VPN & IP Privacy Basics
Understand what changes when you connect a VPN or proxy and how to verify the browser-visible result.
What a VPN Changes
A VPN can change the public IP that websites see by routing traffic through another network endpoint. It can also change the apparent ISP, ASN, and approximate network location.
How to Verify It
Save your current public IP, connect the VPN or proxy, then re-check. If the public IP changes, the browser is reaching the internet through a different visible address.
Why WebRTC Matters
Browsers can gather ICE candidates for real-time communication. Modern privacy controls often mask local addresses, but a leak check can still show browser-visible candidate information.
What SpeedMeter Does Not Claim
SpeedMeter does not itself provide a VPN tunnel and does not claim that a changed IP means a connection is fully anonymous or secure.
Good Privacy Habits
Keep software updated, use reputable network services, review browser permissions, avoid sharing sensitive information unnecessarily, and verify privacy changes rather than relying on labels.
Check Your Own Connection
Use the related SpeedMeter tool to compare the guide with live information from your own browser or network.