A virtual private network (VPN) is an essential tool for staying secure online, protecting your privacy, and accessing region-locked content. But if your VPN is slowing everything down, it can quickly go from helpful to frustrating. Fortunately, you can try several easy fixes to improve your VPN’s performance and get back to smooth browsing, streaming, or working online.
Here are 10 practical solutions that can help you speed up a sluggish VPN connection.
1. Switch to a Different VPN Server
The distance between you and the VPN server you’re connected to can have a big impact on speed. If you’re using a server that’s far away or heavily loaded, switching to a different one can make a noticeable difference. Try choosing a server that’s closer to your physical location, or experiment with servers in nearby regions for a better balance of speed and access.
2. Choose a Wired Connection Over Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is convenient, but it isn’t always the most reliable when it comes to speed. A wired Ethernet connection tends to offer better stability and faster data transfer. If you’re experiencing frequent drops or slowdowns on Wi-Fi, plugging directly into your router might give your VPN the boost it needs.
3. Restart Your Devices and Router
Sometimes the simplest fix is the most effective. Restarting your computer, phone, or router can clear out memory issues and temporary glitches that may be slowing down your connection. It’s a quick step that’s always worth trying before making more advanced changes.
4. Change VPN Protocols
Most VPNs offer different protocols, each with its own strengths. Protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 provide different balances of speed and security. Switching to a lighter or faster protocol, such as WireGuard, can result in significantly better speeds without sacrificing much in terms of privacy.
5. Disable Background Apps and Downloads
If your device is running multiple bandwidth-hungry applications, your VPN connection could suffer. Check for background downloads, cloud syncing tools, or streaming services that may be competing for bandwidth. Closing these can free up more speed for your VPN.
6. Use Split Tunnelling
Split tunnelling lets you route only some of your internet traffic through the VPN while the rest uses your normal connection. For example, you can use the VPN for your browser while allowing your video games or music streaming apps to bypass it. This can significantly improve performance for tasks that don’t require encryption.
7. Check for VPN App Updates
Using the latest version of your VPN software ensures you’re benefiting from recent performance improvements and bug fixes. Developers frequently release updates to enhance speed and security, so make sure your app is up to date.
8. Temporarily Disable Firewall or Antivirus (With Caution)
Some security software can interfere with VPN traffic, slowing down your connection. Try temporarily disabling your firewall or antivirus to see if your speed improves. If it does, consider adjusting the settings or adding your VPN as an exception rather than leaving your system unprotected.
9. Try a Different VPN Provider
If you’ve tried everything and your speeds are still dragging, it might be time to consider switching to a different VPN provider. Some services have better infrastructure, faster servers, and optimised apps that deliver consistently higher performance.
10. Contact Your VPN’s Support Team
Support teams can offer specific advice based on your location, device, and intended use. They might recommend particular servers, protocols, or troubleshooting steps that are not obvious to most users. Reaching out could save you a lot of time and frustration.
A slow VPN doesn’t have to ruin your online experience. By adjusting your setup and experimenting with these ten fixes, you can find the right combination to restore fast and reliable performance. Whether you’re browsing, streaming, or working remotely, a well-optimised VPN makes all the difference.
Found This Helpful?
Let us know which fix worked best for you in the comments below. If you know someone struggling with a slow VPN, feel free to share this guide with them. Still searching for a VPN that delivers both speed and security? Have a look at our top VPN picks for 2025 and find the right one for your needs.