Are you wondering if your VPN is really protecting your online privacy and security? It’s important to ensure that your VPN service is working properly and effectively encrypting your internet traffic. In this article, I will guide you through some simple steps to help you verify that your VPN is indeed working as it should.
Privacy and online security are paramount in today’s digital world. Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) can provide an added layer of protection by encrypting your internet connection and hiding your IP address. But how can you be sure that your VPN is actually doing what it’s supposed to do?
Fortunately, there are several ways to check if your VPN is working properly. By following these steps, you can ensure that your VPN is effectively safeguarding your privacy and sensitive data.
Key Takeaways:
- Checking your IP address before and after connecting to a VPN server can help verify if your VPN is successfully hiding your real IP.
- Testing for DNS leaks and WebRTC leaks using online tools can indicate if your VPN is protecting against these vulnerabilities.
- Verifying your VPN status and testing your internet speed while connected to the VPN can help ensure its functionality and performance.
- Testing if your VPN connection is blocked by accessing websites that are normally restricted while connected to the VPN.
- Choosing a reputable VPN service provider is essential for ensuring the effectiveness and security of your VPN connection.
How to Tell if a VPN is Working
Verifying whether your VPN is working effectively is essential for ensuring online privacy and security. Here are some key indicators to determine if your VPN is functioning as intended:
1. Check your IP address
Before and after connecting to a VPN server, compare your IP addresses. If your IP address changes, it indicates that your VPN is successfully hiding your real IP.
2. Test for DNS leaks
Use online tools to check for DNS leaks. If your actual IP address or ISP’s DNS is exposed instead of the IP address provided by your VPN, it suggests a DNS leak. Consider switching to a VPN provider with dedicated DNS servers and built-in DNS leak protection.
3. Verify your VPN status
Ensure that your VPN is connected and functioning properly by checking its status. This can typically be found in the VPN client or app.
4. Test your internet speed
Measure your internet speed while connected to the VPN and compare it to your normal internet speed. If there is a significant decrease in speed, try switching to a different VPN server or protocol to improve performance.
By following these steps, you can confidently determine if your VPN is working and providing the privacy and security you expect.
Indicator | Status | |
---|---|---|
1 | IP Address | Changed after connecting to VPN server |
2 | DNS leaks | No exposure of actual IP or ISP’s DNS |
3 | VPN Status | Connected and functioning properly |
4 | Internet speed | Minimal decrease while connected to VPN |
How to Test a VPN for IP Address Leaks
One of the key aspects to verify when testing the effectiveness of your VPN is whether it is leaking your IP address. IP address leaks can compromise your online privacy by revealing your location and online behavior. To test for IP address leaks, you can follow these steps:
Step 1: Check your original IP address
Before connecting to your VPN, visit a reliable IP address checking website to identify your original IP address. Make a note of it for comparison later.
Step 2: Connect to your VPN
Once connected to your VPN, choose a server location and establish a connection.
Step 3: Verify IP address change
Visit the same IP address checking website and compare the displayed IP address with your original one. If the IP addresses match, it indicates a potential IP address leak, and your VPN is not effectively hiding your real IP address.
If you suspect an IP address leak, you can troubleshoot the issue by checking your VPN settings, disabling split tunneling (which can cause leaks), and considering a reputable VPN service provider that has a proven track record in preventing IP address leaks.
IP Address | Status |
---|---|
Original IP Address | {Your original IP address} |
VPN IP Address | {IP address provided by your VPN} |
By ensuring that your VPN is not leaking your IP address, you can maintain your privacy and protect your online activities from prying eyes.
How to Test a VPN for DNS Leaks
One of the crucial aspects of ensuring the effectiveness of your VPN is to check for DNS leaks. DNS leaks can occur when your VPN fails to handle DNS requests properly, potentially exposing your browsing history and online activities. To test if your VPN is leaking DNS information, you can use online tools like DNSLeakTest. This test will help you determine if your actual IP address and location are being exposed instead of the IP address provided by your VPN.
If the results of the DNSLeakTest show that your original IP address or your ISP’s DNS is being leaked, it signifies a DNS leak issue. In such cases, it is recommended to switch to a VPN provider that offers dedicated DNS servers and built-in DNS leak protection. By choosing a VPN service with robust DNS leak prevention measures, you can ensure that your online activities remain private and secure.
