How to Test Your VPN Connection

Ensure your VPN is working correctly and protecting your privacy with these simple steps.

Why Test Your VPN?

Testing your VPN connection is crucial to ensure it's actually doing its job. A proper test can confirm that your IP address is hidden, your data is encrypted (though we focus on IP/DNS leaks here), and you're connected to the server location you intended. This gives you peace of mind that your online activities remain private and secure.

Step-by-Step Guide to Testing Your VPN

Step 1: Note Your Real IP Address

Before connecting to your VPN, find out your current public IP address. This is the IP address assigned by your Internet Service Provider (ISP) and can reveal your approximate physical location.

Check Your IP at YourPublicIP.com

Step 2: Connect to Your VPN

Open your VPN application and connect to a server. If you want to appear as if you're in a different country, select a server in that specific country.

Step 3: Check Your New IP Address

Once connected to the VPN, revisit an IP checking website. The IP address and location displayed should now be different from your real ones, reflecting the VPN server's details.

Re-Check Your IP at YourPublicIP.com

Step 4: Verify Location Change

The IP checking site should show an approximate geographic location. Confirm that this new location matches the VPN server location you selected. If the IP has changed but the location still points to your real area, there might be an issue.

Step 5: Check for DNS Leaks

A Domain Name System (DNS) leak occurs when your DNS requests (which translate website names into IP addresses) are sent to your ISP's DNS servers instead of the VPN's anonymous DNS servers. This can expose your browsing habits. You can use specialized online tools to check for DNS leaks; a common one is DNSLeakTest.com.

Step 6: Check for WebRTC Leaks

WebRTC (Web Real-Time Communication) is a browser feature that can sometimes reveal your true IP address, even when a VPN is active. Test for WebRTC leaks using online tools like BrowserLeaks.com/webrtc. Many VPN browser extensions offer WebRTC leak protection.

What if Something is Wrong?

If your IP address hasn't changed, or if you detect leaks, try these troubleshooting steps:

Double-check connection: Ensure your VPN application confirms you are actively connected.
Switch servers: Try connecting to a different VPN server, possibly in a different location.
Restart devices: Restart your VPN application and your device.
Check VPN settings: Look for features like "DNS leak protection," "IPv6 leak protection," or a "kill switch" within your VPN app and make sure they are enabled.
Browser extensions: Some browser extensions can interfere with VPNs. Try disabling them temporarily.
Contact support: If problems persist, reach out to your VPN provider's customer support for assistance.

Confident in Your Connection?

Regularly testing your VPN ensures it's always protecting you. If you're looking for a new VPN or want to explore options, our questionnaire can help!

Find Your Perfect VPN