If your VPN says connected but your IP address does not change, check split tunneling, browser proxy settings, DNS leaks, WebRTC, cached location data, and other VPN conflicts.
Quick answer: When a VPN says connected but the IP does not change, first switch to full-tunnel mode, then test a second browser, check DNS and WebRTC leaks, and disable any other proxy or VPN app.
A connected VPN icon does not always mean every app and browser tab is using the VPN tunnel. Split tunneling, browser proxy rules, DNS settings, and cached location data can make a VPN look broken even when the tunnel is active.
Check what is actually leaking
- If the public IP is unchanged, traffic may not be using the tunnel.
- If DNS still shows your local ISP, DNS requests may be leaking.
- If WebRTC exposes local data, the browser needs separate attention.
- If only one app fails, split tunneling or per-app routing may be responsible.
Common causes
| Symptom | Likely cause | First fix |
|---|---|---|
| Browser IP stays local | Browser proxy or split tunnel | Try a clean browser profile |
| Only some apps change IP | Per-app VPN rules | Disable split tunneling temporarily |
| DNS stays local | DNS leak or custom resolver | Use VPN DNS or remote DNS |
| Location still looks local | Cookies or account region | Test in private mode |
Fix order
- Disconnect other VPN, proxy, or accelerator apps.
- Switch the VPN to full-tunnel or global mode.
- Open a private browser window and test again.
- Run IP, DNS, and WebRTC checks.
- Clear site location permissions and cached data.
- Restart the VPN client and reconnect.
Common questions
Does the VPN icon prove my IP changed?
No. It proves a VPN session exists. Routing rules decide whether your traffic uses it.
Why does one website still show my old country?
Many sites use cookies, account history, language, payment region, or browser location permissions, not only IP.
Should I reinstall the VPN app?
Only after checking routing, DNS, WebRTC, and other VPN conflicts. Reinstalling is rarely the first fix.
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