Opera’s VPN service was discontinued in early 2018, but they continue to offer a free proxy. However, proxies are poor substitutes for dedicated VPNs (like NordVPN), since they often have slower speeds, less secure encryption, and lackluster unblocking capabilities. Nonetheless, Opera’s VPN might still be useful in some cases.
For example, it might be good for users who only want to conceal their IP address (for privacy purposes) and bypass location restrictions on streaming platforms. This tutorial was designed for Windows 10, but it should also work for other versions of Windows (8, 7), macOS, or Linux.
If you’re having trouble connecting to the Opera VPN, don’t worry – they have a few solutions for you. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions on how to fix the problem. We’ll also provide some tips on how to stay safe online when using a VPN. Keep reading for more information!
Potential Problems With Opera VPN
It’s Not A Real VPN
Opera VPN is not a real virtual private network, which means it’s only able to encrypt your network traffic and conceal your location, making you more secure on the internet.
It’s unable to unblock geo-restricted content like Netflix and Hulu or hide your online activities from your internet service provider [1].
Can’t Choose The Desired Location
As a free service, Opera VPN can be used only in three locations – Canada, Germany, and the US. If you’re looking to connect to other countries like the UK or Japan, you won’t be able to do so using this app.
No Support for Torrenting or Streaming
One of the most important reasons why many people use a virtual private network is for torrenting and streaming content online. Since Opera VPN doesn’t allow these activities, it may not be the best solution if your main purpose is to torrent or stream videos online.
Fortunately, there are other VPN alternatives available that offer better features than Opera VPN. Some of these include NordVPN and ExpressVPN, which not only offer more locations but also allow torrenting and streaming activities.
Frustrating Browsing Speed
Opera VPN is also known to have a frustrating browsing speed, which can make it difficult to do tasks online, such as stream high-definition videos or play online games.
The Connection Failed And Not Working Issue
If you’ve been experiencing frustrating connection issues with Opera VPN, rest assured that there are solutions for this problem. For starters, check if your internet connection is working properly. If not, try resetting your router or modem to see if it fixes the issue.
If nothing seems to be working, you may want to consider switching to a different virtual private network that offers better performance and stability. Some good options include NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and CyberGhost – all of which offer reliable performance and stable connections no matter where you are in the world.
It Will Also Leak The Real IP Address
Aside from not being a real VPN, Opera VPN will also leak your real IP address, which means that it’s exposing you to cyber threats and hackers. If you’re looking for a more secure option when browsing the internet, consider switching to a different virtual private network instead.
No Killswitch To Prevent DNS Leak
Finally, some users have reported that Opera VPN does not include a kill switch to prevent DNS leaks from occurring. This can be quite problematic since it leaves your online activities vulnerable and unprotected.
Fixing Connection Problems With Opera’s VPN
Try A Different Server Location
Most VPNs have many servers in various countries from which you can choose, but Opera’s VPN is a little different. With this service, you only pick between a server in Europe, Asia, or the Americas.
Oftentimes, servers are down for maintenance and your software might not have updated its list of servers yet – leaving you unable to connect. However, with Opera, because there are multiple servers in each region, it’s unlikely that this is a problem [2].
Additionally, the server may work but your connection is timing out. There are two primary reasons for this: either the server you’re trying to use has too much traffic (it’s more common to have more users online in the evening) or you’re physically located too far away from the server.
If you experience slow load speeds, it’s generally because the server is located too far away from your current location. To fix this problem, try connecting to a server in a different geographical area.
Check Your Browser Version And Disable Extensions
A crucial yet overlooked step to take if you can’t connect to any of the VPN servers is to ensure that you have the latest version of Opera installed.
Start by double-checking that everything looks good in your browser. If it does, try disabling any extensions you have installed. To do this, click on the Opera icon in the top-left corner of your screen. From there, hover over “Extensions” and click on it from the list that appears.
After opening your Opera browser, you should see a list of all your installed extensions with the Opera Ad Blocker enabled by default. To disable the blocker, simply click the “Disable” button. Once this is completed, try reconnecting to the VPN server. If this doesn’t fix your problem though, re-enable the Opera Ad Blocker again afterward.
