Proton VPN Slow: How to Fix

Key Features and Common Issues of Proton VPN

Proton VPN is renowned for its strong focus on privacy and security. However, users often experience slow speeds due to various factors. Here are some key features and common issues that may affect your experience:

• No-logs policy: Proton VPN does not track user activity, which enhances privacy but may affect performance due to the use of high-security protocols.
• Free vs. Paid Plans: Users on the free plan may experience slower speeds due to limited bandwidth and server access.
• Server Load: High traffic on specific servers can lead to congestion, resulting in slow connection speeds.
• ISP Throttling: Your Internet Service Provider (ISP), such as Jio, Airtel, Vodafone, or BSNL, may throttle VPN traffic, slowing down your connection.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Fix Slow Proton VPN

1. Change Server Location

Sometimes, the server you are connected to may be overloaded. Try switching to a different server location:

• Open the Proton VPN app.
• Navigate to the server list.
• Select a server in a less congested region or one closer to your location for better speeds.

2. Change VPN Protocols

Different VPN protocols can significantly impact your speed. Proton VPN offers several protocols:

• OpenVPN: Generally offers a good balance of speed and security.
• IKEv2/IPSec: This protocol is faster and more stable, especially on mobile devices.
• In the app settings, switch to IKEv2/IPSec for potentially better speeds.

3. Disable IPv6

Disabling IPv6 can sometimes resolve connectivity issues:

• Go to your device's network settings.
• Locate the IPv6 settings and disable it.

4. Use Split Tunneling

Split tunneling allows you to choose which applications go through the VPN, thus improving speeds for non-sensitive activities:

• In the Proton VPN app, navigate to the settings or preferences section.
• Enable split tunneling and select apps that do not require VPN protection.

5. Restart Your Device and Router

Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve many connectivity issues:

• Restart your device and reconnect to the VPN.
• Consider restarting your router to refresh the internet connection.

Tips Specific to Indian Users

1. Understanding ISP Throttling

ISPs like Jio, Airtel, Vodafone, and BSNL may intentionally throttle VPN traffic. Here are ways to mitigate this:

• Contact your ISP to understand their VPN policy.
• Consider changing ISPs if throttling is a consistent issue.

2. Streaming Services Compatibility

If you're using Proton VPN for streaming, keep the following in mind:

• Connect to servers optimized for streaming to avoid buffering.
• Use the Proton VPN app's “Streaming” feature to find the best servers.

3. Avoid Peak Hours

Internet speeds can fluctuate during peak usage hours. Try to connect during off-peak times for better performance.

Security Considerations

While you strive for better speeds, it's crucial to maintain your security:

• Use Strong Passwords: Ensure that your Proton VPN account is secured with a unique and strong password.
• Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your account.
• Stay Updated: Regularly update the Proton VPN app to benefit from the latest security patches and features.

Alternative Solutions or Recommendations

1. Consider Upgrading Your Plan

If you are using Proton VPN's free version and experiencing slow speeds, consider upgrading to a paid plan. Paid plans offer more server options and better speeds.

2. Explore Other VPN Options

If Proton VPN continues to be slow despite troubleshooting, consider trying other reputable VPN services like:

• ExpressVPN: Known for its speed and security features.
• NordVPN: Offers a wide range of servers and excellent performance.
• Surfshark: A budget-friendly option with good speed and security.

3. Check for Software Conflicts

Sometimes, other software or applications may interfere with VPN performance:

• Temporarily disable firewalls or antivirus software to see if they are causing slow speeds.
• Check for any bandwidth-heavy applications running in the background and close them.

4. Test Your Internet Speed

Regularly test your internet speed with tools like Speedtest.net. This will help you determine if the slow speeds are due to your VPN or your internet connection itself.