Tech giant and Windows PC provider Microsoft confirmed that its latest updates might cause problems with VPN connections and there’s currently no fix. According to Microsoft, the issue will only affect devices that install the new Windows 10 and 11 security update KB5036893 released in April. These devices might not be able to connect their VPNs unless they uninstall the security updates. At the moment, Microsoft has not found a fix for the problem but promised a solution in the upcoming updates. Here’s more about the April security update and how it interferes with your VPN connections.
What Is A VPN and Why Is It Important?
VPNs or virtual private networks are services used to encrypt internet traffic and provide secure tunnels for hiding your online identity. You can use a VPN to access geo-restricted content, prevent bandwidth throttling, privatize your activity log, and enjoy anonymous browsing. VPNs are also helpful when connecting to remove work servers and networks or even when shopping for global services. The service allows you to connect to computers hosted in other regions, providing you with a random or new IP address registered to that country.
VPNs have multiple uses, for example you can use a VPN to play in online casinos securely. The VPN doesn’t only boost privacy and security but also prevents your ISP from slowing down your internet when playing. You can enjoy slots, roulettes, poker, and even bandwidth-intensive live dealer shows without worrying about disconnection or delays. VPN services also facilitate network scalability, reduce staffing costs, and protect private information from prying eyes and attacks.
What Is the April Windows Security Update?
Like most software providers, Windows releases security updates regularly to keep up with emerging threats, resolve bugs, and improve overall user experience. Updates can be released as often as weekly or monthly but sometimes take longer. The most recent Windows security update was released in April for Windows 10 and 11, as well as Windows Server releases. Microsoft confirmed that the April update had broken the functionality of VPN services on its operating systems. This confirmation was made on Microsoft’s release health dashboard.
The extent to which the new updates affect VPNs wasn’t described. However, Microsoft stated that Windows devices “might face VPN connection failures” after installing the new updates. Because of the wording, it’s not yet clear if all users are affected, but that’s the general consensus. The bug affects various clients including Windows 10 (version 23H2 and 21H2) Windows 11 (version 23H2, 22H2, and 21H2) as well as Windows Server 2022, 2019, 2016, 2012 R2, 2012, 2008 R2, and 2008. Microsoft didn’t give a reason for the bug or provide any updates on when it will fix it.
How Does the Update Impact Your VPN?
If you installed the April security updates, your VPN services will likely fail to connect. Failed VPN connections can occur due to various reasons, so you should confirm the interruption isn’t coming from other factors. For instance, slow/poor or intermittent internet and network connection can result in failures. Firewalls and antivirus software can also block VPN traffic, preventing connection. VPN server issues, incorrect login credentials, outdated VPN software, and location-based restrictions can all cause VPN connection failures.
If none of the above issues are present, your VPN failure is likely a result of the new Microsoft Windows security updates. VPN connection failure leaves your device vulnerable to nefarious actors while denying you the benefits associated with secured traffic tunnels. You won’t be able to access geo-blocked content or browse anonymously without a VPN. You can try using VPN browser extensions, but there’s a high probability the updates interfere with all types of VPN connections. The updates probably block VPN traffic or some of its commands. Nonetheless, Microsoft hasn’t provided any information about how the bug affects your VPN.
What Can You Do To Regain VPN Connection?
If you’ve ruled out all the other causes of VPN failures, the only logical reason for your lost connection is the new security updates. You can roll back to your previous version of Windows to remove the updates. This should effectively restore your VPN connections, although you won’t have access to the latest security protection from Microsoft. Make sure you use the latest antivirus and keep it updated to avoid falling victim to new malware and attacks. Here are the steps you can take to uninstall the security updates and roll back your Windows:
- Press the Windows Key plus I to open the Settings program
- Open Windows Update then select Update history
- Scroll down to Uninstall updates and look for the most recent update with the name KB5036893
- Click Uninstall to roll back your windows to the previous version
Key Takeaways
The April security updates from Microsoft will give your device better performance and protection from today’s threats. However, it interferes with your VPN connection. You can wait for the next updates where Microsoft promises to resolve the issue. However, that may not be an option if you want to browse anonymously or access geo-blocked content. In such cases, you’ll need to sacrifice the latest Windows security updates to continue using your VPN.