There are a number of steps you can take to check whether your VPN service is working hard or hardly working. Users can start by simply searching for the term “my location” on their search engine. The result should be a location near the server they’re connected to. However, if the server is close to their actual location, then further information will be necessary. It is a good idea to check the IP address. IP tracker is a useful tool, since besides indicating the current IP address, it will also give information about the internet service provider, which won’t be the same as the actual ISP.
The connection’s speed should also be tested when checking if the VPN is working or not. Though it does not directly indicate if the VPN is connected, it will give some insight into the current connection. Information about the latency, download, and upload speeds is useful since it might indicate if the connection is just slow or if there’s an issue with the network. Nonetheless, since servers aren’t usually near the individual’s actual location, it’s common that connections will be slower using a VPN. The farther the server is located, the slower the connection will be. Speedtest.net also provides information about the ISP that is being used at the moment of the test.
The program’s features should be reviewed as well. Most VPNs offer the option to notify users when the connection fails. It’s important to enable these notifications so that you’ll be warned if the service stops working. Some VPNs also have a kill switch feature, which will turn off the internet connection if the service fails. This way, there’s no risk of having your anonymity compromised.
Whenever you’re using a VPN service, it’s also important to check it for DNS leaks before browsing. DNS leaks happen when your traffic is not being successfully routed through the anonymity network, meaning that your traffic is wide open for monitoring by your ISP and any third parties, and almost anyone is able to log your activity. If the test results are positive, then switching servers is recommended.
After taking all these security steps, users can also test the VPN by trying to access a streaming service available only in the country where the service is connected. If the service is working, the VPN will overcome any kind of geographic restrictions in place, making the content available for viewing.