Is My VPN Working?
🔍 Quick answer:
To check if your VPN is working, visit whatismyip.com — your IP should show the VPN server's location, not your real one. Then run a DNS leak test at dnsleaktest.com and a WebRTC leak test at browserleaks.com/webrtc. If all tests show the VPN's IP and no leaks, your VPN is working correctly.
4 tests to verify your VPN is working
Test 1: IP address check
Visit whatismyip.com or ipleak.net. Your IP address and location should match the VPN server you're connected to — NOT your real location. If you see your real city/ISP, your VPN is NOT working.
Test 2: DNS leak test
Go to dnsleaktest.com → Run the extended test. You should only see DNS servers belonging to your VPN provider. If you see your ISP's DNS servers, you have a DNS leak.
Test 3: WebRTC leak test (browser only)
Visit browserleaks.com/webrtc. WebRTC can expose your real IP even through VPNs. If you see your real IP listed, you have a WebRTC leak. Fix by disabling WebRTC or using a browser extension.
Test 4: Kill switch test
Temporarily disconnect your VPN (or force-close the app). If your internet instantly stops working, your kill switch is active. If you can still browse, your kill switch is NOT enabled — enable it in VPN settings.
Quick checklist: Is my VPN working?
| Test | Pass (VPN working) | Fail (VPN not working) |
|---|---|---|
| IP address | Shows VPN server location | Shows your real location/ISP |
| DNS test | Only VPN provider DNS servers | Your ISP's DNS servers appear |
| WebRTC test | Only VPN IP shown | Your real IP appears |
| Kill switch | Internet stops when VPN disconnects | Internet continues when VPN drops |
What to do if your VPN isn't working
- Wrong IP showing: Disconnect and reconnect to a different server, or try switching protocols (WireGuard → OpenVPN)
- DNS leak: Enable "DNS leak protection" in VPN settings, or manually set DNS to Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) or Google (8.8.8.8)
- WebRTC leak: Install "WebRTC Leak Prevent" extension (Chrome/Firefox) or disable WebRTC in browser settings
- Kill switch not working: Enable "Always-on VPN" or "Network Lock" in your VPN app settings
💡 Pro tip: Run these tests after every VPN install and periodically afterward. A VPN can appear connected while still leaking your real IP through DNS or WebRTC — testing ensures you're actually protected.
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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.