> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.ssz.gg/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.ssz.gg/troubleshooting/common-fixes/set-up-a-vpn.md).

# Set Up a VPN

*Some internet providers block or throttle the servers our loaders use for authentication and updates. A VPN routes your connection around the block — it fixes more loader connection issues than any other single step.*

{% hint style="info" %}
**Use a VPN if:**

* You get a **connection error** when opening the loader
* Your **license key won't activate** even though it's correct
* The loader's **update or download fails**, or a download is region-locked
* A product guide or error message told you to use a VPN
  {% endhint %}

## Option 1: Cloudflare WARP (Recommended)

WARP is **free**, needs **no account**, and connects with one click — try it first. Note that WARP does not change your country; it simply re-routes your connection, which is exactly what loader connection issues need.

<a href="https://one.one.one.one/" class="button primary" data-icon="desktop-arrow-down">Download Cloudflare WARP</a>

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Download and Install

1. Click the download button above and get **WARP for Windows**
2. Run the installer and accept the terms
   {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Connect

1. Open the WARP app — it appears in your **system tray** (bottom-right, next to the clock)
2. Click the **toggle** to connect

✅ **You should now see:** the toggle turn orange and the status read **Connected**.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Retry the Loader

1. Close the loader **completely**
2. Open it again and retry the step that failed
   {% endstep %}
   {% endstepper %}

## Option 2: TunnelBear (Country Switching)

Use TunnelBear when you specifically need to appear in a **different country** — for example, when a loader download or update is region-locked. The free plan includes enough data for a download session.

<a href="https://www.tunnelbear.com/download" class="button primary" data-icon="desktop-arrow-down">Download TunnelBear</a>

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Download and Create an Account

1. Click the download button above and install TunnelBear
2. Open it and create a **free account**
   {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Pick a Country and Connect

1. Select a country from the map or dropdown
2. Click **Connect** and wait for the confirmation

✅ **You should now see:** the bear tunnel to your chosen country and the status show **Connected**.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Retry the Loader

1. Close the loader **completely**
2. Open it again and retry the step that failed
   {% endstep %}
   {% endstepper %}

{% hint style="info" %}
**Which one should I use?** Start with **WARP** — it fixes most connection and activation issues. Only switch to **TunnelBear** if you specifically need a different country. If one VPN doesn't work, trying the other (or a different server/country) often does.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="info" %}
**Still getting connection errors with a VPN active?** Create a ticket in our [Discord](https://ssz.gg/discord) and our support team will assist you.
{% endhint %}