In this article, you will learn what might be causing slow connection issues on your Android device when connected to a VPN and how to avoid them.
NOTE: A decrease in speed (around 30%) is expected when using a VPN. Feel free to check how to troubleshoot speed problems.
Test several different locations
Even if you have used the Fastest server button previously, you should try several other locations as well. Try the ones that are close to your physical location.
If you're not sure how to check if the speed has increased - there are many apps on the Google Play Store for testing the speed. Download one and use it for speed testing purposes.
Change the default protocol
- Go to the Settings page on your Surfshark app.
- Tap on VPN Settings.
- You will find the Protocol setting. By default, the protocol should be Automatic. Change it to OpenVPN (UDP)
- Connect to one of the servers and test the speed again.
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If OpenVPN (UDP) does not help, try the WireGuard protocol and others.
Turn on small packets
You will find an option to use small packets in Surfshark's settings. Small packets reduce the size of each transmitted packet, which may improve the connection speed and stability.
If it's off by default, turn it on and test the speed again.
Change your network
Some networks might be performing worse compared to others when connected to a VPN. Check if your Wi-Fi is slower than your mobile data or vice versa.
Turn off the Battery-saving mode
Battery saving mode or other settings that optimize battery consumption on your device might disable essential networking functions. You will find all the data settings if you open your phone's Settings and select the Battery settings tab. Turn off Battery-saving mode.
Reboot your device
Even though this may sound too simple to have any effect, it often helps because rebooting your device will close all idle apps and stop other background processes that might be running.
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