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Why Microsoft Defender VPN is Not Working on Samsung Galaxy
Question details
The Microsoft Defender privacy VPN feature has stopped working on a mobile device while continuing to function normally on a laptop.
- Product
- Microsoft Defender
- Device & OS
- Android (Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra)
- Scenario
- Using the Microsoft Defender privacy VPN on a mobile device while traveling.
- Observed behavior
- The VPN fails to connect or operate on the Samsung Galaxy mobile device, even though the user's Microsoft 365 Personal subscription is active and the VPN works on a laptop.
Verify that your Microsoft 365 subscription is still active and check whether the VPN is functioning on your laptop to confirm the issue is isolated to your mobile device.
Use an Alternative VPN Service for Mobile
Since Microsoft has permanently discontinued the mobile VPN feature, you must transition to a third-party VPN app.
As of February 28, 2024, Microsoft officially discontinued the privacy-protection VPN feature within Microsoft Defender for both Android and iOS devices. This change is permanent, meaning the feature cannot be re-enabled or bypassed on your Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra or any other mobile device.
While the mobile feature has been deprecated, the VPN functionality on supported laptops and desktop computers may continue to operate normally.
Recognize that the VPN stoppage on your Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra is intended behavior by Microsoft due to the end of support for mobile platforms, rather than a technical glitch.
Open the Google Play Store on your Samsung Galaxy device, search for a reputable, standalone VPN application, and install it to ensure privacy protection while traveling.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Microsoft Defender VPN still working on my laptop?
Microsoft only discontinued the privacy-protection VPN feature for mobile platforms (Android and iOS) on February 28, 2024. Desktop and laptop versions are currently unaffected by this specific deprecation.
Can I bypass the Microsoft Defender VPN block on my Samsung Galaxy?
No. The discontinuation is permanent for mobile platforms, and the feature cannot be re-enabled or bypassed. You will need to use a dedicated third-party VPN service for mobile protection.
Does this affect other features in Microsoft Defender for mobile?
No, other security features such as malware scanning and web protection within Microsoft Defender for Android continue to function normally. Only the privacy VPN was deprecated.
