Does a VPN slow down your internet?
Usually yes, a little. A VPN sends your traffic through another server and encrypts it, which adds distance and processing. How much depends on the VPN, the server and your connection. Ping usually rises more than download speed.
Why it slows things down
- A longer route. Your data goes to the VPN server first, then on to its destination.
- Encryption. Your device and the server do extra work on every packet.
- A busy server. Many people can share the same VPN server.
What changes most
Ping is usually affected more than download speed, because the route is longer. For streaming and browsing you may barely notice. For games and calls, a higher ping can show up as lag.
What affects the slowdown
- The distance to the VPN server. A nearby one is usually faster.
- The server's load at that time.
- The VPN protocol you choose. Many apps offer several, and some are lighter than others.
- Your device. Older phones and computers handle encryption more slowly.
Measure it fairly
- Turn the VPN off and run the SpeedUp test. Note download, upload and ping.
- Turn the VPN on, choose a nearby server, and run it again on the same device at about the same time.
- Compare. Try another server or protocol if the loss is large.
SpeedUp leaves VPN and relay tests out of its public statistics, because they hide your real provider.
Can a VPN make it faster?
Rarely. It can happen if a provider slows certain traffic, but you should not count on it. For most people a VPN costs a little speed in return for privacy.
For gaming
Turn the VPN off while you play unless you need it. See how to lower your ping.