Steps to Test a VPN for DNS Leaks |
---|
Step 1: Connect to your VPN |
Step 2: Open a web browser |
Step 3: Visit DNSLeakTest website |
Step 4: Perform the DNS leak test |
Step 5: Analyze the results |
By following these steps, you can determine if your VPN is leaking DNS information and take the necessary actions to protect your online privacy.
How to Test a VPN for WebRTC Leaks
WebRTC leaks can compromise the anonymity provided by your VPN by revealing your actual IP address during online communication. To ensure your VPN is effectively preventing WebRTC leaks, you can follow these steps:
- Visit websites like IPLeak to test if your VPN’s IP address is different from your original IP address.
- If the IP addresses match, indicating a WebRTC leak, you can take the following measures:
- Use a browser that excludes WebRTC or manually disable WebRTC in your browser settings.
- Consider using a VPN provider that has robust security protocols and offers protection against WebRTC leaks.
“WebRTC leaks can expose your real IP address during real-time communication and compromise your privacy.”
It is important to note that some browsers have built-in WebRTC support, and even with a VPN, your IP address may still be visible. Taking the necessary precautions to prevent WebRTC leaks will help maintain your online privacy and ensure the effectiveness of your VPN.
WebRTC Leak Test Results | VPN’s IP Address | Original IP Address | WebRTC Leak |
---|---|---|---|
Test 1 | 192.168.1.1 | 203.0.113.1 | Yes |
Test 2 | 203.0.113.1 | 203.0.113.1 | No |
Test 3 | 192.168.1.1 | 192.168.1.1 | No |
How to Test Your VPN Speed
If you want to ensure that your VPN is working optimally, testing its speed is essential. By measuring your internet speed while connected to the VPN, you can determine the impact it has on your overall connection. To conduct a speed test, you can use online tools like Speedtest, which allows you to compare the speed of your internet connection with and without the VPN.
When performing the speed test, it’s important to choose a server that is geographically close to you. This will help provide a more accurate representation of your VPN’s performance. Once you have selected the server, follow the instructions provided by the speed test tool to initiate the test. The tool will measure your download and upload speeds, as well as latency or ping.
Comparing the results of the speed test with and without the VPN will give you an idea of the impact it has on your internet speed. If the speed is significantly slower while connected to the VPN, you may consider experimenting with different VPN servers or protocols to improve performance. Additionally, it’s important to keep in mind that factors such as your overall internet speed and the distance between you and the VPN server can also affect the results.
Test Scenario | Download Speed (Mbps) | Upload Speed (Mbps) | Latency (ms) |
---|---|---|---|
Without VPN | 100 | 50 | 20 |
With VPN | 70 | 40 | 30 |
In the example table above, the download and upload speeds are slightly slower when connected to the VPN compared to when the VPN is not in use. The latency, or ping, is also slightly higher. These differences indicate that the VPN has some impact on internet speed, although it is still within an acceptable range for most users.
Remember that while internet speed is an important factor to consider, it’s not the only criterion for determining the effectiveness of a VPN. Other factors such as encryption strength, privacy features, and server locations should also be considered when choosing a VPN service.
How to Test if Your VPN Connection is Blocked
Blocked websites can be frustrating, especially when you’re using a VPN to access them. If you suspect that your VPN connection is being blocked, there are a few steps you can take to test it. By following these methods, you can determine if your VPN is functioning properly and find ways to bypass the restrictions.
Testing Blocked Websites
To test if your VPN connection is blocked, try accessing websites that are typically restricted in your region or by your internet service provider (ISP). Start by visiting these websites without your VPN connection enabled. If you’re unable to access them, it could be a sign that your ISP or country has implemented restrictions.
Next, connect to your VPN and attempt to access the same websites. If you can now access them without any issues, it indicates that your VPN is bypassing the restrictions successfully. However, if you’re still unable to access the blocked websites, it’s possible that the VPN server you’re connected to is also being blocked.
Using Obfuscated Servers or Dedicated IP
If your VPN connection is blocked by the websites or services you’re trying to access, you can try switching to an obfuscated server. Obfuscated servers are designed to bypass network restrictions and make your VPN traffic appear as regular internet traffic.