Check Your Internet Connection
Another thing to keep in mind if you’re having trouble with your Opera VPN connection is that your internet connection may be experiencing issues. This could be due to problems with your router or modem, an issue with other devices connected to the same network, or even just a temporary service outage from your ISP [3].
To test this, try doing a quick web search for “check my Internet speed”. There are many websites and apps out there that can help you determine what kind of speeds you are getting on your current connection. If it seems like you’re not getting the speeds that you should be, try resetting your router and/or modem. You may also want to contact your ISP directly to see if they have any known service outages in your area.
Reinstall Opera VPN
If none of the previous steps seem to be working, you may want to consider uninstalling and reinstalling your Opera VPN app. This can help to remove any lingering issues that may be causing problems with your connection. To do this, simply head over to the “Apps” section in your Opera browser and look for the “Opera VPN” icon.
Once you’ve located it, select it and click on the trashcan icon at the bottom of your screen. From there, follow all of the prompts until it has been completely removed from your device.
Once you’ve finished uninstalling Opera VPN from your system, head back over to the apps page and find a new download link for the latest version of Opera VPN. Simply follow the installation prompts to get up and running again!
Refresh The Browser
If none of these steps have managed to fix your Opera VPN connection, you may want to try refreshing the browser. This can help to quickly clear any lingering issues that are preventing you from accessing the VPN servers.
To do this, simply press and hold down both the “Ctrl” and “Shift” keys on your keyboard while also clicking on the “Reload” or “Refresh” icon in your browser’s menu bar [4].
Once you’ve done this, wait a few minutes until everything has completely refreshed, and then try reconnecting to one of the Opera VPN servers again. If it still isn’t working at this point, feel free to contact their customer support team directly for further assistance!
Turn Off Security Software
In some cases, the reason that your Opera VPN app may not be working could simply be because of a conflict with other security software on your device. To work around this, try temporarily disabling any antivirus or firewall tools you might have installed and see if that helps to resolve the problem.
If it does, then you will want to reach out to the support team for each of these tools individually to get help setting up their apps so that there is no longer a conflict. If it doesn’t resolve things, though, then try re-enabling them one at a time until you find the source of the issue!
Clear Browser Cache
A browser’s cached data can slow down performance, so it’s important to clear it every once in a while. If you don’t think you’ve cleared your cache recently, go ahead and do it now. You’ll see an improvement in speed immediately.
To clear your browser’s cache, simply open its settings menu and look for the “Clear Cache” or “Storage” section. From there, just follow any on-screen prompts to complete this process quickly and easily. Once you’ve done so, try reconnecting to your Opera VPN server again to see if it helps with your connection issues [5]!
Switch Off Browser Extension
You may need to turn off your browser extensions to use Opera’s VPN feature. To do so, follow these steps: Menu button (top-left) -> Extensions -> Extensions. Once you’ve turned off your extensions, try reconnecting to the Opera VPN server again.
If the problem persists, it’s possible that another issue is causing your connection problems. In this case, reach out to their customer support team directly for further assistance [6]!
Toggle Opera VPN Off And On
If you’re sure that none of the previous steps have fixed your Opera VPN problem, there’s always one last thing to try. Simply toggle Opera VPN off and on again. This might clear up any lingering issues with your connection, allowing you to get back online in no time!
To do this, simply open the Opera VPN app on your device and head to its settings menu. From there, look for a switch labeled “VPN” or something similar and just turns it off. Wait a few minutes, then turn it back on again and try reconnecting to another server.
Check If You’re Connected To The Internet
If none of these steps have managed to resolve your Opera VPN connection issues, it could be that you are not even connected to the internet in the first place. To check this, try pinging a website from your browser or using a speed test site to see if you’re getting a fast enough connection for VPN use.
If you’re not, then make sure all of your cables and wires are properly plugged into their respective ports on your computer or router. If they are but you still can’t get online, then there may be an issue with your internet service provider (ISP). In this case, contact their customer support team directly for further assistance!
