Using a VPN is one of the most effective ways to protect your online privacy, secure sensitive data, and browse safely on public networks. However, many users don’t realize that a VPN may not always work correctly, leaving their information exposed. Asking “am I using a VPN?” is essential to ensure that your connection is truly protected. This guide will show you step by step how to verify your VPN’s performance and security.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- How to detect IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks that could reveal your real location
- How to test your VPN’s speed and connection stability
- Ways to ensure your VPN is not blocked by websites or services
Follow these steps to confidently answer “am I using a VPN?”, and keep your personal information and online activities private.
How to check if I am using a VPN?
Even if your VPN shows it is connected, it may still leak information or fail to fully secure your connection.
At Safelyo, we’re dedicated to helping users understand these risks clearly. Michale Dang, our Chief Technology Officer and the expert behind Safelyo’s privacy testing systems, often emphasizes that simply switching on a VPN doesn’t guarantee complete anonymity. Regular checks are essential to confirm that your VPN is working as intended, protecting your data, and giving you the privacy you expect.
Check for IP address leaks
Your IP address identifies your device and location online. If your VPN doesn’t hide it properly, websites and services can track you.
To reduce this risk, many users choose providers listed in our guide to the Best VPN for privacy, since these services are tested to prevent IP leaks and keep your identity protected.
Step-by-step check:
- Disconnect your VPN and visit an IP checker site such as whatismyipaddress.com. Note your real IP address and location.
- Connect to a VPN server in a different country. Refresh the IP checker page.
- Confirm that the IP address and location now match the VPN server.
- Test multiple servers to ensure the VPN consistently masks your IP.
Tip: If your real IP still appears while connected, your VPN is leaking information, and you should contact the provider or change servers.
Check for DNS leaks
DNS (Domain Name System) leaks can reveal the websites you visit, even if your IP is hidden. These leaks are particularly dangerous because your browsing habits may be tracked by ISPs, governments, or advertisers.
How to check:
- Visit ipleak.net or dnsleaktest.com.
- Let the test run completely.
- Review the IPs and locations listed under DNS servers.
Interpretation:
- If only the VPN’s IP shows, your DNS requests are secure.
- If your real IP or ISP appears, there is a DNS leak, meaning your VPN is not fully protecting your browsing.
Check for WebRTC leaks
WebRTC is a browser feature that allows audio and video communication but can also expose your real IP even when connected to a VPN.
How to check:
- Connect to your VPN server.
- Open a WebRTC leak test page like browserleaks.com/webrtc.
- Examine the IPs displayed, only your VPN IP should be visible.
Tip: If your real IP appears, disable WebRTC in your browser settings or use a browser extension that blocks WebRTC leaks.
Test VPN speed
A VPN encrypts your data, which can slightly reduce internet speed. However, unusually slow speeds may indicate server congestion, a technical issue, or an improperly configured VPN.
Step-by-step check:
- Connect to your VPN.
- Run a speed test on speedtest.net or fast.com.
- Disconnect your VPN and test again.
- Compare the results. A small drop (10-20%) is normal, but large drops (50%+) indicate problems.
Tip: Switch to a different server or protocol if speed drops significantly. Many VPNs offer “optimized” servers for streaming or gaming.
Verify if the VPN connection is being blocked
Some websites, especially streaming services or financial platforms, block VPN connections to enforce geo-restrictions or prevent fraud.
Step-by-step check:
- Connect to your VPN.
- Try accessing websites or services that typically restrict VPN traffic (e.g., Netflix, Hulu, or bank sites).
- If you can access them only when the VPN is on, your VPN is working.
- If access fails, try switching servers, changing protocols, or contacting your VPN provider.
Tip: Using servers located in your target region usually bypasses geo-blocks more reliably.
Scan your VPN app for malware
Even legitimate VPN apps can sometimes be compromised, especially if downloaded from untrusted sources. Malware can monitor your data, defeating the purpose of using a VPN.
How to ensure safety:
- Download VPN apps only from official sources (provider website, Google Play, App Store).
- Use antivirus or anti-malware software to scan the app before installation.
- Perform regular scans to detect any malware or tampering.
- If malware is found, uninstall the app immediately and switch to a trusted VPN provider.
Tip: Paid VPN services are usually more reliable and secure than free ones.
Why it’s important to check if I am using a VPN
Regularly verifying your VPN is essential to ensure that your online privacy, data security, and internet freedom remain intact. Even if your VPN app shows that it’s connected, small issues like IP leaks, DNS leaks, or WebRTC leaks can still expose your real location or browsing activity.
Key reasons to verify your VPN:
- Protect your privacy: A properly functioning VPN hides your real IP address and location, making it difficult for websites, advertisers, or Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to track your online activities.
- Prevent data leaks: Even when connected, some VPNs can leak information through IP, DNS, or WebRTC leaks, which can reveal your identity or online behavior. Regular testing with tools like ipleak.net or browserleaks.com helps detect these leaks before they compromise your privacy.
- Access restricted content: A reliable VPN enables you to bypass geo-blocks, giving you access to streaming platforms, websites, or apps that may be unavailable in your region.
