Many people rely on VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) to increase their online privacy and security, but find that their internet speeds have suddenly become unusually slow. But what exactly do VPNs do, and why do they cause such slowdowns?
A VPN works by creating a secure, encrypted path between your device and the internet, keeping your data private from hackers, advertisers, and anyone else trying to monitor your activity. This encryption process allows you to browse as if you were in another location, which helps you access content that is restricted in that location.
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Just ask Terry in Reno, who recently complained about this.
“Using a VPN slows down my phone to the point where I can't open apps. Please help!”
You're not alone, Terry. VPNs are great tools for protecting your data and unlocking restricted content, but the extra layer of protection and location masking can slow things down. The good news? There are several ways to keep your VPN running smoothly without sacrificing security. Let's dive in.
Woman using VPN on her laptop. (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
Make sure it's actually a VPN
Before you blame the VPN, let's make sure it's really the culprit. Here's a quick test:
1. Disconnect from your VPN. Close the VPN application completely or turn off the VPN connection in your device settings.
2. Run a speed test on Speedtest.net and check the results. Click the Run button and wait until the test completes. Note the download and upload speeds, ping.
3. Connect to your VPN. Open your VPN application and connect to your preferred server. Wait until the connection is fully established.
4. Run the speed test again. Refresh the Speedtest.net page to ensure the new location is detected and run the test again. Write down the new results.
If the speed of your VPN connection is less than about 60% of its normal speed, Houston, there is a problem with your VPN. If the differences are minimal, you may only need to optimize your basic internet connection first.
Woman using VPN on her mobile phone. (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
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Fixing VPN speed issues
If you experience slowdowns while using a VPN, it's important to address the issue systematically. Assuming that your VPN is indeed the bottleneck to your connection, there are some steps you can take to increase speed and improve your overall experience.
1. Switch VPN server
The physical distance between the user and the VPN server location plays an important role in connection speed. Choosing servers that are geographically close will often result in noticeable improvements. If you need to connect to a specific country, such as to access content, try different cities in that country. Many VPN providers offer multiple server options in popular locations. Additionally, some VPNs display server load information, which can be very helpful. Connecting to a less busy server will usually be faster because it shares fewer resources with other users.
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VPNs have a variety of server locations available. (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
2. Tweak your VPN settings
Adjusting your VPN settings may improve performance. If your VPN service allows customization, consider lowering the encryption level from 256-bit to 128-bit AES. 256-bit encryption is very secure, but it may affect speed. 128-bit AES encryption is still considered very secure for most purposes and may provide speed improvements. Another setting you should look for is the WireGuard protocol. If your VPN provider offers this new protocol, enabling it can significantly improve your connection speeds as it is designed to be faster and more efficient than older protocols. When using the OpenVPN protocol, switching from TCP to UDP often improves speed. However, approach these changes with caution, especially if you are not completely sure of their impact. Avoid disabling important security features in the pursuit of speed.
3. Change VPN protocol
Different protocols offer different levels of speed and security. Protocols such as PPTP, L2TP, and IKEv2 are generally known for their speed, but they do not offer the highest level of security. OpenVPN is often the default choice because it offers a good balance of speed and security. If you decide to stick with OpenVPN, which is recommended for most users, try switching from TCP to UDP. This simple change can significantly increase speed without compromising security.
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4. Update your VPN app
Keeping your VPN application updated is essential to ensure optimal performance and security. VPN providers frequently release updates that not only enhance the overall functionality of their software, but also address bugs and vulnerabilities that are discovered. Outdated VPN apps can have compatibility issues with your operating system, resulting in poor performance and slow connection speeds. Therefore, we recommend that you regularly check for updates within your VPN app's settings or visit your provider's official website to download the latest version. Additionally, many VPN services offer an auto-update feature, so you should enable this feature to ensure you always have the latest version of the software without having to update it manually.
5. Optimize your device by closing background apps
To improve your VPN speed, it's important to close unnecessary applications running in the background to minimize the load on your device. Many applications consume bandwidth and processing power and can have a significant impact on your VPN's performance. For example, streaming services, file sharing programs, and even software that updates automatically can slow down your connection. Consider closing these apps and temporarily disabling the auto-sync feature before connecting to a VPN. It is also recommended that you restart your device before starting a VPN connection. This clears temporary files and frees up memory for a smoother experience.
6. Consider a faster VPN service
If you've tried various troubleshooting methods and your current VPN service still doesn't provide satisfactory speeds, it may be time to consider other options. There are many VPN providers on the market that value speed and reliability, so thorough research is essential. Look for a service that boasts a large network of servers strategically located around the world, as this can significantly increase your connection speed. Many top VPN providers offer free trials or money-back guarantees, allowing you to test performance without financial risk. When evaluating potential new services, consider not only speed, but also security features, privacy policies, and customer support options. With an informed choice, you can find a VPN that effectively meets both your speed requirements and security needs.
While these strategies can help you optimize your VPN speed, keep in mind that it's important to have realistic expectations. The base internet speed provided by your internet service provider (ISP) is always the ultimate limiting factor. No VPN will allow you to connect faster than the maximum speed provided by your ISP. However, by implementing these techniques, you can get the most out of your VPN connection and minimize unnecessary slowdowns.
Woman using VPN on her tablet. (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
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Find your perfect VPN
Whether you're new to VPNs or want a faster, more secure option, we recommend choosing a trusted VPN provider known for its robust encryption and no-logs policy to ensure your privacy. Recommended. Whether for sensitive tasks or everyday use, a trusted VPN service improves both security and speed. For the best VPN software, check out my expert reviews of the best VPNs to browse the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.
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Cart important points
A VPN is a great privacy tool, but it shouldn't compromise your internet experience. With a little tweaking, you should be able to find the sweet spot between speed and security. And Terry, we hope these tips will help you get your smartphone apps running smoothly again. A good VPN might slow things down a bit, but it won't render your device unusable. If nothing works here, be sure to contact your VPN's support team or consider trying a different service.
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