How to make your VPN faster

Many people experience the frustration of firing up a VPN for extra online privacy and security, only to watch their internet speeds grind to a halt. It’s frustrating, to say the least. Just ask Terry from Reno, who recently reached out with this plea for help:

My VPN slows down my phone to the point where I can’t open the apps! Help!

Don’t worry, Terry, you’re not alone. VPNs are amazing tools for protecting your data and accessing geo-restricted content. But that extra layer of encryption and rerouting can definitely put the brakes on your connection speeds. The good news is there are several things you can try to get that VPN running faster. Let’s dive in.

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Make sure it’s actually the VPN

Before we blame the VPN, let’s make sure it’s really the culprit. Here’s a quick test:

1) Disconnect from your VPN: Close your VPN application completely or turn off the VPN connection in your device settings.

2) Run a speed test at Speedtest.net and note the results: Click the “Go” button and wait for the test to complete. Write down your download and upload speeds, as well as the 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 it detects your new location, then run the test again. Note down the new results.

If your VPN-connected speeds are less than about 60% of your normal speeds, then Houston, we have a VPN problem. If the difference is minimal, you may just need to optimize your base internet connection first.

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Fixing VPN speed issues

When encountering slow speeds while using a Virtual Private Network (VPN), it’s crucial to approach the problem systematically. Assuming the VPN is indeed the bottleneck in your connection, there are several steps you can employ to potentially boost your speeds and improve your overall experience.

1) Switch VPN servers

The physical distance between you and the VPN server location plays a significant role in connection speeds. Opting for a server closer to your geographical location can often result in a noticeable improvement. If you need to connect to a specific country for content access or other reasons, experiment with different cities within that country. Many VPN providers offer multiple server location options in popular countries. Additionally, some VPNs display server load information, which can be incredibly useful. Connecting to a less crowded server location typically yields faster speeds, as you’re sharing fewer resources with other users.

2) Tweak VPN settings

Adjusting your VPN settings can lead to performance enhancements. If your VPN service allows for customization, consider lowering the encryption level from 256-bit to 128-bit AES. While 256-bit encryption is incredibly secure, it can sometimes impact speed. The 128-bit AES encryption is still considered very secure for most purposes and may offer a speed boost. Another setting to look for is the WireGuard protocol. If your VPN provider offers this newer protocol, enabling it could significantly improve your connection speed, as it’s designed to be both faster and more efficient than older protocols. For those using the OpenVPN protocol, switching from TCP to UDP can often result in faster speeds. However, approach these changes cautiously, especially if you’re not entirely sure about their implications. Avoid disabling critical security features in your quest for speed.

3) Change VPN protocols

Different protocols offer varying levels of speed and security. Generally, protocols like PPTP, L2TP, and IKEv2 are known for their speed but may not provide the highest level of security. OpenVPN is often the default choice as it strikes a good balance between 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 potentially provide a noticeable speed boost without compromising security.

4) Update your VPN app

Keeping your VPN application up to date is essential for ensuring optimal performance and security. VPN providers frequently release updates that not only enhance the overall functionality of their software but also address any bugs or vulnerabilities that may have been discovered. An outdated VPN app can lead to compatibility issues with your operating system, which can hinder performance and reduce connection speeds. Therefore, it is advisable to regularly check for updates within your VPN app’s settings or visit the provider’s official website to download the latest version. Additionally, many VPN services offer an automatic update feature, which you should enable to ensure that you are always using the most current version of the software without having to remember to do it manually.

5) Close background apps and optimize your device

To improve your VPN speed, it is important to minimize the load on your device by closing unnecessary applications running in the background. Many applications consume bandwidth and processing power, which can significantly affect your VPN’s performance. For instance, streaming services, file-sharing programs, or even software that automatically updates can slow down your connection. Before connecting to your VPN, take a moment to close these apps and consider disabling any auto-sync features temporarily.  Also, restarting your device before initiating a VPN connection is also a good practice, as it clears temporary files and frees up memory, allowing for a smoother experience.

6) Consider a faster VPN service

If you have tried various troubleshooting methods and your current VPN service still fails to deliver satisfactory speeds, it may be time to explore other options. The market is filled with numerous VPN providers that emphasize speed and reliability, so conducting thorough research is essential. Look for services that boast a large network of servers strategically located around the world, as this can significantly enhance connection speeds. Many top-tier VPN providers offer free trials or money-back guarantees, allowing you to test their performance without any financial risk. When evaluating potential new services, consider not only their speed but also their security features, privacy policies, and customer support options. By making an informed choice, you can find a VPN that meets both your speed requirements and security needs effectively.

Remember, while these strategies can help optimize your VPN speed, it’s important to have realistic expectations. Your base internet speed, provided by your Internet Service Provider (ISP), will always be the ultimate limiting factor. No VPN can make your connection faster than the maximum speed your ISP provides. However, by implementing these techniques, you can ensure that you’re getting the most out of your VPN connection and minimizing any unnecessary slowdowns.

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Find the perfect VPN

Regardless of whether you are new to VPNs or in need of a faster, more secure option, you’ll want to choose trusted VPN providers known for robust encryption and no-log policies to ensure your privacy. Whether for sensitive tasks or everyday use, reputable VPN services will boost both your security and speed.  ExpressVPN and Surfshark are both trusted VPN services that prioritize your privacy and security and are available on a wide range of platforms, including Mac, Windows, iOS, Android, and popular browsers.

1) ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN is known for its speed, reliability, and strong privacy features. It offers ultra-fast servers in 105 countries, supports P2P sharing, and allows up to 8 devices to connect simultaneously. Available on a wide range of devices, it features a simple setup that takes less than 2 minutes. ExpressVPN’s strict no-log policy ensures your data is never stored, and all servers run on RAM, so no user activity is saved. With 24/7 live customer support and a 30-day money-back guarantee, ExpressVPN is a top choice for privacy-conscious users

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2) Surfshark: Another excellent option, Surfshark provides strong security features at an affordable price. Like ExpressVPN, Surfshark operates under a strict no-logs policy and uses advanced encryption to keep your data safe. One standout feature is Surfshark’s ability to support unlimited devices on a single account, making it ideal for families or users with multiple gadgets.

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Both VPNs offer top-notch security, ensuring that your browsing history, IP address, and online activities remain private.

For best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices

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Kurt’s key takeaways

VPNs are incredible privacy tools, but they shouldn’t cripple your internet experience. With a bit of tweaking, you should be able to find a sweet spot between speed and security. And Terry, I hope these tips help get your phone apps running smoothly again. Remember, a good VPN might slow things down a tad, but it shouldn’t make your device unusable. If nothing here helps, definitely reach out to your VPN’s support team or consider trying a different service.

What challenges have you faced when trying to balance VPN security with connection speed, and how did you overcome them? Let us know in the comments below. 

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