📎 AI Summary:
The thread discusses issues with VPNs slowing down internet speed and explores potential solutions, including choosing nearby server locations and upgrading internet plans. Several users advise caution regarding external security devices and emphasize the importance of reputable hardware and provider support. Overall, the conversation reflects a shared concern about balancing security and performance, with practical tips pointing towards upgrading services or hardware for better speeds.
J

JandN2639

Well-Known Member
Member details
Joined
Apr 14, 2019
Messages
157
Thread Author #1
We have been using a VPN for quite some time. Unfortunately, it reduces our speed to far below streaming service requirements.

We periodically see offers on Indiegogo for devices that supposedly provide security in themselves. The attached screenshot shows two examples.

Is this type of thing a hoax, as we suspect, or could these devices actually solve a huge problem?
69a835d32cc208dc3aa0cd7345053833.jpg



Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 

Solution
Axel PC
I've used ProtonVPN, Private Internet Access, and Cloudflare's free 1.1.1.1 proxy/vpn service. And there's been time they all have been slow or they all have been fast. It depended on the spend of my home or cellular network speed. For home I have Xfinity and they have an app that makes it very easy to shut down connected devices. This way not every WiFi enabled device is sucking down bandwidth. And this helps when I need more speed for a particular task.

So I think you need to just spend time trying some of the VPNs out, check out reviews and see if you can find some that pertain to where you live. I talked to my cable company about my usage (no gaming, just a couple smart enabled TVs etc) and they helped me decide on the speed I'd...
Sort by date Sort by votes
Neemobeer

Neemobeer

Windows Forum Team
Staff member
Member details
Joined
Jul 4, 2015
Messages
8,995
#2
Potentially, but it likely has a built-in proxy or VPN so all your data is going through them. I'd research where exactly your data goes and if they have access to it.
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
Axel PC

Axel PC

Honorable Member
Member details
Joined
Apr 24, 2016
Messages
523
#4
I've used ProtonVPN, Private Internet Access, and Cloudflare's free 1.1.1.1 proxy/vpn service. And there's been time they all have been slow or they all have been fast. It depended on the spend of my home or cellular network speed. For home I have Xfinity and they have an app that makes it very easy to shut down connected devices. This way not every WiFi enabled device is sucking down bandwidth. And this helps when I need more speed for a particular task.

So I think you need to just spend time trying some of the VPNs out, check out reviews and see if you can find some that pertain to where you live. I talked to my cable company about my usage (no gaming, just a couple smart enabled TVs etc) and they helped me decide on the speed I'd need. I was able to change plans, completely, after a couple weeks only because I talked to them prior about trying a plan out.

I think these external security devices are mostly snake oil. And are made by short lived companies. So you can't count on support in the long term. And like @Neemobeer said you're trusting these crowd sourced companies with your personal data as well. I think a good router & modem from a well known trusted company or the combo router/modems from your cable company are the most reliable. Also check to see that you have the latest hardware version from your cable company. I didn't and they upgraded it for free and it made a difference. And if you're in an area or your home doesn't broadcast your WiFi very well some times they'll give you boosters for free, you just have to push it and ask.

Hope this helps.
 
Upvote 1 Downvote
Solution
J

JandN2639

Well-Known Member
Member details
Joined
Apr 14, 2019
Messages
157
Thread Author #5
We used to rent equipment from Comcast, but now we have an Arris Surfboard and Eero. Comcast’s equipment was much lower quality.

Thanks for the info!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
J

JandN2639

Well-Known Member
Member details
Joined
Apr 14, 2019
Messages
157
Thread Author #6
Vodkadrinker said:
The easiest way to eliminate speed loss through VPN is select the closest vpn server location.
Click to expand...

We do that. Our speed is still highly variable.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 

Upvote 0 Downvote
A

Angelo Emerson

New Member
Member details
Joined
Mar 14, 2020
Messages
11
#7
How to increase WiFi speed? I have been using hotspot which I connect to my computer. But sometimes its slow down. How to overcome this situation?
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
carsten ibsen

carsten ibsen

Honorable Member
Member details
Joined
Oct 21, 2014
Messages
21
#10
I have a 300/50MBPS connection through Danish ISP STOFA, it costs about 180 USD every 3 months, my WI-FI got really bad & I asked STOFA for help, they sent me 2 Nokia Boosters for free & now, believe it or not, when I measure my Wi-Fi it is exactly as I pay for 300/50MBPS.
I am on VPN most of the time, it takes 20-25% of the Download speed, does not really affect Upload.
My Provider is NordVPN.🙂
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
You must log in or register to reply here.