This article explains how to import a subscription into Clash and why your IP, DNS, and browser environment can still affect things after import. It’s intended for everyday users trying Clash, Clash Verge, Clash for Windows, or a similar client for the first time. Follow the steps to import a subscription and troubleshoot basic issues.
1. What you need before importing a subscription
A Clash subscription is usually a link that starts with http or https and contains configurations for multiple proxy nodes. You can use a subscription you already have, or visit the free nodes page on this site to find available nodes or subscription details. Note: Don’t share your subscription link with others, as it may contain your node configuration.
- Make sure you have installed a Clash-based client, such as Clash Verge, Clash Meta GUI, or Clash for Windows.
- Have your subscription link ready and make sure you copy it in full, without any extra spaces.
- Make sure your computer or phone has a working internet connection.
- Keep your system clock accurate, as an incorrect time can cause HTTPS subscription requests to fail.
2. General steps for importing a subscription into Clash
- Open the Clash client and find “Profiles,” “Config,” “Subscriptions,” or “Configuration Files.” The wording varies slightly between versions.
- Click “New,” “Add,” “Import from URL,” or “Remote Profile.”
- Paste the subscription link into the URL field. You can name it “freevpn” or choose your own name.
- Click Save, Download, or Update, then wait for the client to fetch the configuration.
- Once imported, switch to that profile and select a node on the “Proxies” page.
- Enable “System Proxy” or “TUN Mode,” then open a browser and test whether you can access the target website.
If your configuration has policy groups such as “Auto Select” or “Failover,” start by choosing a node with low latency or one that connects reliably. If you’re new to Clash, avoid running multiple proxy apps at the same time, as this can cause port conflicts.
3. Subscription imported, but not working? Check these first
Many users assume that a successful import guarantees access, but Clash has only loaded the configuration. Actual access also depends on your local network environment. First, check the client logs. Errors such as 404, 403, or timeout may mean the subscription link has expired, the client can’t reach the service, or the node is unavailable. Try updating the subscription, switching nodes, or restarting the client.
Next, check your IP environment. After connecting to the proxy, visit an IP lookup site. If it still shows your local ISP’s IP address, the system proxy may not be enabled, or your browser may not be using Clash. Make sure Clash’s system proxy is enabled. If you’re using TUN Mode, check that the network adapter has the required permissions and that the firewall isn’t blocking it.
Then check your DNS settings. If some websites won’t open, the issue may be DNS pollution or a resolution error rather than the node itself. Clients based on Clash Meta usually support built-in DNS, so most users can start with the default settings. Avoid changing them without a good reason. If some sites load while others keep spinning, try comparing Rule Mode with Global Mode.
4. Your browser environment can also affect the results
Browser cache, extensions, and proxy settings can all affect your test results. For example, some browser extensions have their own proxy features that may override Clash. Some browsers also use Secure DNS, which can send DNS requests through a different route than your system. When troubleshooting, try an incognito window or test in another browser.
- Disable other proxy extensions, accelerators, and traffic-capture tools.
- Clear your browser cache, then reopen the target website.
- Try both “Rule Mode” and “Global Mode” in Clash.
- If only one website won’t open, try another node or policy group first.
In short, the key steps to import a subscription into Clash are to copy the subscription link, add a configuration from a URL, select a node, and enable the proxy. If you can’t access websites after importing, don’t focus only on the subscription itself. Also check whether your IP has changed, whether DNS is working properly, and whether your browser is bypassing the system proxy. Following these steps will help you identify most common issues.