An IP leak happens when your real IP address is exposed, even though you're connected to a VPN. This means that websites, apps, or anyone tracking your activity can still see your true location, internet provider, or identity—despite the VPN being active.

VPNs are supposed to mask your IP and route all your traffic through an encrypted tunnel. But if something goes wrong—like a misconfigured VPN, browser vulnerability, or unsupported protocol—your IP can slip through the cracks.

There are two main types:

• IPv4 leaks, which involve the older, more common format

• IPv6 leaks, which are newer and often harder to detect
  
  

Both come with serious privacy risks, especially if you're using a VPN to stay anonymous or access blocked content. That’s why understanding and checking for IP leaks is critical if you care about staying truly private online.

IPv4 leaks usually happen because of:

• VPN misconfigurations

• Software ignoring the VPN tunnel

• Manual network or DNS changes

• WebRTC (browser-based leak)

IPv4 is still used almost everywhere. So if this leaks, it’s easy for websites to track you.

IPv6 leaks happen when:

• Your VPN doesn’t support IPv6

• The VPN tunnel ignores IPv6 traffic

• Your device sends data outside the encrypted tunnel

This type of leak is often silent. You won’t know it’s happening unless you test for it.

Why You Should Care About IPv6 Leaks

Many people think they’re safe just because the VPN is on. But if IPv6 isn’t supported or blocked, traffic goes around the VPN.

Here’s why that’s bad:

• It exposes your real IP address

• It can reveal your location and ISP

• It defeats the purpose of using a VPN in the first place

You can use our free tool to test your connection. This  tool shows both IPv4 and IPv6 addresses—if anything shows your real location, you have a leak.

if anything displays your real location, you have a leak. To understand exactly what to look for and how to run the test properly, read our full guide on how to check for VPN leaking.

How to Stop IP Leaks (Both IPv4 and IPv6)

Here’s how you can stay protected:

1. Use a VPN that blocks IPv6 or supports dual-stack (IPv4 and IPv6)

2. Manually disable IPv6 in your device’s network settings

3. Turn off WebRTC in your browser to avoid leaks via JavaScript

4. Run regular leak tests to stay aware of what’s being exposed

Should You Disable IPv6 to Stay Safe?

Yes—if your VPN doesn’t support IPv6, it’s a smart move to disable it. Leaving IPv6 enabled while using a VPN that only protects IPv4 can lead to silent leaks. Your device might send some data over the unprotected IPv6 channel without you knowing. That defeats the whole purpose of using a VPN.

Disabling IPv6 helps you avoid this risk completely. Most operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, let you turn off IPv6 manually through network settings. It only takes a few clicks, and you can always turn it back on later if needed.

If your VPN blocks or tunnels IPv6 traffic properly, you may not need to disable it. But if you’re unsure, it’s better to play it safe—disable IPv6 and stop leaks before they start.

The difference between IPv4 and IPv6 leaks isn’t just technical—it’s about your online privacy. If either one leaks, your VPN can’t do its job.

To stay safe:

• Choose a VPN that fully supports or blocks IPv6

• Run regular IP leak tests

• Disable IPv6 if your VPN doesn’t support it

Stay informed. Test your setup. And don’t assume your VPN is leak-proof—check it yourself.

1. What is the main difference between IPv4 and IPv6?

IPv4 uses a 32-bit address and is still more common. IPv6 is a newer, 128-bit format designed to replace IPv4. Both can leak if your VPN doesn’t handle them properly.

2. Can I get an IP leak even if my VPN is connected?

Yes. If your VPN doesn't fully block or tunnel IPv4 and IPv6 traffic, your real IP address can leak—making you trackable.

3. How do I know if my VPN protects against IPv6 leaks?

Check your VPN’s documentation or settings. Some VPNs let you toggle IPv6 protection. Or run a leak test while connected.

4. Should I always disable IPv6?

Not always, but it’s a safe move if:

• Your VPN doesn’t support IPv6

• You’re on a public or unknown network

• You want to avoid unexpected leaks

5. Is IPv6 more dangerous than IPv4 when it comes to leaks?

Yes. IPv6 leaks are harder to detect and more likely to go unnoticed—making them a bigger privacy risk.