-Fi Assist
    2. Samsung: Settings > Connections > Wi-Fi > Intelligent Wi-Fi and turn off Switch to mobile data
    3. Pixel: Settings > Network & internet > Adaptive connectivity and turn off Auto-switch to mobile network

  3. 3. Connect to another server location

    1. Choose a different location from the Recommended list
    2. If the drops stop, the previous location had a temporary problem; report it to support

  4. 4. Change protocol

    1. Desktop: Profile tab > VPN Protocol; mobile: VPN tab > Protocol
    2. Try Lightway – UDP, then Lightway – TCP, WireGuard and OpenVPN
    3. On routers: VPN Options > VPN Preferences, pick a protocol and Save

  5. 5. Add ExpressVPN as an antivirus exception

    1. Temporarily disable your security app to test
    2. If drops stop, add ExpressVPN to its trusted apps and re-enable protection

This guide also covers

  • expressvpn keeps disconnecting
  • expressvpn connection unexpectedly dropped
  • expressvpn disconnects android
  • expressvpn keeps turning off

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