Resolve Security Software Conflict
If you’re still having issues with your Opera VPN connection after trying all of the suggestions above, it’s possible that there is an issue with the security software on your device. To resolve this, you may need to contact the support teams for any antivirus or firewall tools you have installed and get help setting up their apps so that they don’t conflict with Opera VPN anymore.
Once you’ve done this and cleared any cached data from your browser, you should be able to reconnect to your Opera VPN server without any problems!
Update Opera
If you’re still experiencing issues with your Opera VPN connection after following all of these steps, it could be that there is a bug in the app itself. In this case, simply update the Opera VPN app on your device and see if that fixes things. If not, then reach out to their customer support team directly for further assistance!
It can often be frustrating when your favorite online tool or service isn’t working properly. But with these tips, you should now know how to fix an issue with your Opera VPN connection so that you can get back online without any problems!
Disable Extensions In Your Opera Browser
If you’re still having issues with your Opera VPN connection after following all of these steps, it could be that there is a bug in the app itself. In this case, simply update the Opera VPN app on your device and see if that fixes things. If not, then reach out to their customer support team directly for further assistance!
Disable Your Antivirus Software
Opera VPN is an excellent way to protect your privacy and bypass Internet censorship. It does not matter if you don’t know how to configure a proxy or if the app doesn’t work on your phone, the most important thing is that it does not work.
If this is the case with you, we suggest disabling your antivirus software because it might be blocking Opera VPN from doing its job properly. You should also disable firewall protection as well so that you can use Opera VPN without any issues.
Include Opera VPN In The Antivirus Whitelist
You can also whitelist your Opera VPN rather than disabling your anti-virus software temporarily. To do this, you have to put the VPN on the list of “Exceptions” within the anti-virus program.
If you want your Opera VPN to keep working, stopping the anti-virus software from blocking it is essential.
Anonymous third-party applications are often blocked by anti-virus programs because of security concerns [8].
Disable Your Windows Firewall
If your Windows firewall is blocking the Opera VPN, you will also have to disable it. To do this, follow the steps below [9]:
- Open Windows Firewall by clicking the Start button and choosing Control Panel;
- Click System and Security > Windows Firewall;
- Choose Turn Windows Firewall on or off from the left pane of the window that opens;
- Select Turn off both private and public network firewalls under Private network settings, then click OK;
Enable Optimal Location On Opera VPN
The first step to resolving the issue is to enable optimal location on your Opera VPN. We’ll take a look at that process for some of the major OS platforms.
For Windows and Mac Operating Systems:
- Go to the Menu Bar and click on “Settings” under the “Opera VPN” logo (or simply hit Ctrl+O). Thereafter, go to Privacy & Security >> Location and make sure that you have marked “Enable Optimal Location” (it might be disabled by default if you haven’t used this service before) in the Opera VPN app;
- You can now continue browsing securely with Opera VPN on any website of your choice;
For Android Devices:
- Go to the Menu and click on Settings under the Opera VPN logo (or simply hit the menu button on your device, then go to Apps >> Opera VPN). Thereafter, go to Locations > Select a Location and switch from “Auto” mode to “Optimal”. If this option is disabled or not listed in the app, you will need to tap on “Disabled” first before enabling it;
- You can now continue browsing securely with Opera VPN on any website of your choice;
Accessing Geo-Blocked Content With Opera’s VPN
Try Using A Different Server
Platforms such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video improve their geo-restriction methods from time to time to keep VPN users from accessing content that should only be available in specific countries. In response, VPN providers also find ways to update how their services work so they’re not noticed.
Although implementing these updates across an entire network is time-consuming, there are only occasionally a few servers that can unblock given services from overseas.
If you want to use a paid VPN service, you might be able to ask support staff which servers work. However, with Opera’s VPN, there is no way of knowing which other servers can unblock your chosen platform. The only way to test if it works or not is by repeatedly connecting and disconnecting from the VPN.
There’s also a chance that the platform’s geo-restriction cannot be bypassed at all – in which case, trying over and over again won’t make any difference.
