Featured Partner Offers
Why do VPNs slow my internet down?
VPNs can slow down your internet speed due to the process they use to secure your data. When you connect to a VPN, your data is encrypted and sent through a secure tunnel to the VPN server, which can add latency and decrease speed. The impact on speed can also depend on the distance to the VPN server—the further the server, the slower the connection.
Does a VPN change my IP address?
Yes, a VPN does change your IP address. When you connect to a VPN, it routes your internet traffic through a server in a location of your choice. This server provides you with a new IP address, which will appear onwebsites and online services as the source of your traffic. This can help mask your actual location and make your online activity more private.
Can I be tracked if I use a VPN?
Using a VPN significantly increases your online privacy, but it doesn’t make you entirely anonymous. While a VPN can conceal your IP address and scramble your online activity, making it difficult for anyone to view your online activities, other means, such as browser cookies or VPN provider logs, can still track you. Always use a reputable, no-log VPN for the best privacy protection, and remember that if you’re conducting illegal activity via a VPN, you can still be found.
What is the fastest VPN for Australians?
Forbes Advisor’s US team undertook a speed test and found that Surfshark, Tunnel Bear and ExpressVPN were among the fastest in terms of download speeds. This may, of course, vary for Australian users and among individual users.