How Double VPN Works
In a standard VPN connection, your traffic goes from your device to one VPN server, then to its destination. With Double VPN, your traffic goes from your device to the first VPN server, gets re-encrypted, goes to a second VPN server in a different location, then to its destination. The second server only knows the IP of the first server, not your real IP.
The Privacy Benefit
The main benefit is that even if the first VPN server is compromised or under surveillance, the attacker still cannot see your real IP or final destination. For most users this is theoretical protection. For journalists, whistleblowers, or activists in high-risk environments, this extra layer has real value.
The Cost in Speed
Double VPN typically reduces connection speed by 30 to 60 percent compared to a single-hop VPN connection. Each additional server adds latency. For browsing and general use, this is usually acceptable. For video calls or large downloads, it can become a problem.
Who Offers It
NordVPN calls it Double VPN and offers it as a standard feature on selected server pairs. Mullvad offers multi-hop via their client. ProtonVPN offers Secure Core, which routes traffic through servers in privacy-friendly countries before exiting in your chosen location. All three implementations are solid and regularly audited.