Microsoft is investigating a recent issue affecting users who have installed the latest Windows 10 updates. The problem appears to cause significant drops in VPN speeds on Windows devices, leaving many users frustrated and unable to work effectively. While Microsoft has acknowledged the issue and is working on a fix, there is currently no timeline for when it will be released. In the meantime, users are advised to explore alternative VPN solutions or roll back to a previous version of Windows until the problem can be resolved.
The slow VPN speed issue seems widespread, affecting many users who have updated their systems with the latest patches. Reports suggest that some users are experiencing speeds as low as 1-2 Mbps, which can make it challenging to complete even basic tasks such as browsing the internet or accessing important files remotely.
While this issue is undoubtedly frustrating for affected users, it’s reassuring that Microsoft is taking steps to address the problem and find a solution. As one of the largest tech companies in the world, Microsoft has an obligation to ensure its products work correctly and efficiently for all its customers.
In light of this recent development, it’s worth exploring some alternative VPN solutions that may help mitigate any issues you’re experiencing with your current setup. For example, you could consider using a different VPN provider or switching from OpenVPN protocol (which seems particularly affected by this issue) to another protocol like IKEv2 or L2TP/IPSec.
Another option would be rolling back your system update until Microsoft releases a patch addressing this specific problem. This process can vary depending on your device and operating system version but should generally involve navigating through your device settings menu and selecting “Update & Security” followed by “Recovery.”
It’s essential to note that while these options may help alleviate some of the problems caused by slow VPN speeds after May updates, they aren’t guaranteed solutions. Ultimately, we must wait for Microsoft’s official fix before we can expect our systems’ full functionality to return.
Confirming and Investigating the Issue
User Reports of Slow VPN Speeds After May Updates
Microsoft has recently received reports from users regarding slow VPN speeds after the May updates. This issue has caused concern among admins who rely on VPN connections for their work. The company is currently investigating this problem to find a solution.
Admins Can Use Command Tools to Check VPN Connections and Monitor for Issues
To help address this issue, admins can use command tools to check VPN connections and monitor for issues. These tools can provide alerts when there are problems with the connection, allowing admins to take action quickly. By regularly monitoring the VPN connection, admins can ensure that it is running smoothly and avoid any potential issues.
Microsoft Issued KB5026372 and KB5025305 as Potential Fixes for the Issue
In response to user reports of slow VPN speeds after the May updates, Microsoft issued KB5026372 and KB5025305 as potential fixes for the issue. These updates were designed to address any problems that may have been causing slow speeds on VPN connections. While these updates may not fix all instances of slow VPN speeds, they are a step in the right direction towards resolving this issue.
The Company is Investigating the Problem Through Monitoring and Communication with Affected Users
Microsoft is actively investigating this problem by monitoring affected users’ systems and communicating with them directly about their experiences. By gathering information from users experiencing issues with their VPN connections, Microsoft hopes to gain a better understanding of what may be causing these problems.
Microsoft is Looking into Potential Problems with the Updates and Working to Find a Fix for the Issue
As part of its investigation into slow VPN speeds after May updates, Microsoft is looking into potential problems with these updates. The company is working diligently to find a fix for this issue so that users can continue using their VPN connections without interruption or delay.
Possible Causes of Slow Windows VPN Speeds After May Updates
Outdated VPN Software or Drivers
It is essential to keep your VPN software and drivers up-to-date to ensure optimal performance. Outdated software can cause compatibility issues with the latest Windows updates, leading to slow VPN speeds. To avoid this problem, regularly check for updates from your VPN provider and install them promptly.
Incompatibility Issues with the Latest Windows Updates
The latest Windows updates may not be compatible with your VPN software or drivers, causing slow speeds. This issue often arises when the operating system’s security protocols conflict with those of the VPN. If you suspect that this is the case, try disabling the firewall temporarily or adjusting its settings to allow your VPN traffic.
Network Congestion or Bandwidth Limitations
Slow VPN speeds may also result from network congestion or bandwidth limitations. This problem typically occurs during peak hours when many users are accessing the same network simultaneously. To fix this issue, try connecting to a different server location that has fewer users or upgrading your internet plan to increase bandwidth.
Security Protocols and Encryption Settings
Your chosen security protocols and encryption settings can also affect VPN speed. Higher levels of encryption provide better security but require more processing power and can slow down your connection speed. Consider switching to a lower level of encryption if you do not require high-level security features.
Impact of Slow VPN Speeds on Users
Slow VPN speeds can have a significant impact on user productivity and efficiency. When users experience slow VPN connections, they may face longer load times, buffering, and latency issues. These problems can lead to frustration and dissatisfaction among users, potentially leading to decreased morale and job satisfaction.