Another option is using a dedicated IP address offered by your VPN provider. Dedicated IPs are less likely to be blocked as they are not shared with other users. It’s important to note that dedicated IPs may come at an additional cost.
Summary
If you’re experiencing issues with accessing blocked websites while using a VPN, it’s essential to verify if your VPN connection is being blocked. By testing blocked websites, trying obfuscated servers, or using a dedicated IP address, you can determine if your VPN is functioning properly and find alternative ways to access restricted content.
Methods to Test VPN Connection Blocking |
---|
1. Test access to blocked websites without VPN |
2. Connect to VPN and retry accessing blocked websites |
3. Switch to obfuscated servers offered by VPN provider |
4. Consider using a dedicated IP address |
How to Test a VPN for Malware
Ensuring the security of your VPN is crucial in protecting your online activities from malware threats. To test if your VPN is free from malware, follow these steps:
- Choose a reputable VPN provider: Select a VPN provider that has a good reputation and strong security measures in place. Look for providers that have been independently audited and have a proven track record of protecting users from malware.
- Update your anti-malware software: Make sure your anti-malware software is up to date. Regularly scan your device for malware and ensure that your VPN software is not conflicting with your anti-malware program.
- Test your VPN in a sandbox environment: Use a sandbox environment to test your VPN before using it on your main device. Sandbox environments isolate programs and prevent them from interacting with your device’s main operating system, providing an extra layer of security.
- Monitor network activity: Keep an eye on your network activity while using the VPN. Look for any suspicious behavior or unexpected connections that could indicate malware activity. If you notice anything unusual, contact your VPN provider for assistance.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your VPN is free from malware and provides a secure browsing experience.
“Protecting your online activities from malware is essential in maintaining your privacy and security. By testing your VPN for malware and taking necessary precautions, you can safeguard your personal information and browse the internet with peace of mind.”
Table: Malware Testing Checklist for VPNs
Steps | Description |
---|---|
Choose a reputable VPN provider | Select a VPN provider with a good reputation and strong security measures. |
Update your anti-malware software | Ensure your anti-malware software is up to date and scan your device regularly. |
Test your VPN in a sandbox environment | Use a sandbox environment to test your VPN before using it on your main device. |
Monitor network activity | Keep an eye on your network activity while using the VPN and look for any suspicious behavior. |
Why is My VPN Connected but Not Working?
If you find that your VPN is connected but not working, there can be several reasons behind this issue. It’s essential to troubleshoot the problem to ensure a stable and secure connection. Here are some common causes and steps to resolve VPN connection issues:
1. Unstable Internet Connection
One possible reason for a non-functioning VPN is an unstable internet connection. Check your internet connection by visiting other websites or running a speed test. If you have a weak or intermittent connection, try restarting your modem or router, or switch to a different network.
2. Firewall or Security Tools
Firewalls or security tools on your device may interfere with the VPN network and cause connectivity issues. Disable any standalone firewalls or security software temporarily to see if it resolves the problem. If necessary, add exceptions or allow the VPN through the firewall settings.
3. Incorrect VPN Settings
Verify that your VPN settings are correctly configured. Check the server address, authentication credentials, VPN protocol, and other settings according to the instructions provided by your VPN service provider. Incorrect settings can prevent the VPN from functioning properly.
4. ISP or Country Blocking VPN Usage
In some cases, internet service providers (ISPs) or countries may block VPN usage. This can result in connectivity issues even if your VPN is connected. To bypass such restrictions, try connecting to a different VPN server or use protocols like OpenVPN with obfuscated servers that can help evade VPN blocking.
5. VPN Malware or Hacking
If none of the above steps resolve the issue, it’s possible that your VPN may be infected with malware or you may have been hacked. Contact your VPN service provider for assistance and ensure that you are using a reputable VPN service with robust security measures in place.
By following these troubleshooting steps, you can identify and resolve common VPN connection issues. Remember to contact your VPN provider for further assistance if the problem persists.
What to Do if Your VPN Isn’t Working
If you’re experiencing issues with your VPN connection, there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem:
1. Reset your router or mobile connection:
Sometimes, network connectivity issues can interfere with your VPN connection. Try resetting your router or turning off and on your mobile data to see if that resolves the problem.
2. Check your account details and payment status:
Ensure that your VPN subscription is active and up to date. Check your account details, payment status, and expiration date to rule out any account-related issues.
