This article explains how to import subscriptions into Clash, as well as how to fix issues after importing such as webpages not opening, no IP change, DNS leaks, and abnormal browser environment detection. It is suitable for users who have just obtained free nodes or a subscription link. Simply follow the steps to complete the import and basic troubleshooting.
1. What to prepare before importing a subscription
There are multiple versions of Clash-based clients, such as Clash Verge, the successor versions of Clash for Windows, and Clash Meta GUI clients. The interface labels may differ slightly, but the core process is the same: install the client, add a subscription, update the configuration, select a node, and enable the system proxy.
- Prepare a valid subscription link, usually starting with http or https.
- Make sure the link has no extra spaces, and preferably copy the full address.
- Keep your computer time accurate, as incorrect time may cause TLS connection failures.
- If the subscription comes from this site’s free nodes page, it is recommended to copy the “subscription link” rather than a single node.
2. Specific steps to import a subscription into Clash
- Open the Clash client and go to the “Profiles / Configuration / Subscription” page.
- Click “New / Add / New Configuration” and choose “URL” or “Import from Link.”
- Paste the subscription address. For the name, you can enter “freevpn-x” or any custom name.
- Click “Download / Update / Update” and wait for the configuration to finish downloading.
- Go back to the “Proxies / Nodes” page and select a node or policy group.
- Enable “System Proxy / System Proxy,” and if necessary also enable “Tun Mode / TUN Mode.”
- Open a browser and visit a test website to confirm whether webpages can open normally.
If a configuration error is shown, it usually does not mean the client is broken. More often, there is an issue with the subscription content format, network access, or client core compatibility. You can first try a different client version, or copy the subscription link again and re-import it.
3. What IP, DNS, and browser environment each affect
Many users think that once a subscription is imported successfully, they can definitely bypass restrictions, but in fact it also depends on whether the IP, DNS, and browser environment match properly. IP determines the exit location seen by websites; if the proxy is not taking effect, websites will still see your local ISP IP. DNS is responsible for resolving domain names into addresses. If DNS is configured improperly, you may be able to connect to a node but still fail to open certain websites, or experience DNS leaks. The browser environment includes cache, cookies, language, time zone, WebRTC, and more, and some websites evaluate all of this information together.
Ordinary users do not need complicated configuration. It is recommended to use the client’s default DNS settings first; if you encounter pollution or abnormal resolution, then enable enhanced mode, Fake-IP, or use the built-in DNS solution in the client. On the browser side, you can first test with an incognito window to rule out interference from old cookies and extensions.
4. Troubleshooting checklist when the import succeeds but it still does not work
- Subscription update failed: Check whether the link has expired or was cut off by a line break. Try updating after turning off the proxy, or switch networks and try again.
- The node appears normal but webpages will not open: Make sure system proxy is enabled. Windows users should check whether the system proxy has been overridden by other software.
- IP did not change: The browser may not be using the system proxy. Try enabling TUN mode, or switch to a browser that supports the system proxy.
- Only some websites will not open: Switch the rule mode to Global for testing. If Global works, it means the rules or DNS resolution need adjustment.
- The browser frequently prompts for security verification: Change nodes, clear cookies, disable suspicious extensions, and try to keep the language and time zone consistent with the node’s region.
When troubleshooting, it is recommended to change only one option at a time so you can tell which step made a difference. First confirm that the subscription can be updated, then confirm that the node can connect, and finally check the browser and DNS.
5. Recommendations for daily use
Free nodes can be used for temporary access and learning configuration, but stability will be affected by routes, user count, and network conditions. It is recommended to update subscriptions regularly and avoid staying on expired nodes for too long. If a connection fails, first update the subscription, switch nodes, and restart the client, then consider adjusting DNS or TUN. Once you master these steps, importing subscriptions into Clash and handling basic issues will become much easier.