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The best VPN protocol will help you establish a secure connection between your device and your chosen provider’s server.
Virtual Private Network protocols form the basis of your VPN connection and employ encryption algorithms to ensure you can securely and anonymously use the internet. Pinpointing the right one for your use case can be difficult, though. In this guide, we’ll explore the most common VPN protocols, their strengths and weaknesses, and the best VPN protocol for each use case.
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Key Takeaways
- A VPN protocol is a set of rules that controls how your data is encrypted and how it’s transferred to a VPN server
- Different VPN protocols offer varying levels of security and speed
- OpenVPN is best for security, while WireGuard is best for speed
- Some VPN providers offer proprietary VPN protocols – for example, ExpressVPN offers the Lightway protocol, and NordVPN offers the NordLynx protocol
Introduction to VPN Protocols
The ultimate purpose of a VPN protocol is to create what’s known as a VPN tunnel. This is a secure and private two-way connection between your device and a VPN server. Data inside a VPN tunnel, including your IP address and any information you send or receive, is fully encrypted and shielded from prying eyes and other cyber security threats.
When choosing a VPN service, it’s crucial to understand the significance of selecting the best VPN protocol for your needs. Different protocols offer varying levels of security, speed, and compatibility, and the best VPNs are defined by offering fast, secure connections.
Why Do Different VPN Protocols Matter?
VPN protocols are all designed to create a VPN tunnel so that data can pass freely and securely between your device and the VPN server. However, not all VPN protocols are equally effective at this task.
Here are some of the key ways VPN protocols differ.
Internet Protocol Security
Not all VPN protocols provide the same degree of security for your data. Older protocols often have known vulnerabilities that allow sophisticated actors, such as government intelligence agencies and cybercriminals, to break into your VPN tunnel.
They may or may not be able to decrypt data being sent inside the tunnel, but they can still access sensitive information, like your IP address and the website address you’re connecting to.
For newer protocols, it’s important to think about how likely it is that vulnerabilities could exist without security experts knowing. VPN protocols can be broadly divided between open-source and closed-source protocols.
The code behind open-source VPN protocols is public, while the code for closed-source protocols is only known to the companies that built them. Many cybersecurity professionals prefer open-source VPN protocols as they can review the code and ensure there are no flaws or backdoors.
If you use a closed-source VPN protocol, you have to trust the developer when they say their protocol is secure. Protocols like OpenVPN or WireGuard are seen as providing the highest levels of security today.
Speed
Your VPN protocol plays a large part in determining how fast your VPN connection is. Some protocols take longer to encrypt and decrypt data at either end of the tunnel, between your computer or smartphone and the VPN server.
Other protocols create a smaller tunnel with lower bandwidth. Instead of being able to send and receive a firehose of data, you’re limited to a trickle.
If you prioritize fast download and upload speeds, especially for streaming, gaming, or large file transfers, lightweight protocols like WireGuard or proprietary options like ExpressVPN’s Lightway or NordVPN’s NordLynx are excellent choices.
They’re designed to minimize latency and offer optimal performance.
Compatibility
VPN protocols aren’t always compatible with a wide range of operating systems. Some only work on Microsoft Windows, for example, or only on macOS and Linux. Other protocols require a lot of CPU power, so they can cause problems if you try to use them on a smartphone.
Protocols like PPTP and L2TP have broader compatibility but are considered less secure and have been discontinued by providers like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark.
Others, like WireGuard or OpenVPN, require specific software or apps. It’s essential to select a protocol that’s compatible with your devices. If you have a variety of different devices and want to use the same VPN protocol for each of them, you’ll need to think carefully about protocol compatibility.
For further details, see our guides to the best VPNs for iPhone and the best VPNs for Android.
An Overview of Different VPN Protocols
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most widely used types of VPN protocols, their advantages and drawbacks, and how they work. We’ll also offer step-by-step guidance on how to set up these different VPN connections.
OpenVPN
OpenVPN is popular because it provides fast connection speeds and is considered highly secure. It uses 256-bit Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) encryption by default. To make OpenVPN even more secure, VPN providers can configure this protocol to encrypt your data using the AES, Blowfish, and Camellia encryption ciphers, among others.
The OpenVPN GUI for WindowsAnother benefit of OpenVPN is that it enables you to connect to the internet using either the transmission control protocol (TCP) or user datagram protocol (UDP). TCP traffic is slower but ensures your internet service provider can’t detect you’re using a VPN. This makes OpenVPN a great choice of protocol in countries with internet censorship.
