VPN Frequently Asked Questions

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) creates a secure, encrypted tunnel between your device and a VPN server. When you connect to a VPN:

• Your internet traffic is encrypted and routed through the VPN server
• Your real IP address is hidden and replaced with the server's IP
• Your ISP and other third parties can't see what websites you visit
• You appear to be browsing from the VPN server's location

This provides privacy, security, and the ability to bypass geographic restrictions on content.

VPNs provide several important benefits:

• Privacy Protection: Hide your browsing activity from ISPs, advertisers, and government surveillance
• Security on Public WiFi: Protect your data when using unsecured public networks
• Access Geo-Blocked Content: Watch streaming services and access websites not available in your region
• Bypass Censorship: Access blocked websites in restrictive countries
• Prevent Tracking: Stop websites and advertisers from tracking your online behavior
• Secure Remote Work: Safely access company resources from anywhere

Most free VPNs come with significant risks and limitations:

• Data Logging: Many free VPNs log and sell your browsing data
• Poor Security: Weak encryption or security vulnerabilities
• Limited Features: Bandwidth caps, speed limits, and server restrictions
• Malware Risk: Some free VPNs contain malware or adware
• No Customer Support: Limited or no support when issues arise

HyperSwap recommends using reputable paid VPN services that have been independently audited and have proven no-logs policies.

Quality VPN services typically cost:

• Monthly Plans: $10-15 per month
• Annual Plans: $3-8 per month (billed annually)
• Multi-Year Plans: $2-5 per month (billed for 2-3 years)

The best value usually comes from annual or multi-year plans. Most providers offer 30-day money-back guarantees, allowing you to test the service risk-free. Consider the cost per device if you need to protect multiple devices.

Yes, most VPN services allow multiple simultaneous connections:

• ExpressVPN: 5 simultaneous connections
• NordVPN: 6 simultaneous connections
• Surfshark & IPVanish: Unlimited connections
• CyberGhost: 7 simultaneous connections
• Private Internet Access: 10 simultaneous connections

You can typically install VPN apps on unlimited devices but can only have a certain number connected simultaneously. Router installation can protect unlimited devices using just one connection slot.

Modern VPNs use military-grade encryption that is virtually unbreakable:

• AES-256: The gold standard used by governments and militaries worldwide
• Perfect Forward Secrecy: New encryption keys for each session
• Secure Protocols: OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2 provide robust security
• SHA Authentication: Ensures data integrity and authenticity

With proper implementation, VPN encryption would take billions of years to crack with current technology. The main security risks come from implementation flaws, not the encryption itself.

A no-logs policy means the VPN provider doesn't store records of your online activity:

• No Browsing History: Websites visited aren't recorded
• No Connection Logs: When and how long you connect isn't stored
• No IP Address Logs: Your real IP address isn't recorded
• No Bandwidth Monitoring: Data usage isn't tracked

This is crucial because if there's no data to hand over, authorities can't access your browsing history even with legal requests. Look for VPN providers that have been independently audited and have proven their no-logs claims in court.

Technically, VPN providers could see your traffic, but reputable providers implement measures to prevent this:

• No-Logs Policies: Strict policies against storing user activity
• RAM-Only Servers: Data isn't written to hard drives
• Independent Audits: Third-party verification of privacy claims
• Jurisdiction Selection: Operating in privacy-friendly countries
• Open Source Software: Code can be audited for backdoors

Choose VPN providers with proven track records, independent audits, and transparent privacy policies. HyperSwap only recommends VPNs with verified no-logs policies.

DNS leaks occur when your device bypasses the VPN tunnel for DNS queries, potentially revealing your browsing activity:

• What Happens: Your ISP's DNS servers can see what websites you visit
• Common Causes: Misconfigured network settings or VPN software bugs
• Prevention Methods: Use VPN apps with built-in DNS leak protection
• Manual Configuration: Set custom DNS servers (like 1.1.1.1 or 8.8.8.8)
• Testing: Use dnsleaktest.com to check for leaks

Most modern VPN apps include automatic DNS leak protection, but it's worth testing periodically to ensure your privacy is maintained.

A kill switch automatically blocks internet access if your VPN connection drops unexpectedly:

• Protection: Prevents your real IP address from being exposed
• Automatic: Works without user intervention
• Types: App-level (blocks specific apps) or system-level (blocks all traffic)
• Essential For: Torrenting, sensitive work, or high-privacy needs

HyperSwap strongly recommends enabling kill switch features, especially if you're using VPN for privacy-critical activities or in countries with internet restrictions.

VPNs typically cause some speed reduction due to encryption overhead and routing:

• Typical Speed Loss: 10-30% with quality VPN providers
• Factors Affecting Speed: Server distance, encryption level, protocol used
• Best Performers: ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark maintain good speeds
• Optimization Tips: Choose nearby servers, use WireGuard protocol

Modern VPNs have significantly improved speeds. In some cases, VPNs can even improve speeds by bypassing ISP throttling or providing better routing to certain services.

