This guide explains how to use free VPN nodes and why your real IP or DNS may still be exposed, or your browser environment may behave unexpectedly after connecting. Follow the steps below to import free nodes from this site or other sources into clients such as V2RayN, Clash Verge, and sing-box, then perform some basic checks.
1. What to prepare before using free VPN nodes
Free nodes are usually provided as subscription links or in formats such as vmess, vless, trojan, and ss. You don’t need to understand all the protocol details—just make sure your client supports the format. Windows users often use V2RayN or Clash Verge Rev; Android users can use v2rayNG or Clash Meta for Android; and iOS users can choose a client that supports VLESS or Clash configurations.
- Get a working client and install it from an official or trusted source.
- Copy the node link or subscription address, making sure not to omit any characters at either end.
- If you’re using a subscription, update it regularly, as free nodes may stop working.
- Close other proxy software to avoid port conflicts.
2. General steps for importing and connecting to a node
- Open the client and look for the “Subscription,” “Configuration,” or “Import” option.
- If you have a subscription address, select “Add Subscription,” paste the link, and save it. Then click “Update Subscription.”
- If you have a single node link, select “Import from Clipboard” or “Add Manually.”
- Choose a node from the list with low latency and a normal status.
- Enable system proxy or VPN mode, then visit a webpage to check whether you can access the target site.
If you’re using a Clash-based client, pay attention to the mode. Beginners should start with “Rule Mode,” which connects to most domestic sites directly and routes overseas sites through the proxy. If you’re unsure during testing, temporarily switch to “Global Mode” to check whether the node works.
3. What your IP, DNS, and browser environment affect
Once connected, websites mainly see your exit IP. If an IP lookup site shows the node’s location, the proxy is probably working. However, your DNS may still point to your local ISP even after your IP has changed. This is known as a DNS leak and may cause access issues or expose your privacy. Enable DNS proxy, Fake-IP, or remote DNS in your client; the exact setting name varies by software.
Your browser environment also includes your language, time zone, WebRTC, cache, and logged-in accounts. Even with a VPN connected, WebRTC may expose local network information, or a site may recognize you through old cookies. When testing, use a private browsing window. If necessary, disable WebRTC or install a trusted leak-protection extension.
4. Troubleshooting connection failures and other issues
- Node times out: Update your subscription and try another node. Free nodes often stop working.
- Webpages won’t load: Check that system proxy or VPN mode is enabled and that Clash has the correct configuration selected.
- Only some sites won’t load: Test by switching between Rule Mode and Global Mode. The rules may not be matching, or there may be a DNS issue.
- Your IP hasn’t changed: Your browser may not be using the proxy, or another app may have overridden the system proxy.
- DNS leak: Adjust the client’s DNS settings, reconnect, and test again.
This site provides free nodes you can import, along with related guides. However, the reliability of free resources depends on the route, time of day, and number of users, so it’s a good idea to keep several backup nodes. For everyday use, first confirm that the node connects, then check your IP, DNS, and browser environment. This should help you identify where the problem lies.