WebRTC Not Working? Here’s What to Do

As we move deeper into the digital age, seamless online communication is more critical than ever. WebRTC technology plays a pivotal role in enabling real-time interactions across various platforms, but it doesn’t always work perfectly on every browser. If you’re facing issues with WebRTC, don’t worry — this guide will walk you through practical solutions to get it up and running smoothly.

In today’s interconnected world, WebRTC is essential for smooth online communication, from video calls to live chats. However, not all browsers handle WebRTC effectively, which can lead to frustrating disruptions. If you’re experiencing problems with WebRTC, here’s what you need to know and how to fix them in 2024.

WebRTC is the backbone of real-time communication online, but not every browser supports it seamlessly. When issues arise, they can disrupt your online experience and even compromise your privacy. This article provides step-by-step guidance on resolving WebRTC problems to ensure you stay connected and secure in 2024.

What to do when your browser doesn’t support WebRTC in 2024

WebRTC (Web Real-Time Communication) has transformed how we connect online, allowing us to participate in real-time webinars, video calls, voice chats, and screen sharing directly through our browsers — no extra plugins required. This technology is essential for many modern online services, offering a seamless experience that integrates directly into our web browsers. However, not all browsers support WebRTC flawlessly, which can lead to connectivity issues or even privacy concerns. If you’ve encountered problems with WebRTC, don’t worry — there are practical solutions you can explore to get back on track and ensure your online interactions are both functional and secure. But, to enhance the security of screen sharing on our platform, we have replaced the WebRTC screen sharing feature with our secure plugin. For the best and most secure screen sharing experience, we recommend downloading our software. We have no plans to revert to WebRTC for screen sharing, as our current solution provides superior protection and speed.

Why WebRTC matters in 2024

WebRTC has become the standard for many online applications, making real-time communication seamless across various platforms such as Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. Whether you’re attending virtual meetings, engaging in video calls with friends and family, or participating in online gaming, WebRTC plays a critical role in facilitating these interactions without the need for additional software or plugins. However, there are circumstances where browsers may not fully support WebRTC, potentially leading to issues with connecting to websites that depend on it. These issues can manifest as dropped calls, lagging video, or, more concerning, unintentional exposure of your identity or IP address.

For example, if your browser hasn’t been updated, it could be leaking your real IP address through WebRTC, even while connected to a VPN. This leak could expose your data outside the encrypted tunnel provided by the VPN, which is a significant privacy concern. Understanding how WebRTC works and ensuring that your browser is fully compatible with this technology is crucial for maintaining both your online experience and your privacy.

Is your browser the problem?

By 2024, most modern browsers — such as Chrome, Firefox, Brave, and Safari — come with built-in WebRTC support. These browsers are continually updated to improve functionality, security, and compatibility with the latest web standards. However, using outdated versions or misconfigured settings might still cause difficulties. Even with built-in support, certain browser versions may not handle WebRTC efficiently, especially if they haven’t been updated recently or are running on older hardware. Here’s how to determine if your browser is causing the issue and what you can do to fix it.

For instance, Chrome on iOS does not appear to implement the vulnerable parts of WebRTC that could expose local or external IP addresses (yet), but that doesn’t mean it’s immune to other types of issues. If you’re experiencing problems with WebRTC, you may need to troubleshoot further by checking for updates or exploring different browser options. It’s also important to note that while newer browsers generally offer better support, they might still require specific settings to be enabled or configured to optimize WebRTC performance. Taking the time to understand your browser’s capabilities and limitations can save you from unnecessary headaches down the line.

Update your browser

The first step is to ensure your browser is updated to the latest version. Outdated browsers are often the root cause of WebRTC issues, and updating them is a straightforward but effective solution. When browsers are updated, they receive new features, bug fixes, and security patches that improve their performance and protect against vulnerabilities. This means that simply keeping your browser up to date can resolve many common issues, including those related to WebRTC.

For instance, if you’re using an outdated version of Brave, you might find WebRTC is still leaking your IP address. This leak could compromise your privacy by revealing your real IP address to websites or online services, even when you’re connected to a VPN. Updating the browser should take care of all WebRTC issues, at least on desktop versions of Brave (Windows, macOS, and Linux). Regularly checking for updates and installing them as they become available is a best practice that can prevent many problems before they start. Plus, updated browsers are better equipped to handle the latest web technologies, ensuring that you can take full advantage of new features and improvements.

Try a different browser

If updating doesn’t resolve the problem, it may be time to switch to a different browser. While most modern browsers support WebRTC, they don’t all handle it the same way. Some browsers might have better optimization, more robust security features, or greater compatibility with certain websites and services. Popular choices like Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari offer robust WebRTC support, ensuring smooth and secure communication. These browsers are also frequently updated to address any new vulnerabilities that may arise, making them reliable choices for users who rely on WebRTC.

