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How using a VPN impacts your Broadband experience?

Using a VPN can slow your broadband because your internet traffic has to travel farther and be encrypted before reaching its destination.

Why does a VPN slow down broadband speeds?

While VPNs can be useful, they almost always reduce your broadband speed. This happens for two main reasons:

1. Encryption takes time

A VPN encrypts all your traffic before sending it out.
Encryption and decryption add processing time, which can reduce speeds.

2. Your data travels a longer distance

Your connection is no longer direct. It must go through the VPN server first.
If the VPN server is far away (e.g., in the US, Australia, or Asia), your data must travel a much longer route, increasing latency and reducing performance.

This slowdown is especially noticeable with:

  • Streaming
  • Video calls
  • Online gaming
  • Any real-time service requiring low latency

For example, if you are in the UK and using a US VPN to watch live sports, all your traffic must travel a much longer distance: 
your device → the VPN server → the sports website → back to the VPN → back to your device.
This additional journey slows everything down.

How can I improve my broadband experience while using a VPN?

There are a few things you can try:

1. Choose a VPN server closer to your location

If you are in the UK, using a VPN server in Belgium will be much faster than using one in Australia or the US.

2. Connect to a server with low load

Many VPN apps show “server load” or “server usage.”
Choose the server with the lowest load for the best speeds.

3. Make sure your Wi‑Fi connection is strong

If you are connected via Wi‑Fi, ensure you are as close as possible to your Rebel Router or SuperPod to get the strongest possible signal.

 

If you are experiencing issues while using a VPN, the quickest solution is simple: turn off your VPN.