How To • VPN • Troubleshooting

How to Fix VPN Blocking Software Updates

This guide will help you identify why your VPN is preventing your computer, phone, or other devices from downloading important software and operating system updates.

You'll learn how to diagnose the conflict, implement safe workarounds like split tunneling, and ensure your devices stay secure without fully disabling your VPN protection.

Note: Steps may vary by device and router model. This guide focuses on safe, general methods.

Quick Answer

Temporarily pause or disconnect your VPN client and try the update again.
If the update works, the VPN is likely blocking the update servers via its firewall, IP restrictions, or DNS.
Enable "Split Tunneling" in your VPN settings and add your device's updater app or the OS update service to the exclusion list.
Switch your VPN protocol (e.g., from OpenVPN to WireGuard) or try a different VPN server location.
Manually configure your device to use a public DNS service (like 1.1.1.1 or 8.8.8.8) instead of the VPN's DNS.
As a last resort, schedule update checks for times when the VPN is off, ensuring you are on a trusted network.

If this doesn't work, your specific VPN service or network configuration may need deeper investigation. Follow the diagnostic flow below.

What you need

Before you start

Your VPN login credentials and client software.
Administrator or root access to your device (for changing network settings).
Basic knowledge of how to navigate your device's network settings.
A working internet connection without the VPN active.
The name of the software or OS you are trying to update (e.g., Windows Update, Apple Software Update, a specific game client).

Good to know

VPNs can block updates via their firewall rules, DNS filtering, or by routing traffic through countries under sanctions.
Some update services use peer-to-peer (P2P) methods, which many VPNs block to prevent bandwidth abuse.
Corporate or school networks may have their own blocks that compound with VPN issues.
Split tunneling is the safest fix, allowing updates to bypass the VPN while other traffic remains protected.
Your VPN's kill switch may need to be disabled temporarily for some troubleshooting steps.

Diagnose the issue in 2 minutes

Step 1: Is the VPN the cause?
- Disconnect completely from your VPN.
- Try running the software update again.
- Expected: If the update starts, your VPN is the primary blocker.
Step 2: Is it one device or all devices?
- Try the same update on a different device using the same VPN connection.
- Expected: If all devices fail, the issue is with the VPN server or settings. If only one device fails, the problem is local to that device's configuration.
Step 3: Is it a connectivity or DNS issue?
- With VPN connected, open a command prompt or terminal.
- Run ping 8.8.8.8. If this fails, the VPN has a basic connectivity problem.
- Run ping google.com. If this fails but pinging 8.8.8.8 works, the VPN's DNS is likely failing.
Step 4: Is it the VPN protocol or server?
- In your VPN app, switch to a different protocol (e.g., from OpenVPN to WireGuard).
- Connect to a server in a different country, preferably closer to your physical location.
- Try the update again.

Step-by-step guide

Step 1 — Confirm the VPN is blocking the update

Establish a baseline by testing without the VPN.

Open your VPN client and completely disconnect from the VPN server.
Run the software or operating system update check as you normally would.
Observe if the update proceeds to download and install.

What you should see: If the update works immediately with the VPN off, you have confirmed the VPN is the source of the block.

Step 2 — Configure split tunneling (if available)

Split tunneling allows you to route specific app traffic outside the VPN tunnel.

Open your VPN application settings and look for "Split Tunneling," "Per-App Settings," or "Route Settings."
Enable the feature and choose to exclude specific applications from the VPN tunnel.
Add the update application (e.g., "Windows Update," "Software Update," "Steam") to the exclusion list.
Reconnect to the VPN and attempt the update again.

Windows: Look for "Manage Apps" in your VPN client. The system update process is often handled by processes like "svchost.exe" or "Windows Update." You may need to add the "Settings" app.

macOS: The built-in Software Update runs through the "system_installd" process. Some VPN clients allow you to exclude entire IP ranges, which can be a more effective approach on macOS.

Linux: The process varies by distribution (e.g., `unattended-upgrades` on Ubuntu). You may need to configure split tunneling by IP address or use the command-line interface of your VPN client.

What you should see: The VPN remains active for other apps, but your update traffic connects directly and starts downloading.

Step 3 — Change your DNS servers

VPN-provided DNS servers can sometimes fail to resolve update server addresses correctly.

With the VPN connected, go to your device's network settings.
Find the DNS settings for your active connection (it may be labeled under the VPN adapter).
Change from "Automatic" to "Manual."
Enter addresses for a reliable public DNS like Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) or Google (8.8.8.8).
Save settings and flush your DNS cache, then retry the update.

What you should see: Previously unresolvable update server hostnames now connect, allowing the update to proceed.

Step 4 — Switch VPN protocol or server location

Some VPN protocols or specific server IPs may be blocked by update services.

