Browsec VPN: Setup & Troubleshooting

TL;DR

This guide helps you install and fix common problems with Browsec VPN on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. It covers installation issues, connection errors, DNS leaks, and performance slowdowns.

1. Installing Browsec VPN

1. Windows & macOS: Download the installer from Browsec’s official website. Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions. You may need to grant administrator permissions.
2. Android: Search for “Browsec VPN” in the Google Play Store and install it.
3. iOS: Search for “Browsec VPN” in the App Store and install it. You might be prompted to allow a configuration profile; this is normal.

2. Common Installation Problems & Fixes

1. Installer Won’t Run: Check your internet connection. Ensure you have enough disk space. Temporarily disable any antivirus software during installation, then re-enable it afterwards.
2. App Crashes on Startup (Android/iOS): Clear the app’s cache and data in your device settings (Settings > Apps > Browsec VPN > Storage). Restart your device.
3. macOS Security Warnings: Go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy. You may need to allow Browsec VPN through the firewall or approve the application manually.

3. Connecting to a Server

1. Open the Browsec VPN app.
2. Select a server location from the list. Faster servers are usually closer to your physical location.
3. Click the “Connect” button.

4. Troubleshooting Connection Errors

1. Can’t Connect: Check your internet connection. Try a different server location. Restart the Browsec VPN app and your device.
2. Firewall Blocking Connection: Ensure Browsec VPN is allowed through your firewall. On Windows, check Windows Defender Firewall settings.
3. Proxy Settings: If you’re using a proxy server, ensure it’s compatible with Browsec VPN. Disable the proxy temporarily to see if that resolves the issue.

5. Checking for DNS Leaks

DNS leaks can reveal your true location even when connected to a VPN. Here’s how to check:

1. Visit a DNS leak test website, such as DNSLeakTest.
2. Connect to Browsec VPN.
3. Run the standard or extended test on the website.
4. If your ISP’s DNS servers are shown, you have a DNS leak. See step 6 for fixes.

6. Fixing DNS Leaks

1. Browsec Settings: Check if Browsec VPN has an option to prevent DNS leaks (usually found in the app’s settings under “Privacy” or “Advanced”). Enable it if available.
2. Manual DNS Configuration: Change your device’s DNS servers to public DNS providers like Google Public DNS (

   8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4

   ) or Cloudflare DNS (

   1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1

   ). Instructions vary depending on your operating system; search online for “change DNS settings [your OS]”.

7. Slow Connection Speed

1. Server Distance: Connect to a server closer to your physical location.
2. Server Load: Try a different server; some servers may be overloaded.
3. Internet Connection: Check your internet speed without the VPN connected. A slow base connection will affect VPN speeds.
4. App Updates: Ensure you’re using the latest version of Browsec VPN.

8. Contacting Support

If you’ve tried these steps and are still having problems, contact Browsec VPN support through their website: Browsec Support.