OpenVPN is known for its flexibility and adaptability to different use cases, from securing public WiFi connections and bypassing censorship to establishing secure remote access for businesses.
The only major drawback to OpenVPN is that it can be slow compared to other protocols, especially if you configure the protocol to connect over TCP and use an advanced encryption algorithm. It also requires more CPU power than other VPN protocols.
Pros of OpenVPN
- Works with a wide range of encryption algorithms
- Can connect to the internet over TCP or UDP
- Open-source and has been in use for 20+ years
- Compatible with most devices
- Large and active user community, enhancing its reliability and security
Cons of OpenVPN
- Relatively slow connection
- Uses more CPU power than other VPN protocols
- Frequently drops connection when switching between networks
WireGuard
Pros of WireGuard
- Faster connection speeds than OpenVPN
- Works with multiple encryption algorithms
- Compatible with most devices, including smartphones
- Open-source with a small codebase for easy auditing
- Consumes less CPU and battery power
Cons of WireGuard
- Not yet available with all VPN software providers
- Doesn’t automatically change your IP address throughout your session
- Doesn’t support TCP connections
IKEv2 – Internet Key Exchange version 2
IKEv2/IPsec was developed by Microsoft and Cisco and was originally intended to be a part of the IPSec suite of VPN protocols.
The main benefit of IKEv2/IPsec is that it provides fast connections. Only WireGuard is faster in speed tests. Like WireGuard, the IKEv2/IPsec protocol can maintain your VPN connection when your device switches between networks.
There are a few drawbacks to IKEv2/IPsec. Unlike OpenVPN, it can’t connect over TCP, so your internet service provider will know you’re using a VPN. In addition, IKEv2 doesn’t work natively on Linux operating systems.
It’s also important to note that the IKEv2 protocol is proprietary. However, there have been no reports of major security vulnerabilities since it was introduced in 2005.
Pros of IKEv2
- Very fast connection speeds
- Maintains connection when switching networks
- Considered to be highly secure
- Available in most VPN software
- Broad compatibility
Cons of IKEv2
- IKEv2 protocol isn’t open-source
- Setting it up can be complex
- Difficult to use on Linux systems
L2TP/IPSec – Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol
L2TP creates a tunnel to transmit your data. Your data is broken down into packets, which are then encrypted by IPSec, and turned into L2TP packets, ready for transmission. At the receiving end, IPSec decrypts the data to complete the process.
When you connect to a VPN server using L2TP/IPsec, your device establishes a connection with the server, and all data passing between your device and the server is encrypted and encapsulated within the L2TP/IPSec tunnel.
Pros of L2TP/IPSec
- Compatible with most operating systems
- Moderate connection speeds
- Known for its stability
Cons of L2TP/IPsec
- No longer offered by most VPN software
- L2TP protocol may not be fully secure
- Drops connection when switching networks
- Some firewalls can block traffic
SSTP – Secure Socket Tunneling Protocol
Pros of SSTP
- Comparable speed and security to OpenVPN
- Works on Windows and Linux computers
- Delivers stable connections
Cons of SSTP
- Doesn’t work on macOS or mobile devices
- Code has never undergone a public audit
- Moderate connection speeds
PPTP – Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol
Pros of PPTP
- Compatible with legacy devices, such as computers running Windows 95
- Easy to set up
- Low CPU and memory usage
Cons of PPTP
- Considered to be insecure
- Not available with most VPN software
- Slower connection speeds than most modern protocols
- Often fails firewall restrictions as it lacks standardized VPN port numbers
What is a Proprietary VPN Protocol?
Some VPN software providers have built their own protocols. For example, ExpressVPN offers a protocol called Lightway, and NordVPN offers a protocol called NordLynx.
They’re exclusive to the VPN service that developed them, offering a unique selling point that sets them apart from competitors.
ExpressVPN’s Lightway
Lightway is only available through ExpressVPN and seems to offer the best of both OpenVPN and WireGuard. It connects quickly over either UDP or TCP.
It’s nearly twice as fast as OpenVPN, but still slightly slower than WireGuard. A major improvement compared to OpenVPN is that Lightway won’t drop connections when switching networks, and you’re able to obfuscate traffic.
Lightway’s code is open-source and has undergone multiple security audits. It’s also written in just 2,000 lines of code, even less than WireGuard, and uses less battery than any other major protocol.
For more details about ExpressVPN, see our full ExpressVPN review.
NordVPN’s NordLynx
NordLynx is only available from NordVPN and, like Lightway, offers faster speeds than OpenVPN over both UDP and TCP connections.