In your VPN app, go to settings and find the "Protocol" section.
Switch to a different protocol (e.g., from OpenVPN to WireGuard or IKEv2).
Alternatively, disconnect and connect to a VPN server in a different country, ideally one with fewer restrictions.
Attempt the software update again.

What you should see: A different protocol may bypass firewall rules, and a different server may not be on an update service's blocklist.

Step 5 — Temporarily disable the VPN firewall or kill switch

Some VPNs include a built-in firewall that can be overly restrictive.

In your VPN app settings, look for options labeled "Firewall," "Network Lock," "Kill Switch," or "Advanced Protection."
Temporarily disable these features. Warning: This will expose your real IP if the VPN drops.
With the features off but the VPN still connected, try the update.
Remember to re-enable these security features immediately after the update completes.

What you should see: If the update works, the VPN's own security layer was blocking the connection. Consider using split tunneling as a safer permanent fix.

Step 6 — Schedule updates for VPN downtime

If all else fails, plan to update only when you are safely off the VPN.

Configure your device's update settings to "Notify to download" or "Manual install" rather than automatic.
Schedule a regular time (e.g., once a week) when you are connected to your trusted home network and your VPN is off.
Manually run all software and OS updates during this scheduled maintenance window.

What you should see: Your devices stay updated without interfering with your VPN usage, though it requires manual intervention.

Common fixes by symptom

Update starts but fails mid-download

Likely causes: VPN connection instability; VPN server throttling; VPN blocking P2P-based update delivery.

Safe fixes: Pause the VPN and resume download; switch to a more stable VPN protocol like WireGuard; disable P2P update options in your software settings.

When to stop: If downloads consistently fail at the same point across multiple VPN servers, the VPN service may be incompatible.

Update check returns "No updates available" (but there are)

Likely causes: VPN DNS failing to resolve update server; Geo-blocking by the software provider; cached DNS records.

Safe fixes: Change DNS to a public provider; flush DNS cache; connect to a VPN server in your home country.

When to stop: If the update only appears when you're physically located in a specific country, the block may be legal/contractual.

Only one device on the same VPN can't update

Likely causes: Device-specific firewall; incorrect network profile (Public vs Private); corrupted update client on that device.

When to stop: If resetting the device's network stack and update components doesn't work, a OS reinstall may be necessary.

Connection times out when searching for updates

Likely causes: VPN firewall blocking ports used by update service (often 80, 443, or specific high ports); MTU size issues.

Safe fixes: Temporarily disable VPN firewall; adjust VPN MTU to a lower value (like 1400); try a different VPN protocol.

When to stop: If you are not comfortable adjusting MTU or firewall settings, use the split tunneling workaround instead.

VPN kill switch activates during update

Likely causes: Brief VPN dropouts triggering the kill switch, which then kills the update download.

Safe fixes: Disable kill switch for the update duration (ensure you're on a safe network); use split tunneling so the update isn't affected by VPN drops.

When to stop: If your VPN connection is consistently unstable, consider switching providers or troubleshooting your base internet connection.

Error message about "insecure connection" or "certificate"

Likely causes: VPN intercepting traffic (MITM) for security scanning; system date/time incorrect due to VPN timezone.

Safe fixes: Disable "Threat Protection" or "Scanning" features in VPN; verify your device's date and time are set correctly and automatically.

When to stop: If you require the VPN's scanning features for security, you must use split tunneling or update off-VPN.

Quick reference

What the metric means

Metric	Relevance to VPN & Updates
Latency (Ping)	High latency via VPN can make update servers timeout. Under 100ms is ideal for reliable connections.
Jitter	High jitter on a VPN can cause intermittent packet loss, corrupting large update downloads.
Packet Loss	Any packet loss over VPN will severely slow or halt updates. Aim for 0%.
Throughput	VPN encryption overhead reduces max speed. Ensure your VPN speed is at least 50% of your base speed for large updates.
Signal Strength (for Wi-Fi)	A weak Wi-Fi signal combined with VPN overhead can cause frequent disconnections during updates.

Safe baseline settings

Setting	Recommendation for Update Compatibility
Wi-Fi Security	Use WPA2/WPA3. Avoid public Wi-Fi for updates if VPN is off; use a trusted home network.
DNS	Use well-known public DNS (1.1.1.1, 8.8.8.8) if VPN DNS fails. Avoid ISP DNS when VPN is active.
Router Admin	Ensure UPnP is enabled if updates use specific ports, but understand the minor security trade-off.
Guest Network	A good option for IoT devices that need updates but shouldn't be on your main LAN with a VPN.
Updates	Schedule for off-peak hours on your trusted network. Set to "Download and notify for install" for control.

