NordVPN OpenVPN Service Stopped Error: How to Fix It

Medium 10-20 minutes High Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
OpenVPN Service Stopped
Brand
NordVPN
Product Type
vpn
Severity
High
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
10-20 minutes
The NordVPN OpenVPN Service Stopped error occurs when the background service that manages your VPN connection crashes or fails to start properly. This prevents NordVPN from establishing secure connections and can leave your internet traffic unprotected.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code OpenVPN Service Stopped

  1. Close NordVPN completely

  2. Run as Administrator

    Only run programs as administrator when necessary and from trusted sources

  3. Restart Windows services manually

    Be careful when modifying Windows services - only change NordVPN related services

  4. Check Windows firewall settings

  5. Reset network adapters

    These commands will temporarily disconnect your internet connection

  6. Reinstall NordVPN application

    Write down your login credentials before uninstalling to avoid account access issues

  7. Update Windows and drivers

    Restart your computer after installing Windows updates to ensure proper installation
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When to Call a Professional

Contact NordVPN support if the error persists after reinstalling the application, or if you're experiencing system-wide network connectivity issues that may require advanced troubleshooting of your network configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the NordVPN OpenVPN service keep stopping?
The service typically stops due to Windows firewall blocking, corrupted installation files, conflicting software, outdated network drivers, or insufficient administrator permissions. Running NordVPN as administrator usually resolves permission-related crashes.
Can I use NordVPN without the OpenVPN service running?
No, the OpenVPN service is essential for NordVPN to function. Without it, you cannot establish VPN connections or protect your internet traffic. The service must be running in the background for NordVPN to work properly.
Will restarting the OpenVPN service affect my current VPN connection?
Yes, restarting the service will disconnect any active VPN connection. You'll need to reconnect to your preferred server after the service restarts. Your internet traffic will be unprotected during this brief disconnection period.
How do I prevent the OpenVPN service from stopping in the future?
Always run NordVPN as administrator, keep Windows and the NordVPN app updated, ensure firewall exceptions are properly configured, and avoid installing conflicting VPN software that might interfere with NordVPN's services.

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