VPN protocol speed ranking from fastest to slowest:

• WireGuard: Newest, fastest protocol with modern cryptography
• IKEv2/IPSec: Fast and stable, especially good for mobile devices
• OpenVPN UDP: Good balance of speed and security
• OpenVPN TCP: More stable but slower than UDP
• L2TP/IPSec: Older protocol, slower due to double encryption

WireGuard is becoming the standard for new VPN services due to its superior speed and security. Most VPN apps now offer automatic protocol selection for optimal performance.

Several strategies can help optimize your VPN performance:

• Server Selection: Choose servers geographically close to your location
• Protocol Switching: Try WireGuard or IKEv2 for better speeds
• Port Selection: Some ports may be less congested
• Wired Connection: Use Ethernet instead of WiFi when possible
• Close Background Apps: Reduce bandwidth usage from other applications
• Server Load: Avoid overcrowded servers during peak hours
• Split Tunneling: Route only necessary traffic through VPN

VPN connection instability can have several causes:

• Network Issues: Unstable internet connection or ISP problems
• Server Overload: Too many users on the selected server
• Firewall Interference: Security software blocking VPN traffic
• Protocol Issues: Some protocols work better on certain networks
• ISP Throttling: Internet provider deliberately slowing VPN traffic
• Distance: Servers too far away causing connection timeouts

Try switching servers, changing protocols, or contacting your VPN provider's support team for assistance.

Yes, but success varies by VPN provider and Netflix's ongoing blocking efforts:

• Best for Netflix: ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, CyberGhost
• Dedicated Servers: Some VPNs offer streaming-optimized servers
• Cat and Mouse Game: Netflix blocks VPN IPs, providers get new ones
• Success Rates: Top VPNs maintain 80-90% success rates
• Multiple Libraries: Access content from US, UK, Canada, Japan, and more

HyperSwap tests streaming capabilities regularly. Check our individual VPN reviews for current Netflix performance ratings.

The legality depends on your location and what you're accessing:

• VPN Use: Legal in most countries (illegal in China, Russia, UAE, etc.)
• Terms of Service: May violate streaming platform terms (not criminal law)
• Content Licensing: Accessing geo-blocked content isn't typically illegal
• Paid Subscriptions: Using VPN with legitimate subscriptions is generally acceptable
• Piracy: Using VPN to access pirated content remains illegal

While using VPN for streaming is generally legal, it may violate service terms. The worst consequence is usually account suspension, not legal action.

VPNs can both help and hurt gaming performance depending on the situation:

• Potential Benefits: Better routing to game servers, DDoS protection
• Typical Drawbacks: 10-50ms additional latency (ping)
• Server Selection: Choose servers close to game servers for best performance
• Gaming VPNs: Some providers offer gaming-optimized servers
• Competitive Gaming: May not be suitable for esports due to latency

For casual gaming, VPN impact is usually minimal. For competitive gaming, test thoroughly before important matches.

Gaming consoles don't support VPN apps directly, but there are workarounds:

• Router VPN: Install VPN on your router to protect all devices
• Connection Sharing: Share VPN connection from PC to console
• Smart DNS: Some VPNs offer DNS services for consoles
• Mobile Hotspot: Connect console to VPN-enabled phone hotspot

Router VPN is the most reliable method. Check our setup guides for detailed instructions on configuring VPN for gaming consoles.

Different VPN protocols offer varying levels of speed, security, and compatibility:

• WireGuard: Modern, fast, secure - best overall choice
• OpenVPN: Open-source, highly secure, widely supported
• IKEv2/IPSec: Fast, stable, excellent for mobile devices
• L2TP/IPSec: Older, slower, but widely compatible
• PPTP: Outdated, insecure - avoid this protocol
• SSTP: Windows-specific, good for bypassing firewalls

Most modern VPN apps automatically select the best protocol for your connection, but manual selection can help optimize for specific needs.

Running multiple VPNs simultaneously is technically possible but not recommended:

• Connection Conflicts: VPNs may interfere with each other
• Speed Impact: Double encryption significantly slows connections
• Complexity: Difficult to troubleshoot connection issues
• Diminishing Returns: Minimal additional security benefit
• Alternative: Use VPN with built-in double VPN feature (like NordVPN)

If you need multiple VPN connections, consider using different devices or virtual machines rather than running multiple VPNs on one device.

Split tunneling allows you to choose which apps or websites use the VPN connection:

• Selective Routing: Route only specific traffic through VPN
• Speed Optimization: Keep local traffic direct for better performance
• Banking Apps: Exclude banking apps that block VPN connections
• Gaming: Route only specific games through VPN
• Streaming: Use VPN for streaming while keeping other apps direct

Split tunneling is useful when you need VPN for specific purposes but want to maintain full speed for other activities.

