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A VPN usually slows your connection a little, because your traffic travels through an extra server and is encrypted. But a big slowdown usually has a fix. Here's what affects VPN speed, how to test it properly, and the settings that make the most difference.
Key takeaways
- Server distance: choose an Australian or nearby server.
- Protocol: try a different protocol in the app, such as WireGuard if offered.
- Your connection: test speed with the VPN off to compare.
- Some slowdown is normal, but a large drop usually means a setting or server needs changing.
Why VPNs slow things down
Your traffic goes to the VPN server first, then to the website. That extra trip adds delay, and encryption adds a little overhead. The further away the server, the bigger the delay.
Server distance
Choose an Australian or nearby server. Connecting to a server overseas, such as in Europe or the US, adds significant latency because data travels much further.
Protocol
Try a different protocol in the app, such as WireGuard if offered. WireGuard is a modern protocol designed to be fast and efficient. OpenVPN and IKEv2 are other common options.
| Protocol | Typical strengths |
|---|---|
| WireGuard | Modern, fast, efficient |
| IKEv2 | Stable on mobile, reconnects quickly when switching networks |
| OpenVPN (UDP) | Widely supported, good balance of speed and reliability |
| OpenVPN (TCP) | Works on restrictive networks, usually slower |
Your connection
Test speed with the VPN off to compare. If your connection is slow without the VPN, the VPN isn't the cause.
Step by step: test VPN speed properly
- Run a speed test with the VPN off. Note download, upload and ping.
- Connect to the nearest Australian server and test again.
- Try a different protocol and test again.
- Try at a different time of day.
- Compare results. A small drop is normal; a big drop suggests a server or setting problem.
Other fixes
- Use a wired connection or move closer to your Wi-Fi router.
- Restart your router and device.
- Use split tunnelling to send only some apps through the VPN.
- Update the VPN app and your device.
- Try another server in the same city, since some are busier.
Check your NBN plan
Your internet speed depends on your NBN plan and the technology at your address. If speeds are slow even without the VPN, check your plan and contact your provider. The ACCC has guidance on broadband speeds.
When a VPN may not be worth it
If you only need a VPN occasionally, such as on public Wi-Fi, turn it off at home when you need full speed. See do you need a VPN at home?.
Streaming and gaming
Streaming and gaming are sensitive to delay. Use a nearby server, or turn the VPN off. See VPNs and streaming in Australia.
Choosing a faster VPN
Look for providers with servers in Australian cities, WireGuard support and a refund period, so you can test speeds on your own connection. See PureVPN pros and cons.
Latency vs. download speed
Speed tests show download and upload speeds and ping (latency). For browsing and streaming, download speed matters most. For gaming and video calls, latency matters more. Connecting to a distant VPN server can increase ping noticeably even if download speeds look fine, which is why online games can feel laggy through a VPN even when downloads are fast.
VPN on your router
Some routers can run a VPN for every device on your network. This saves installing apps on each device, but router processors are often less powerful than computers or phones, so speeds can drop. If you try this, check your router supports the VPN's recommended protocol, and test speeds before and after.
Antivirus and firewall conflicts
Security software with its own web protection or firewall can sometimes slow VPN connections or block certain protocols. If speeds are poor, temporarily check whether the slowdown persists with those features adjusted, then re-enable them. Don't leave your device unprotected.
Peak times
Evening peak hours, roughly 7pm to 11pm, are when NBN and many VPN servers are busiest. If speeds drop then but are fine at other times, congestion is the likely cause. Switching to a less busy server in the same city may help.
When to contact support
If speeds stay poor after trying nearby servers, different protocols and a wired connection, contact your VPN provider's support with your speed test results. They may suggest specific servers or settings.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my VPN so slow?
Common causes are a distant server, a slow protocol, a busy server or a slow underlying connection. Try an Australian server and WireGuard if offered.
How much does a VPN slow down internet?
It varies. A nearby server and modern protocol usually mean a small slowdown, while distant servers can cause bigger drops.
Which VPN protocol is fastest?
WireGuard is designed to be fast and efficient and is often the quickest option where available.
How do I test my VPN speed?
Run a speed test with the VPN off, then on with a nearby server, and compare download, upload and ping.
Sources
Official sources this article relies on, checked October 15, 2026. Rules and prices change, so confirm details at the source.
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