Using a VPN is a smart way to protect your online privacy, keep your data secure, and access content from different regions. But simply switching it on doesn’t always mean it’s working properly. From IP address leaks to DNS issues, there are a few things that can go wrong behind the scenes. Knowing how to check whether your VPN is actually doing its job helps ensure your connection stays private and secure.
How Can I Tell If My VPN Is Working?
There are different ways you can check if your VPN is working properly and protecting your personal data and internet traffic:
- Check your IP address: Look at your current IP address and connect to your VPN. Then, recheck your IP address and check if it’s different from the first one you saw. If it’s different, your VPN works.
- Check your VPN status: Your VPN will most likely show if you are connected to a VPN. Check the status and make sure it says “connected.”
- Test your Internet speed: While you’re connected to your VPN, run a quick internet speed test. If your internet speed is slower than it usually is, there can be a problem.
What Should I Do If My VPN Isn’t Working?
If your VPN isn’t working, you can check your internet connection and restart your device. If that doesn’t help, consider switching to a different VPN server or checking if there are any updates for your VPN software. If your VPN is still not working, consider reinstalling your VPN.
How Can I Test My VPN?
You can test your VPN with different reputable testing tools. You can find these testers online or through reputable VPN providers like Surfshark. These tools will check for any DNS leaks, IP addresses, and WebRTC leaks.
Tests to Check If Your VPN Is Working
When using a VPN, there are some signs to show if it’s not working. This includes if you are unable to access websites or content your VPN usually unlocks or if you are receiving ads specific to your location. However, there are ways you can test your VPN to know if it is working as it should:
Make Sure Your VPN Is Connected
Verify that your VPN is up and running. VPNs need to be activated in order to conceal your online activities. They may occasionally shut off by themselves as a result of bad network connections, mistakes, or other network configurations.
It can shut off when your data limit is reached if you’re using a free VPN with restricted features. You are protected when you use a cutting-edge VPN with a kill switch, which cuts off your internet access in the event that the VPN fails.
Test Your Internet Speed
You can determine whether or not your VPN is functioning properly by measuring your internet speed. Because your online traffic is being redirected through a separate server when your VPN is enabled, you may likely see a little drop in internet speed. Even though some high-end VPNs have fast servers, if you see no speed changes or drastic speed fluctuations, there may be a problem with your VPN.
Look Up Your IP Address
The purpose of your VPN is to hide your IP address by using the address of the VPN server. Therefore, one effective method to determine whether your VPN is functioning is to check your IP. Your VPN is functioning properly if your IP changes while it is in use.
Check For DNS Leaks
Domain Name System is what DNS stands for. Your computer can connect to the appropriate servers thanks to this technology, which converts website names into the lengthy IP addresses that identify them. DNS requests can bypass your VPN and go straight to your ISP if it’s malfunctioning, exposing your online activity. Even if you are using a VPN, this is known as a DNS leak, because it reveals your actual IP address.
Test For Any WebRTC Leaks
WebRTC leaks occur when your browser’s WebRTC feature allows your real IP address to be revealed. WebRTC facilitates peer-to-peer functions in your browser, such as file sharing and video conferencing, without requiring the installation of additional programs or plugins.
WebRTC uses a unique kind of server known as a STUN (Session Traversal Utilities for NAT) to confirm your IP address when it permits a peer-to-peer connection. WebRTC may send a request straight to the STUN, avoiding the VPN server. This stops your true IP address from being hidden by your VPN.
Check For Browser Extension Leaks
Because some browser extensions (ad blockers, productivity programs, etc.) interface directly with external servers, extension traffic may avoid the VPN if you’re using a browser-based VPN as opposed to a system-level one. Bypassing the VPN tunnel, this connection can reveal your true IP address.
How Can I Check For DNS Leaks?
You can use web tools to check for DNS leaks with a VPN. Visit the selected test website after first connecting to your VPN. Execute the test and contrast the DNS server details that are shown with those of your real ISP. There is a leak if the test turns up your ISP’s DNS servers.
How Can I Check For WebRTC Leaks?
You can use online WebRTC leak test tools to look for WebRTC leaks when using a VPN. Take note of your public IP address after disconnecting from your VPN. Run the leak test after reconnecting to your VPN. You have a WebRTC leak if the test shows your original public IP address, which means your VPN isn’t completely safeguarding your privacy.
