Does a VPN (virtual private network) secure your connection completely? No wonder, many internet users believe that using a VPN can save them from trouble. Is it true?
For that, you need to know whether or not your VPN is working as it should. The best way to find it out is to perform tests to check if your VPN is encrypting your internet connection.
In this post, you will learn some of the popular tests to know if your VPN is running properly or not. Also, you will get troubleshooting tips that will help you fix common issues relating to VPNs. By the end of this post, you will find out if your VPN is protecting you from vulnerabilities when online.
Is your VPN working? How to find it out?
The easiest and quickest way to find out if a VPN is working or not is to visit What Is My IP Address and conduct an IP leak test.
If your actual IP address is visible online, it confirms that there has been an IP address leak. An IP leak can occur because of several reasons. Maybe you visited a website that does not have encryption or you are using an unsecured proxy server. An unsecured VPN may cause an IP leak, too.
Checking for IP address leaks:
Follow these steps to check for IP address leaks.
- Deactivate your VPN service.
- Visit What Is My IP Address to find out your real IP address. Your ISP (internet service provider) has assigned this IP address to you. So, note it down.
- Activate your VPN and choose your desired location to establish a connection. For example, if you are in the US and want to make a connection, choose a US server.
- Now, use the same method as mentioned above to find out your IP address. You will see a completely different IP address. This is the address that your VPN service provider gave you. However, if you still see your real IP address, you have been a victim of an IP address leak.
Fixing IP address leaks:
IP address leaks compromise your online security and privacy. Scammers and hackers know your IP address. They can use it to monitor your online activities and location. However, if you follow simple steps, you can fix IP address leaks effectively.
- Update your VPN software always
Keeping VPN software updated is important. Or else, the software might lead to IP leaks. Hackers look for vulnerabilities in outdated VPN software.
- Check VPN settings
To make sure that your VPN is working properly, check the settings. Apart from that, the encryption settings should be activated and set to the highest level. Typically, the best VPN encryption setting is AES-256. Make sure to choose it.
- Contact support system
If you fail to fix your IP leak, get in touch with your VPN service provider. The support team will help you fix the problem fast.
- Consider using a different VPN service
If you are unable to fix an IP leak even after following the steps mentioned above, you may choose another VPN provider. You will find several reputed VPN providers that offer great service. Choose the one that provides you the service you need most.
Best VPNs without IP address leaks:
There is no shortage of VPNs available in the market. However, the best ones will include features that keep your online activities secure and private. Below listed are some of the best VPNs with no IP, WebRTC, and DNS leaks.
- NordVPN
When it comes to affordability, NordVPN provides a lot more than that. This VPN is loaded with features that users need the most. Apart from making connections secure, NordVPN includes features such as split tunneling, kill switch, and VPN usage customization. Besides, you can watch Netflix and other popular streaming services even if they are blocked in your region. The Threat Protection feature blocks dubious websites, trackers, and ads.
- Surfshark
This is another affordable VPN that comes with lots of features. With Surfshark, you can connect with multiple devices without issues. This VPN is a great option for users who need to connect various devices to use the internet at home. Surfshark is a good option for the entire household. Moreover, it unblocks streaming services such as BBC iPlayer and Hulu.
Why is my VPN not working?
VPNs are important for online security and privacy. A VPN encrypts internet traffic and routes it through a different server from a different location. But if it stops working, the connection may be compromised. A VPN might stop working for several reasons. Some reasons include outdated software, server issues, or bad internet connection.
Most importantly, if you fail to configure your VPN properly, your IP becomes public without your knowledge. That impacts your security and privacy online. WebRTC leaks, IP leaks, and DNS leaks are some of the ways through which your data leaks over the internet.
If your VPN stopped working unexpectedly, check out these useful tips.
- Make sure that you have a fast and stable internet connection to support your VPN.
- Whenever the connection drops, check if it is connected to the VPN server. Sometimes your VPN activates the kill switch and the server connection breaks. As such, your VPN will block internet traffic to protect your data.
- Keep your VPN updated. Restart your computer to find out if the fix worked.
- You may contact the VPN provider and learn if their software or servers are having issues more recently.
How to find out DNS leaks:
If the DNS server settings of your router or computer have incorrect configuration, a DNS leak might occur. It happens when your router or computer uses public DNS servers instead of private servers.
