Using a VPN makes apps, websites or other internet-enabled services think youre connecting from another location.

Or maybe you’re trying tostream NFL gamesabroad using a VPN.

VPNs are great tools, but it can be frustrating when they don’t work as they should.

Even if you’re not having issues, giving your VPN parameters a quick check-up can still be worthwhile.

Usually, your public IP address is assigned by your internet service provider, or ISP – likeGoogle FiberorSpectrum.

Why isnt my VPN working?

If your VPN isnt working correctly, there are several possible reasons why your IP address isnt masked.

Heres how to diagnose and fix your VPN problems.

Testingis a crucial component of our hands-on VPN reviews.

During our review process, weve even uncovered IP leaks, which were thankfully quickly patched.

What kinds of IP leaks can occur while using a VPN?

you could experience two main types of IP leaks with a VPN: DNS or WebRTC leaks.

But when using a VPN, your machine usually contacts a VPN server rather than your ISPs DNS.

WebRTC is used in various programs – notably messaging apps like Google Meet and Facebook Messenger.

Look up your IP address and make a note of it.

Enable your VPN and head to IPLeak.net or BrowserLeaks.

You should see the IP address of your VPN provider rather than your own.

Alternatively, some VPNs, including ExpressVPN, include built-in WebRTC checkers.

Now, connect to your VPN and recheck the WebRTC leak test page.

It removed split tunneling from its Windows app until the issue was fixed.

With a kill switch, your actual IP address remains masked even if your VPN connection is interrupted.

Heres how to test your VPNs kill switch:

1.

Open a DNS leak checker likeIPLeak.netorBrowserLeaksto monitor your publicly available IP address.2.

Look up your IP address without a VPN connected using a website such asWhatsMyIPAddress.3.

initiate the kill switch in your VPNs parameters and toggle on your VPN connection.4.

Switch to a different VPN server in another location.5.

Reconnect to the internet.

Lets look at how to test whether your VPNs split tunneling is functioning correctly.

Enable split tunneling in your VPN app.2.

Choose the app or apps youd like to use your VPN.3.

Open a web surfing app.4.

Check your IP address.

In either situation, split tunneling isnt working properly if you notice the opposite.

Best VPNs for masking your IP address

ExpressVPNis the best overall VPN.

NordVPNis the fastest VPN we tested, so its excellent for streaming geo-protected content, like foreign Netflix libraries.

Proton VPNis the best – and only – free VPN we recommend.

VPN test FAQs

How can I test if my VPN is working?

How do I confirm my VPN is off?

Why is my VPN not connecting?

If your VPN is not connecting, there are several possible explanations.

It might be because you dont have an internet connection.

There may also be an issue with your VPN server, such as too many users overloading the server.

You could have a setting in your VPN app that is causing problems.