How to Reduce Your VPN’s Latency, Buffering, Lag, or Ping Time?

VPN (Virtual Private Network) is one of the trusted solutions to ensure your content’s online security and privacy.

Undoubtedly, it offers multiple advantages to the user but also introduces some of the VPN latency issues, buffering, time lagging or ping times. This is why many users now prefer VPN Alternative solutions like ZTNA (Zero Trust Network Access) to combat its limitations.

But the good news is that you can quickly deal with its latency issues by implementing some VPN optimisation tips.

To know more about this, keep reading this article!

Understanding VPN Latency, Buffering, Lag, and Ping Time

Before going further into the solution, let go of this table to learn some essential technical terms commonly associated with VPN performance issues.

Term	Description	Impact
VPN Latency	The delay between request and response that affects web page load times	Slower interactions
VPN Buffering	Pauses and loading interruptions in streaming; slow data transfer.	Disrupted streaming
VPN Lag	Delay in online activities, primarily gaming, related to latency due to limited server space and demand spikes.	Poor performance and network experience
VPN Ping Time	Round-trip data travel time between the device and the server affects real-time apps.	Disruption in real-time apps

Tips to Reduce VPN Latency, Buffering, Lag, or Ping Time and Improve Performance

1.  Choose a Nearby Server

Choose a server that is located near your location when selecting a VPN. It will reduce latency and faster connections since the data won’t have to travel distances.

2.  Select a Reliable VPN Provider

Opt for a VPN provider known for its high-speed servers and low latency. Thus, look for providers with a proven track record of delivering performance.

3.      Use a Wired Connection

Connect to the internet using an Ethernet cable or Wi-Fi whenever possible, as wired connections offer stability and lower latency than connections.

4. Switch to a Faster Protocol

Take into consideration the different VPN protocols available and their speed capabilities. Some VPN protocols are faster than others; for example, WireGuard is renowned, which is very well known for its speed and efficiency. Thus, if your VPN provider supports faster protocols, consider switching to them.

5.  Optimise VPN Settings

Take some time to explore the settings of your VPN client to find options that can optimise performance. However, some VPN clients also allow you to adjust settings related to speed and reliability, which can help enhance your experience.

6.  Close Background Applications

Closing unnecessary background applications running on your device that consume bandwidth is recommended. These applications can contribute to latency while using a VPN. By closing apps, you can free up resources, potentially reducing latency.

7. Use Split Tunneling

If available, then consider using split tunnelling with your chosen VPN service. It will allow you to choose which applications use the VPN connection. It is how it can minimise latency during important activities by focusing resources on what’s necessary.

8.      Improve Your Internet Connection

If you want your VPN to work better, it’s worth considering upgrading your internet plan to a higher speed option from your service provider.

9. Use Gaming VPN

Consider using the gaming VPNs offered by many of the VPN providers. It is designed to lower latency and enhance the gaming experience.

10.  Monitor Server Load

Some VPN providers display server load information. Choose servers with lower loads to ensure better performance.

Conclusion

VPNs are essential for online privacy and security.

However, you must follow the tips mentioned above to leverage the benefits of low latency VPN or video and gaming without buffering or lagging. It will help significantly reduce these performance issues and offer a smoother online experience.

Or you can talk to reliable providers, InstaSafe experts, for more specific solutions for your business needs for InstaSafe VPN services. Specific solutions will provide you with better results.