How to check if a VPN is working or not?

Is Your VPN Actually Working? A Simple Guide to Verification

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) promises anonymity and security online, masking your IP address and encrypting your data. But how do you know if your VPN is actually doing its job? Simply connecting to a server isn’t enough; a leaky VPN offers little protection. This guide provides straightforward steps to check your VPN’s effectiveness.

Step 1: Identify Your Original IP Address

Before connecting to your VPN, it’s crucial to know your public IP address. This is the address visible to websites and other online services. Several websites offer this information for free; simply search for “what is my IP address” and choose a reputable site. Note down this IP address – it’s your baseline. Alternatively, you can use the command prompt (cmd.exe on Windows or Terminal on macOS/Linux) and type ipconfig (Windows) or ip addr show (Linux/macOS) to find your IPv4 address.

Step 2: Connect to Your VPN

Now, connect to your chosen VPN server. Select a server location if you have preferences. Allow sufficient time for the connection to establish; the connection process often includes a handshake that may take a few seconds.

Step 3: Perform a DNS Leak Test

This is the crucial step. A DNS leak test checks if your DNS queries (requests for website addresses) are still being routed through your original ISP’s DNS servers instead of your VPN’s. If they are, your VPN is leaking, exposing your actual location and potentially compromising your privacy.

Many free and reliable DNS leak test websites are available. A simple Google search will reveal several options. Use one of these services – they typically involve simply clicking a button and waiting a few seconds for the results.

Step 4: Analyze the Results

The test results will display your IP address and often your DNS server information. Compare the IP address shown after the VPN connection to the IP address you noted down in Step 1.

• Scenario 1: The IP addresses are the same. This indicates a DNS leak. Your VPN is not masking your IP address effectively. This is a serious issue, and you should contact your VPN provider immediately. Your online activity is likely not as protected as you believe.

• Scenario 2: The IP addresses are different. Congratulations! Your VPN is successfully masking your IP address. The IP address shown should be associated with the VPN server’s location you selected. This confirms that your internet traffic is being routed through the VPN’s encrypted tunnel.

Beyond the IP Address:

While checking your IP address is the most common method, a comprehensive check should also consider:

• WebRTC Leaks: WebRTC (Web Real-Time Communication) is a technology used for real-time communication, and it can sometimes leak your real IP address even if your VPN is connected. Search for “WebRTC leak test” to verify this aspect.

• IPv6 Leaks: If you have IPv6 enabled, your VPN might not cover this, leaking your actual IP address. Check for IPv6 leaks using specialized tools.

Regularly testing your VPN’s functionality ensures ongoing privacy and security. By following these simple steps, you can gain confidence that your online activity remains protected and anonymous. Remember to choose a reputable VPN provider with a strong reputation for security and privacy.