Many VPN providers nowadays boast the best speeds, security, server coverage, device coverage and more, but, can you take its word for it? How can someone look for a VPN service and just instantly buy it without knowing whether or not the performance is up to the mark?
This is not just for first-time VPN buyers, but even for users who are buying a new VPN after a long time. When it comes to online protection or the security of your privacy and data, you need to put all focus into the VPN you choose – specifically when you’re paying quite a lot for it.
With that in mind, it is crucial that everyone, regardless of beginner or professional, test a VPN software before buying it. Now sure how to get started? This guide will show you all that you need to know!
Why do you need to test a Virtual Private Network (VPN)?
A VPN is popularly known as a security software – its main target being to protect your privacy and security online. When you connect to the VPN by connecting to one of its servers, you’re basically creating a secure tunnel that passes all your data through it and then sends it off to the internet or to the final destination.
However, it is not as simple as that. That might sound all fine and well, but there is a lot to look into when picking the right kind of VPN for you.
Think of a VPN like a bucket of water that’s kept for storing. What happens when that bucket leaks? All the water gets out.
Similarly, a VPN is like a bucket of water but much more secure, handling all your data, and with one leak, it can leak your identity and expose your data to online threats – even if not intentionally.
This is why it is important that you test a VPN using its free trial to know it is the right one for you.
How do you test whether a VPN is working for you?
There are a couple of ways for you to test a VPN, and to know whether or not it is working.
Testing for DNS, IP and WebRTC leaks
For starters, we test for leaks around DNS, IP and WebRTC. An IP address is your physical location; your unique identifier.
When you connect to any one of the VPN’s IP addresses, you can change your IP and replace it with a virtual one, to appear as if you’re from that country.
DNS stands for Domain Name Search, and when it leaks, it gives away all your activities or domain search results.
WebRTC stands for Real Time Communication. It allows two browsers to communicate with each other, allowing file-sharing, audio, and video streaming etc. All you need to do is connect to any server and go to the following:
- net to check for IP leak tests
- Using the same IP checker, you can also check to see whether your DNS is leaking.
- For WebRTC go to dnsleaktest.com
Testing your Kill Switch
A Kill Switch is another feature to look for while choosing any VPN. It works to prevent your data and identity from leaking, shutting your internet off, if ever the VPN connection fails midway. Always look to see if the Kill Switch actually kills the internet connection; only then will you know that the VPN Kill Switch feature works.
Test the speeds
Noone likes buffering or lagging issues while trying to stream the best movies or download torrents. The constant setbacks paved by your internet service provider is terrible.
However, when you connect to a VPN server, your speeds are supposed to return back to normal. No, it won’t go faster, as you’re connecting to a server either far from your location, or to one that already has a lot of users on it.
To test the VPN for speeds, connect to any server and go to speedtest.net.
How to use a Virtual Private Network?
It does not take long to use a VPN nor is it difficult to start one up. Here is an extremely short guide showing you how to use a VPN:
- Sign up with the best VPN service.
- Download and install the VPN on your preferred device.
- Launch the VPN app.
- Sign in to your account.
- Connect to any server that you deem as fit.
- Access regional or international content from anywhere in the world.
- That’s all!
Can we use a free VPN?
Most users often feel that if a free VPN works a little that should set the bar for other VPNs. free VPN services in short do not come recommended. They steal your data and log your information. The worst part is that free VPN services sell your data to the highest bidder. Other than this, there is no secure sign of the required encryption that can help protect you online. It’s why we recommend sticking to a premium provider that offers a free trial and other perks.
To conclude
And that’s a wrap! You now know first hand how you can test a VPN on your own. There are a couple of steps highlighted above that will help you test even the best VPN services!
