First check your own internet and your credentials. If the VPN fails for everyone, the office router or firewall, its internet connection, or an expired certificate is the likely cause. If it connects but you can't reach anything, your home network may use the same address range as the office.
Common causes
Wrong or expired credentials
Password changes and expired accounts are the most common cause for one person.
Office internet or firewall down
If the office connection or firewall is offline, nobody can connect.
Blocked by the remote network
Hotel or public WiFi often blocks VPN ports.
Address range overlap
If home and office both use 192.168.1.x, traffic for the office stays at home.
Expired certificate or outdated client
VPN certificates expire, and old VPN clients stop working after firewall updates.
How to fix it, step by step
- 1
Check your internet
Make sure websites load normally before connecting.
- 2
Re-enter credentials
Confirm your username and current password, and check for a multi-factor prompt.
- 3
Try another network
Test from a phone hotspot. If it works, the original network is blocking the VPN.
- 4
Update the VPN client
Install the latest version recommended for your office firewall.
- 5
Check for address overlap
If you connect but can't reach office resources, compare your home IP range with the office range.
When to call a technician
If the VPN fails for multiple people, it needs to be checked on the office side. We maintain VPNs on business firewalls, renew certificates, and fix address overlaps — or move you to a simpler cloud setup if a VPN isn't needed.
On-site support across Orange County · see our business networking and WiFi installation services.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my VPN connect but nothing works?
Often your home network uses the same address range as the office, or the VPN is missing routes. Changing the office range fixes overlap for good.
Why does the VPN work at home but not at a hotel?
Many hotels and public networks block VPN ports. A VPN using SSL on port 443 is usually more reliable.
Do we still need a VPN with Microsoft 365?
Not always. If your files are in SharePoint or OneDrive, staff can work securely without a VPN.