Why VPN Doesn’t Work with Antivirus Enabled — Main Causes and Solutions

Introduction

One of the most common issues for VPN users is connection failure or unstable service when antivirus software is enabled. The VPN may fail to connect, the internet may completely drop, or connection speed may suddenly decrease. In most cases, the problem is not with the VPN service but with the settings of antivirus software. This article explains why antivirus programs block VPNs, what protective mechanisms cause conflicts, and how to fix these issues.

How VPN Works and Why Antivirus May See It as Suspicious

A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between the user’s device and a remote server. All internet traffic passes through this tunnel, hiding the IP address and ensuring data privacy.

For antivirus software, this behavior can appear unusual:

• Encryption is used;
• Traffic is routed through third-party servers;
• Network routes and DNS settings are changed.

Because of this, antivirus software may mistakenly identify VPNs as a potential threat.

Main Reasons Why VPN Doesn’t Work with Antivirus Enabled

Encrypted Traffic Analysis and Filtering

Modern antivirus programs actively scan internet traffic for malicious connections. However, VPNs use strong encryption, making it impossible for the antivirus to inspect packet contents. As a result, it may:

• Block the VPN connection;
• Disconnect the VPN after connecting;
• Reduce data transfer speed.

Built-in Antivirus Firewall

Many antivirus programs have their own firewall that monitors ports and protocols. VPN clients often use non-standard ports and protocols such as OpenVPN, WireGuard, or IKEv2.

If the VPN is not added to the list of allowed applications, the firewall may completely block its operation.

Conflict with Virtual Network Adapters

VPNs create a virtual network adapter on the system to function. Antivirus software also installs its own drivers for network monitoring.

Conflicts between these drivers can lead to:

• VPN failing to connect;
• Connection frequently dropping;
• Internet not working even after disabling the VPN.

HTTPS Scanning and Certificate Verification

Some antivirus programs perform HTTPS scanning by replacing website certificates to inspect encrypted traffic. VPNs also use certificates and encryption, so the antivirus may interpret this as a Man-in-the-Middle attack and block the connection.

Behavioral Analysis and False Positives

Antivirus algorithms analyze program behavior. VPN clients:

• Run in the background;
• Automatically connect to servers;
• Modify network settings;
• Use continuous encryption.

This behavior may sometimes be classified as suspicious, especially for lesser-known or new VPNs.

Why VPN Conflicts with Antivirus Don’t Affect All Users

Differences in Antivirus Products

Different antivirus programs use different protection mechanisms. Some are more aggressive in filtering traffic, especially comprehensive solutions with web protection, firewall, and Wi-Fi security. These are the ones most likely to block VPNs.

VPN Protocols Used

Some VPNs use standard and widely recognized protocols, while others use proprietary technologies. The less known the protocol, the higher the likelihood that antivirus will block it.

Common Signs of VPN-Antivirus Conflict

If a VPN is blocked by antivirus, users usually experience:

• VPN failing to connect or freezing at the connection stage;
• Sharp decrease in internet speed;
• Websites not loading while VPN is active;
• VPN working immediately after antivirus is disabled.

How to Configure VPN and Antivirus to Work Together

Adding VPN to Antivirus Exceptions

The most effective solution is to add the VPN client and its network components to the antivirus exception list. This prevents traffic blocking and driver conflicts.

Disabling Specific Antivirus Features

Often it’s enough to disable only problematic modules:

• Web filtering;
• HTTPS scanning;
• Built-in firewall.

Completely disabling the antivirus is usually unnecessary.

Choosing an Alternative VPN Protocol

Many VPN services allow you to manually select the connection protocol. Switching to WireGuard, VLESS, IKEv2, or another protocol can fully resolve compatibility issues.

Conclusion

If a VPN doesn’t work with antivirus enabled, it is almost always due to a conflict between security systems, not a user or VPN error. The antivirus is trying to protect the system by blocking encrypted and non-standard traffic, while the VPN needs unrestricted network access.

Properly configuring exceptions, choosing the right protocol, and disabling conflicting features allow VPNs and antivirus software to work simultaneously without compromising security, speed, or connection stability.