Using WeChat on restricted networks with WLSAPlus

Some Wi-Fi networks block WeChat or prevent it from connecting normally. The Windows version of WLSAPlus includes a Full device VPN mode that may help by routing the network traffic from the whole computer, including the WeChat desktop app.

This feature is available only in the Windows desktop version of WLSAPlus. It can sometimes be unstable, and it cannot guarantee access on every network. Only use it where you are allowed to use a VPN.

Before you start

Make sure that:

• You are using the installed Windows version of WLSAPlus.
• Your laptop already has an internet connection.
• You have permission to approve a Windows administrator prompt.
• WeChat is installed on the same laptop.

The Web only VPN option is designed mainly for browser traffic. It does not route the WeChat desktop app, so you must select Full device for this guide.

Connect using Full device mode

1. Open WLSAPlus on your Windows laptop.
2. Select Tools from the left navigation.
3. Open VPN.
4. Select Full device at the top of the VPN page.
5. Select Connect.
6. If Windows asks whether WLSAPlus may make changes to the device, select Yes. WLSAPlus needs administrator access to create the full-device connection.
7. Wait until WLSAPlus shows that the VPN is connected.
8. Completely close WeChat and open it again. This makes WeChat create a new connection through the VPN.

You can now try sending a message or refreshing WeChat. Keep WLSAPlus open while using the connection.

Disconnect when you are finished

Return to Tools > VPN and select Disconnect. Your laptop should return to its normal network connection.

Do not force-close WLSAPlus while it is changing the VPN state. Let the app finish connecting or disconnecting first.

If WeChat still does not connect

Try these steps in order:

1. Confirm that WLSAPlus says Connected and that Full device is selected.
2. Close WeChat from the Windows system tray, then open it again. Closing only the main WeChat window may leave it running in the background.
3. Select Disconnect, wait a few seconds, and connect again.
4. Check whether a normal website opens in your browser. If nothing can access the internet, disconnect the VPN and confirm that the original Wi-Fi connection still works.
5. Restart WLSAPlus and approve the Windows administrator prompt again.
6. Try a different Wi-Fi network if one is available.

Some networks block VPN connections or separate devices in a way that WLSAPlus cannot work around. If the connection repeatedly fails, disconnect Full device mode instead of leaving the laptop without working internet access.

About stability

Full-device VPN mode handles more traffic than Web only mode, so it can use more power and may be less stable. Speed can also change depending on the current Wi-Fi network and VPN server conditions. A short interruption may cause WeChat to reconnect automatically, but a longer interruption may require disconnecting and reconnecting from WLSAPlus.

For ordinary browsing, Web only may be the simpler option. For Windows apps such as WeChat, use Full device.