Introduction
You've connected to a VPN. But what does your IP address look like now? Is your real IP actually hidden? What information do websites still see? Here's the full picture.
What Websites See When You Use a VPN
When you connect to a VPN, your traffic routes through the VPN server before reaching websites. The website sees:
- The VPN server's IP address (not your real IP)
- The VPN server's location (the country/city you connected to)
- That you may be using a VPN (many VPN IPs are detectable)
Your real IP address is hidden from the website.
What Your ISP Sees When You Use a VPN
Your ISP can see:
- That you're connected to a VPN server (the IP of the VPN server)
- The volume of encrypted traffic
- Not the content of your traffic (it's encrypted)
- Not which websites you're visiting
What the VPN Provider Sees
This is the key privacy consideration. Your VPN provider can see:
- Your real IP address
- Your traffic (if they decrypt it — reputable providers don't)
- Connection timestamps
This is why choosing a VPN with a verified no-log policy matters.
How to Verify Your VPN Is Working
- Connect to your VPN
- Visit what-is-my-ip.best
- Your displayed IP should match the VPN server's location, not your real location
If your real IP or location is showing, your VPN is either not connected properly or has a leak.
What's Still Exposed Through a VPN
Even with a VPN active:
| What's Exposed | Notes |
|---|---|
| The fact you're using a VPN | Many VPN IPs are in public databases |
| Browser fingerprint | Unique browser/device characteristics can track you across sites |
| Cookies | If already logged into an account, that identity persists |
| WebRTC leaks | Some browsers leak real IP via WebRTC even with VPN |
| DNS leaks | If VPN isn't configured correctly, DNS queries may bypass it |
Conclusion
On a properly configured VPN, websites see your VPN server's IP — not your real one. But a VPN isn't a complete anonymity solution; your VPN provider knows who you are, and your browser's identity persists through cookies and fingerprinting. For most privacy purposes, a reputable VPN provides excellent protection.
Check what your IP shows while on your VPN at what-is-my-ip.best.
Last updated: 2026 | Category: VPN & Privacy