Pick Your Perfect VPN Protocol
Discover which VPN Protocol to pair with CyberGhost VPN to enhance your online experience.
What Are VPN Protocols?
VPN protocols are a set of directions your VPN follows to route your internet traffic from point A (your device) to point B (the server). Think of it as a recipe. 1 part security, 1 part speed, and 1 part device compatibility. VPN protocols blend these ingredients to serve up your perfect internet experience.
VPNs usually automatically select a VPN protocol for you, but who says you have to take what you’re dished up? A VPN protocol can make or break your online experience, so don’t just settle for the default! Some VPN protocols prioritize connection speeds and stability while others focus on safety and encryption. Which is right for you? It all depends on what online experience you’re after.
CyberGhost VPN Protocols
Your VPN could disconnect your connection for many reasons. Some common culprits are using a VPN with crowded servers, experiencing an issue with your internet connection, or a problem with your settings. Let’s dive into some common issues.
IPSec (IKEv2)
We can all agree a dropped VPN connection can feel like the world is ending. Sure, it’s dramatic but it’s true! That’s where IPSec (IKEv2) swoops in. It’s the top VPN protocol to keep your connection stable.
IPSec (Internet Protocol Secure) framework and IKEv2 (Internet Key Exchange Version 2) work in tandem to create the IPSEC (IKEv2) protocol. This VPN protocol is tailor-made for mobile devices because it maintains your connection even while you toggle between data and Wi-Fi networks. IPsec (IKEv2) won’t drop the ball and won’t drop your VPN connection even when you’re on the move.
Pros
Unmatched stability: This VPN protocol supports MOBIKE, helping keep your VPN connection stable at all times. Avoid connection cuts even while you move between networks.
Strong encryption Levels: IPSec (IKEv2) supports several cryptographic algorithms and high-end ciphers so your VPN connection remains secure.
Speedy connections: IPSec (IKEv2) uses Network Address Translation to give you swift connections.
Cons
Limited device compatibility: IPSec (IKEv2) isn’t the VPN protocol for you if you use multiple devices. It also doesn’t function on devices that don’t have automatic IKEv2 support systems.
Complex set-up process: You’ll need a high tech literacy level to install IPSec (IKEv2). It also requires additional complex configuration to function.
Fragile against firewalls: IPSec (IKEV2) is no match against firewall blocks and it only uses UDP port 500. The problem? If a firewall ever blocks the UDP port 500, you can kiss your VPN connection goodbye.
OpenVPN
Blocked content is a real buzzkill! Don’t let pesky geo-restrictions and firewalls ruin your fun. Regain unrestricted online access with OpenVPN .
OpenVPN’s best feature has got to be its fierceness against firewalls. This is the VPN protocol to use if you want to fight firewall blocks with fire.
As the name suggests, OpenVPN is an open-source VPN protocol. That means you’ll have full access to OpenVPN’s code to fix any potential blind spots. It’s also got robust security features so you’re always safe.
Pros
Unlimited access: Firewalls are no match against OpenVPN. It circumvents firewalls and gets you unrestricted access to any online content you want.
Multiple platform VPN: OpenVPN operates on various platforms including Android, Windows, and Linux.
Super secure: OpenVPN packs a punch with AES-256 bit key encryption and 2048-bit RSA authentication. It also supports multiple algorithms.
Cons
Requires extra apps: OpenVPN isn’t a default VPN protocol on most devices, so you’ll have to install third-party apps to operate it. If storage space and device power are already issues, this may not be the best protocol for you.
Difficult to install: Setting up and running OpenVPN isn’t simple. If you aren’t tech-savvy, extra configurations make it all the more tricky.
Slow speeds: OpenVPN connection speeds are stable, but they lack speed. You may have to deal with slow-loading times and buffering content.
WireGuard
If you spend your time online gaming or downloading and streaming content, WireGuard is your perfect protocol match.
WireGuard is the newest VPN protocol, with state-of-the-art features that have shaken up traditional VPN Protocol standards. WireGuard’s ultra-fast connection speeds is where it reigns supreme, leaving all other VPN protocols far behind.WireGuard also uses cutting-edge cryptography, meaning you’ll get top-level VPN security like never before.
Pros
Unparalleled connection speeds: Wireguard’s connection speeds easily surpass the competition. You won’t get faster or smoother streams and downloads with any other VPN protocol.
Open to audits: WireGuard’s 3800+ open-source code lines makes it easy to audit and route out any potential vulnerabilities in its coding structure.
Solid security features: WireGuard’s leading cryptography goes above and beyond basic VPN protocol encryption. Get a risk-free and worry-free online experience with WireGuard.
Cons
Potential weak spots: Since Wireguard is still new on the scene, unspotted potential vulnerabilities and kinks are likely.
Vulnerable to port blocks: WireGuard’s default port is UDP. If the UDP port is ever blocked, Wireguard will lose its functionality.
Privacy problems: WireGuard raises some privacy concerns because it requires your log-in details to run and it records your IP address.
| IPSec (IKEv2) | OpenVPN | Wireguard | |
| Security | Strong security level Uses cryptographic algorithms and high-end ciphers | Most secure VPN Uses AES-256 bit key encryption and 2048-bit RSA authentication. Supports multiple algorithms | Strong security level Uses leading cryptography as opposed to standard AES-256 bit key encryption |
| Connection Speed | Fast | Slow | Fastest VPN protocol on the market |
| Platform Compatibility | Only compatible on devices and platforms without IKEv2 support systems. | High device and platform compatibility | High device and platform compatibility |
| Ease of Installation and configuration | Complex | Complex | Easy |
| Connection Stability | Most stable | Lower stability | Strong stability |
| Open Source | Yes | Yes | No |
| Firewall Protection | Weak | Best VPN protocol to circumvent firewalls | Limited ability due to blocked UDP ports |
FAQ
Many different VPN protocol types exist. These include:
- SSL (Secure Sockets Layer)
- Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol (L2TP)
- Wireguard
- Secure Shell (SSH)
- OpenVPN
- IPsec (IKEv2)
- Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP)
CyberGhost VPN supports OpenVPN, IPsec (IKEv2), and WireGuard. Check out the other benefits CyberGhost VPN has to offer.
WireGuard is the fastest VPN protocol out there. WireGuard functions inside the Linux Kernel and has top-notch cryptography. It’s the perfect combination for speedy connections. Use WireGuard and CyberGhost VPN to get ultra-fast and ultra-smooth streams and downloads all day, every day.
Need some stability in your life? Look no further than IPSec. Get an ultra-reliable connection when you use this VPN protocol even when you toggle between networks. You can count on IPSec to keep your VPN connection stable at all times. For some added peace of mind, CyberGhost VPN’s Kill Switch feature will automatically cut your internet connection to prevent any data leaks if your VPN connection ever drops.
We don't support SSTP, but we do support OpenVPN, IPsec (IKEv2), WireGuard, and LT2P.
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