How a Double VPN Can Keep Your Activity More Private Online

Some services offer an added layer of encryption through double VPNs. But what actually happens if you use two VPNs? What does this mean?

VPNs have become hugely popular in recent years, with internet users looking to protect their online data as much as possible. But, while many VPNs use a single server, double VPNs use two. But what can a double VPN offer, and is it the right choice for you?

What Is a Double VPN?

Most VPN providers use a single remote server through which they encrypt your internet traffic. A double VPN, on the other hand, sends your traffic through two remote servers by chaining them together, meaning that a double layer of encryption is achieved.

While many VPN providers only offer a basic VPN, there are a number of services that also offer a double VPN option, including NordVPN, SurfShark, and ProtonVPN.

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But if VPNs alone make it so difficult for hackers to steal your data, does everyone still need a double VPN?

Should Everyone Use a Double VPN?

In short, no. For those who use the internet for fairly typical purposes, such as to stream video content, shop, visit social media platforms, or similar, a double VPN isn't really required. Given that this proportion of individuals makes up for most of the internet users out there, you likely do not need a double VPN.

If, however, you're trying to avoid government surveillance, conduct journalistic research anonymously, or need to tightly protect your online sources, a double VPN could work well for you, as it gives your data that extra layer of encryption.

If you already use a VPN service, there's a chance it doesn't offer a double VPN. But a quick internet search can answer that question for you.

On NordVPN, for example, you can activate the double VPN by clicking on the Specialty servers section of the app's homepage, wherein you'll see the Double VPN option. All you have to do is click, and you'll be connected to an extra remote server. The process should be similar on other VPN apps that offer a double VPN feature.

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It's worth noting that double VPNs significantly slow down your connection speed. VPNs affect internet speeds in general, but the additional server that your data is sent through with a double VPN can lead to a frustratingly slow online experience.

But just how much does a double VPN affect your internet speed?

Using Speedtest's internet speed calculator, we can compare the connection speeds available for both a regular and double VPN.

Using a standard VPN via NordVPN, we were able to reach a download speed of 55.58Mbps and an upload speed 15.78Mbps. With a double VPN, on the other hand, the download speed fell to 38.67Mbps, though the upload speed increased to 16.16Mbps.

As a control, we tested the internet speed without any VPN connection, and got a download speed of 71.09Mbps, along with an upload speed of 18.15Mbps. This shows that a double VPN can take more of a toll on your internet speeds than a standard VPN alone.

Double VPNs Can Keep Your Data Extra Safe

If your online circumstances require an additional layer of security, and you're willing to deal with a slow internet speed, a double VPN could be a great option for you. With an extra layer of encryption, your data will be kept doubly safe from any malicious parties that want to take it for themselves.