A VPN app saying "Connected" is a good sign, but it's worth confirming your traffic is really going through the tunnel. Misconfigured networks and apps can leak your real IP address or DNS requests.
These tests take about two minutes and need nothing more than a browser.
- An IP leak shows your real IP address while the VPN is connected.
- A DNS leak means your domain lookups go to your ISP instead of the VPN.
- Test with free sites such as ipleak.net or dnsleaktest.com.
- Most leaks are fixed by updating the app, reconnecting or changing servers.
What counts as a VPN leak?
- IP leak — websites see your real public IP address.
- DNS leak — your device asks your ISP's DNS servers to look up websites, revealing which sites you visit.
- WebRTC leak — a browser feature reveals your real IP to websites (mainly on computers and phones).
Any of these undoes part of what the VPN is for.
Step 1: Note your real IP address
With the VPN off, open a browser and visit an IP check site such as ipleak.net. Note the IP address and location shown. This is your real connection.
On Fire TV, use the free Amazon Silk browser from the Appstore.
Step 2: Run an IP leak test
- Connect your VPN.
- Reload the IP check site.
- The IP address and location should now match your VPN server, not your home.
If you still see your real IP, disconnect and reconnect the VPN, then try again.
Step 3: Run a DNS leak test
- With the VPN connected, visit dnsleaktest.com and choose the extended test.
- Look at the list of DNS servers.
- If you see your internet provider's name, your DNS requests are leaking.
DNS servers belonging to your VPN provider or a neutral provider are expected.
How to fix leaks
| Problem | Fix |
|---|---|
| Real IP showing | Reconnect, try another server, update the app |
| ISP DNS servers showing | Enable the app's DNS protection option if available; reconnect |
| Leaks after network changes | Turn on the kill switch if offered |
| Leaks on every server | Reinstall the app; contact the VPN's support |
Leaks are often caused by an outdated app. Make sure automatic app updates are on, and check your Fire TV software is current.
How often should you test?
- After first installing a VPN — see our install guide.
- After app or system updates.
- Before relying on the VPN on public Wi-Fi.
If you're using our app and see a leak you can't fix, contact our support team with your device model and software version. The app is available free on Amazon.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my VPN is working?
Check your IP address with the VPN off, then on. If it changes to the VPN server's location and no ISP DNS servers appear in a DNS test, it's working.
What is a DNS leak?
A DNS leak happens when your device sends website lookups to your ISP instead of through the VPN, revealing which sites you visit.
Can I run a leak test on Fire TV?
Yes. Install the free Silk browser from the Amazon Appstore and visit a leak test site while the VPN is connected.
Do leak tests show my browsing history?
No. They only show your current IP address and which DNS servers handled the test request.
Why does my VPN leak only sometimes?
Leaks often happen during reconnections or network changes. A kill switch, if your app offers one, helps prevent this.
