Connecting FAQ’s

    I can’t connect using NetZero DataShield

    You might have difficulty connecting with NetZero DataShield for one of these reasons:

    1. Poor wireless connection because of high traffic, weak Wi-Fi signal, or interference.
    2. An installed firewall or antivirus program may be preventing NetZero DataShield from establishing a connection. Check any security software to make sure it allows NetZero DataShield.
    3. NetZero DataShield and your ISP may be using the same port. Contact your ISP to check this.
    4. Some public Wi-Fi networks, such as Amtrak, prohibit VPN access. Check if the Wi-Fi hotspot you are using allows VPN.
    5. The NetZero DataShield software may need to be reinstalled.
    6. The server to which NetZero DataShield is trying to connect may not be able to establish a connection. Try to manually change the server.

    Will NetZero DataShield work with my home network?

    NetZero DataShield will work with any supported device regardless of how it is connected to the Internet, but NetZero DataShield will only work with the individual devices on which it is installed. NetZero DataShield cannot be used on a wireless router to cover multiple devices at once. So if you have three devices sharing a wireless connection, only the devices on which NetZero DataShield is installed will be protected.

    However, since NetZero DataShield creates a secure, private tunnel by which your device connects to the Internet, using it on a device connected to your home network means that you will no longer be able to use any of your other network connections, such as a printer or file-sharing.

    I’m having IP address problems

    To solve IP address problems:

    First try to reboot your computer to try and reset it. If you continue to have IP address problems, first confirm that you’re getting an IP address from your ISP, and if not, renew your IP address:

    PC:

    1. Click Start and select All Programs.
    2. Choose Accessories then select Command Prompt to open a window.
    3. Type ipconfig and press Enter.
    4. You should see several lines containing numbers such as 123.45.67.890 If you don’t see any numbers, then you are not getting an IP address and need to manually obtain one.
    5. In the Command Prompt window, type ipconfig/release and press Enter.
    6. When the process is finished, type ipconfig/renew. You should now see several lines containing IP addresses.
    7. If you are still unable to obtain an IP address, contact your ISP provider for more support.

    Mac:

    1. Click on the Apple icon and select System Preferences….
    2. Click Network, and find the area labeled Built-in Ethernet.
    3. You should see an IP address displayed. If you don’t, you need to manually obtain one.
    4. While still in the Built-in Ethernet area, click on Configure.
    5. Click Renew DHCP Lease.
    6. You should see an IP address after a few minutes.

    If you continue to have problems obtaining an IP address, please contact your ISP for more help.