Several tests can verify your VPN is functioning correctly:

• IP Address Check: Visit whatismyipaddress.com to verify IP change
• DNS Leak Test: Use dnsleaktest.com to check for DNS leaks
• WebRTC Leak Test: Test for WebRTC leaks at browserleaks.com
• Speed Test: Compare speeds with and without VPN
• Geo-location Test: Verify your apparent location has changed
• Kill Switch Test: Disconnect VPN to test kill switch functionality

Regular testing ensures your VPN maintains privacy and security. Most VPN apps also include built-in connection status indicators.

VPN legality varies by country and jurisdiction:

• Legal Countries: US, Canada, UK, EU, Australia, and most democratic nations
• Restricted/Illegal: China, Russia, UAE, Iran, North Korea, Belarus
• Regulated: Some countries allow VPNs but regulate their use
• Business Use: Generally legal worldwide for legitimate business purposes
• Criminal Activity: Using VPN for illegal activities remains illegal

Check local laws before using VPN in restrictive countries. Even where legal, some activities through VPN may violate service terms or local regulations.

While VPNs provide privacy, they don't make illegal activities legal:

• Privacy vs. Anonymity: VPNs provide privacy, not complete anonymity
• Legal Obligations: VPN providers may cooperate with law enforcement
• Activity Tracking: Sophisticated tracking can still identify users
• Terms of Service: VPN providers prohibit illegal use
• Account Termination: Illegal use can result in service termination

VPNs are tools for privacy and security, not for facilitating illegal activities. Use VPNs responsibly and within legal boundaries.

VPN provider cooperation with authorities depends on several factors:

• Jurisdiction: Laws in the provider's country of operation
• Data Available: No-logs providers have no data to share
• Legal Requests: Valid court orders may require cooperation
• Transparency Reports: Many providers publish government request statistics
• Warrant Canaries: Some providers use canaries to signal government contact

Choose VPN providers with proven no-logs policies and transparent practices. Providers in privacy-friendly jurisdictions offer better protection.

Consequences vary by country and enforcement levels:

• China: Fines, internet restrictions, possible detention
• Russia: Fines for individuals, heavier penalties for businesses
• UAE: Fines up to $545,000 and imprisonment
• Iran: Fines and potential imprisonment
• Detection Methods: Deep packet inspection, traffic analysis

HyperSwap strongly advises respecting local laws. If you must use VPN in restrictive countries, research legal risks and use providers with obfuscation features.

Key factors to consider when selecting a VPN service:

• No-Logs Policy: Verified and audited privacy policies
• Strong Encryption: AES-256 encryption with secure protocols
• Server Network: Adequate servers in locations you need
• Speed Performance: Minimal impact on your internet speed
• Device Support: Apps for all your devices and platforms
• Customer Support: Responsive 24/7 support when needed
• Price Value: Reasonable pricing with money-back guarantee
• Special Features: Kill switch, split tunneling, ad blocking

For VPN newcomers, HyperSwap recommends these beginner-friendly options:

• CyberGhost: Most user-friendly interface with 45-day guarantee
• ExpressVPN: Simple setup with excellent customer support
• Surfshark: Great value with unlimited devices
• NordVPN: Good balance of features and usability

Look for VPNs with one-click connection, automatic server selection, and comprehensive setup guides. Avoid services with complex configurations or limited support.

Server count matters, but quality and distribution are more important:

• Minimum Viable: 500+ servers in 30+ countries for most users
• Quality Over Quantity: Well-maintained servers perform better than numerous poor ones
• Geographic Distribution: Servers in locations you need access to
• Server Load: More servers can mean less congestion
• Specialized Servers: Dedicated servers for streaming, P2P, gaming

Focus on server locations relevant to your needs rather than total server count. A VPN with 1,000 servers in the right locations beats 10,000 servers in irrelevant places.

VPN jurisdiction is important for privacy, but local presence isn't always better:

• Privacy-Friendly Jurisdictions: Switzerland, Panama, British Virgin Islands
• 5/9/14 Eyes Countries: May have intelligence sharing agreements
• Data Retention Laws: Some countries require data storage
• Legal Protections: Strong privacy laws protect user data
• Server Locations: More important than company headquarters

Choose VPNs based in privacy-friendly jurisdictions with strong legal protections, regardless of your location. Server presence in your country matters more for performance.

Most reputable VPNs offer risk-free testing options:

• Money-Back Guarantees: 30-45 day refund periods
• Free Trials: Some providers offer limited free trials
• Testing Checklist: Speed, streaming, security, ease of use
• Multiple Devices: Test on all devices you plan to use
• Different Servers: Try various server locations
• Customer Support: Test support responsiveness

Take advantage of money-back guarantees to thoroughly test VPN services. Most providers honor refund requests without hassle during the guarantee period.