Clear Cookies And Cache
If you’re trying to access a geo-blocked site from outside the country it’s meant for, the website might store a cookie in your browser that automatically rejects any future attempts to access it. In this case, even if you’re connected to a VPN, you won’t be able to use the service. The solution is easy though: clear your cookies! Start by clicking on the Opera logo and scrolling down to Settings.
Clear your browsing data by clicking on the Advanced tab to the left. In the Privacy & Security section, select Clear browsing data. Then, check both Cookies and other site data as well as Cached images and files. By clicking on the blue ‘Clear data’ button, you will finalize this process. Even if you’re still not able to connect, these tests will at least give us an indication of what the problem is so we can try to fix it together.
Are There Better Alternatives To Opera VPN?
Luckily, many excellent VPNs don’t break the bank. They come with plenty of advantages too–like encrypting traffic from all applications, not just your web browser. Furthermore, these services frequently offer more security features and better unblocking ability than Opera’s VPN.
Not to mention, you can usually pick which country you want to virtually be in and they’re more transparent about what information they keep track of.
With so many great options on the market, it can be difficult to choose a VPN that’s right for you. Here are a few of our top recommendations [10]:
- NordVPN. With over 5,000 servers in its network and excellent security features like double encryption and onion-over-VPN routing, NordVPN is one of the most popular services around. There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it out completely risk-free;
- ExpressVPN. Boasting fast speeds and reliable performance, ExpressVPN is an excellent choice for streaming content or accessing blocked websites from abroad. It also offers 24/7 customer support and a 30-day money-back guarantee just in case you need some extra help;
- CyberGhost. This affordable VPN offers excellent security features and lightweight apps that are perfect for beginners. It’s also known for its great speeds, which is especially important if you’re streaming content at high quality. Plus, with a 45-day money-back guarantee, it’s easy to see why so many people love this service;
If you’re looking for an alternative to Opera VPN that will give you better performance and more security features, we highly recommend checking out one of these top picks. Whether you want fast speeds or robust encryption, there’s sure to be something on this list to suit your needs!
Can I Get A Free VPN For Opera?
However, the majority of experts instead recommend against it. Many free VPNs make their money not through fees from subscribers, but by collecting your personal details and monitoring your online activity before selling that data to third-party ad networks and data brokers.
To sum it up, only use well-known, paid VPNs that offer everything you need in terms of performance, security, and privacy.
FAQ
Why is Opera VPN so slow?
There are a number of factors that can contribute to slow speeds with Opera VPN, including your device’s internet connection speed, the quality of your network signal, and other software running on your device that could be using bandwidth or resources.
Additionally, many users have reported experiencing slower speeds with Opera VPN compared to their normal internet connection speeds.
If you’re experiencing slow download or streaming speeds while using Opera VPN, there are a few steps you can try in order to improve performance [11]:
- First, make sure that any other apps or programs running on your device aren’t consuming too much bandwidth;
- You may also want to check the strength of your wireless network signal and consider connecting via a wired ethernet cable instead if possible;
- Finally, consider resetting your device, updating your operating system, or switching to a different VPN provider;
Does Opera VPN even work?
Opera VPN is a very popular and highly acclaimed tool that allows users to browse the internet without being tracked. However, it has been noticed that many people have started complaining about its functionality.
Several factors could contribute to the poor performance of Opera VPN. It may not be working because your computer/device isn’t compatible with it, your router configuration settings aren’t right, you are connected to an unreliable wireless network (or no WiFi), there is a glitch in the system software on your device or other reasons. If you can figure out what exactly is causing the problem, then it should become easier for you to fix it.
One possible solution to try is simply reinstalling or updating the Opera VPN app on your device. If this doesn’t work, you can also try resetting your router and/or switching to a different wireless network. There may also be some settings within your browser or system software that need tweaking in order for Opera VPN to work properly.
You may have to consult with an IT professional or do some research online in order to resolve these issues.
Does Opera VPN hide my IP address?
The data savings feature helps you save money by reducing your data consumption, but it doesn’t mask your IP address. Only browsing traffic that can be compressed goes through this proxy. The VPN feature conceals the source of your browsing traffic, but it doesn’t reduce the amount of data used [12].
