How to Fix Urban VPN Not Working

One Reddit user captured the frustration perfectly: “I installed UrbanVPN and it worked just fine, but suddenly it stopped working and told me something about the VPN pipe IDK. I ignored this, but now I need a VPN and since it broke I had to find another one. But ALL of them are not working—they tell me they do, but they don’t. Help?”

If you’re searching for answers because Urban VPN is not working, you’re probably facing a similar scenario. Maybe you’re stuck on a “connecting” loop, getting blocked from Netflix, or wondering why your browser grinds to a halt the moment the VPN kicks in. You’re not alone—and you’re not wrong to expect better.

This guide gets straight to the point: quick fixes for common Urban VPN issues, a breakdown of why these problems happen, and when it’s time to stop trying and start switching to a reliable option.

Common Reasons Why Urban VPN Is Not Working

Before diving into fixes, it helps to understand why Urban VPN fails in the first place. Here are the top culprits:

1. Server Overload: As a free VPN, Urban VPN shares servers among thousands of users, causing congestion.
2. Blocked by ISP or Website: Some ISPs or websites actively block Urban VPN IPs.
3. Outdated App or Extension: Running an old version of the software can cause compatibility issues.
4. Browser Conflicts: VPN browser extensions can clash with other plugins or browser settings.
5. Firewall or Antivirus Interference: Security software may block Urban VPN from establishing a secure tunnel.
6. Protocol Limitations: Free VPNs often don’t allow users to switch protocols, limiting flexibility.

If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it’s likely tied to one of the scenarios above. Let’s explore how to fix them.

How to Fix Urban VPN Not Working: Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re experiencing issues with Urban VPN not working, follow this expanded guide for a more thorough troubleshooting process.

Way 1. Restart the App or Extension

• Close the Urban VPN browser extension or mobile app completely.
• On desktop, use Task Manager (Windows) or Force Quit (Mac) to ensure it’s not running in the background.
• Reboot your device entirely to clear temporary conflicts.
• After rebooting, open Urban VPN and try connecting to a different server location.

Way 2. Clear Browser Cache & Conflicting Extensions

• Go to your browser’s settings > Privacy > Clear Browsing Data.
• Clear cache, cookies, and site data for the last 7 days.
• Disable or uninstall other VPN extensions, ad blockers, or security plugins that may interfere.
• Restart the browser before reconnecting to Urban VPN.

Way 3. Update Urban VPN to the Latest Version

• Visit the Chrome Web Store or Urban VPN’s official website.
• Check the extension or app version under settings.
• Uninstall older versions completely, then reinstall the latest build.
• Updating ensures compatibility with your operating system and fixes known bugs.

Way 4. Switch to a Lower-Traffic Server Location

• Urban VPN offers limited server choices. Avoid common locations like the US, UK, or Germany during peak hours.
• Select less popular servers such as those in Eastern Europe or Asia-Pacific regions.
• You can test different servers manually to compare speed and stability.

Way 5. Check for Antivirus or Firewall Conflicts

• Security software often blocks VPN tunnels.
• Temporarily disable your antivirus and firewall, then try connecting.
• Add Urban VPN to the list of trusted apps in your firewall settings.
• If the VPN works with security software off, tweak settings to allow Urban VPN while staying protected.

Way 6. Try a Different Network

• If you’re on a school, workplace, or hotel Wi-Fi, the network may block VPN traffic.
• Try switching to mobile data or a different Wi-Fi network.
• Tether your phone’s internet to your laptop to test VPN connectivity.

Way 7. Flush Your DNS and Reset Network Settings (Advanced)

• On Windows: Open Command Prompt and run ipconfig /flushdns.
• On macOS: Use Terminal and run sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder.
• Restart your device and reconnect to Urban VPN.
• This clears cached DNS data that may be conflicting with VPN routing.

Way 8. Reinstall Urban VPN from a Trusted Source

• Uninstall Urban VPN completely.
• Reboot your device to remove leftover files.
• Download the app or extension only from Urban VPN’s official website or verified app store.
• Avoid third-party mirrors, which may offer outdated or tampered versions.

If you’ve followed every step above and Urban VPN is still not working, then the issue likely isn’t you—it’s the service itself. Persistent problems often point to systemic flaws in free VPN infrastructure

When Urban VPN Still Doesn’t Work: Consider the Limitations

Many issues with Urban VPN stem from the nature of free VPNs:

• No guaranteed uptime
• Data throttling
• Limited server availability
• No customer support

Even if you’re using it for casual streaming or light browsing, these limitations often outweigh the convenience of “free.” That’s where BearVPN comes in.

Why BearVPN Is a Better Alternative to Urban VPN

If you’re tired of hitting dead ends with Urban VPN, BearVPN offers a seamless experience designed for performance, privacy, and peace of mind.

Key Benefits of BearVPN:

• High-Speed Global Servers: Access a wide-ranging array of international servers that automatically link you to the optimal route available.
• Advanced Encryption: BearVPN employs top-notch industry encryption standards to safeguard your data privacy and security.
• Unlimited Bandwidth: Engage in browsing, streaming and downloading activities without encountering any restrictions.
• No Logs Policy: BearVPN refrains from monitoring or keeping records of your browsing history.
• Simple and Intuitive: Achieve connection with just one click, thanks to its streamlined interface that requires no technical expertise.

BearVPN not only works more consistently, but it also respects your privacy with a strict no-logs policy. You also get access to 1000+ high-speed servers worldwide—ideal for streaming, gaming, and secure browsing.

Urban VPN Not Working on Specific Platforms? 

Sometimes, Urban VPN issues aren’t universal—they vary depending on the device or platform you’re using. Whether it’s a browser extension, mobile app, or streaming service, the cause (and solution) may look a little different. Here’s how to fix Urban VPN on the most commonly used platforms.

Chrome Extension Not Working

• Disable conflicting plugins.
• Ensure permissions are granted for Urban VPN.
• Reinstall the extension from Chrome Web Store.

Urban VPN Not Working on Android/iOS

• Reboot your device.
• Reset your network settings.
• Use a different VPN app if the Urban one fails repeatedly.

Urban VPN Not Working for Netflix or Disney+

• Urban’s free IPs are easily detected by streaming platforms.
• Use BearVPN, which rotates residential IPs and provides servers optimized for streaming.
  

FAQs on Urban VPN Not Working

Q1: Why does Urban VPN keep disconnecting?
Urban VPN often disconnects due to server overload or weak protocols. This is common with free VPNs that share bandwidth across many users.

Q2: Is Urban VPN safe to use?
While it encrypts traffic, Urban VPN collects some user data and shares it with partners. For strict privacy, BearVPN is a safer option.

Q3: Can Urban VPN be used for torrenting?
It’s not recommended. Most torrent platforms block Urban VPN IPs, and speeds are unreliable. BearVPN supports torrenting with dedicated P2P servers.

Q4: Why can’t I connect Urban VPN on mobile data?
Your carrier might be blocking VPN ports. Try using Wi-Fi, or switch to a VPN like BearVPN that supports a wider range of protocols.

Conclusion

When Urban VPN is not working, it can be more than an annoyance—it disrupts your privacy, access, and security. While some fixes like switching servers, updating the extension, or reinstalling the app can offer temporary relief, the root problem often lies in the limitations of free VPNs.

BearVPN provides a fast, secure, and private alternative without the headaches. With advanced features, global server coverage, and real-time support, it’s the upgrade frustrated Urban VPN users have been waiting for.

Don’t settle for unreliable protection—switch to BearVPN today and experience VPN that actually works.