How to know if your VPN is working

Published On - April 7, 2025

ivan Blogging

Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a powerful way to protect your privacy and enhance security while browsing the internet. However, simply connecting to a VPN doesn’t always guarantee that your information is fully shielded. Ensuring the VPN is functioning correctly is essential to avoiding data leaks, preserving anonymity, and accessing geo-restricted content securely. Here’s how users can confirm whether their VPN is genuinely working as expected.

1. Check Your IP Address

One of the most straightforward ways to verify if a VPN is active is by checking your IP address. Without a VPN, your device connects to the internet using your local IP assigned by your ISP. When you’re connected to a VPN, this IP should be masked by the VPN server’s IP address.

To check this, follow these steps:

  • First, disconnect your VPN and visit an IP-check website such as whatismyipaddress.com.
  • Note the IP address and location that appears.
  • Reconnect your VPN and refresh the same site.
  • If the IP and location change to match your VPN server, it’s working.

2. Perform a DNS Leak Test

Domain Name System (DNS) leaks can occur even when a VPN is enabled, potentially exposing your browsing data to your internet service provider. To test for DNS leaks:

  • Go to websites like dnsleaktest.com while your VPN is active.
  • Run the extended test. The results should only show DNS servers associated with your VPN provider.
  • If servers from your ISP are still visible, your DNS requests are leaking — meaning your VPN may not be working properly in this area.

3. Test for WebRTC Leaks

WebRTC is a browser feature that can expose your real IP address even while using a VPN. To ensure that your VPN prevents WebRTC leaks:

  • Visit a site like browserleaks.com/webrtc after turning on your VPN.
  • If your real IP is visible alongside your VPN IP, your protection may be compromised.

Some browsers allow disabling WebRTC, or you can use browser extensions to manage this risk.

4. Access Geo-Restricted Content

Many users rely on VPNs to access content blocked in their region, such as streaming services from another country. Trying to reach such content is another good way to confirm your VPN’s functionality.

If you’re connected to a UK VPN server, for example, and can successfully access BBC iPlayer, your traffic is successfully routed through the UK.

5. Monitor Internet Speed

Using a VPN may reduce your internet speed slightly, especially if you’re connecting to a faraway server. Run a speed test before and after connecting to your VPN at sites like speedtest.net. Changes in speed can indicate that your traffic is being encrypted and tunneled properly.

6. Verify Encryption with Tools

Some advanced users may want to dive deeper and check their VPN tunnel’s encryption strength with tools such as Wireshark. Encrypted data packets should appear as gibberish in such tools if the VPN is securing traffic properly.

7. Use VPN-Specific Testing Tools

Some premium VPN providers offer internal tools to confirm that your traffic is secured, DNS isn’t leaking, and your IP is hidden. Browsing your provider’s app or website often reveals a status dashboard with confirmation of active protection layers.

FAQ

  • Q: Can my VPN be active but still leak data?
    A: Yes. VPNs can suffer from DNS or WebRTC leaks. It’s important to run specific tests to identify these issues even if the VPN is connected.
  • Q: Are free VPNs reliable for protecting my IP?
    A: Not always. Free VPNs can come with limitations, fewer security features, and may even sell user data. Premium services often offer better security and leak protection.
  • Q: Does using a VPN slow down internet speed?
    A: Some speed loss is normal, especially when connected to servers far from your physical location. Strong VPNs minimize this impact with fast and optimized servers.
  • Q: Is it necessary to test my VPN every time I use it?
    A: No, but it’s wise to test it occasionally or after changing settings or switching providers to ensure everything works as expected.

Ensuring your VPN works properly isn’t a one-time task — regular checks can help maintain your privacy and security. Through quick tests and prudent use of tools, users can enjoy browsing with greater peace of mind.