Is Opera safer than Chrome?
If you’re careful about your data privacy, Opera Browser is the best choice. Although Google Chrome says they improve security and privacy, they still collect a ton of user data. Opera, on the other hand, is a privacy-focused browser that does not store your data.
Opera VPN is a free VPN app available for different platforms, including Android and iOS devices. It allows users to browse the web anonymously by hiding their IP address. If you are looking for an easy way to protect yourself while browsing online, Opera’s VPN service can be a great alternative to Chrome.
What is the best VPN extension for Opera?
Opera is considered one of the best web browsers out there. With a number of great features and functionality, Opera has garnered a solid fan base over the years. One particular feature that has made Opera stand out from other web browsers is its VPN extension.
Well-known for its speed and convenience, ZenMate enables users to quickly connect to remote locations and bypass geo-restrictions. People who want to access geo-restricted content from streaming services – such as Netflix (the biggest streaming platform today according to streaming statistics) – find it a popular choice.
Not only does the product encrypt users’ information and cloak their IP addresses, but it also offers peace of mind that personal information and internet activities are secure. The platform has a built-in Opera VPN extension and gives you access to servers in four countries with speeds up to 2MB/s.
Pro plans for browsers with advanced features are available for $1.99 per month when billed annually. Like all other reputable VPN providers, it has a no-logs policy [13].
Does Opera VPN hide history?
One of the features that Opera VPN is known for is its ability to hide users’ browsing history. This is a key benefit for those who are concerned about their online privacy and wish to surf anonymously without leaving behind a digital footprint.
While no VPN can guarantee 100% anonymity, most reputable providers offer robust security protocols that help keep your information safe from hackers and other malicious actors. Additionally, Opera offers built-in encryption in addition to its own malware blocker to further ensure user privacy.
How do I reset my Opera browser?
To reset your Opera browser settings to the defaults, start by opening the Opera browser and clicking on “Settings” in the sidebar. In the Settings page, click on “Advanced”. Scroll down to find the “Reset settings” option at the bottom of the Advanced options. Click on “Restore settings to their original defaults” [14].
What is the safest free VPN to use?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as different VPNs offer different levels of security and privacy. However, some VPNs have been specifically designed with safety and privacy in mind.
For example, the Opera browser comes with a built-in free VPN that offers strong encryption and a high level of protection against malware and tracking.
Other popular options include NordVPN and ExpressVPN, which are both known for having robust security features and fast connection speeds.
Ultimately, the best way to find a safe and reliable VPN is to do your research by reading online reviews from other users, as well as looking into the specific security measures that each service offers.
Does Opera use RAM?
When you have too many tabs and extensions open, the Opera browser can use more than two gigabytes of your RAM. To reduce its memory usage, close any extra tabs that you don’t need. You can also find tab management extensions for Opera that will help limit the amount of RAM it uses [15].
Useful Video: FIX: Opera VPN Not Working / Temporarily Unavailable on Windows 10
References:
- https://beencrypted.com/vpn/resource/why-opera-vpn-not-working/
- https://www.comparitech.com/blog/vpn-privacy/opera-vpn-not-working/
- https://www.privacyaffairs.com/opera-vpn-not-working-fix/
- https://www.technewstoday.com/opera-vpn-not-working/
- https://www.technewstoday.com/opera-vpn-not-working/
- https://vpnpro.com/guides-and-tutorials/opera-vpn-not-working/
- https://www.reviewsfire.com/vpn/opera-vpn-not-working/
- https://earthweb.com/how-to-fix-opera-vpn/
- https://www.comparitech.com/blog/vpn-privacy/opera-vpn-not-working/
- https://www.comparitech.com/blog/vpn-privacy/opera-vpn-not-working/
- https://weakwifisolutions.com/opera-vpn-running-slow-solutions-alternatives/
- https://help.opera.com/en/mobile/vpn
- https://financesonline.com/best-vpn-extensions-for-opera/
- https://www.techsupportall.com/how-to-reset-opera-browser-in-windows
- https://windowsreport.com/opera-browser-ram-usage