How VPNs work and why they change your IP
A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel or routed path between your device and another network. Instead of reaching the internet directly through your local ISP, your traffic leaves through the VPN provider or corporate edge.
- Why websites see the VPN exit IP.
- Why VPNs can affect IPv6, DNS, and geolocation.
- What a VPN does not automatically protect.
The basic path
Without a VPN, your traffic usually exits through your ISP or mobile carrier.
With a VPN, the website sees the public address of the VPN exit point instead.
Common behavior changes
Geolocation may move to a different city or country.
IPv6 may disappear if the VPN does not transport it or intentionally disables it.
DNS answers may come from the VPN provider rather than your ISP.
What breaks
Some networks or services react differently to shared VPN IP space.
Latency often rises because traffic is taking a longer path.
What to test
Compare whenip.com, ipv4.whenip.com, and ipv6.whenip.com with the VPN on and off.
Use header, DNS, and WebRTC checks to see if the browser still exposes clues from the local network.
Does a VPN always hide my real location?
It usually changes the IP location, but browsers and apps can still leak other clues.
Can a VPN remove IPv6?
Yes. Many do unless they explicitly support IPv6 end to end.
Last updated: March 29, 2026