Encryption and server routing naturally add overhead. However, severe slowdowns are often fixable with the right adjustments. Below are the most effective, provider-specific strategies.
Why VPNs Slow Down Internet Speed
- encrypted Encryption Overhead: Data encryption/decryption requires processing power.
- public Server Distance: Longer physical distance = higher latency.
- groups Server Load: Overcrowded servers split bandwidth among users.
- tune Inefficient Protocol: Old protocols (OpenVPN) are slower than WireGuard.
- wifi Local Network: Your base internet speed and Wi-Fi quality set the maximum ceiling.
Provider-Specific Speed Fixes
| VPN | Fastest Protocol | #1 Fix | Common Slowdown Cause |
|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | NordLynx (WireGuard) | Switch from OpenVPN to NordLynx | Overloaded auto-selected servers |
| ExpressVPN | Lightway (UDP) | Manually enable Lightway protocol | Automatic protocol not choosing Lightway |
| Surfshark | WireGuard | Disable NoBorders mode if not needed | Wrong protocol selection |
vpn_key NordVPN is Slow – How to Fix It
Common Causes:
- Overloaded auto-selected servers
- Using OpenVPN instead of NordLynx
- Connecting to distant locations
Top Fixes:
- Switch protocol to NordLynx
- Manually select a nearby server
- Disable Threat Protection temporarily
- Restart the app and reconnect
Note: NordLynx offers the best speed balance. Router installations are slower than apps. Wired connections outperform Wi-Fi.
bolt ExpressVPN is Slow – How to Fix It
Common Causes:
- Suboptimal location selection
- Automatic protocol not choosing Lightway
- Peak-hour congestion
Top Fixes:
- Manually enable Lightway UDP
- Connect to the closest server
- Restart modem/router before reconnecting
- Disable split tunneling temporarily
Note: Lightway is optimized for speed. Stable on mobile and desktop. MediaStreamer improves speed but removes encryption.
waves Surfshark is Slow – How to Fix It
Common Causes:
- Wrong protocol selection
- NoBorders mode enabled unnecessarily
- Server congestion
Top Fixes:
- Switch protocol to WireGuard
- Disable NoBorders mode if not needed
- Connect to nearest server
- Disable CleanWeb temporarily
Note: Unlimited devices can reduce local bandwidth. Best performance on modern hardware. WireGuard provides highest speeds.
Speed Optimization & FAQ
General Speed Tips (All VPNs)
- check Use the nearest server location
- check Prefer WireGuard or Lightway UDP
- check Use Ethernet instead of Wi-Fi
- check Restart router periodically
- check Close background bandwidth-heavy apps
Speed Troubleshooting FAQ
Why is my VPN fast sometimes and slow later?
Server congestion and peak-hour traffic cause fluctuations.
Does changing protocol really help?
Yes. WireGuard and Lightway are significantly faster than OpenVPN.
Why is VPN slower on my smart TV?
TVs have weaker hardware and limited VPN optimization.
Quick Speed-Fix Checklist
Need a Faster VPN?
Some VPNs are inherently faster due to better protocols and server infrastructure. Compare the top performers in our speed tests.
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