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How to Fix Surfshark Error Code 401?

In today’s digital world, online privacy and security have become essential for internet users. Virtual private networks, or VPNs, have emerged as indispensable tools, providing encrypted connections, anonymous browsing, and access to geo-restricted content. Among the many VPN providers, Surfshark is highly regarded for its strong security features, unlimited device connections, and easy-to-use interface. Despite its reliability, users may occasionally encounter technical issues, with Surfshark error code 401 being a common example.

Surfshark error code 401 generally indicates an authentication failure. This means the VPN app attempted to verify your credentials with Surfshark’s servers, but the server rejected the request. Experiencing this error can prevent users from connecting to servers, activating the subscription, or accessing restricted content. Understanding the causes of error 401 and knowing how to fix it ensures uninterrupted VPN usage.

This comprehensive guide explores the causes of Surfshark error code 401, provides detailed troubleshooting instructions, outlines advanced solutions, and offers preventive measures to avoid future occurrences.

Understanding Surfshark Error Code 401

Error code 401 is a standard HTTP status code, often labeled as “Unauthorized.” In the context of Surfshark, it indicates that the app failed to authenticate your account with Surfshark servers. Users may encounter messages like “Unauthorized Access,” “Login Failed,” or “Error 401.”

This error can occur on smartphones, tablets, desktop computers, and streaming devices. It usually appears during login, subscription verification, or server connection attempts. Understanding the root causes of this error is essential for effective troubleshooting.

Common Causes of Surfshark Error Code 401

Incorrect Login Credentials

One of the most frequent causes of error 401 is entering the wrong email, password, or activation code. Even a minor typographical error, such as a misplaced character or incorrect capitalization, can prevent successful authentication.

Expired or Inactive Subscription

If your Surfshark subscription has expired or is inactive due to billing issues, the servers may reject your connection attempts, triggering error 401. Ensuring your account is active and in good standing is critical.

Server-Side Authentication Issues

At times, the issue may originate from Surfshark servers. Server-side authentication errors or temporary outages can prevent the VPN app from verifying your credentials, resulting in error 401.

Outdated Surfshark App

Using an outdated version of Surfshark may cause compatibility problems with server authentication protocols. Updates typically include bug fixes and improvements that enhance communication with Surfshark servers.

Device Operating System Problems

An outdated or misconfigured operating system may interfere with the VPN app’s ability to authenticate properly. Security restrictions or software bugs can block the app’s connection to Surfshark servers.

Network Restrictions

Certain networks, such as public Wi-Fi, corporate networks, or mobile data networks with strict firewalls, may block Surfshark’s authentication requests. This can result in a 401 unauthorized error.

Cache and Corrupted App Files

Accumulated cache or corrupted files within the Surfshark app can interfere with authentication, leading to error 401. Temporary files or corrupted installations may prevent the app from communicating with servers.

Device Settings and Conflicting Apps

Firewalls, antivirus software, or other VPN apps running on the device may conflict with Surfshark, preventing proper authentication. Background activity restrictions and battery optimization settings on smartphones can also trigger error 401.

Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix Surfshark Error Code 401

Verify Account and Subscription Status

The first step is to confirm that your Surfshark account is active. Log in to your account dashboard using a web browser. Check subscription validity, ensure payments are up to date, and confirm there are no restrictions on your account. Addressing account issues often resolves error 401 immediately.

Check Login Credentials

Carefully re-enter your email, password, or activation code. Remember that passwords are case-sensitive. If you are unsure about your password, use the password reset option to create a new one. This ensures accurate authentication and often resolves the error.

Update Surfshark App

Running the latest version of Surfshark ensures compatibility with server authentication protocols. On smartphones, visit the respective app store to check for updates. On computers, download the latest version from the official source. After updating, restart the app and attempt to log in again.

Update Device Operating System

An outdated operating system can cause authentication failures. Check for available updates on your device and install them. Restarting the device after updates refreshes system processes and allows the Surfshark app to function correctly.

Restart Your Device

Restarting clears temporary glitches and background processes that may interfere with Surfshark authentication. After rebooting, relaunch the app and attempt to log in.

