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Using a virtual private network (VPN)

A virtual private network (VPN) is an Internet security service that allows users to access the Internet as though they are connected to a private network.

There are two main types of VPNs and they are both used for different reasons.

Corporate VPN
A corporate VPN is typically used to grant access to the company network. You may be using a VPN while working remotely to access files and services from your work network. Security restrictions may be assigned by your corporate security department. 

All traffic uses the same path: laptop → VPN → company network.

Consumer VPN
A consumer VPN is typically used to hide location and encrypt traffic. You may use a VPN at home to mask your location and IP address. Some are free and some are available for a monthly fee.

The traffic can use different paths which could create delays.

 

There are many variables that could impact Internet speeds while using a VPN.

Corporate VPN

  • Congestion of the company network or server load can play a part in speeds received.
  • Faster speeds are dependant on the device hardware age and quality. For example,
  • old laptops may be using older Wi-Fi technology with lower speed capabilities.

Consumer VPN

  • The VPN server may not be located nearby.
  • If the VPN server is located outside of Canada, the VPN user is reliant on that country’s Internet infrastructure capabilities. When using a VPN in Texas for example, you would require access to a U.S. Internet provider and be subject to their network speeds and capabilities.
  • VPN server capabilities are sensitive to server load and congestion.
  • As with a corporate VPN, the age and quality of your devices’ hardware can also play a part in slower speeds.  

Are you using a corporate VPN? If you are experiencing slow speeds on a corporate VPN, contact your IT support team for help.

If you are using a consumer VPN and your VPN seems slow, here are a few suggestions on how to fix it.

Do not use a free VPN: A free VPN will almost certainly slow down your Internet. Free services exist to encourage you to upgrade.

Change server location: Always pick the VPN location that is closest to the destination if you can. The closer the server to your location, the fewer the latency issues.

Make sure your VPN software is up to date: The software you install on your computer, phone, tablet or TV box manages your connection to the VPN server. From time to time, bugs and other issues can lead to problems including slow Internet.

Use an Ethernet connection: When available, connect your devices, such as PCs, game consoles, TV boxes and Smart TVs, to the Internet using their Ethernet ports. Hooking these devices directly to your router with a good quality Ethernet cable improves speed considerably.

Don’t set up the VPN on a router: Set up VPN on each individual device that you're using (computer, smartphone, tablet, etc.).

Try the UDP protocol: UDP is much faster than TCP. Check your VPN settings to see if manual switching is supported. The process may differ from service to service.