Here are some tips for using VPNs more effectively:
Perform A DNS Leak Test
DNS is the “domain name service” that is required to use internet. It translates an IP address (e.g. “72.21.211.176″) into a domain name (e.g. “Amazon.Com”). When using a VPN, do a DNS leak test to make sure that you are not revealing your ISP name servers (your ISP is the company giving you access to the internet).
Use A Private DNS Provider
To enhance your privacy when using a VPN, you may want to change the DNS settings used on your computer, to point the the servers of private DNS providers. I suggest entering the IP address of two servers from two different private DNS providers. Here are some DNS providers that purge their logs regularly:
- The DNS servers listed on the OpenNIC wiki (a user controlled Network Information Center)
- Censurfridns.DK is the name of two Danish uncensored DNS servers, which are available to anyone, free of charge.
How to change your DNS:
- Windows users will need to go into their network device’s properties, then go into the IPv4 properties, and then change the DNS servers in the bottom section of the window.
- Mac OS X users will need to go into their System Preferences, click on “Network“, choose their network device, click on “Advanced”, and then enter DNS servers after clicking on the DNS tab.
- Linux users will need to click on their network applet, choose Edit Connections, click on “Edit” for your network device, and under the “IPv4 Settings” tab, choose the “Automatic (DHCP) addresses only” profile, and then add the DNS servers into the DNS servers textbox, with each server address separated by a comma.
Here are some tips for using VPNs more effectively:
Use OpenVPN
Use OpenVPN where possible — it’s the most secure VPN protocol. On Macs, you can use the free Tunnelblick app with OpenVPN. With Ubuntu, you just install openvpn packages. In Windows, download the OpenVPN installer. Currently, you can’t use OpenVPN on iPhones and iPads, due to Apple restrictions. You can use the GuizmOVPN app on a jailbroken iPhone or iPad. On Android, you can use FeatVPN app. Also, if you have a “rooted” device running Android 4, you can use the OpenVPN Settings app.
Use Ports That Aren’t Blocked
You need to experiment with ports when using a VPN, if your ports are being blocked or censored. With the OpenVPN protocol, port 443 (used by secure pages in web browsers) is usually a safe bet, another good port to use is 53 for UDP (DNS port).
Don’t Use Leaky Browser Plug-Ins
If you don’t want your browsing habits tracked, you should disable Flash, Real Player, Quicktime, Java and Javascript. All these plugins can potentially leak out your real IP address or other identifying information.
Log In To Online Accounts
It might seem obvious but don’t login to online accounts that could identify you! You can of course create online account with fake information.
Thanks, I wasn’t aware of the potential DNS problems when using VPNs.
Hi,All in all, it’s good with no slow-downs in speed.Only problem, it seems to choke some times, like it loeoss connection (thus, leaking true identy?). When this happens, pages don’t get resolved & you have to try again. In rare occations, you have to disconnect & reconnect for it to get going again.Other than this, it does a very good job.But I don’t know how serious this choking business is in terms of security/ privacy.If I would pay for it? If the chocking does not represent a security/ privacy threat, price is very reasonable for what you get.Thanks How To Hide IP for the chance of trying this out.
Overall Rating Comp speed US/UK servers Customer suroppt I’ve been subscribed for nearly a year now and I’ve seen overplay grow a lot. Aside from the odd login timeout I’ve never experienced a problem. I recently took the opportunity to upgrade to their latest OverPlayVPN software, which throughly sets them apart from other providers I’ve used before