3. Test your internet speed:
Slow internet speed can affect your VPN connection. Use an online speed test tool to measure your internet speed with and without the VPN. If the speed is significantly slower with the VPN, consider switching to a different VPN server or protocol to improve performance.
4. Check for VPN service disruptions:
Occasionally, VPN providers may experience temporary service disruptions or maintenance periods. Visit your VPN provider’s website or contact their support team to check if there are any known issues affecting the service.
5. Disable standalone firewalls:
Some standalone firewall software or security tools may interfere with your VPN connection. Temporarily disable any firewalls or security software to see if it resolves the issue. Remember to re-enable them after testing.
6. Switch between VPN protocols:
Try switching between different VPN protocols offered by your VPN provider. Some protocols may work better than others depending on your network configuration and internet service provider.
7. Contact your VPN provider:
If none of the above steps resolve the issue, reach out to your VPN provider’s support team for further assistance. They can provide specific troubleshooting steps based on their service and help identify any underlying problems.
By following these troubleshooting steps, you can address common VPN issues and restore your VPN connection’s functionality. Remember to choose a reputable VPN provider to ensure reliable service and support.
How to Tell if Your VPN is Securely Connected
When using a VPN, it is essential to ensure that your connection is securely established to protect your online privacy and data. Here are some steps you can take to verify if your VPN is securely connected:
- Check for IP Address Masking: Before connecting to the VPN server, note down your original IP address. Once connected, compare it with the IP address provided by the VPN. If they are different, it indicates that your VPN is effectively masking your IP address, enhancing your privacy.
- Test for DNS Info Leaks: DNS leaks can expose your online activities. To check for DNS leaks, use online tools like DNSLeakTest. Compare the results with your VPN’s virtual IP address and chosen location. If they match, it suggests a DNS leak, and you should consider switching to a VPN provider that offers dedicated DNS servers and built-in DNS leak protection.
- Verify Protection Against WebRTC Leaks: WebRTC leaks can reveal your real IP address during real-time communication. Use websites like IPLeak to compare your VPN’s IP address with your original IP address. If they match, it indicates a WebRTC leak. To prevent this, use browsers that exclude WebRTC or manually disable it in your browser settings.
Note: It is important to choose a reliable and reputable VPN provider that offers robust security measures, such as IP address masking, DNS leak protection, and prevention of WebRTC leaks. Additionally, ensure that your VPN uses strong encryption protocols to safeguard your data.
VPN Security Check | Result |
---|---|
IP Address Masking | Masked IP Address: [Your VPN’s IP] |
DNS Leak Test | No DNS Leaks Detected |
WebRTC Leak Test | No WebRTC Leaks Detected |
By performing these checks and ensuring a secure VPN connection, you can have peace of mind knowing that your online activities are protected, and your data is encrypted. Remember to regularly update your VPN client and follow best practices for online security to stay one step ahead of potential threats.
How to Check if Your VPN is Masking Your IP Address
One of the key features of a VPN is its ability to mask your IP address, providing you with online privacy and anonymity. To ensure that your VPN is effectively masking your IP address, you can follow a few simple steps. First, before connecting to a VPN server, note down your original IP address. Then, connect to the VPN server of your choice and check if the IP address has changed. If it has, it means that your VPN is successfully masking your IP address and keeping your online activities private.
In addition to checking the IP address change, you can also use online tools to verify the effectiveness of your VPN’s IP address masking. These tools compare your original IP address with the IP address provided by your VPN after connecting to a server. If the two IP addresses differ, it confirms that your VPN is indeed masking your IP address and ensuring your privacy while browsing online.
To summarize, to check if your VPN is masking your IP address:
- Note down your original IP address
- Connect to a VPN server
- Check if the IP address has changed
- Use online tools to compare your original IP address with the VPN-provided IP address
By following these steps, you can have confidence that your VPN is effectively masking your IP address, safeguarding your privacy, and allowing you to browse the internet anonymously.
Original IP Address | VPN-Provided IP Address | |
---|---|---|
Before Connecting to VPN | 192.168.0.100 | N/A |
After Connecting to VPN | 192.168.0.100 | 203.0.113.10 |
The table above demonstrates a successful IP address masking by the VPN. Before connecting to the VPN, the original IP address was 192.168.0.100, and after connecting, the VPN provided a different IP address, 203.0.113.10, indicating that the VPN is effectively masking the original IP address.
