Be careful if you use VPN when browsing, you can run out of data rate

Using a VPN we can say that it is quite common. However, doubts sometimes arise about whether it is really reliable, if it works well and even how much it will consume. We will talk about this last point in this article. We are going to explain how much Internet data a VPN consumes , when it happens and what to take into account so that problems do not appear. You will see that there may be differences compared to browsing the Internet directly, because the use of VPN adds an extra load to all data packages, which increases consumption.

Consumption of a VPN

Be careful if you use VPN when browsing

A VPN will act as an intermediary between our system and the servers we access. For example, if we enter a web page, the information we send in order to access it will go through the VPN first. It is very useful to encrypt information and be able to browse public networks that may be insecure, as well as hide the real IP address and enter as if we were somewhere else.

The first thing you should keep in mind is that the VPN will consume more or less depending on how you use the Internet . In other words, it is not the same to be playing streaming videos in high quality or uploading large files to the cloud, than simply sending an email or opening a web page.

Therefore, in these situations the VPN will consume more data:

  • internet downloads
  • Watch streaming videos
  • use the cloud
  • Update system
  • To play online

Now, does the VPN consume more compared to browsing the Internet directly? Are there differences for our data rate using a program of this type and not browsing directly? The truth is that yes and that could negatively affect your rate , since you could consume more.

You should keep in mind that when you browse through a VPN, the information will go through the application before reaching the destination . This supposes that it is going to receive information, encrypt it and later send it. It will consume more data than if we enter directly into a web page or online service.

But how much more does a VPN consume? Normally, this increase is 10-15% . Sometimes a little more, sometimes a little less depending on which service you use. As you can see, although it is not something that is really going to exhaust your rate, it does show. If you have a mobile data rate that does not have a large capacity, consuming 15% more can mean a lot and you will have to control it.

Lugares para usar VPN

Tips to save data

What can we do to save data, especially when using a VPN? The first thing is to control what we are doing at all times. Normally the problem will appear when we use the mobile and we have limited data. Avoid things like streaming videos in maximum quality (you can lower it from 4K to 720p, for example), postpone updates until you have a Wi-Fi network or avoid syncing files in the cloud when you are away from home.

It is also important to use a good VPN for mobile. Always use a guarantee to avoid security problems, but also excessive consumption. Some like ExpressVPN or NordVPN are good options. As far as possible, avoid those that are free, as they are usually not reliable.

As an additional tip, as long as you have a Wi-Fi network available you can use it and avoid spending mobile data. Especially by browsing through a VPN you can avoid security problems and you will be able to browse better.