Mullvad VPN Not Connecting or Stuck on Connecting

Share
Workaround available Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android Updated November 13, 2026Based on 4 user reportsHow we research

Quick answer

If Mullvad hangs on 'Connecting' and then shows 'Blocking internet', your network is usually blocking the WireGuard connection or one server is down. Switch to another city, change the WireGuard port or turn on UDP-over-TCP/QUIC under Anti-censorship, and log out and back in if your keys are stale.

Most likely fix: Switch to a different location

How to fix it

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

  1. 1. Switch to a different location

    1. Tap Switch location
    2. Pick another city or country, or another server in the same city
    3. Users report one location failing while a neighbouring one connects instantly
    Did this fix it?
  2. 2. Change the WireGuard port or obfuscation

    1. Open Settings > VPN settings > Anti-censorship
    2. Set WireGuard port to Automatic, 51820, 53 or a custom port
    3. If it still fails, choose UDP-over-TCP (port 443) or QUIC obfuscation
    Did this fix it?
  3. 3. Log out and log back in

    1. Open the Account screen
    2. Tap Log out
    3. Log in again with your account number to register fresh WireGuard keys
    Did this fix it?
  4. 4. Disable conflicting software

    1. Quit other VPN apps and disable third-party antivirus/firewall temporarily
    2. Check that your router doesn't flag Mullvad as malicious (ASUS AiProtection, TP-Link HomeCare)
    3. Reconnect
    Did this fix it?
  5. 5. Update or reinstall the app

    1. Download the latest version from mullvad.net/download
    2. Reinstall and reboot
    3. If it still fails, send logs via Settings > Support > Report a problem
    Did this fix it?

Symptoms

The app keeps cycling through 'Connecting', then shows a red padlock and 'BLOCKING INTERNET'; no websites load while it tries.

Why it happens

  • Your ISP, mobile carrier or Wi-Fi network blocks VPN/WireGuard ports
  • The selected server or location is temporarily down
  • Stale WireGuard key or device registration after reinstalling
  • Another VPN, firewall or antivirus is interfering
  • Outdated app version (older apps relied on OpenVPN servers that no longer exist)

This guide also covers

  • mullvad not connecting
  • mullvad stuck on connecting
  • mullvad blocking internet
  • mullvad vpn not working
  • mullvad blocked connection

Still not working?

If Mullvad VPN keeps failing, you're not alone. See every Mullvad VPN problem users report or the alternatives people switch to.

Need a custom web app or internal tool? Our small team builds it, on your domain or hosted by us. Price agreed together.

Get a quote
Fixed it? Share this guide

The same problem in other apps

All not loading, error messages & connection guides →

Other Mullvad VPN errors

All 13 Mullvad VPN errors and fixes →