Clear App Cache and Data

Corrupted cache or temporary files can cause authentication errors. Clearing cache and app data often resolves error 401:

  • On smartphones, go to settings, select Surfshark, and clear cache. If necessary, clear app data as well.

  • On computers, uninstall and reinstall the app to remove corrupted files.

After reinstalling, log in with verified credentials and attempt to connect.

Adjust Device Settings

Device settings can block authentication requests. Ensure that:

  • Firewalls and antivirus software allow Surfshark to communicate with servers.

  • Other VPN apps are disabled to prevent conflicts.

  • Background activity and internet permissions are enabled for Surfshark.

  • Battery optimization or data-saving settings are disabled for the app.

These adjustments often resolve persistent authentication issues.

Switch VPN Protocols

Surfshark supports multiple VPN protocols. Switching protocols, such as WireGuard, OpenVPN, or IKEv2, may bypass network restrictions or authentication issues, resolving error 401.

Use Email and Password Login

If activation codes or automatic login fail, log in directly using your Surfshark email and password. Direct authentication often bypasses issues related to activation codes or server miscommunication.

Test on a Different Device or Network

Testing Surfshark on another device or network helps determine if the problem is device-specific, network-related, or account-related. Using a mobile hotspot or a different Wi-Fi network may temporarily resolve the error.

Advanced Troubleshooting Techniques

Verify Device Date and Time

Incorrect system date and time can interfere with authentication. Enable automatic date and time settings on your device to synchronize with Surfshark servers. This ensures accurate verification during login.

Reset Network Settings

Network misconfigurations may block authentication requests. Resetting network settings on smartphones, tablets, or computers can restore proper connectivity. Reconnect to Wi-Fi or mobile data and attempt login again.

Contact Surfshark Support

If error 401 persists, contact Surfshark support for personalized assistance. Support agents can verify server status, check account activity, and provide device-specific troubleshooting instructions.

When contacting support, provide:

  • Device type and model

  • Operating system version

  • Surfshark app version

  • Exact error message received

  • Steps already attempted

Detailed information ensures faster and more effective resolution.

Preventive Measures for Surfshark Error Code 401

Taking preventive measures can minimize the likelihood of encountering error 401 in the future:

  • Keep Surfshark app updated at all times.

  • Regularly update your device’s operating system.

  • Maintain a stable and unrestricted internet connection.

  • Monitor subscription status and ensure timely payments.

  • Avoid running multiple VPNs simultaneously to prevent conflicts.

  • Clear app cache periodically to remove corrupted files.

  • Use trusted networks rather than highly restrictive public Wi-Fi.

  • Switch VPN protocols if your network frequently blocks connections.

Common Misconceptions About Error Code 401

Many users assume error 401 indicates a permanent problem with the VPN app or device. In reality, most cases are temporary and can be resolved with basic troubleshooting steps.

Another misconception is that server downtime is always the cause. While server issues can trigger error 401, incorrect credentials, expired subscriptions, outdated software, and device restrictions are often the underlying cause.

Why Surfshark Error Code 401 Occurs Frequently

Error 401 may appear more often on devices or networks with certain limitations:

  • Smartphones: Background restrictions, battery optimization, and data-saving modes may block authentication requests.

  • Computers: Firewalls, antivirus programs, or conflicting VPNs can prevent the app from logging in.

  • Streaming Devices: Limited input methods and restricted processing capabilities may delay authentication, triggering error 401.

Understanding these device-specific factors allows for targeted troubleshooting and faster resolution.

Conclusion

Surfshark error code 401 is a common but resolvable issue that typically occurs due to incorrect login credentials, inactive subscriptions, server authentication problems, network restrictions, outdated software, or device-specific settings. By verifying your account and subscription, updating the Surfshark app and operating system, clearing cache, adjusting settings, switching VPN protocols, and testing on different devices or networks, users can resolve the error effectively.

Advanced troubleshooting techniques, such as resetting network settings, verifying system date and time, and contacting Surfshark support, provide solutions for persistent problems. Preventive measures, including maintaining updated software, using reliable networks, monitoring subscriptions, and clearing cache regularly, minimize the risk of future occurrences.

With systematic troubleshooting and attention to detail, Surfshark users can overcome error code 401 and enjoy secure, private, and uninterrupted internet access across all devices.

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Last modified: 2026-02-19Powered by