How to Check if Your VPN is Leaking DNS Info
DNS leaks can compromise your online activities and compromise your privacy. It is essential to test if your VPN is effectively protecting your DNS information. One way to test for DNS leaks is by using online tools like DNSLeakTest. By visiting the website and comparing the results with your VPN’s virtual IP address and chosen location, you can determine if there are any leaks.
If the test results show your actual IP address or your ISP’s DNS, it indicates a DNS leak, and your VPN is not effectively protecting your DNS information. In such cases, it is recommended to switch to a VPN provider that offers dedicated DNS servers and built-in DNS leak protection. Choosing a reliable and reputable VPN provider is crucial for ensuring the security and privacy of your online activities.
Table: How to Test for DNS Leaks
Step | Instructions |
---|---|
Step 1 | Open a web browser and visit DNSLeakTest.com. |
Step 2 | Click on the “Extended Test” button. |
Step 3 | Review the test results and compare the IP addresses displayed with your VPN’s virtual IP address and chosen location. |
Step 4 | If the test results show your actual IP address or your ISP’s DNS, it indicates a DNS leak. |
Step 5 | In case of a DNS leak, consider switching to a VPN provider with dedicated DNS servers and built-in DNS leak protection. |
By conducting regular tests for DNS leaks, you can ensure that your VPN is effectively protecting your online activities and maintaining your privacy.
How to Check if Your VPN is Leaking WebRTC Info
WebRTC leaks can pose a threat to your online privacy by exposing your real IP address during real-time communication. To ensure that your VPN is effectively protecting your IP address, you can perform a simple test. I recommend using a website called IPLeak to check if your VPN is leaking WebRTC information.
When you visit IPLeak, it will display your current IP address along with other relevant information. Compare this IP address with the one provided by your VPN. If the IP addresses match, it indicates that your VPN is leaking WebRTC information. This means that your real IP address is exposed, potentially compromising your privacy.
To prevent WebRTC leaks, you have a couple of options. You can use browsers that specifically exclude WebRTC functionality or manually disable WebRTC in your browser settings. Another important consideration is choosing a VPN provider that has robust security protocols and takes measures to prevent WebRTC leaks. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your VPN is effectively protecting your IP address and maintaining your online privacy.
How to Test and Improve Your VPN Speed
Ensuring that your VPN provides a fast and reliable internet connection is essential for a smooth online experience. Here are some steps to test and improve your VPN speed:
- Conduct an internet speed test: Use online tools like Speedtest to measure your internet speed with and without the VPN connection. This will help you determine the impact of the VPN on your speed.
- Switch VPN servers: If you find that your current VPN server is slow, try connecting to a different server in a location closer to your physical location. This can help improve your speed by reducing latency.
- Change VPN protocols: Experiment with different VPN protocols (such as OpenVPN, IKEv2, or WireGuard) to see which one offers the best performance for your specific network.
- Adjust encryption settings: Some VPN providers allow you to customize the level of encryption used. Lowering the encryption level can potentially improve your speed, but keep in mind that it may reduce security.
It’s important to note that VPN speed can also be affected by factors outside of your control, such as your overall internet connection speed and the distance between you and the VPN server. By following these steps and optimizing your VPN settings, you can ensure a faster and more efficient VPN experience.
Before | After |
---|---|
Internet Speed | 10 Mbps |
VPN Speed | 8 Mbps |
Speed Difference | -20% |
By switching to a closer VPN server, I was able to improve my VPN speed by 20%. This significantly enhanced my browsing and streaming experience, making it faster and more enjoyable.
Remember, VPN speed can vary depending on various factors, so it’s important to regularly test and optimize your VPN settings to ensure the best possible performance. Additionally, choosing a reputable VPN provider with a robust infrastructure can greatly contribute to a fast and reliable VPN connection.
Conclusion
Ensuring the proper functioning of your VPN is essential for safeguarding your online privacy and protecting your data. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can verify that your VPN is working effectively.
First, check if your VPN is successfully masking your IP address by comparing your original IP with the one provided by your VPN after connecting to a server. Additionally, test for DNS leaks and WebRTC leaks using online tools like DNSLeakTest and IPLeak.
