Introduction
When you subscribe to a VPN service you expect privacy, anonymity, and unrestricted access to the internet. Yet a new VPN connection can still expose your real IP, DNS, or location if not set up correctly. That’s why a reliable how to check if your vpn is working routine is essential for every user, from casual browsers to avid torrenters.
Even the most advanced VPN providers may occasionally misconfigure servers or your own device, creating leaks that compromise your anonymity. Knowing how to check if your vpn is working allows you to spot these gaps early, before they become a security risk.
In this guide we’ll walk through comprehensive steps to verify that your VPN is active and fully protecting you on a variety of platforms. We’ll also explore practical check if VPN is leaking IP methods, give you troubleshooting tips, and provide alternative ways to secure your connection if the primary solution falls short. Finally, we’ll discuss why ongoing checks matter, especially when you travel or use public Wi‑Fi.
To help you navigate, we’ve included links to specialized guides for Firestick, Android, router‑level VPNs, and the best overall VPN apps. Keep reading to ensure your online activity remains private and untraceable.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
1. Verify on a Desktop or Laptop (Windows, macOS, Linux)
First, connect to any VPN server of your choice. Then, open a web browser and visit a site like What Is My IP or IP Location. The displayed IP address should match the country and city of the VPN server you selected, not your home or mobile provider. If it does not, the VPN might not be routing traffic correctly.
Next, test DNS leakage by visiting DNSLeakTest.com. Click “Standard Test” and compare the results. The DNS servers listed should belong to the VPN provider, not to your ISP. Any mismatch indicates a DNS leak, a common issue that can expose browsing activity.
To confirm that no traffic is being sent without encryption, open a terminal or command prompt and ping a public IP like 8.8.8.8. The route should show the VPN’s IP as the gateway. If the ping fails or shows your local network’s gateway, the VPN isn’t fully active.
Finally, use a “leak test” page such as ipleak.net to simultaneously check IP, DNS, WebRTC, and VPN status. This one‑stop test gives you a clear overview of any vulnerabilities.
2. Verify on Mobile Devices (iOS, Android)
For iPhone or iPad, you can follow our dedicated guide on how to check if your vpn is working. The steps are similar to desktop: check the IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks after connecting to a server.
On Android, connect to a VPN server and open a browser to ipleak.net. Make sure the “IP Address” reflects the VPN server and that the “DNS” and “WebRTC” sections show the VPN’s information. Android can sometimes allow DNS to bypass the VPN; if that happens, consider using the built‑in DNS over HTTPS feature in the settings.
Additionally, install a network monitoring app such as Traffic Monitor to see real‑time traffic routes. If any packets route outside the VPN tunnel, the app will flag them.
Remember to keep your VPN app updated, as providers regularly patch bugs that could affect routing or leak protection.
3. Verify on a Smart TV or Streaming Device (Firestick, Roku)
Smart TVs often don’t support VPN apps directly, but you can secure them by routing the device through a router that runs VPN or by using a VPN app that shares its connection via USB or HDMI. For Firestick, read our best VPN for Firestick guide for step‑by‑step instructions.
Once set up, use a streaming‑friendly browser app or a dedicated VPN-enabled app to navigate to ipleak.net. The page should display your VPN’s IP and no local IP. If it shows a local network address, the device is bypassing the VPN tunnel.
Also, watch for any region‑locked content that might indicate the VPN isn’t masking your real location. If you still see geo‑restricted content, double‑check that the device’s network settings are correctly routed through the VPN.
4. Verify on a Router‑Level VPN
Setting up VPN on your home router extends protection to all connected devices. Follow our guide at how to set up a router VPN for detailed steps.
Once installed, connect any device to the router and perform the desktop or mobile IP test described earlier. If all devices report the VPN IP, your router is routing traffic correctly.
Additionally, verify that no DNS leaks occur by visiting dnsleaktest.com from each connected device. A correct router VPN will consistently show the provider’s DNS servers.
Router VPNs are especially useful for IoT devices that lack built‑in VPN support, ensuring they remain private.