One of the key benefits of this protocol is that it automatically changes your IP address at regular intervals during your session, which WireGuard is unable to do. This makes it more difficult for you to be identified even if your IP address were to leak.
NordLynx uses ChaCha20 for encryption, while Lightway uses AES-256. The code for NordLynx is open-source, although it hasn’t undergone the same degree of public security testing as Lightway.
While it features around 4,000 lines of code – more than Lightway – it’s still streamlined. Given this, in a NordLynx vs Lightway comparison, Lightway comes out slightly ahead.
For more details, read our full ExpressVPN vs NordVPN guide.
Best VPN Protocols for Different Purposes
Each VPN protocol has unique strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to match your choice to your needs. Here, we’ll explore the best VPN protocols for different purposes, providing you with insights into which best suits your online activities.
Fastest Protocol for Streaming and Gaming
If you’re looking for the best VPN protocol for gaming or streaming, having a VPN protocol optimized for speed and low ping is crucial to ensure a seamless and lag-free experience. Among standard VPN protocols, WireGuard is often considered the best VPN protocol for streaming and gaming, and here’s why:
- Consistent speeds: WireGuard consistently delivers high-speed performance, going as high as 950 Mbps, as opposed to OpenVPN’s 200 Mbps, making it ideal for streaming HD or 4K content without buffering and for online gaming without lagging.
- Community support: WireGuard has a strong user community and a wealth of resources, including forums and guides, making it easier to troubleshoot issues and optimize your setup for streaming and gaming.
- Trustworthiness: WireGuard is an open-source protocol, which means its code is open to public scrutiny, contributing to its reputation as a reliable and transparent choice for online activities like gaming and streaming.
- Wide compatibility: WireGuard enjoys broad support across various platforms and devices, making it accessible for most users without requiring advanced technical skills.
On the plus side, Lightway is more secure and easy to use – it comes built into ExpressVPN apps for routers, making it extremely easy to use on devices like Xbox and smart TVs that people typically use for gaming and streaming.
As an alternative, IKEv2/IPsec is also fast and is considered to be highly secure. For information, check out our guide to the fastest VPNs.
The Most Secure Protocol for Data and Privacy Protection
The fact that it’s trusted and used by entities such as the military and NASA is proof enough of how secure and reliable it is. It supports both UDP and TCP, unlike WireGuard, allowing you to use TCP Port 443, which is top-tier for being able to bypass firewalls and censorship.
This gives OpenVPN unrivaled customizability, and it’s suited for use in a wide range of scenarios, including in privacy-invasive countries like China and Russia.
Speaking of versatility, OpenVPN is open source, unlike protocols like NordLynx and IKEv2, meaning it’s constantly being updated and patched by cybersecurity experts around the world.
It’s also compatible with both old and new cryptographic algorithms, including ChaCha20 and AES, whereas WireGuard only supports the former.
The only area where OpenVPN is perhaps not the best for security is auditing – it sports over 70,000 lines of code, whereas WireGuard, NordLynx, and Lightway are all well under the 5,000 mark.
This means that OpenVPN is more difficult to audit for vulnerabilities. That said, it’s been around for over 20 years, and there are no known vulnerabilities, so you should be good to go if you opt for the ever-available OpenVPN.
It’s not advised to use the L2TP/IPsec and PPTP protocols as they may not be fully secure. Most VPN providers no longer offer these protocols today.
The Best Protocol for Torrenting and P2P File Sharing
This renowned VPN provider offers a P2P-friendly environment on all servers worldwide, making it an ideal solution for those seeking a secure and high-speed experience while torrenting.
ExpressVPN allows users to configure it on routers, which can extend P2P support to all devices on your network, enhancing convenience and privacy. Here are a few reasons why it’s considered the best:
- Safety measures: ExpressVPN’s Lightway employs industry-standard AES-256 encryption, bolstered by a reliable kill switch and IP and DNS leak protection. Its audited no-logs policy and British Virgin Islands location ensure your online activities remain confidential.
- Server fleet: ExpressVPN’s 3,000+ servers span some 105 countries. Its exclusive use of RAM-only servers sets it apart, guaranteeing user data confidentiality at all times.
- Speed: Lightway is fast, retaining an average of around 77% of the upload speed during testing – tailor-made for P2P performance.
- TrustedServer technology: ExpressVPN’s TrustedServer technology, which runs exclusively on RAM and not on hard drives, further enhances security by eliminating any risk of data being stored.
