Numerous tests will help you find whether the OysterVPN is working or not! First, look for icons on your dock, toolbar, menu bar, and other places. If the icon is grey, your VPN is disabled, and if it turns green or blue, then rest assured that your VPN is working.
You can also check the status of your VPN by navigating to Settings > VPN on any device. If you need more than just visual confirmation that your VPN is working properly, use one of the following methods:
Check for DNS leaks
The Domain Name System (DNS) functions similarly to a translator. It’s responsible for converting www.yourwebsite.com into a specific IP (Internet Protocol) number, 207.142.131.234. We can easily navigate the internet with these DNS requests. All we have to do is recall the name of a website. These queries do not go through a secure VPN tunnel if you do not use a VPN.
This could expose your address and the sender’s address to the websites you visit. All of this information will be available to your ISP as well. Here’s how you can do it:
- To do the DNS leak test.
- The DNS test should only return one DNS server address from the same location as the IP test.
- You’ll also see a message that says Protected.
Check the network for IP address leaks
Your IP address is similar to your internet address. However, it’s far more personal than a DNS address. A VPN hides your outgoing data source and data moved from one website to another. As a result, using a VPN to mask your IP address is highly suggested.
Your true IP and the IP provided by your VPN provider should always be different. If not, your IP address is exposed. This test can be performed on any device that has a VPN installed. Here’s how you can do it:
- To do an IP leak test, on the OysterVPN website.
- It will display the IP address of the OysterVPN server to which you’ve connected. Activate your VPN and select any country server.
- Refresh the website to check your IP address once more (with VPN on).
- You will also notice a message stating that you are protected and that OysterVPN is protecting your IP address.
Check for WebRTC
Web Real-Time Communication (WebRTC) is a protocol that allows web browsers to communicate with each other in real time. WebRTC uses JavaScript to enable mobile and web browsers to function without external plugins. When an IP address is detected, the device user can be identified. This may all seem complicated, but finding these leaks isn’t! Follow the steps below:
- With the VPN turned off, do a WebRTC leak test.
- Repeat the test with the VPN turned on, and any potential WebRTC leaks will be highlighted in red.
- It also shows that the IP address changes with and without the VPN, indicating that it runs properly.
Check if you can access geo-restricted content
Finally, verify whether you can access specific content libraries or geo-blocked websites and apps to see if your VPN works. A lot of content on the internet is restricted in many parts of the world due to severe licensing regulations.