A VPN speeds up your internet connection by routing your data through a network of servers worldwide. However, the farther those servers are from you; your relationship will be slower.
Fortunately, some routers come pre-flashed with VPN firmware and don’t require configuration. Though these routers cost more than standard ones, they provide convenience and security.
Check Your ISP’s Speeds
We all like to think we need top-speed Internet, and that’s exactly what Internet Service Providers want us to believe. However, if you aren’t getting the speeds your ISP promises, you need to know what is causing the slowdown. contract CTO
There are several ways to check your ISP’s speeds, including using a website with the latest download and upload speed in Mbps. You can also test your speeds by plugging your device directly into the router via an Ethernet cable to see if this makes a difference.
The server’s location is another factor that can impact your VPN’s speed. This can cause a significant increase in latency and decrease your Internet speed. If your VPN’s speed lags, it may be worth changing the protocol. The best VPN firewall router for small business offers a variety of protocols that prioritize security and speed. Switching to a different protocol can significantly increase your Internet speed when using a VPN. This is especially true for wireless connections, which use radio signals to transmit data between devices and can be affected by interference and disruptions.
Restart Your Devices
Your connection speeds may often slow down because of the software running on your device. These programs may use a lot of memory and cause your VPN to work slower. To fix this, try closing down any background apps you aren’t using. This will free up your computer’s processing power and improve overall speed.
A VPN router can also increase speed by rerouting your Internet traffic to a different server. This can bypass any content or user-specific bandwidth throttling by your ISP. However, it’s important to remember that your ISP can still throttle your speeds.
Another way to improve your VPN’s performance is by using a pre-configured router for your provider. Several companies offer this, but the most popular is FlashRouters. This company provides a variety of routers that are configured for many VPN services. However, it’s worth noting that this approach has some drawbacks, such as a need for advanced features and security updates. For this reason, some users prefer to install their firmware on their routers.
Check Your Background Apps
A VPN router encrypts all data sent and received on the home WiFi network, which means it can protect your devices like computers, tablets, and smartphones. It can also help you access region-blocked websites on streaming apps and even smart home devices. However, unlike a standalone VPN app on each device, a router-based VPN must be manually enabled whenever you want to use it.
To check which background apps use the Internet in Windows 11, you can use the Task Manager to see a list of processes. Look for any utilizing a lot of bandwidth and consider uninstalling them. This can free up much of your internet speed and make it faster.
Most major VPN providers have software that can be run on routers, and some router models come pre-flashed with this software. This can be easier than setting up a VPN on each device, though it can be a little more expensive. It can also be more complicated to swap between different servers. For example, if you’re a serious online gamer, there might be better options. IT strategy consultant
Check Your ISP’s Complaints
A VPN can cause a slight loss in speed because it has to encrypt each packet of data sent over the connection. However, this is a minor tradeoff for increased security and online privacy.
Before you file a complaint, you must resolve the problem with your ISP first. The FCC and FTC expect you to take this step before further escalating your dispute.
It’s also a good idea to keep records of your ISP conversations. Recording phone calls (when legal in your area) and logging text-based communications may make your ISP more willing to resolve the issue without dealing with a formal complaint.
A slow Internet connection can be frustrating, especially when working, playing, or doing anything online. By following the tips and tricks above, you can improve your Internet speeds and have a more enjoyable experience online. And if your current provider isn’t cutting it, switching to a risk-free VPN service could help you get up to speed in no time.
Restart Your Router
If you still find that your VPN feels slow, try connecting to it directly from a wired connection rather than WiFi. This can reduce the number of devices competing for bandwidth on your home network, making it faster.
You should also run a speed test from your computer or phone, disconnecting your VPN while you do so. This will give you a clean set of results that the VPN doesn’t influence and help you determine whether your VPN is to blame for your slow internet speeds.
If you want to maximize your VPN’s performance without buying a new router, many providers offer firmware that can flash to your existing one. However, you should note that this process is in-depth and requires some tech savvy. You can also opt for a pre-configured router ready to go as soon as you plug it in, but these can be pricey. They’re great for large households and small businesses, though, as they can protect every device in the network. And they’re also incredibly reliable, as they’re built with security and performance in mind.