As of 2026, simply connecting your VPN in China does not guarantee that it will function correctly. Numerous users face challenges such as:
- Connection established, but international websites won't load;
- Google is accessible, but YouTube/ChatGPT do not work;
- Very sluggish browsing speeds;
- Applications function, yet websites do not;
- WiFi is fine, but mobile data fails—or the other way around.
This guide offers the most effective testing techniques to determine if your VPN is genuinely operational while in China.
1. Step One: Verify Basic Connectivity
Test whether you can access:
- https://www.google.com
- https://www.youtube.com
- https://chat.openai.com
If these sites do not load:
- Your DNS settings might be compromised;
- The server could be partially restricted;
- The protocol may be identified.
2. Step Two: Assess DNS Integrity
DNS issues are among the most prevalent reasons for connectivity problems in China.
- https://dnsleaktest.com
- https://ipleak.net
Warnings:
- DNS servers indicate China Telecom, Unicom, Mobile;
- Inconsistent IP location versus server location.
Solutions:
- Activate integrated DNS (DoH/DoT);
- Utilize SmartDNS mode.
3. Step Three: Verify IP Location
- https://ifconfig.co
- https://ipinfo.io
Confirm that:
- Your IP displays as Japan/Singapore/etc. if that’s what you selected;
- No “Suspicious Proxy” alerts are present.
4. Step Four: Conduct Speed Test
- https://fast.com
- https://speed.cloudflare.com
Typical benchmarks include:
- Basic browsing: 1–5 Mbps;
- YouTube 1080p: 5–12 Mbps;
- 4K streaming: 15+ Mbps;
5. Step Five: Test Streaming Capability
- Conduct Netflix region test;
- Log into Disney+;
- Run YouTube 4K test.
If streaming encounters issues:
- Switch to nodes that support streaming;
- Employ SmartDNS.
6. Step Six: Check Compatibility with AI Tools
- Test ChatGPT messaging;
- Access OpenAI dashboard;
- Utilize Midjourney on Discord.
7. Final Step: App Performance
- Instagram / Facebook;
- WhatsApp;
- Google Maps;
- YouTube;
- Zoom.
Conclusion
FAQ Category