- Additional features: With additional features like split tunneling, bypassing firewalls, and protection against Deep Packet Inspection (DPI), ExpressVPN ensures a seamless and secure torrenting and P2P file-sharing experience.
For more information, see our guides on the the best VPNs for Netflix and the best VPNs for torrenting.
The Best VPN Protocols Compared
We’ll now provide a comprehensive VPN protocol comparison across the best VPN services available today.
Whether you’re looking for top-tier security, blazing-fast speeds, or optimal compatibility, we’ll now compare VPN protocols to help you make an informed decision to safeguard your online privacy and enhance your internet experience.
| Protocol | Speed & Performance | Security & Encryption | Compatibility | Ease of Setup | Best For | TCP Support | Supports Network Switching |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WireGuard | Excellent | Excellent | All devices | Easy | Class-leading speeds and security | ❌ | ✅ |
| OpenVPN | Good | Excellent | All devices | Moderate | Unblocking geo-restricted content, privacy | ✅ | ❌ |
| Lightway | Excellent | Excellent | All devices | Built-in | ExpressVPN users | ✅ | ✅ |
| NordLynx | Excellent | Excellent | All devices | Built-in | NordVPN users | ✅ | ✅ |
| PPTP | Slow | Moderate | All devices | Very easy | Old devices | ❌ | ❌ |
| L2TP/IPSec | Moderate | Strong | All devices | Moderate | Privacy-focused users | ❌ | ❌ |
| SSTP | Good | Strong | Windows, Linux | Moderate | Windows users | ❌ | ❌ |
| IKEv2/IPSec | Excellent | Excellent | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS | Easy | Mobile devices, speed, and privacy | ❌ | ✅ |
Having talked in detail about the best VPN protocols on the market, it’s about time we shed light on what’s ultimately the best VPN provider that will match your requirements for the ideal VPN protocol. Our table here aims to do just that:
| Top VPN Services | Protocols on Offer | Starting Price | Free Version | Money-Back Guarantee | Server Count |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Surfshark | OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2/IPSec | $2.29/month (two years) | 7-day trial on Android, Mac, iOS | 30 days | 3,200+ in 100 countries |
| ExpressVPN | Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec | $6.67 (annual plan) | ❌ | 30 days | 3,000+ in 105 countries |
| NordVPN | NordLynx, OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec | $3.09/month (two years) | ❌ | 30 days | 6,400+ in 111 countries |
| CyberGhost VPN | OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2/IPSec | $2.03/month (two years) | Trials for all devices | 45 days | 11,500+ in 100 countries |
We’ve tested, analyzed, compared, and reviewed countless leading VPNs, and these are the best on the market for various needs and budgets.
Whether you want a cheap option with decent power under the hood or a premium provider, we have something for you.
How We Review and Test VPN Services
20 VPNS TESTED
25 DATA POINTS MEASURED
300+ HOURS TESTING
500+ USER REVIEWS READ
To provide our readers with accurate and well informed recommendations, we tested 20 leading VPN services to find the best in the market. Our methodology consists of the following criteria:
- Security Features: We made sure that the provider uses standard security features and a secure tunneling protocol.
- Privacy Policies: We looked for VPNs that come with a no-logs policy, and verify the extend to which user privacy is upheld.
- Speed: We run speed tests three times a day and draw an average of the result to see how much of the original broadband speed is retained.
- Compatibility: We ensure the VPN provider offers multiple simultaneous connections and is compatible with the most popular operating systems.
- Geo-unblocking: We test whether the VPN service can unlock different libraries (content available in different countries) on the most popular streaming platforms.
- Customer Experience: When researching products and services, we read real user experiences and test out their customer support channels ourselves.
- Price and Value for Money: We set out to recommend reasonably priced products that offer value for money.
Conclusion – What’s The Best VPN Protocol Available Today?
VPN protocols are essential for establishing a secure, fast connection between your device and a VPN server. Different protocols use unique data encryption techniques and have different performances in terms of speed, reliability, and resilience against attacks.
For the most secure connections, we recommend using the OpenVPN or IKEv2/IPsec protocols, and for the fastest connection speeds, WireGuard or IKEv2/IPsec.
FAQs
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References
- Top Cybersecurity Threats (University of San Diego Online Degrees)
- How Firewalls Work (Boston University – Techweb)
- Are Public Wi-Fi Networks Safe? What You Need To Know (Federal Trade Commission – Consumer Advice)
- Diffie-Hellman Key Exchange (Department of Mathematics, Brown University)
