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  3. My internet is slow when using VPN

My internet is slow when using VPN on Browser Extensions

Problem

Your internet connection is slow when connected to a VPN server on NordVPN’s browser extension.

Common symptoms

  • Your download and upload speed test results are lower than usual.
  • Websites and streaming videos take longer than usual to load.

Troubleshooting steps

NOTE: Check your connection speed on the speedtest.net app after each step.
NOTE: It is possible to experience an increase in ping when connecting to a country far away from your physical location.

  • If you used the “Secure my connection” button to connect to the VPN, try manually selecting and connecting to countries closest to your physical location instead.
  • Make sure that you are not using the NordVPN desktop app and the NordVPN extension at the same time.
  • Clear your browser cache.
  • Reinstall the extension by following these steps:
     
    1. First, back up your settings:
       
      1. Click the jigsaw piece icon at the upper-right corner of your browser to access the “Extensions” tab.
      2. Click the NordVPN icon to open the NordVPN extension.
      3. Click the cogwheel icon at the bottom-left corner to open settings.
      4. Click “General.”
      5. Click “Backup your settings” and download the file to your device.
         
    2. Remove the NordVPN extension from your browser: 
       
      1. Click the jigsaw piece icon at the upper-right corner of your browser to access the “Extensions” tab.
      2. Click the three dots next to NordVPN.
      3. Select “Remove from browser.”
      4. Click “Remove.”
         
    3. Restart your browser.
    4. Download and install the NordVPN extension from your browser’s extension marketplace.
    5. Import your settings: 
       
      1. After logging into your NordVPN account, click the cogwheel icon at the bottom left to open the settings.
      2. Click “General.”
      3. Click “Restore your settings.”
      4. Select the file you downloaded when you backed up your settings in step 1.
         
  • Try using the NordVPN extension on a different browser.

Additional tips

  • Check if the issue persists on other devices.
  • Restart your device.
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