> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.talview.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Why does VPN usage trigger high latency warnings?

Using a VPN during an online test or interview can significantly affect network performance. If you see **“High Latency”** warnings, experience delayed audio or video, or notice a **“VPN detected”** message during system checks, it usually indicates that your connection is being rerouted or slowed down. This can interfere with real-time communication and may impact proctoring accuracy or session stability.

In this article, you’ll understand why VPN usage causes latency issues and how to fix them before your session.

## 🚨How does VPN impact latency?

A VPN encrypts internet traffic and routes it through external servers. While this improves privacy, it can introduce delays because:

* Data travels a longer path between your device and the platform servers
* Encryption and decryption add processing overhead
* VPN servers may be congested or geographically distant
* Some VPNs throttle speed on certain networks

These factors increase **ping (latency)** and can cause lag, audio delays, or video freezes during live sessions.

## ✅ Common Causes and Fixes

| **What Might Be Wrong**                   | **What You Can Do**                                                                                 |
| ----------------------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| VPN or proxy is enabled                   | Disable VPN or proxy settings from your device or browser.                                          |
| High network latency (ping >150ms)        | Restart your modem/router. Switch to a wired (LAN) connection if possible.                          |
| Using a distant VPN server                | Disconnect from the VPN or choose a server closer to your actual location.                          |
| Network is overloaded (home or office)    | Pause large downloads, streaming apps, and cloud sync services during your session.                 |
| You're on a school/office firewall        | Contact your IT team to **whitelist Talview domains** and ensure no proxy restrictions are applied. |
| Using a mobile hotspot or metered network | Switch to a stable broadband connection for smoother performance.                                   |

### ⚠️ Signs VPN-Related Latency Is Affecting Your Session

You may be impacted if:

* Audio responses are delayed or cut off
* Video freezes, skips, or appears out of sync
* The system check shows **High Latency** or **VPN Detected**
* Your session freezes or reconnects unexpectedly

### 🌐 Final Check: Test Your Latency

Before rejoining your session:

* Ensure **VPN/Proxy is turned off**
* Run a [Speed and Latency Test](https://www.speedtest.net/)
* Confirm:
  * Ping \< 50 ms (ideal)
  * Jitter \< 30 ms
  * Stable upload and download speeds

If results don’t meet the recommended thresholds, switch networks or retry after making the fixes above.

## 📚 Related Articles

Still seeing **“High Latency”** or **“VPN Detected”** errors? Try these:

* [*Disable VPN/Proxy Instructions*](https://docs.talview.com/candidates/system-diagnostics/why-does-vpn-usage-trigger-high-latency-warnings#common-causes-and-fixes)
* [*Network Setup for Talview*](https://docs.talview.com/candidates/system-diagnostics/why-is-my-network-not-meeting-test-requirements#minimum-network-requirements)
* [*Check Browser & Device Compatibility*](https://docs.talview.com/candidates/system-diagnostics/supported-browsers-and-versions)