The Unwanted Tunnel
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are essential for securing traffic on public Wi-Fi or accessing corporate intranets. In Ubuntu, the NetworkManager handles all VPN profiles. While configuring a VPN, you might accidentally check a box that tells Ubuntu to automatically connect to that specific VPN whenever a certain Wi-Fi or Ethernet network becomes active. While this feature is designed for convenience (e.g., auto-securing when you connect to a cafe’s Wi-Fi), it can be highly problematic if the VPN server is currently down, if you need local network access (like printing), or if the VPN is actively blocking your internet connection due to misconfiguration.
Disabling Auto-Connect for VPN Profiles
To stop Ubuntu from automatically initiating a VPN connection when you join a specific network, you must edit the connection properties of your primary network interface.
Open the Settings app from the GNOME application menu. Navigate to the Network or Wi-Fi tab, depending on which connection triggers the unwanted VPN. Locate the network you are currently connected to (or the one that causes the issue) and click the gear icon next to it to open its properties. In the network properties window, look for a section or tab usually labeled General or VPN (depending on your specific Ubuntu version). You will find a toggle or checkbox labeled Automatically connect to VPN. Underneath it, your specific VPN profile will be listed. Simply uncheck this box or toggle the switch to the Off position. Click Apply to save the changes. From now on, Ubuntu will connect to the underlying Wi-Fi or Ethernet normally, and you must manually enable the VPN via the top-right system tray when you actually need it.