Help CenterConnection IssuesCannot connect on public WiFi (captive portals)
Connection Issues

Cannot connect on public WiFi (captive portals)

3 min read·Updated May 18, 2026

How to use HorizonVPN on hotel, airport, and café WiFi networks.

Public WiFi networks often require you to accept terms via a captive portal before granting internet access. The VPN can't connect until you've passed through this portal.

  1. 1Connect to the public WiFi without the VPN active
  2. 2Open a browser — you should be redirected to the captive portal page
  3. 3Accept the terms or log in with your credentials
  4. 4Verify you have internet access by visiting any website
  5. 5Now connect HorizonVPN — it should work normally

Still blocked after completing the portal?

  • Switch to OpenVPN TCP on port 443 — this port is almost never blocked
  • Enable Stealth Mode to disguise VPN traffic as regular HTTPS
  • Try WireGuard on a custom UDP port in Settings → Protocol → Custom Port

Enable HorizonVPN immediately after completing the captive portal login — public WiFi is a prime target for eavesdropping attacks.

public wifihotelairportcaptive portalhotspot

Was this article helpful?

HorizonVPN