VPN Not Hiding Your IP? 7 Common Reasons and Fixes

You connected to a VPN, but websites still show your real IP address or location. This is a common issue. Below are the most frequent causes and how to fix them.

1. You are using a VPN browser extension, not a full VPN

Many VPN extensions work as proxies. They only tunnel browser traffic and nothing more. This means that system applications and DNS can still use your real IP address.

2. DNS leak

Even if your IP changes, DNS requests may still go through your ISP. Websites can use DNS to infer your real location.

3. WebRTC leak in your browser

WebRTC can expose local or public IP addresses directly from your browser. If your VPN does not block WebRTC leaks, your IP can still be visible.

4. IPv6 leak

Some VPNs only tunnel IPv4. If your ISP provides IPv6, it may leak outside the VPN tunnel.

5. Misconfigured firewall or split tunneling

If split tunneling is enabled, only some apps use the VPN while others expose your real IP.

6. Old cached IP or wrong test websites

Some websites cache your IP or use different geolocation databases. Always test using multiple tools.

7. Your VPN connection failed silently

Some VPN clients disconnect without warning and stop tunneling traffic.

How to test if your VPN actually works

  1. Disconnect VPN and open Check IP.
  2. Remember your IP and location.
  3. Reconnect VPN and refresh the page.
  4. If the IP address does not change, then it is a leak or misconfiguration.

If your VPN frequently leaks or fails to change your IP, consider switching to a more reliable provider with proper leak protection.