In some cases, slow VPN speeds may even prevent users from accessing necessary resources or completing critical tasks. For example, if an employee is working remotely and needs to access a company server through the VPN connection, slow speeds could prevent them from completing their work in a timely manner. This could lead to missed deadlines or incomplete projects, which could ultimately harm the business.
It is important for companies to address slow VPN speeds promptly to ensure their employees can work effectively and efficiently. By doing so, businesses can help maintain high levels of productivity and satisfaction among their employees.
User Frustration
When users experience slow VPN speeds, it can be incredibly frustrating. They may feel like they are wasting time waiting for pages to load or files to download. This frustration can lead to decreased motivation and engagement with work-related tasks.
In addition to these negative emotional effects, slow VPN speeds can also impact the quality of work that employees produce. If employees are rushing through tasks because they are frustrated with the slow connection speed, they may make mistakes or overlook important details.
Decreased Productivity
Slow VPN speeds can also significantly impact user productivity. When employees are unable to access necessary resources quickly and efficiently due to a slow connection speed, they may spend more time than necessary on simple tasks.
This decrease in productivity not only affects individual employees but also has broader implications for the business as a whole. If multiple employees are experiencing slow connection speeds simultaneously, this could result in a significant decrease in overall productivity across various departments.
Microsoft’s Response to the Issue
Acknowledging the issue that has been affecting Windows users after the May updates, Microsoft is currently investigating and working on a comprehensive solution to address slow VPN speeds. The company has recommended some workarounds for affected users, including using Google Workspace or PowerShell commands to disable certain features.
According to a spokesperson from Microsoft, the recent release of the management pack for Active Directory and the update for Google Chrome may have contributed to the problem, which was discovered during Patch Tuesday. While the company works on a permanent fix, it is suggested that users who are experiencing slow VPN speeds try disabling “TCP Receive Window Auto-Tuning” using PowerShell commands or switching to Google Workspace until an official solution is released.
The issue affects various operating systems like Windows 10 version 2004 and later, Windows Server 2019 and later, and more. It has caused significant frustration among users who rely on VPNs for remote work or other purposes. The issue was first reported by BleepingComputer in early June when multiple complaints were made on Reddit and other forums about slow VPN speeds.
While Microsoft investigates this issue further, it is essential for users to keep their systems up-to-date with all available patches and updates. Users should also follow best practices like regularly backing up their data and avoiding suspicious links or downloads.
Workarounds for Users Experiencing Slow VPN Speeds
Switching to OpenVPN Protocol
If you are experiencing slow VPN speeds, one workaround is to switch to a different VPN protocol. OpenVPN is a popular choice that many users have found success with. This protocol offers high levels of security and can be configured to use TCP or UDP, depending on your needs. TCP is generally more reliable but slower, while UDP is faster but less reliable.
Disabling IPv6 on VPN Connections
Another potential solution for slow VPN speeds is disabling IPv6 on your VPN connection. Some users have reported success with this method, as it can reduce the amount of data being transmitted over the network and improve overall performance.
Using NetCrunch’s Traffic Analysis Feature
NetCrunch’s traffic analysis feature can be a valuable tool in identifying any bottlenecks or bandwidth-hogging applications that may be affecting your VPN speeds. This feature allows you to monitor network traffic in real-time and pinpoint any issues that may be causing slowdowns.
Adjusting MTU Size for IPsec VPN Connections
For those using IPsec VPN connections, adjusting the MTU size can potentially improve speeds. The MTU (Maximum Transmission Unit) determines the maximum size of data packets that can be sent over the network at once. By adjusting this setting, you may be able to optimize your connection and achieve faster speeds.
Investigating NFS Traffic Interference
NFS (Network File System) traffic can sometimes interfere with VPN speeds, so it may be worth investigating if this is the case for your network. NFS allows multiple users to access files on a remote server simultaneously, which can put a strain on network resources and cause slowdowns.
Contacting Your VPN Provider’s Support Team
If all else fails, contacting your VPN provider’s support team for assistance may be necessary. They may be able to provide additional guidance or troubleshoot any issues you are experiencing with your connection.
Solution 1: Updating VPN Client and Server Software
Updating VPN Client and Server Software to Resolve VPN Issues
Updating VPN client and server software is one of the solutions that can resolve VPN issues caused by recent security updates. The KB5026372 update and KB5025305 preview update are among the recent security updates that may have affected VPN speeds. Cumulative updates can also cause VPN issues, but updating VPN software can help mitigate these problems.
Examples of VPN software that may need to be updated include Remote Desktop Manager, Devolutions Server, Veeam Backup, Prem Servers, Scriptrunner Portal Edition R5, and Adrem Software. Updating VPN software not only addresses slow speeds but also ensures that security fixes and patches are applied. Keeping VPN software up-to-date is crucial for maintaining the security and functionality of a remote network.