Using a public DNS server exposes you to risks. Your internet service provider can monitor your DNS queries. It means that your ISP knows the apps you are using or websites you are visiting. Besides, they can use your information for their benefit.
You risk your online privacy when using a public DNS server. Whenever you use such a connection, the requests are not encrypted. It means that an intruder can monitor your traffic. They can see the websites you are visiting.
This kind of situation arises because of two reasons. Maybe you did not configure the VPN software properly or your ISP manipulated your settings. On the other hand, a configured VPN keeps your information safe by stopping bandwidth throttling.
You can check DNS leaks using several methods. The easiest one is to visit and run a test on the DNS Leak Test. This website detects DNS leaks automatically. It shows your location and public IP address.
What would you do if you had your DNS leaked?
In case of a leaking DNS, look out for ways to fix the issue.
- Some servers carry risks of DNS leaks. Hence, consider using another DNS server.
- Get in touch with the support team of your VPN provider and explain your situation. They can assist you to fix the problem. Sometimes, they may have fixed the problem already. All you need to do is update your VPN software.
- Manually change your DNS settings if you still face problems.
- Switch to another reliable VPN if your current provider fails to deliver constantly. Certain VPNs such as ExpressVPN, Surfshark, and NordVPN offer encrypted DNS servers.
WebRTC leaks: How to find it out
WebRTC are protocols that offer peer-to-peer, real-time communication. VPNs route your internet traffic via another location by masking your IP address. If your browser enables WebRTC, it bypasses your VPN and reveals your actual IP address.
For example, sites that use WebRTC include Google Duo, Meet, and Hangouts. Facebook Messenger also uses WebRTC capabilities to their advantage. Other popular platforms that benefit from this technology include Discord, GoToMeeting, Houseparty, Amazon Chime, and WhatsApp.
Fortunately, there are easy ways to check if your browser leaks your IP via WebRTC. Although there are several methods, let’s discuss the most basic ones.
- Visit IP Leak via your browser
- Next, scroll to the section named ‘WebRTC Detection’
- For a likely WebRTC leak, you will see your public IP address.
- If you do not see your IP or if it is different from the one displayed next to the box labeled “Your IP addresses”, you are safe and secure.
How do you fix a leaking WebRTC?
The WebRTC implementation on a browser reveals the IP address of a user. This is when WebRTC leaks happen. Even with VPN protection on, you may experience such a situation. Here are some ways to counter WebRTC leaks.
- Activate the WebRTC leak protection feature in your VPN
Many reliable VPN providers offer protection against WebRTC leaks. Check your VPN settings to make sure you have it. For example, the browser extension of Express VPN for Firefox and Chrome has enabled this feature by default. Whereas, other VPNs may leave the choice to the users.
- Deactivate your browser’s WebRTC implementation
If you do not want WebRTC to reveal your IP address, you can deactivate it through your browser’s settings. You can use an extension that blocks WebRTC, too. While you can prevent WebRTC leaks, the browser will disable features that depend on WebRTC. For example, you may find difficulty in using Facebook Messenger or Google Hangouts.
How to test VPN speed:
One of the biggest problems with VPN is a slow internet connection. This could create a big problem or a small issue depending on your online activity.
Here are a few steps that help you know the speed of your internet whether or not you are using a VPN.
- Disable your VPN and test the speed of your internet connection. You can use free tools such as Fast or Speedtest to test speed.
- Activate your VPN software and choose your native country server.
- Now run another speed test with the VPN running.
- The results from the two tests will help you know their differences. If you notice a slight difference, your VPN is the culprit.
Consider connecting to a different server to find out if there is any difference. Or, you can switch to another VPN provider.
Here are a few things that impact VPN speed.
- Your internet speed
A slow internet connection reduces VPN speed significantly. You will likely notice increased VPN speed on wired connections rather than Wi-Fi networks.
- The distance between your location and the server
If you choose a server that is far away from your real location, the internet connection will be slow. This is because data takes more time to reach you.
- Protocol used
VPN protocols are of different types. Besides, some of them are fast. For example, an Open VPN is slower than a PPTP.