- Maintain a secure connection: A trusted VPN ensures continuous encryption of your internet traffic, preventing accidental exposure of sensitive data if the connection drops.
Regular verification not only confirms that your VPN is working as intended but also gives you peace of mind that your personal information and online activities remain fully protected.
Top 5 VPNs that actually work in 2025
Choosing the right VPN is key to keeping your data safe, enjoying fast internet, and accessing geo-restricted content. Here are the five best VPNs currently available, ranked from highest to lowest based on speed, security, and overall performance:
1. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN remains the top choice for its unmatched speed, reliability, and security. With over 3,000 servers across 94 countries, it ensures excellent global coverage. AES-256 encryption and a strict no-logs policy keep your online activities private. Features like a kill switch and split tunneling, along with multi-platform support (Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux), make it perfect for streaming, torrenting, and bypassing content restrictions safely.
2. NordVPN
NordVPN ranks second for its strong focus on privacy and security. Boasting over 5,500 servers in 60 countries, it offers advanced features such as Double VPN for extra encryption and Onion over VPN for enhanced anonymity. CyberSec blocks malware and intrusive ads. Its consistent performance and robust privacy protections make NordVPN a trusted choice for anyone serious about online safety.
3. Surfshark
Surfshark is a versatile, cost-effective VPN that allows unlimited device connections. Its fast, stable servers and strong encryption make it a practical choice for everyday use. Features like CleanWeb to block ads and trackers, MultiHop for routing through multiple servers, and camouflage mode to hide VPN usage provide excellent security and privacy, making Surfshark ideal for families or users with multiple devices.
4. Mullvad VPN
Mullvad VPN is a privacy-focused service that emphasizes anonymity. Using a unique account number system instead of emails, it collects minimal personal information. With support for OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols and servers in over 40 countries, Mullvad ensures fast and secure connections. Its strict no-logs policy and strong security features make it an excellent choice for users prioritizing full privacy.
5. CyberGhost
CyberGhost is a user-friendly VPN with over 9,000 servers in 91 countries. It excels in streaming and torrenting, offering dedicated servers for Netflix and YouTube. Smart Rules, P2P support, and an intuitive interface make it ideal for beginners who want a simple, effective VPN. While its privacy and security are solid, it ranks slightly lower than the others due to fewer advanced features for power users.
If you want to go beyond this quick ranking and explore in-depth reviews, performance benchmarks, and the most up-to-date recommendations, let’s read our full guide on Safelyo’s Best VPNs. It provides detailed comparisons to help you confidently choose the VPN that best matches your security, speed, and streaming needs.
FAQs – Am I using a VPN?
You might still have questions about how VPNs work and how to confirm if yours is active. In this FAQ section, we’ll answer the most common concerns people have when asking “Am I using a VPN?”. From checking connection leaks to understanding speed drops and VPN blocks, these answers will help you clear up doubts and use your VPN with confidence.
How often should I check if my VPN is active?
It’s recommended to verify your VPN connection every time you connect, especially when accessing sensitive information such as online banking or personal accounts, or when using public Wi-Fi networks. Regular checks ensure your online privacy and prevent accidental exposure of your real IP address.
Can a VPN leak my real IP without me knowing?
Yes, even when connected, a VPN can leak your real IP through IP leaks, DNS leaks, or WebRTC leaks. These leaks can expose your true location and browsing activity to websites, advertisers, or ISPs. Conducting regular VPN tests using IP checkers and leak test tools helps detect and fix these vulnerabilities.
Does slow internet always mean my VPN isn’t working?
Not necessarily. Minor speed drops are normal because a VPN encrypts your data, which adds overhead. However, significant speed loss may indicate server issues, network congestion, or improper VPN configuration. Testing different servers or changing VPN protocols can help restore faster, stable speeds while maintaining privacy.
What should I do if my VPN is blocked by a website?
Some websites and streaming platforms actively block VPN traffic. If this happens, try the following: switch to another VPN server, change the VPN protocol, or contact your VPN provider for support. Using a reliable VPN with many servers worldwide usually helps bypass these blocks without compromising security.
Is it safe to use free VPNs for privacy?
Most free VPNs come with serious limitations: they may log your data, show intrusive ads, or lack proper encryption, putting your privacy at risk. For reliable protection, it’s recommended to use trusted paid VPN services, which offer strong security features, no-logs policies, and better overall performance.
Conclusion
Asking “am I using a VPN?” is more than a question, it’s a necessary step to ensure your online safety. By testing for IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks, checking speed, and confirming access to blocked websites, you can ensure your VPN is performing correctly. Scanning your VPN app for malware adds an extra layer of protection, keeping your device secure.
Key takeaways:
- Check for IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks to protect your identity.
- Test VPN speed and stability for smooth browsing.
- Confirm VPN access to geo-restricted or blocked websites.
- Scan your VPN app for malware to prevent security risks.
Following these steps ensures your VPN is active and effective, keeping your data private and your online experience safe. For more practical guides, explore the Tech How-To Simplified section on Safelyo.
Contact information:
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