Can You Get Booted if you Have a VPN?

  • By: Kevin
  • Date:
  • Time to read: 6 min.
Affiliate Disclaimer

As an affiliate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

Even with a VPN, you can still get booted because a VPN does not stop booting but makes it unlikely. VPN shields your system from Denial of Service (DoS) attacks such as IP booting. Once you’ve set up a Virtual Private Network, you’re protected against DoS attacks from those who know your IP address. 

It is possible, however, that A VPN will fail to cope with hackers that are more resourceful than average. For starters, they can launch an attack if they already have your false IP address, especially if you don’t switch between VPN servers.

Let’s dive deeper into this topic…

Will A VPN Stop Booting?

VPN merely shuffles your IP address, not protecting you from booting. Attackers can continue to attack the IP address you’re on, and you’ll be removed from the game.

However, you can use your VPN to swiftly change your IP address while attackers are still targeting the other IP address to fix the problem quickly.

What Is IP Booting?

A third party interfering with your internet connection to prevent you from playing a game is known as IP booting, also known as Denial of Service or DoS. The objective is to transmit a lot of data using your IP address so that your device delays, disconnects, or in extreme circumstances, break the entire gaming system.

IP booting exploits the notion of traffic overload. A malevolent user sends extra traffic to a certain IP address to overrun the other user’s device.

As a result, the recipient’s network can shut or slow down. The culprits frequently combine many devices to send out bulky data, enough to overload the target’s network.

Given that a single network cannot produce effective traffic flooding, the sender employs Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) (DDoS). The most likely victims are internet gamers or other users with a significant following.

The gadgets used in IP booting contain software infections that aid the hacker’s intentions. Consequently, the infiltrator can control the user’s traffic remotely even without their knowledge.

In certain circumstances, the objective isn’t users but a game’s servers; some hackers attack a particular game so that other gamers cannot play them. The devices that support large traffic flow are termed botnets, and since anyone can find them, a malevolent user doesn’t need to be an expert hacker to employ them

What Is a Distributed Denial of Service (DDOS) Attack? 

Distributed denial of service (DDOS) is a method where someone sends traffic to your IP address in order to shut it down. As a result of the high volume of traffic, the computer may get overloaded, causing you to experience latency and, eventually, disconnect. 

A DDOS attack can damage your gaming system to the point where you are unable to use it any longer. Some people engage in this behavior solely for the purpose of annoying others, particularly popular streamers with large followings. 

Do VPNs Stop DDoS Attacks?

DDoS attacks can be mitigated to some extent using virtual private networks (VPNs). The ability to hide one’s real IP address is a significant benefit of using a VPN.

DDoS attacks can’t find your network with a hidden IP address, therefore you’re much harder to find.

All your web traffic is encrypted, and a secure tunnel is formed between your machine and the VPN server, further enhancing your online security (ISP). The VPN we recommend for this is Pure VPN.

On the other hand, a VPN won’t protect you from a DDoS attack. VPNs are of no value if your IP address has already been compromised by a hacker. 

How Can You Know That You Are Being Booted 

If your device is under attack and an IP booting is taking place, you’ll notice a considerable drop in-game performance. It implies that a cybercriminal is hitting your server with traffic.

They can even fully disconnect you from the internet.

IP booting differs based on your physical address, as you may have noticed. There are some countries where it’s a serious crime for which the penalty is long prison terms; but, in other locations, it’s not a huge problem and you can easily get away with it

How to Avoid IP Booting?

Avoid Joining Random Groups 

At the moment, one of the ways to avoid being taken down is to avoid joining random groups, replying/sending messages, and playing Peer-to-Peer connection games on your computer or mobile device.

A VPN connection over your console can be an option if you’re feeling adventurous. The only drawback is that you’ll need a PC with an Ethernet connector and a VPN that doesn’t have a data cap.

Reset Your Internet Protocol (IP) Address

The easiest way to avoid being a hacker’s next victim is to change your IP address. While this isn’t a foolproof method of preventing IP booting, it will help keep you secure while you wait for a solution. 

Resetting your IP address is as simple as unplugging your router for a few minutes or several hours, depending on your Internet service provider.

When you return to the site, you’ll see that your address has changed. The manual, network settings, or consulting with an administrator can all provide confirmation if moving your device around is difficult since it is attached to the router.

Find A New Internet Protocol (IP) Address

The next step is to ask for a different address if the first one didn’t work out. It is possible to request a dynamic or new IP address from your service provider if you are often attacked.

The second option lets you change your address on a regular basis, making it harder for hackers to trace your movements. Even so, it’s not a foolproof solution, and it may cause issues when you’re trying to stream your game content.

Invest In A Better Network

Upgrading your Internet service provider network to one that is secure and up-to-date will help keep you safe from hackers. Unless you are absolutely positive that the router is coming from a trustworthy source, it would be best to avoid utilizing it.

After a while, it may be time to consider an upgrade after working with the same system for so long.

Firewalls are built into some routers to protect you from traffic overload, especially from botnets. Botnet IPs can be blocked by modern systems. Install software firewalls to protect your computer.

The most effective breach might also be found in your system, hidden just where you want it. Antivirus software provides great protection by detecting dangerous activity.

They can also protect you from attacks on the websites that are linked to yours.

Firewalls guard your hardware against viruses as well. Installing and updating your security systems is highly recommended. Even if a hacker is persistent, a firewall can help you detect security breaches since it is effective.

Final Thoughts 

Interfering with a user’s internet connectivity is the best method to damage a game. If you’re within seconds away from completing a level, a bug can wipe your progress and force you to restart.

As a result, protecting your online activity from unscrupulous hackers is critical.

The only method to avoid being hacked is to use a VPN, firewalls, reset your router, or get a new IP address. Keeping an eye out for booting indicators like network latency or unexpected shutdowns is also a good idea.