Also test with Speedtest.net
A widely recognised third-party speed test — useful for comparing results.
How to Test Your VPN Speed
- Without VPN: Run the speed test first while disconnected from VPNUK — note your download speed, upload speed and ping.
- Connect to VPNUK: Connect to your preferred server using the VPNUK app or manual configuration.
- With VPN: Run the speed test again while connected to VPNUK — compare the results.
- Try different servers: If your VPN speed is slower than expected, try connecting to a different server — a closer server will generally offer better performance.
Speed Tips
Use WireGuard for Maximum Speed
WireGuard is significantly faster than OpenVPN or L2TP due to its lean codebase and modern cryptography. If you have a Dedicated IP account, switch to WireGuard for the best possible speed.
Choose the Closest Server
Connecting to a server in your own country or a nearby country minimises latency. A UK-based user will generally get better speeds connecting to a UK server than to one in the US or Asia.
UDP vs TCP (OpenVPN)
When using OpenVPN, UDP is faster than TCP. Use UDP for general browsing and streaming, and TCP only when UDP is blocked on your network.
Check Your Base Connection
Your VPN speed can never exceed your underlying broadband speed. If your base connection is slow, the VPN will be slow too — test without the VPN first to establish your baseline.
Slow speeds on your connection?
Our support team can help you find the best server and protocol for your network.