Common Shadowsocks Errors on macOS (Fair VPN) and How to Fix Them
1. Error: "Authentication Failed" or "Password-Based Authentication"
- The Shadowsocks password or encryption method doesn’t match the server’s configuration.
- A stray space or typo in the password can cause failures.
Solution :- Check the password and encryption method in your client settings.
- Re-enter the password carefully to avoid typos or extra spaces.
- If you still can’t connect, contact ChitaVPN support.
2. Error: "Server Not Found"
- The server address or domain is incorrect.
- The server is offline or unreachable.
Solution :- Verify the correct server domain/IP in your Shadowsocks client.
- Ensure the server is online and the host is spelled correctly.
- If you need help, contact ChitaVPN support.
3. Error: "Wrong or Missing Certificate"
- If using a plugin that requires certificates, the client or server certificate is invalid, mismatched, or expired.
Solution :- Ensure the correct certificate/key files are configured in the client.
- Make sure the certificate is valid and not expired.
- If the issue persists, contact ChitaVPN support.
4. Error: “remote server closed the connection”
- The server drops the connection due to invalid config or potential blocking.
Solution :- Check server logs for any error (mismatched password/encryption).
- If blocked, switch to another server or update your config.
- If it continues, reach out to ChitaVPN support.
5. Error: "VPN Connection Error: Unsupported Configuration"
- The selected Shadowsocks configuration isn’t supported on the server side.
Solution :- Use a supported encryption or plugin that the server recognizes.
- Switch to a compatible profile.
- If you’re stuck, ChitaVPN support can assist you.
6. Error: "Failed to Connect: Server Not Responding" or "The VPN Server is Unreachable" or "Connection Timed Out"
- Network issues, server downtime, or incorrect port blocking the connection.
Solution :- Check your internet and confirm the server is up.
- Try a different Shadowsocks server if available.
- If it fails again, contact ChitaVPN support.
7. Error: "Permission Denied: VPN Configuration Not Allowed"
- macOS system settings block changes to network/VPN configurations.
Solution :- Run your Shadowsocks/Fair VPN app with admin rights.
- In System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Privacy, allow the VPN client to modify network settings.
- If another firewall or VPN is interfering, disable it or contact ChitaVPN support.
8. Error: "Cannot Resolve Server Domain"
- The client can’t resolve the server’s domain name (DNS issue).
Solution :- Check your macOS DNS settings or manually set DNS servers (e.g., 8.8.8.8 or 1.1.1.1).
- If unresolved, contact ChitaVPN support.
9. Error: "Certificate Verification Failed"
- The server’s SSL/TLS certificate is untrusted or expired (if using a plugin).
Solution :- Ensure the server’s certificate is correctly installed and not expired.
- Verify any intermediate certs are properly configured.
- If you still have trouble, contact ChitaVPN support.
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