You turn your VPN on, refresh a website, and it says: “VPN not detected.”
This often triggers panic — but in most cases, it does not mean your VPN is broken. VPN detection on the internet is imperfect and mostly based on IP reputation.
Before changing settings or providers, start by checking your connection: VPN Status Check tool.
What “VPN not detected” actually means
Most websites don’t “detect” VPNs directly. Instead, they look at your public IP address and compare it to databases that label IP ranges as:
- Residential (home internet)
- Mobile networks
- Data centers / hosting providers
- Known VPN or proxy services
If your VPN’s IP is not listed as a VPN in those databases, the site may say “VPN not detected” — even though the VPN is working perfectly.
Common reasons your VPN is not detected
1) The VPN uses residential or ISP-like IPs
Some VPNs intentionally use IP addresses that look like normal home connections. This improves access to streaming sites and reduces blocking — but it also means detection tools may not flag the IP as a VPN.
2) The VPN IP is new or recently rotated
VPN providers rotate servers and IPs frequently. IP reputation databases can lag behind, so a fresh VPN IP may not yet be labeled as a VPN.
3) Shared IP behavior
Many VPN users share the same exit IP. Some services treat shared IPs differently depending on usage patterns, making detection inconsistent.
4) Split tunneling is enabled
Split tunneling allows some apps or browsers to bypass the VPN. If your browser is excluded, your VPN app may say “connected” while your browsing traffic uses your regular internet connection.
5) You’re checking the wrong thing
Detection labels are not the same as protection. What matters most is whether your public IP, location, and network identity change when the VPN is on.
How to verify your VPN properly
- Turn your VPN off and note your IP and ISP.
- Turn your VPN on and refresh.
- Compare IP, location, ISP, and ASN.
You can do this instantly here: Check your VPN status.
Is “VPN not detected” a problem?
Not usually.
In many cases, not being detected is actually a benefit. It can mean your VPN blends in better with normal traffic and avoids unnecessary blocking.
If your IP changes as expected and no obvious leaks are present, your VPN is likely working — regardless of the detection label.
VPN detection is best-effort. Use multiple signals, not a single label.