How to Fix Blink App Not Working with VPN: Step-by-Step Guide

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Diana Todea Shield
Chief Editor
Fix
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Key notes

Quick fixes you can try now: disable VPN, use split tunneling, select a nearby VPN server, restart devices, flush DNS cache, reset Blink sync module, update app and firmware, test mobile data connection (more details below).

blink not working with vpn

The Blink app not working with VPN is a common problem that stops users from logging in or accessing live video feeds.

Many see errors like “HTTP 406,” “Unauthorized Access,” or blank screens when using a VPN. This guide covers the main causes and 9 practical fixes to restore full Blink functionality.

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Table of contents

Blink requires stable IP and DNS that match your region and direct internet connection. VPNs mask your real IP or alter routing and DNS, causing Blink to reject connections or fail SSL checks.

  • VPN causes login failures – VPN blocks or modifies authentication traffic.
  • Live view does not load – video streams get blocked or interrupted through VPN.
  • Sync Module shows offline status – unable to connect to Blink servers reliably.
  • No motion alerts or notifications – server callbacks fail through VPN.
  • “HTTP 406”
  • “Unauthorized Access”
  • “Invalid Credentials”
  • “Unable to sign in at this time”
  • SSL or certificate errors

1) Temporarily Disable Your VPN

1. Open your VPN app.
2. Disconnect from the VPN.disconnecting from vpn server in the nordvpn app
3. Open the Blink app and try to log in or view cameras.

Why this helps: Disabling VPN restores your true IP and routing. It fixes errors caused by location mismatch or SSL certificate failures.

1. Access your VPN settings.
2. Find “split tunneling” or “app exclusions.”nordvpn split tunneling settings
3. Add the Blink app to bypass VPN traffic.

Why this helps: It routes Blink data outside the VPN while keeping VPN active for other apps, avoiding blocking.

3) Connect to a VPN Server Near Your Real Location

1. Open your VPN client.
2. Choose a server close to your physical region.nordvpn us server
3. Retry Blink app login or live view.

Why this helps: Using a local VPN server reduces IP and region mismatch detected by Blink.

1. Power off Blink cameras and sync module.
2. Reboot your phone or tablet.
3. Restart your router or modem.
4. Turn devices back on and test Blink.

Why this helps: Clears cached routes, IP conflicts, or DNS entries that the VPN may have caused.

5) Flush DNS and Clear Network Cache on Your Device

1. Toggle Airplane Mode on your device briefly.
2. Forget and reconnect to your Wi-Fi network.
3. Restart your router if possible.

Why this helps: Ensures your device uses fresh DNS lookups without VPN interference.

1. Remove your Sync Module from the Blink app.
2. Add it again via the app while VPN is off or split tunneled.
3. Complete the setup process.

Why this helps: Blink setup expects consistent network conditions. Resetting while bypassing VPN ensures proper connection.

1. Check for Blink app updates in your app store.
2. Update camera and sync module firmware if available.
3. Restart devices and test.

Why this helps: Updates may fix VPN compatibility and connection bugs.

8) Switch to Mobile Data to Test Your Connection

1. Disable Wi-Fi and use cellular data.
2. Open Blink and check if login and live view work.
3. If successful, the issue lies with VPN and your home network.

Why this helps: Isolates VPN or local network as the cause.

9) Use VPN Providers Known for IoT Compatibility

  • NordVPN: Offers strong split tunneling and many servers worldwide.
  • Surfshark: Unlimited devices with reliable smart home support.
  • ExpressVPN: Fast speeds and broad server locations.

Yes. VPNs can block or limit Blink features like live video and notifications. Learn more about how VPNs affect devices in this VPN impact on devices article.

Blink works globally, but VPN use can cause errors if your VPN IP location conflicts with Blink’s regional controls.

  • Live video streaming: often blocked or slow
  • Push notifications: delayed or missing
  • Login and authentication: frequently fails
  • Device setup and pairing: can fail under VPN restrictions
  • Split tunneling: Allows bypassing VPN for Blink.
  • Server location: Pick servers near your physical region.
  • Connection speed: Fast upload/download for video.
  • DNS protection: Avoids leaks causing connection errors.
  • Customer support: Helpful for troubleshooting.

The Blink app’s connection issues with VPN usually stem from IP, DNS, or routing conflicts. Follow the 9 fixes above, focusing on disabling VPN, using split tunneling, and choosing compatible VPN providers. This will restore Blink’s full functionality securely.

More about the topics: VPN not working

Diana Todea

Diana Todea Shield

Chief Editor

Diana Todea is the editor-in-chief at VPNCentral.com. With a keen interest in online privacy, she is going all out in making sure we share practical and up-to-date methods to stay safe in the digital space. She's got a cybersecurity certification from Infosec and a data privacy specialization from UCI.

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