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// troubleshooting guide · private internet access

PIA Keeps Disconnecting

Status
Workaround available
platforms:
Windows, macOS, iOS, Android
updated:
November 15, 2026
reports:
4
Method
how we research
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RUNBOOK · private-internet-access/keeps-disconnecting5 FIXES

// quick answer

Frequent drops come from unstable ports/protocols, battery optimisation on phones, sleep mode, or a buggy app release. Change port/transport, exempt PIA from battery restrictions, and update or roll back the app.

Most likely fix: Change port and transport

How to fix it

// try these in order, the most common fix is first

  1. FIX 1Change port and transport

    1. 01Settings > Protocols
    2. 02For OpenVPN switch Remote Port; if UDP ports fail, set Transport to TCP
    Did this fix it?

  2. FIX 2Exempt PIA from battery optimisation (Android)

    1. 01Android Settings > Apps > PIA > Battery
    2. 02Set to Unrestricted
    3. 03Enable Settings > Network > VPN > Always-on VPN for PIA
    Did this fix it?

  3. FIX 3Turn off Low Power Mode (iPhone)

    1. 01Settings > Battery > Low Power Mode off
    2. 02Reconnect
    Did this fix it?

  4. FIX 4Update or roll back the app

    1. 01Install the latest PIA version
    2. 02If drops started after an update, switch protocol or reinstall the previous version
    Did this fix it?

  5. FIX 5Pick a less busy server

    1. 01Choose a different nearby region
    Did this fix it?

Symptoms

The VPN drops every few minutes or after sleep, reconnects repeatedly, or the kill switch cuts the internet.

Why it happens

  • C-01Network blocks or throttles the current port
  • C-02Android battery optimisation killing the app
  • C-03Device sleep/Wi-Fi switching
  • C-04Bug in a specific app version (e.g. WireGuard reconnect issue)
  • C-05Overloaded server

// this guide also covers

  • pia keeps disconnecting
  • pia vpn drops
  • pia disconnects android

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