VPN
How to Check a VPN for Leaks
A straightforward method for checking IP, DNS and browser leaks before relying on a VPN.
A connected icon does not prove that every request follows the VPN tunnel. A basic leak check compares what the internet can see before and after the VPN connects.
Record a baseline
Before connecting, note your public IP address and the DNS resolvers reported by a reputable test page. This gives you a baseline tied to your ordinary connection.
Connect and repeat
Connect to a VPN server, refresh the tests and confirm that the public IP changes. DNS results should belong to the VPN service or to a resolver you intentionally configured, not unexpectedly to the local network provider.
Test realistic transitions
Repeat the check after sleep, a Wi-Fi reconnect and a server change. If the browser supports real-time communication features, use a WebRTC leak test as well. Remember that a leak test sees network identifiers, not every tracking technique.
The bottom line
If results are inconsistent, update the app, enable its leak protection and contact the provider with the exact test conditions. Do not rely on a tunnel you cannot verify.