Mind map summary

VPN Blocks Update?
├── Quick Test: Update with VPN OFF.
│   ├── Works → VPN is the cause.
│   └── Fails → General network issue (check ISP/router).
│
├── Primary Solutions (Safe)
│   ├── Split Tunneling: Exclude updater app from VPN tunnel.
│   ├── DNS Change: Use 1.1.1.1 or 8.8.8.8 on VPN connection.
│   └── Protocol/Server Switch: Try WireGuard or a different country.
│
├── Secondary Tweaks (Temporary)
│   ├── Disable VPN firewall/kill switch briefly.
│   ├── Adjust MTU size to prevent packet fragmentation.
│   └── Disable VPN threat scanning features.
│
└── Fallback Strategy (Manual)
    ├── Schedule updates for trusted network, VPN-off time.
    ├── Manually download update packages from vendor site.
    └── Consider if VPN provider is fundamentally incompatible.

Troubleshooting checklist

Device

Confirm update works with VPN completely off.
Flush DNS cache and reset network stack.
Check for local firewall (Windows Defender, etc.) blocking updater.
Verify system date and time are correct.
Try updating over Ethernet instead of Wi-Fi.

VPN Client

Enable and configure split tunneling.
Switch VPN protocol (OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2).
Connect to a different VPN server location.
Temporarily disable kill switch and advanced firewall.
Update the VPN client itself to the latest version.

Network & ISP

Test base internet speed without VPN.
Restart your router and modem.
Ensure router firmware is up to date.
Check if your ISP throttles VPN traffic.
Try a mobile hotspot to rule out ISP issues.

When to escalate

Contacting your VPN Provider: Escalate if split tunneling doesn't work, multiple protocols fail, and the issue occurs on all their servers. Provide them with error codes.
Contacting the Software Vendor: Escalate if you confirm the update works from your location without a VPN, but fails on every VPN server, suggesting their servers block entire VPN IP ranges.
Replacing or Upgrading your Router: Consider this if your router cannot handle VPN passthrough traffic reliably or has outdated firmware causing conflicts.
Asking IT Support (for work devices): Always consult IT before changing VPN or update settings on a managed company device.

What to collect before escalating:

Exact error message from the update process.
Timestamps of when the failure occurs.
Speed test results with VPN on and off.
Ping and traceroute results to the update server (if known).
Your VPN provider name, protocol, and server location used.

FAQ

Why would a VPN block software updates?

VPNs can block updates for several reasons: their firewall may restrict traffic on certain ports used by updaters; their DNS servers might not correctly resolve the addresses of update servers; or the IP address of the VPN server you're using could be on a blocklist maintained by the software company (often to prevent piracy or manage regional rollouts).

Is it safe to disable my VPN to run updates?

It is generally safe if you are on a trusted, secure network like your home Wi-Fi. Ensure your router has a strong password and uses WPA2/WPA3 security. It is not safe to disable your VPN for updates on public Wi-Fi (coffee shops, airports) due to the risk of eavesdropping and man-in-the-middle attacks.

What is split tunneling and how does it help?

Split tunneling is a VPN feature that lets you choose which apps send their traffic through the VPN tunnel and which apps connect directly to the internet. By adding your software updater to the "exclude" list, its traffic bypasses the VPN entirely, solving the block while keeping your browser and other apps protected.

My VPN doesn't have split tunneling. What can I do?

You can try changing DNS settings, switching protocols, or using a different VPN server. If those fail, you may need to temporarily disconnect from the VPN to perform updates. As a longer-term solution, consider using a VPN provider that offers split tunneling as a feature.

Can I use a free VPN to download updates?

It's not recommended. Free VPNs often have severe bandwidth limitations, slower speeds (making large updates impractical), and may lack essential features like split tunneling. They are also more likely to have their IP addresses broadly blocked by update services.

Will using a VPN slow down my updates?

Almost always, yes. VPNs add encryption overhead and route your traffic through a remote server, which increases latency and can reduce maximum throughput. The slowdown is often minor with a quality VPN on a nearby server, but for multi-gigabyte updates, it can be noticeable.

What if my company's corporate VPN blocks updates?

Do not attempt to bypass corporate VPN policies. These are usually in place for security and compliance reasons. Contact your IT support team. They may have a designated process or network segment for applying system updates to managed devices.

Are router-based VPNs different from app-based VPNs for updates?

Yes. A VPN configured directly on your router protects all devices on your network without needing individual apps. The blocking effect on updates will therefore affect every device simultaneously. The fixes are similar but must be applied at the router level (e.g., configuring split tunneling or DNS on the router itself), which is more complex.

Sources and references

Microsoft Windows documentation on Windows Update connectivity requirements
Apple Support articles on macOS Software Update and network configuration
Linux man pages for network configuration and systemd-resolved
General VPN protocol specifications (OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2)
Router vendor administration guides for VPN passthrough and split tunneling
IEEE 802.11 standards overview for Wi-Fi security (WPA2/WPA3)
Networking diagnostics fundamentals: ICMP (ping), DNS, and traceroute
Cybersecurity best practices for home networks and VPN usage

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