This article explains how to import a subscription into Clash and troubleshoot issues such as being unable to connect, websites not loading, an incorrect IP address, DNS leaks, or browser environment problems. It’s intended for everyday users who are new to Clash, Clash Verge, Clash for Windows, or similar clients. Just follow the steps below.
1. What to prepare before importing a subscription
A Clash subscription is usually a URL containing multiple nodes and routing rules. You can use a subscription you already have, or find a free node subscription on this site to test. Don’t post your subscription link publicly in forums or group chats, as others might use it.
- Make sure the date and time on your computer or phone are correct. An incorrect time can cause TLS connection failures.
- Make sure the subscription URL is complete. It usually starts with http or https.
- Turn off any other VPN or proxy software first to avoid port conflicts.
- If your workplace or school network has strict restrictions, try testing over your phone’s hotspot.
2. How to import a subscription into Clash
The interface varies slightly between versions, but the process is generally the same: open Profiles/Configuration, add the subscription URL, then update and enable it.
- Open the Clash client and find the Profiles, Configuration, or subscription management page.
- Click New, Import, Download from URL, or “Add Subscription.”
- Paste in the subscription link. You can name it “freevpn-x test” or choose a custom name.
- Click Download/Update/Save and wait for the configuration to finish loading.
- Return to the Proxies page, select a node, and start with Rule or Global mode for testing.
- Turn on the system proxy, or enable Set as System Proxy in the client.
If you see a configuration parsing error, the link may have been copied incompletely, the subscription may have expired, the network may be unable to reach the subscription URL, or the client may be outdated. You can paste the subscription URL into a browser to check whether it opens, but don’t share it with anyone.
3. How this relates to your IP, DNS, and browser environment
Importing a subscription successfully doesn’t guarantee that your browser will use the proxy. Clash provides a local proxy; whether it takes effect in your browser depends on the system proxy, routing mode, and DNS settings. For testing, visit an IP lookup website and check whether your exit IP matches the region of the selected node.
IP address hasn’t changed: The system proxy may not be enabled, or your browser may have its own proxy settings. Chrome/Edge usually follow the system proxy, while Firefox may require you to check its “Network Settings.”
DNS issues: You may be able to connect to a node but find that some websites won’t load. Try enabling DNS in Clash’s settings or switching to an option related to enhanced mode. If you’re a beginner, avoid changing complex rules; start with the subscription’s default configuration.
Browser environment: Proxy extensions, privacy extensions, or fingerprinting browsers may override Clash’s proxy settings. To troubleshoot, try an incognito window and disable other proxy extensions, leaving only Clash enabled.
4. Quick troubleshooting for connection failures
- Subscription won’t update: Switch networks, check the link, and try again later.
- Node times out: Switch to another node instead of repeatedly trying the same one.
- Websites won’t load, but chat apps work: Check DNS or the routing mode, and try Global.
- Nothing works: Restart Clash and your browser, then make sure the system proxy is enabled.
In short, importing a subscription into Clash comes down to adding the URL, updating the configuration, selecting a node, and enabling the system proxy. If it still doesn’t work, first check whether your IP has changed, DNS is working correctly, and another browser extension hasn’t taken over the proxy. Following these steps in order will usually help identify most issues.