It’s important to note that outdated or unsupported versions of some VPN clients may not work with newer Windows operating systems or receive support from their vendors. In addition to updating the client-side software, it’s recommended to check if there are any firmware or driver updates available for routers or firewalls used in the network infrastructure.
One example of how updating the VPN client and server software resolved slow speed issues is with Devolutions Server. A user reported experiencing slow connection speeds after installing Windows 10 version 2004 on their computer. After updating both their client-side Remote Desktop Manager (RDM) application and Devolutions Server to version 2020.1.19.0, they were able to achieve faster connection speeds.
Another example is with Veeam Backup & Replication v10a which experienced slower backup performance after installing Windows Updates on May 12th, 2020. After applying a hotfix provided by Veeam Support which included an updated OpenSSL library used by their product, users were able to restore normal backup performance.
Solution 2: Changing Protocol Settings
Changing Protocol Settings: A More Reliable Solution for VPN Networking
Solution 2 for addressing slow Windows VPN speeds after May updates involves changing protocol settings, specifically from PPTP to L2TP. This solution is a more reliable option for VPN networking and can significantly improve the speed and reliability of your network.
To change the protocol settings, administrators can use either the command line or portal to configure a new query configuration with the right tools. The action configuration should include the password for the connection and the network drive for the phone system. By doing so, L2TP endpoints can be configured for privileged access in hybrid environments, allowing for centralized management interface.
Administrators who need to improve VPN speeds and reliability in their network are highly recommended to switch protocols from PPTP to L2TP. This simple solution can ensure a more stable and secure VPN connection while also improving overall network performance.
L2TP Endpoints: The Benefits of Centralized Management Interface
One of the most significant benefits of switching to L2TP endpoints is that they can be configured for privileged access in hybrid environments. This means that administrators have complete control over user access levels, making it easier to manage security risks across different devices.
By using a centralized management interface, administrators can easily monitor all aspects of their network infrastructure from one place. This makes it easier to identify potential issues before they become major problems, ensuring maximum uptime and productivity across your entire organization.
Solution 3: Adjusting MTU Settings
MTU Settings and How They Affect VPN Speeds
One of the factors that can cause slow VPN speeds is the MTU, or Maximum Transmission Unit, which refers to the largest packet size that can be transmitted over a network. When packets are too large for a network to handle, they get fragmented into smaller pieces, which can lead to retransmissions and delays. Adjusting the MTU settings can help improve VPN speeds by reducing fragmentation and retransmissions.
What is MTU?
MTU stands for Maximum Transmission Unit, which is the largest packet size that can be transmitted over a network. It determines how much data can be sent in one go without being fragmented into smaller pieces. The default MTU value for Ethernet networks is 1500 bytes, but this may not always be optimal for all types of connections.
How Can Adjusting MTU Settings Help Improve VPN Speeds?
When packets are too large for a network to handle, they get fragmented into smaller pieces, which can lead to retransmissions and delays. This is especially true when using VPNs because they add an extra layer of encryption and encapsulation to each packet. By adjusting the MTU settings on your device or router, you can reduce fragmentation and retransmissions, which should result in faster VPN speeds.
How to Adjust MTU Settings on Windows
To adjust the MTU settings on Windows, you need to use the Command Prompt and enter a specific command. Here’s how:
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Type “netsh interface ipv4 show subinterfaces” (without quotes) and press Enter.
- Note down the name of your VPN connection from the list.
- Type “netsh interface ipv4 set subinterface “Name_of_VPN_Connection” mtu=XXXX store=persistent” (without quotes), replacing Name_of_VPN_Connection with the name of your VPN connection from step 3, and XXXX with the desired MTU value.
- Press Enter.
It is recommended to start with a lower MTU value and gradually increase it until the optimal speed is achieved. However, adjusting MTU settings may not always solve slow VPN speeds, and other factors such as network congestion and server location should also be considered.
Resolving Slow Windows VPN Speeds After May Updates
In conclusion, slow VPN speeds after the May updates have been a major issue for many Windows users. The impact of this problem has been felt by businesses and individuals alike, with reduced productivity and frustration being common complaints. Microsoft has acknowledged the issue and is working on a solution.
Users experiencing slow VPN speeds can try several workarounds to improve their connection. Updating both the VPN client and server software is one possible solution. Changing protocol settings or adjusting MTU settings may also help resolve the issue.
It’s important to note that there are several possible causes of slow VPN speeds after the May updates, including driver conflicts, security software interference, and network congestion. Therefore, it may take some trial and error to find the best solution for your particular situation.
When implementing these solutions, it’s crucial to follow best practices for secure remote access. This includes using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication where available, and keeping all software up-to-date with security patches.
