checkping.io
Frankfurt, DE (Auto)
← Back to Blog
Network Security

Do VPNs Increase or Decrease Ping? The Truth Revealed

#vpn#mythbusting#routing

The General Rule

In 95% of cases, a VPN will increase your ping. It adds an extra stop (the VPN server) to the data's journey and adds encryption/decryption time.

The Exception: Bad ISP Routing

Sometimes, your ISP takes a terrible route to the game server (e.g., sending data from New York to Chicago via Dallas). A gaming VPN might force a more direct path (New York -> Chicago), potentially lowering ping despite the overhead.

DDoS Protection

The main reason streamers use VPNs isn't for ping, but to hide their IP address to prevent DDoS attacks.

Conclusion

Don't buy a VPN expecting magical ping reduction unless you know your ISP has specific routing issues. Use it for privacy and security instead.