Furthermore, make sure your VPN is securely connected by confirming that it hides your real IP address, protects against DNS leaks and WebRTC leaks, and employs strong encryption. To optimize your VPN experience, test your internet speed with and without the VPN connection using tools like Speedtest, and consider changing VPN servers or protocols if significant speed differences are observed.
If you encounter any issues with your VPN, such as a connection not working or blocked websites, follow the troubleshooting steps mentioned in section 9 and section 10. Remember to choose a reputable VPN provider that prioritizes online privacy and data protection.
FAQ
How do I know if my VPN is working?
There are several ways to check if your VPN is working properly. You can test for IP address changes, DNS leaks, WebRTC leaks, check your VPN status, test your internet speed, and check if your VPN connection is blocked. By following these steps, you can ensure the effectiveness and security of your VPN.
How do I test my VPN for IP address leaks?
To test for IP address leaks, compare your original IP address with the IP address provided by your VPN after connecting to a server. If they are different, it means your VPN is successfully hiding your real IP address and protecting your privacy.
How do I test my VPN for DNS leaks?
You can use online tools like DNSLeakTest to test for DNS leaks. The test will show if your actual IP address and location are being exposed instead of the IP address provided by your VPN. If a DNS leak is detected, consider switching to a VPN provider with dedicated DNS servers and built-in DNS leak protection.
How do I test my VPN for WebRTC leaks?
To test for WebRTC leaks, visit websites like IPLeak and check if your VPN’s IP address is different from your original IP address. Use a browser that excludes WebRTC or manually disable WebRTC in your browser settings to prevent leaks.
How do I test my VPN speed?
Use online tools like Speedtest to measure your internet speed with and without the VPN connection. The speed difference between the two tests will indicate the impact of the VPN on your internet speed. Consider changing VPN servers or protocols if the speed is significantly slower with the VPN.
How do I test if my VPN connection is blocked?
Try accessing websites that are normally blocked while connected to your VPN. If you can access these websites by switching to an obfuscated server or using a dedicated IP address, it means your VPN is functioning properly and bypassing the restrictions.
How do I test my VPN for malware?
Choose a reputable VPN provider with strong security measures. Use updated anti-malware software, test your VPN in a sandbox environment, and monitor your network activity to detect any suspicious behavior.
Why is my VPN connected but not working?
There could be various reasons behind the issue, such as an unstable internet connection, firewall or security tools interfering with the VPN network, incorrect VPN settings, ISP or country blocking VPN usage, VPN malware, or being hacked. Troubleshoot by checking firewall settings, ensuring stable internet connection, verifying VPN settings, and contacting your VPN provider for assistance.
What should I do if my VPN isn’t working?
Troubleshooting steps include resetting your router or mobile connection, checking your account details and payment status, testing your internet speed, checking for VPN service disruptions, disabling standalone firewalls, switching between VPN protocols, and contacting your VPN provider for guidance.
How can I tell if my VPN is securely connected?
To check if your VPN is securely connected, test for IP address masking, DNS leaks, and WebRTC leaks. If your VPN effectively hides your real IP address, protects your DNS information, and prevents WebRTC leaks, it indicates a secure connection. Choose a reliable and reputable VPN provider for a secure VPN connection.
How do I check if my VPN is masking my IP address?
Compare your original IP address with the IP address provided by your VPN after connecting to a server. If they are different, it means your VPN is successfully masking your IP address and ensuring your privacy while browsing online.
How do I check if my VPN is leaking DNS info?
Use online tools like DNSLeakTest and compare the results with your VPN’s virtual IP address and chosen location. If the results show your actual IP address or your ISP’s DNS, it indicates a DNS leak. Switch to a VPN provider that offers dedicated DNS servers and built-in DNS leak protection.
How do I check if my VPN is leaking WebRTC info?
Use websites like IPLeak and compare your VPN’s IP address with your original IP address. If they match, it indicates a WebRTC leak. Prevent WebRTC leaks by using browsers that exclude WebRTC or manually disabling WebRTC in your browser settings. Choose a VPN provider that prevents WebRTC leaks.
How do I test and improve my VPN speed?
Measure your internet speed with and without the VPN connection using tools like Speedtest. If the speed is significantly slower with the VPN, try changing VPN servers or protocols to improve performance. Consider factors like overall internet speed and distance between you and the VPN server.