Slow internet can ruin your experience whether you’re streaming, gaming, or working.
In this guide, we’ll explain what causes slower speeds, how VPNs both affect and improve speed and which of the
best VPNs offer the fastest, most reliable connections for streaming services like Netflix, ITVX, and more.
30-Day Money-Back Guarantee — Get a full refund anytime within 30 days.
Slower Internet Speeds Common Causes
Several factors can contribute to reduced internet speed, including:
- ISP Throttling: Your ISP may deliberately slow down your connection during high usage or when streaming.
- Network Congestion: Shared networks (like public Wi-Fi) often experience heavy traffic.
- Outdated Equipment: Old routers or modems can bottleneck your speeds.
- Long Distance to Servers: The farther the server, the slower the response time.
- Free or Overloaded VPNs: Cheap/free VPNs often limit speed due to crowded servers or bandwidth caps.
How to Fix Slower Speeds?
Yes in many cases, a premium VPN can actually improve your speed. Here’s how:
- Bypassing ISP Throttling: ISPs often throttle based on activity (like HBO Max). A VPN hides your traffic, preventing throttling.
- Optimized Routing: Some VPNs use smart routing to send your data through faster, less congested paths.
- Server Choice: Good VPNs offer servers near your location, reducing latency.
- Note: A low-quality VPN can make speeds worse. Always choose a trusted provider.
Fastest VPNs for Slower Speeds
1. Surfshark – Overall Best VPN for Speed, Streaming, and Unlimited Devices
HOT PICK  |
| Servers — 4,500+ servers in 100 countries. |
|---|
| Unblocks — Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Hotstar, and Crunchyroll and more. |
| Torrenting — Offers P2P optimized servers for Torrenting. |
| Simultaneous connections — Offers unlimited simultaneous connections. |
| Logs — Strict no-log policy |
| Money-back guarantee — 30-day refund policy. |
| Get Surfshark |
Surfshark offers fast, reliable speeds across its global network. It’s especially useful for households with many devices, thanks to unlimited connections and no throttling. Plans Start $1.69/mo (Save 89% and get 3 extra months FREE with 24-month plan).
Streaming support includes: Netflix (US, UK, Japan) Paramount Plus ITVX Live sports like UEFA Champions League.
30-Day Money-Back Guarantee — Get a full refund anytime within 30 days.
2. NordVPN – Top-Tier Security VPN with Advanced Privacy Features and Fast Streaming
HOT PICK  |
| Servers —NordVPN offers over 7,900 servers across 165 countries. |
|---|
| Unblocks — Netflix libraries, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Sky Go, and ITVX, JioHotstar and more. |
| Torrenting — Offer optimized P2P servers, fast speeds, and robust security features. |
| Simultaneous connections — Offers 10 simultaneous connections. |
| Logs — Strict no-log policy |
| Money-back guarantee — 30-day refund policy. |
| Get NordVPN |
With its NordLynx protocol, NordVPN delivers fast, stable speeds even on long-distance servers. It’s also excellent for avoiding buffering on streaming platforms and works across Wi-Fi networks without slowdowns. Plans Start $3.09/mo (Save 73% and get 3 extra months FREE with 24-month plan).
Ideal for:
- Smart TVs
- Multiple-device households
- HD and 4K streaming
- Secure file transfers
30-Day Money-Back Guarantee — Get a full refund anytime within 30 days.
3. ExpressVPN – Fastest Speeds for Streaming and Browsing
 |
| Servers — 3000+ servers in 105 countries. |
|---|
| Unblocks — Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Hotstar and Max (formerly HBO Max). |
| Torrenting — Offers unrestricted access across all its servers, fast speeds, and robust security features. |
| Simultaneous connections — Offers 8 simultaneous connections. |
| Logs — Strict no-log policy |
| Money-back guarantee — 30-day refund policy. |
| Get ExpressVPN |
ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol is built for speed and reliability. It’s ideal for 4K Netflix, online gaming, and high-speed downloads. It works smoothly on smart TVs, Firesticks, and even routers. Plans Start at $3.49/mo – 4 months FREE with 2-Year Plan
Works with:
- Netflix
- HBO Max
- ITVX
- Paramount Plus
- UEFA Champions League
How to Maximize VPN Speed
- Choose a server close to your location
- Use a VPN protocol optimized for speed (like Lightway or NordLynx)
- Avoid public Wi-Fi networks when possible
- Use wired connections (Ethernet) for max stability
- Regularly update your VPN app and router firmware
30-Day Money-Back Guarantee — Get a full refund anytime within 30 days.
Does a VPN Slow Down Your Internet? Here’s Why It Might
Even premium VPNs may cause slight slowdowns, especially if:
- You connect to a faraway server (e.g., UK to Australia)
- You’re using a VPN on very old devices
- Your base internet speed is already low
Still, a high-quality VPN will minimize this impact and in many cases, bypass ISP throttling for a net performance boost.
30-Day Money-Back Guarantee — Get a full refund anytime within 30 days.
5 Fastest VPN’s Quick comparison table of 2025
| VPN Provider | Speed | Price (Monthly) | Servers Worldwide | Devices | Streaming | Money-back | Get VPN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Surfshark (Top Pick) | Very Fast | $1.69 | 4,500+ | Unlimited | Excellent (Netflix, Hotstar) | 30 days | Get Surfshark | NordVPN (Top Pick) | Very Fast | $3.09 | 5400+ | 10 devices | Excellent | 30 days | Get NordVPN |
| ExpressVPN | Fast | $3.49 | 3000+ | 8 devices | Excellent | 30 days | Get ExpressVPN |
| CyberGhost | Fast | $2.19 | 9000+ | 7 devices | Very Good | 45 days | Get CyberGhost |
| IPVanish | Fast | $2.19 | 2000+ | Unlimited | Good | 30 days | Get IPVanish |
Conclusion
Slower speeds are a pain but often avoidable. Whether your ISP is throttling your traffic or you’re stuck on laggy public Wi-Fi, the right VPN can optimize your connection and restore fast browsing and streaming.
Surfshark is our top pick for fast, reliable speeds in 2025 perfect for streaming Netflix, ITVX, and using on smart TVs without buffering or throttling.
FAQ – VPN Slower Speeds
Does a VPN always slow down your internet?
No. A good VPN may even speed up your connection by bypassing ISP throttling.
Why is my VPN slow on public Wi-Fi?
Public Wi-Fi networks are often congested and insecure. A VPN encrypts your data but may reduce speed slightly if the network is already slow.
Can a VPN help with Netflix buffering?
Yes. Surfshark, NordVPN, and ExpressVPN all reduce buffering on Netflix and other streaming platforms by preventing throttling.
What’s the fastest VPN protocol?
Lightway (ExpressVPN) and NordLynx (NordVPN) are among the fastest protocols available in 2025.