However, note that certain browsers like Chrome on iOS do not appear to implement the vulnerable parts of WebRTC that could expose local or external IP addresses (yet). This means that while Chrome on iOS may be a safe choice for avoiding specific WebRTC vulnerabilities, it might not provide the same level of functionality as other browsers. Trying a different browser can help you identify whether the issue is specific to your current browser or if it’s a broader problem that requires a different solution. Experimenting with different browsers can also give you a better understanding of how each one handles WebRTC, allowing you to choose the best option for your needs.

Check your settings

Sometimes, WebRTC might be disabled in your browser’s settings, either due to a specific policy or by default. WebRTC settings can be tricky, and many users are unaware that these settings even exist. If WebRTC is disabled, you might experience issues with video calls, voice chats, or other real-time communications. If you are tech-savvy, you can manually enable WebRTC by following instructions available from various online resources. This often involves diving into your browser’s advanced settings or developer options, where you can tweak specific features to optimize WebRTC performance.

However, be aware that disabling WebRTC can prevent IP leaks, but it may also stop WebRTC from functioning altogether. For example, in Brave, you can scroll down until you see “Anonymize local IPs exposed by WebRTC” or enter it in the search field to adjust your settings. This option helps protect your privacy by ensuring that your real IP address isn’t exposed to websites that use WebRTC. Be cautious, though, as these settings might not carry across updates, so you may need to re-adjust after updating your browser. Additionally, it’s important to understand that while these settings can enhance your privacy, they might also affect your ability to use certain online services that rely on WebRTC. Balancing security and functionality is key, so take the time to configure your settings in a way that meets your needs.

Consider an alternative solution

If WebRTC is crucial to your activities and the above solutions don’t work, consider using a dedicated app or service optimized for real-time communication. For example, if you’re frequently engaging in online activities that require stable, high-quality connections, such as gaming or professional collaboration, there are alternative technologies that offer more reliable performance than WebRTC. These solutions are often designed to work seamlessly across all devices and browsers, providing a more consistent experience without the need to worry about browser compatibility or settings.

For instance, when WebRTC isn’t performing as expected, using a VPN service that specializes in preventing WebRTC leaks can offer additional protection. We’ve put these two VPNs — ExpressVPN and NordVPN — through extensive testing to ensure they never allow WebRTC leaks to occur under any circumstances. These VPNs can help protect your real IP address from being exposed while still allowing you to use WebRTC for your communication needs. In addition, these services often come with other privacy features, such as encrypted connections and anonymous browsing, that further enhance your online security. By exploring these alternative solutions, you can find the right tools to ensure that your online activities are safe, secure, and uninterrupted.

Explore an alternative technology

For those who need a reliable and secure solution, there is broadcasting technology available that provides an alternative to WebRTC. This technology is tested and optimized to ensure that users have a seamless experience, regardless of the browser or device being used. The system can utilize multiple streaming methods, ensuring uninterrupted service even when WebRTC might be down or unavailable. These alternative technologies are designed to handle a wide range of online activities, from simple voice calls to complex video conferencing, without relying solely on WebRTC.

Why This Matters: While WebRTC is a powerful tool, under certain circumstances, it might not be the most reliable option. For example, when WebRTC fails, alternative technologies can step in to handle the connection, ensuring that your online activities proceed without interruption. Plus, with a multi-method approach, your connections will continue to work even in environments where WebRTC might fail. This flexibility is crucial for anyone who relies on stable, secure connections for their work, education, or personal communication. By incorporating alternative technologies into your online toolkit, you can ensure that you’re always prepared for any situation, whether it’s a WebRTC issue or another type of connectivity problem.

How it works?

• Automatic switching — The system automatically detects and switches to the best method available for each user’s browser, ensuring high-quality communication without requiring manual intervention. This means you can enjoy a seamless experience without needing to worry about technical details or configuration.
• Scalability — Whether connecting with a few people or thousands, the system is designed to scale effortlessly, keeping your data protected and encrypted. This scalability makes it ideal for both personal and professional use, allowing you to connect with others securely, no matter the size of your audience.
• Security — Built with strong encryption and secure TLS, the platform protects against vulnerabilities that could expose your data to theft or other security breaches. By using these advanced security features, you can ensure that your online activities are protected from potential threats, providing peace of mind in an increasingly connected world.

The bottom line

In 2024, while WebRTC remains a key technology for online communication, it’s important to have alternatives available when things don’t go as planned. Keeping your browser updated, checking your settings, and exploring alternative solutions can help you maintain secure and reliable connections. Whether you’re on iOS, Android, or desktop platforms like macOS, Windows, or Linux, these tips ensure that your real-time communication is protected and uninterrupted.

If you’re interested in learning more about how to stay connected securely, visit our page for additional resources and expert tips. Your online presence is too important to leave exposed, so take the time to secure your communication today. And remember, most VPNs that claim to prevent WebRTC leaks can at least stop this from happening, but it’s always good to double-check. Protecting your privacy is an ongoing process, and staying informed about the latest technologies and best practices is the best way to ensure your online security remains intact.