Having trouble connecting to WiFi after removing your VPN software? You’re not alone. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) can leave behind configuration files and network settings that interfere with your normal internet connection. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to resolve these issues on macOS.
## Why Does This Happen?
VPN applications modify your system’s network settings to route traffic through their secure servers. When uninstalled improperly or abruptly, they might not clean up these modifications, leading to:
– Corrupted DNS configurations
– Lingering virtual network adapters
– Stuck routing tables
– Remaining system preferences
## Quick Solution Guide
### Step 1: Reset DNS Cache
Open Terminal and run these commands:
“`bash
sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder
sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponderHelper
“`
### Step 2: Check DNS Settings
1. Navigate to System Settings → Network → WiFi → Details
2. Under DNS settings, ensure it’s set to “Automatic”
3. Alternatively, use Google’s DNS servers:
– Primary: 8.8.8.8
– Secondary: 8.8.4.4
### Step 3: Remove VPN Remnants
1. Go to System Settings → Network
2. Look for any remaining VPN connections
3. Select and remove them using the “-” button
### Step 4: Reset Network Configuration
If the above steps don’t work, try this more thorough solution:
“`bash
cd /Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/
sudo rm -rf preferences.plist
sudo rm -rf NetworkInterfaces.plist
sudo rm -rf com.apple.airport.preferences.plist
sudo rm -rf com.apple.network.identification.plist
sudo rm -rf com.apple.wifi.message-tracer.plist
“`
### Step 5: Restart Your Mac
After completing these steps, restart your computer to apply all changes.
## Prevention Tips
To avoid these issues in the future:
1. Always disconnect from the VPN before uninstalling
2. Use the application’s official uninstaller when available
3. Check for and remove any leftover files
4. Reset network settings after uninstallation
## Common VPN Apps and Their Cleanup Procedures
### ProtonVPN
Check for remaining files in:
– ~/Library/Application Support/protonvpn
– /Applications/ProtonVPN.app
### Cloudflare 1.1.1.1
Look for residual files in:
– ~/Library/Application Support/Cloudflare
– System network settings for any 1.1.1.1 DNS configurations
## When to Seek Additional Help
If you’ve tried all these steps and still experience issues:
1. Contact your VPN provider’s support team
2. Check your router settings
3. Consider consulting with Apple Support
4. Try connecting to different WiFi networks to isolate the issue
## Conclusion
While VPN uninstallation issues can be frustrating, they’re usually fixable with the right approach. The key is to systematically remove all traces of the VPN software and reset your network settings to their defaults. Keep this guide handy for future reference, and remember to follow proper uninstallation procedures to prevent these issues from occurring.
*Last updated: October 2024*