What is My VPN?
🔍 Quick answer:
Your VPN is the service that's currently protecting your internet connection. To see which VPN you're using, check your device — look for a VPN app (ExpressVPN, NordVPN, ProtonVPN) in your applications folder or home screen. You can also go to Settings → VPN (Windows/Mac) or Settings → General → VPN (iPhone) to see your active VPN configuration. To see your VPN's IP address, visit whatismyip.com — it will show the location of the VPN server you're connected to.
How to identify your VPN
On iPhone / iPad
Look for a VPN app on your home screen. Then go to Settings → General → VPN & Device Management — your active VPN configuration will show the provider name.
On Android
Check your app drawer for a VPN app. Then go to Settings → Connections → VPN — your active VPN will be listed with the provider name.
On Windows
Look for a VPN icon in the system tray (bottom-right). Click it to see which app. Also check Settings → Network & Internet → VPN.
On Mac
Look for a VPN icon in the menu bar (top-right). Click it to see which app. Also check System Settings → VPN.
How to check your VPN status and IP
- Check if VPN is on: Look for a VPN icon in your status bar (iPhone/Android) or system tray (Windows/Mac)
- Check your VPN IP: Visit whatismyip.com — the location shown is your VPN server's location
- Check for leaks: Visit dnsleaktest.com to ensure your real IP isn't exposed
What if you don't recognize your VPN?
If you see a VPN active that you didn't install:
- Check for work/school profiles: Your employer or school may have installed a VPN for security
- Check for malware: Some malicious apps add VPN profiles. Remove any unknown VPN configurations immediately
- Remove unknown VPN: Go to your device's VPN settings and delete any configuration you don't recognize
💡 Pro tip: To see exactly which VPN server you're connected to, most VPN apps show the server name/city when you tap the connection status. You can also visit whatismyip.com to see the location and sometimes the hosting provider (like "M247" or "DataCamp").
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Similar questions
Terms you'll meet
- IP address
- Your device's public ID online.
- Encryption
- Scrambling data so only you can read it.
- No‑logs policy
- VPN doesn't store your activity.