- The type of encryption
If your VPN has strong encryption, it makes the internet speed slower. As a result, it will take a long time to encrypt the data and decrypt the same.
How to improve your VPN speed:
There are several things you can do to improve your VPN speed. Here are some useful tips.
- Check internet speed
You must check your internet speed first and then resolve the VPN connection issue. Find out if your internet connection is slow even if you disable your VPN.
- Choose another server
If you choose a server at a great distance from your region, chances are that you will experience slow internet speeds. The longer the distance, the longer it will take for the data to travel. Hence, choose a nearby server location to improve your connection speed.
- A wired network connection
Using a wireless network connection attracts interference from sources or devices around. As such, it can impact your internet speeds. Therefore, connect your VPN using an Ethernet connection. You can see visible differences in internet speeds.
VPN testing tools:
Several test tools can help you determine the strength of your VPN. Here are some options that you should know. However, each of them comes with its advantages and downsides.
- IP Leak
It is a popular testing tool for VPNs. IP Leak helps you check WebRTC, DNS, and IP leaks effectively. IP Leak sends you detailed information after detecting any of these leaks. Moreover, it helps you fix the situation.
- Express VPN
Express VPN comes with tools that check WebRTC and DNS leaks. The test tools diagnose your connection thoroughly. It shows you WebRTC or DNS leaks if there are any.
- Speed Test
It is another popular testing tool that allows you to test your internet speed. Speed Test is a useful tool to check if the slow connection is because of your VPN.
- Perfect Privacy
It is a VPN service that offers several privacy tests. These include a WebRTC, IPv6, and DNS leak test. Perfect Privacy also offers other features like a kill switch. This feature protects your privacy online even if your VPN disconnects.
Recommended VPNs that offer leak protection:
Only a reliable VPN provider offers you leak protection and other security features. As such, you get peace of mind when online. So, consider a few important factors before finding the best VPN provider.
Make sure that the VPN provider has included strong encryption methods like AES-256. Besides, the VPN provider should have a stringent no-logs policy. Additionally, the VPN should have protection against DNS leaks and a kill switch feature.
If you are looking for a VPN with all the above-mentioned features, here are a few recommendations.
- NordVPN
If you are looking for a fast, secure, and easy-to-use interface, NordVPN is the best option. It sets high levels of privacy and security so that your online experience becomes stress-free.
- Surfshark
With user-friendly and useful features, Surfshark is another reliable VPN that you can choose. It helps you establish secure connections without compromising your online security and privacy.
- Express VPN
If you want to access popular streaming services including a strong no-logs policy and fast speed, Express VPN is a great choice. Other features include security, speed, split tunneling, and kill switch.
FAQs:
- Should I use a VPN constantly?
Yes, you should and there are good reasons for it. With an encrypted VPN connection, hackers cannot get your information. Besides, a VPN can give you access to geo-restriction content. Connecting to a different VPN server tricks certain websites into believing that you are from a different region.
- Can my VPN be hacked?
Yes, your VPN might be hacked if it is compromised for some reason. Intruders can hack a VPN if they can intercept the connection between the server and your device. However, hacking a VPN is extremely difficult even for a seasoned hacker. VPNs have defensive mechanisms to counter online annoyances and dangers.
- How does a VPN protect me?
A VPN acts as a barrier between you and online dangers like bandwidth throttling. But it cannot protect you from every vulnerability that prevails online. Viruses, phishing attacks, malware, and ransomware may infect your devices without your knowledge. If you are not careful, the damage done could be huge. You may use a VPN but you should have a robust security solution to counter serious threats. It is recommended to use a powerful antivirus.
Conclusion:
A reliable VPN encrypts your internet traffic and protects your IP from falling into the wrong hands. Still, the best VPN providers cannot prevent leaks, sometimes. And, it reveals your IP address to intruders. Therefore, you should test your VPN periodically to find vulnerabilities and take necessary actions immediately.
Perfect Privacy is the best tool to find out leaks. If the test finds any kind of leaks, modify the protocol of your VPN. Also, you can disable WebRTC or connect to a different server. In case the problem persists, contact the support team of your VPN provider.
If you follow the steps to fix those leaks, your internet connection stays protected. If the problem remains the same, consider using any of the recommended VPNs to have zero leaks in the future.
