4 Simple Methods to Reset a VPN on Android

Facing issues with disconnections or sluggish performance while using a VPN? No matter how high-quality the VPN provider is, issues happen occasionally. Also, who’s to say that the problem isn’t on your side? A router that has been working for a while, bad connection via mobile data, a buggy OS update, or an Android phone you haven’t updated in a while are all potential causes. There are also incorrect VPN settings or a discontinued security protocols such as PPTP or L2TP/IPSec that remain enabled. Regardless of what the cause turns out to be, knowing how to reset a VPN on Android can be both a troubleshooting step and a quick solution.

Things to do before you reset a VPN

While resetting a VPN can be a forlorn thought, it can often be a necessity. But there are things you should do before you get around to the actual resetting. Normally, resetting a VPN entails the deletion of your VPN configurations, profiles, and settings. Thus, it is often recommended to be sure before taking the last step. And if you can, you should also do the following:

Backup your data

Before initiating a reset, it is pertinent that you back up your VPN data and settings. Such data is stored temporarily on your hard disk and gets deleted upon resetting. Now, you can always set them back manually. But it will take time and effort. Thus, it is better to back up your settings.

Note down your VPN credentials

Also, you have to jot down your VPN credentials in a safe place. Resetting a VPN will render it almost new with no other information. Hence, users will be required to log in to the provider. However, users tend to forget their username and password after prolonged use. Hence, you should note it down, as looking for your credentials post-resetting will take time.

Method 1. Reset a VPN on Android by switching security protocol

Similar to our guide on changing a VPN on iPhone, you can switch a security protocol inside built-in VPN settings. We plan to publish a complete, Android equivalent guide soon. For now, direct steps that pertain to this method will be enough.

1. Switch security protocol in Android settings

To transition to a different protocol inside Android settings, do this:

1. Tap on Settings.
2. Go to Network & Internet.
3. Tap on VPN. If the option isn’t displayed, expand the list by tapping on Advanced.
4. Tap on the settings (cogwheel/gear icon) next to the VPN profile.
5. Under Type, pick any protocol except the one currently selected.
6. You can now do one of two things:
   1. Reconnect to the VPN using the new VPN protocol.
   2. Since you refreshed a VPN, switch back to the original one.

2. Change protocol in the VPN app

Every VPN provider has slightly different settings and doesn’t always offer the same security protocols. To demonstrate the process, we’ll a reputable one with the most options. With that said, changing security protocols in NordVPN works like this:

1. Launch NordVPN for Android.
2. Open the settings menu in the upper left corner.
3. Select VPN Protocol.
4. Choose any protocol except the current one. For example, move on from OpenVPN(TCP) to NordLynx. You can also Switch from OpenVPN(TCP) to OpenVPN(UDP) to achieve the same result.
5. You now have the same choice to make as above.

Method 2. Reset a VPN on Android by forgetting the VPN connection

Follow these steps to remove the current VPN profile on Android:

1. Tap on Settings > Network & Internet > VPN again. Once again, tap on Advanced if you can’t see the option.
2. You’ll see a list of all VPN profiles.
3. Tap on the cogwheel icon next to the profile, then tap on Forget in the bottom left corner.

Method 3. Reset a VPN on Android by restoring network settings to default

Although it doesn’t directly affect a VPN, it does refresh the Internet connection a VPN needs. When combined with methods above and below, it’s an even more powerful solution. Gere are the instructions to restart network settings on Android:

1. Go to Settings.
2. Scroll all the way down to find System.
3. Tap on Reset options. If you don’t see it, tap on Advanced.
4. Select Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth.
5. Tap on the Reset Settings button.
6. Your Android device will restart.

Method 4. Resetting the VPN by removing app cache

Not using a built-in VPN utility? Do this to remove VPN app cache on Android:

1. Tap on Settings > Apps & notifications.
2. Tap on See all X apps (X – number of apps you have installed).
3. Select the VPN app from the list.
4. Tap on Storage & cache.
5. Tap on Clear Cache and Clear Storage (Clear Data on some phones).

Tip. Reinstalling the VPN app is not necessary like on iPhone, where this option doesn’t exist by default and has to be implemented by the app developers. If you still want to do it, the Delete option is next to options in step 5.