How to Check if VPN is Working

July 1, 2025
Scott Wu

The simplest way for a person to check if their VPN is working is to compare their public IP address before and after connecting to the VPN. Before activating the VPN, a user can search “what is my IP” on Google to see their real IP address and location. After connecting to the VPN, they can perform the same search. If the IP address and location have changed to match the VPN server’s location, the VPN is performing its most basic function correctly.

For those who want to be more thorough, there are a few key tests that can provide peace of mind and ensure a secure connection. Below are the essential steps to verify that a VPN is working as intended.

Step 1: The Fundamental IP Address Check

The primary job of a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is to mask a user’s real IP address. An IP address is a unique identifier for a device on the internet, and it can reveal a person’s approximate geographic location. By routing traffic through a remote server, a VPN replaces this original IP with one from its own network.

This is the most critical test, and performing it is straightforward:

  1. Disconnect the VPN: Ensure the VPN application is completely turned off.
  2. Find the Real IP: Open a web browser and navigate to a site like whatismyipaddress.com or ipleak.net. The site will display the user’s current public IP address and the associated city and country, which belongs to their Internet Service Provider (ISP).
  3. Connect the VPN: Open the VPN application and connect to a server. For a clear result, it helps to choose a server in a different country.
  4. Check the New IP: Refresh the IP-checking website or open it in a new tab. The website should now display a completely different IP address, and the location should match the country of the VPN server that was selected.

If the IP address and location have changed, the VPN is successfully hiding the user’s real identity online.

Step 2: Checking for DNS Leaks

While the IP address might be hidden, a more subtle issue called a DNS leak can sometimes occur. The Domain Name System (DNS) acts like the internet’s phonebook, translating human-readable website names (like google.com) into computer-readable IP addresses. Normally, this request goes through a user’s ISP.

When using a VPN, these DNS requests should be routed through the VPN’s anonymous DNS servers. A leak happens when the request bypasses the VPN and goes to the ISP’s servers instead, potentially exposing browsing activity.

To test for this:

  1. With the VPN connected, visit a specialized testing site like dnsleaktest.com.
  2. Run the “Standard” or “Extended” test.
  3. The results will show the IP addresses and owners of the DNS servers being used. If the test shows servers belonging to the VPN provider, the connection is secure. If it shows servers belonging to the user’s own ISP, there is a DNS leak.

Most reputable VPN services have built-in DNS leak protection, which is often enabled by default.

Step 3: Looking for WebRTC Leaks

WebRTC (Web Real-Time Communication) is a technology built into most modern browsers (like Chrome, Firefox, and Edge) that allows for real-time voice and video communication directly within the browser. While useful, a vulnerability in WebRTC can sometimes cause it to reveal a user’s original IP address, even when a VPN is active.

Testing for a WebRTC leak is simple:

  1. Ensure the VPN is connected.
  2. Go to a site that offers a WebRTC leak test (many IP-checking sites have this tool).
  3. The test results should display a “Public IP Address.” This address should be the VPN’s IP, not the user’s original one. If the original IP is visible, a WebRTC leak is happening.

Many VPN providers offer browser extensions or have features in their apps to specifically block WebRTC leaks.

What to Do If a Test Fails

If any of these tests reveal a user’s real IP address or ISP information, it means the VPN is not providing full protection. In this case, a person can:

  • Check VPN Settings: Look for security features like “DNS Leak Protection,” “IPv6 Leak Protection,” and a “Kill Switch” within the VPN app and make sure they are enabled. A kill switch is particularly important, as it automatically cuts internet access if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly.
  • Switch Servers: Sometimes a specific server may be misconfigured. Trying a different server location can resolve the issue.
  • Contact Support: If problems persist, reaching out to the VPN provider’s customer support is the best course of action. They can help diagnose and fix the problem.
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