5. Verify on a Gaming Console (PlayStation, Xbox)
Gaming consoles typically rely on your network’s IP. Connect the console to a router with VPN, or use the router’s VPN if the console supports VPN configuration (rare).
After connecting, launch a browser on the console or use a remote desktop app to open ipleak.net. If the VPN is functioning, the console should display the VPN’s IP address.
Check that no WebRTC leaks occur by turning on the “WebRTC” test. Gaming consoles often disable WebRTC, but it’s still worth confirming.
For consoles that support VPN apps, follow the vendor’s instructions and test as with mobile devices.
6. Verify with a “Check if VPN Is Leaking IP” Test
After performing the basic checks above, run a more comprehensive test to confirm there are no hidden leaks. The check if VPN is leaking IP page lists a series of tests that cover IP, DNS, WebRTC, and IPv6 leaks. Follow each step carefully.
For example, the IPv6 test ensures that your IPv6 traffic also goes through the VPN. Many VPNs only support IPv4, so you’ll see your real IPv6 address if the VPN doesn’t route it.
After completing all tests, you should see a green status for every category. Any yellow or red results indicate a leak that needs to be addressed.
Repeat the tests periodically, especially after updates or changes to your network configuration.
Tips
Keep your VPN software up to date. Updates often include patches for newly discovered leak vulnerabilities.
Enable kill switch or network lock features. These stop all traffic if the VPN connection drops, preventing accidental exposure.
Use split tunneling wisely. While it saves bandwidth, it also opens a direct path for selected apps to bypass the VPN.
Consider using a privacy-focused DNS provider such as Cloudflare’s 1.1.1.1 or Quad9. These services are designed to prevent DNS leaks even if your VPN is misconfigured.
When traveling, test the VPN again after connecting to a new Wi‑Fi network. Public networks can sometimes override your VPN settings.
Read our best VPN app guide to choose an app that offers strong leak protection and a clear user interface for troubleshooting.
Use All About Cookies as a quick reference for checking whether your VPN masks your IP and cookies properly. This site provides a simple one‑page check that covers most common leak scenarios.
Share your findings with your VPN provider’s support team if you encounter persistent issues. Most reputable providers have a robust support system and will help you resolve leaks.
Alternative Methods
Besides the standard “ipleak” and “dnsleak” tests, you can use the command line to validate your VPN’s routing. On Windows, open cmd and run tracert 8.8.8.8. The route should show the VPN server as the first hop. On macOS or Linux, use traceroute 8.8.8.8.
Another method involves using Tor Browser to confirm anonymity. If you’re already using Tor, connect to the VPN first and then launch Tor. If the Tor exit node shows the VPN IP, the VPN is functioning correctly.
For advanced users, install Wireshark to capture network traffic. Filter on ip.addr == and ensure no packets leave the VPN tunnel.
Additionally, the Reddit thread on “how do you know a VPN actually works” contains community tips and user experiences that can guide you through edge cases.
Lastly, if you’re using a cloud server or a VPN that offers a web interface, use the server’s “Network Monitoring” tools to verify that traffic is routed correctly. Many providers expose real‑time logs that show packet routes.
Conclusion
Ensuring how to check if your vpn is working is a critical step in maintaining online privacy. By systematically testing your IP, DNS, and WebRTC settings on every device, you can catch leaks before they compromise your anonymity.
Remember that the check if VPN is leaking IP process isn’t a one‑time event. VPNs, ISPs, and software updates can alter routing. Periodic checks, especially after system or network changes, keep your connection secure.
With the methods outlined—desktop and mobile IP tests, router‑level verification, and advanced tools like traceroute and Wireshark—you’ll have a robust toolbox for confirming VPN integrity. Should you discover a leak, consult your provider’s support or switch to an alternative that offers stronger leak protection.
Stay vigilant, keep your VPN up to date, and use the best VPN apps and router configurations to keep your online footprint hidden. Your privacy deserves a consistent, verified shield.
