VPN Leak Test (IP, DNS, WebRTC)
What this tool checks (and why it matters)
A VPN can be “connected” and still leak information in ways that matter — especially on public Wi-Fi, travel networks, or when your browser behaves differently than your system VPN. This test checks three common leak paths: your public IP (who the internet thinks you are), DNS (who resolves the sites you visit), and WebRTC (browser real-time networking that can expose addresses in some setups).
Calm note: a “fail” is usually a configuration issue (IPv6, DNS settings, split tunneling, browser settings) — not proof your VPN is “bad.” This page explains what you’re seeing and what to do next.
Run the leak test
Not run yetClick “Run test” to populate results. If your VPN is on, keep it connected during the test.
Important: This is a lightweight, client-side check. For a full “DNS resolver” test, you’ll want a server-backed leak test. We explain what to do next below.
Results explained
If everything looks normal
If your public IP looks like it belongs to a VPN provider (or is clearly not your ISP/home), that’s a strong sign your VPN tunnel is working for standard web traffic. If WebRTC doesn’t reveal unexpected addresses and you don’t see obvious DNS concerns, you’re in a good place for everyday privacy on public Wi-Fi.
Reality check: “Good results” reduce exposure — they don’t make you anonymous. Websites can still track you via cookies, fingerprints, logins, and account behavior.
If something looks wrong
If the public IP appears to be your ISP or your normal location, your VPN may not be routing your browser traffic (common causes: split tunneling, browser-level proxy/VPN mismatch, connection drop, or the VPN app not actually connected). WebRTC exposure can sometimes reveal local/private IPs in ways that matter for privacy-sensitive use.
If results are mixed
Mixed results are common. For example, your public IP might show the VPN (good), but your browser can still expose local addresses via WebRTC (fixable), or your system DNS settings might not align with your VPN’s DNS handling. Mixed signals usually mean you need a small configuration tweak — not a new provider.
Common causes of VPN leaks (and what they usually mean)
| Cause | What you’ll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Split tunneling | Some apps use VPN; browser does not (or vice versa) | Disable split tunneling for browsers, or confirm your browser is included in the tunnel. |
| IPv6 mismatch | IP looks “off” or inconsistent; some tests show different routes | Try disabling IPv6 in the VPN app (if offered) or set OS IPv6 handling per VPN guidance. |
| Browser WebRTC behavior | WebRTC reveals local/private IPs | Disable WebRTC leak paths via browser settings/extensions; or use a VPN/browser profile optimized for privacy. |
| Custom DNS settings | Resolver appears to be ISP/third party instead of VPN | Set DNS to “VPN default” or ensure secure DNS is configured consistently (browser + OS). |
| VPN reconnect / drop | IP flips briefly; protection inconsistent | Enable kill switch; re-test after reconnect; avoid unstable networks when doing sensitive tasks. |
If you’re a high-risk user (journalism, activism, targeted harassment), treat any inconsistency as a signal to tighten setup and adopt stronger operational security — not as a reason to panic.
What this tool can’t tell you (reality check)
- This test does not confirm “anonymity” or stop tracking by cookies, logins, and browser fingerprinting.
- This test does not prove a provider’s “no logs” claims — that’s a trust and transparency question.
- This test does not measure VPN speed or streaming access reliability.
- This page’s DNS guidance is helpful, but a full DNS leak verdict typically requires a server-based resolver test.
Bottom line: leak tests reduce uncertainty. They don’t eliminate all risk.
What to do if something fails
- Confirm your VPN is actually connected (disconnect/reconnect), then re-test.
- Check split tunneling settings (ensure your browser is routed through the VPN).
- Turn on kill switch (prevents traffic from leaving outside the tunnel during drops).
- Review IPv6 handling (VPN app settings first; OS-level second).
- Fix WebRTC exposure (browser settings or a privacy-focused browser profile).
Next steps (internal): How to use a VPN safely • Why VPN leaks happen
How this affects VPN choice (without hype)
If you repeatedly see leaks or inconsistent protection, the “fix” is often configuration — but provider design also matters. In general, VPNs that offer strong kill-switch behavior, sensible defaults, and clear DNS/WebRTC handling reduce user error.
- If you want the simplest setup path → start with the Best VPNs (2026) list.
- If you’re choosing between two providers → use a comparison page (trade-offs first).
- If you want deep trust posture details → read the individual VPN reviews.
FAQ
- Why does my VPN show my real IP? Most often: split tunneling, VPN disconnected, or browser traffic isn’t using the tunnel.
- Are DNS leaks always dangerous? Not always, but they can reveal what domains you look up. It matters more on public Wi-Fi and for privacy-sensitive use.
- Is WebRTC a “leak” even if my IP is hidden? Sometimes it can expose local/private addresses. For everyday use it may be minor; for high-risk use it’s worth fixing.
- Should I test every time I connect? Not necessary. Test after setup changes, VPN app updates, new networks, or if something feels off.
- Does passing this test mean I’m anonymous? No — it reduces exposure to certain observers but doesn’t stop tracking via accounts, cookies, or fingerprinting.
Trust & disclosure
This tool is provided for educational and diagnostic purposes. Results may vary by device, browser, network, and configuration. Learn more: Methodology • Affiliate disclosure.