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11 MIN READ | Last updated: Dec 20, 2024 |

How to Choose the Best VPN Protocol in 2025

When it comes to securing your online activity, a VPN is one of the most effective tools available. Behind every VPN is a set of rules that determine how your data is encrypted, transmitted, and protected – these are called VPN protocols. Some VPNs offer multiple protocol options, letting you choose how your data is secured and transmitted over the web.

With various protocols available, how do you choose the right one? Which protocols are safest to use? Are any protocols faster than others, and which ones are compatible with your devices? How easy are these protocols to set up?

Let’s find the answers to these questions by looking at how protocols work and exploring the most popular ones. Whether you're streaming, gaming, downloading large files, or handling sensitive data, there's definitely a protocol for your needs.

What Are VPN Protocols?

A VPN protocol is a set of rules that dictates how your internet data travels between your device and the VPN server. Protocols also determine how a VPN encrypts your data. They impact your connection’s stability, speed, and security. Each protocol usually focuses on a particular mix of these features. Some are set up to prioritize security over speed, for example, while others focus on speed and stability or try to strike a balance between various features.

Common VPN protocols include OpenVPN, WireGuard®, IKEv2/IPsec, L2TP/IPsec, SSTP, and PPTP.

How VPN Protocols Work: TCP and UDP Explained

Before jumping into what makes each VPN protocol unique, it may help you to understand the role TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) and UDP (User Datagram Protocol) play in transferring data across VPN connections. All devices connected to the web generally use either UDP or TCP to transmit data across ports. Ports are essentially the virtual information highways your data travels across, so you can think of UDP and TCP as the vehicles transporting the data.

When you connect to a VPN server, the VPN protocol will dictate how your client (app) should package your data (using encryption) and which vehicle — TCP or UDP — to use. It then determines which road (port) your VPN should use to transport your data to the VPN server. This process is also often called “tunneling” because the VPN creates a safe passage for your data. To be clear, UDP and TCP only help to determine how your data is sent, not how your data is secured — that’s the VPN protocol’s job.

Every VPN protocol supports either one or both of these protocols. Here’s a quick breakdown of their main differences:

  • UDP: UDP is faster than TCP, making it great for streaming and gaming. To maintain that speed, it doesn’t check whether every data packet was delivered, so you may suffer from packet loss on unstable connections.
  • TCP: TCP is more reliable than UDP. It ensures all your data arrives in the right order, but this takes time so it’s slower than UDP. It's ideal for tasks like online banking and sensitive file transfers.

6 Common VPN Protocols Explained

1. OpenVPN

OpenVPN is a popular open-source VPN protocol that offers strong security and works with most popular devices and operating systems. It’s also effective at bypassing most firewalls, which is helpful for keeping a secure, stable connection in places where internet access is tightly controlled, like some workplaces or regions with strict internet regulations and censorship.

It supports both UDP and TCP and is set up to be super customizable. If you're tech-savvy, you even have the option to make your own modifications to the code. This flexibility lets you use it in different ways. For instance, if you need secure remote access to a private local network, you can set it up to let you safely log in from anywhere. It can also be tailored for site-to-site connections between offices, ensuring secure communication between multiple locations.

Its flexibility and open-source design make OpenVPN a top pick for many VPN providers and people looking to set up their own VPNs. Since it's open source, you can personally verify there aren’t backdoors or security risks built into the protocol.

That said, OpenVPN can sometimes feel slow, even when set up with UDP, which could be an issue if speed is a top priority. Additionally, it requires a certain level of technical know-how to set up manually, which might not suit everyone, especially if you’re uncomfortable tinkering with network settings.

2. WireGuard

WireGuard® is a newer VPN protocol known for being open source, simple, fast, and very secure. It’s gaining popularity thanks to its fast speeds for streaming, gaming, and downloading files, as well as its strong security and cross-platform compatibility.

This protocol promises reliable connection speeds thanks to its lean codebase. As a bonus, this minimal code also makes it easier to audit for safety and privacy. The protocol’s low system resource usage ensures it runs smoothly, even on devices that aren’t particularly powerful. It also uses UDP for its focus on speed.

On the downside, some VPN providers are still in the process of adopting WireGuard® as it continues to be assessed for possible vulnerabilities. Namely, this protocol leaves your IP address static, which can raise potential privacy concerns because it makes it easier for others to track your online activity.

When your IP address stays the same, websites and other entities can link your actions back to you more easily, reducing the level of anonymity a VPN is meant to provide. Some VPN providers get around this issue by adding their own configurations to change how the WireGaurd® protocol works.

3. IKEv2/IPsec

Internet Key Exchange Version 2 (IKEv2) is known for its smooth integration with mobile devices. Developed by Microsoft and Cisco, it’s sometimes preferred for its ability to maintain stable connections while switching networks, which is ideal for commuters and travelers.

When combined with Internet Protocol Security (IPSec), IKEv2 strikes a solid balance between speed and security with IKEv2 being one of the fastest protocols around. This combination is recognized for its quick reconnection times, making it well-suited for mobile devices. Since these two protocols are almost always combined, you may sometimes see it listed as just IKEv2. Like WireGuard®, IKeV2 also uses UDP to maintain its speed.

That said, IKEv2 is not an open-source protocol. This is a real concern for some people and VPN providers as it poses challenges in inspecting the code and identifying potential vulnerabilities. It’s also not as customizable as OpenVPN, which may be a drawback for anyone who wants more control over their VPN setup. Additionally, it has limited compatibility with older devices, which could be an issue if you're using outdated hardware.

4. SSTP

SSTP, which stands for Secure Socket Tunneling Protocol, was created by Microsoft and belongs exclusively to Microsoft. It's built into Windows operating systems and relies on SSL/TLS for encryption. SSTP is a great option for Windows VPN users, as it's easy to set up and provides good performance. It can be a straightforward solution that gets the job done.

SSTP is less secure than most other VPN protocols, which might be a concern if you prioritize security. Additionally, its limited cross-platform compatibility means it’s not the best choice if you need to use it across multiple operating systems. This protocol isn’t open source and isn’t available for public inspection. You also won’t have the same level of customizability and control as with open-source protocols.

5. L2TP/IPsec

L2TP/IPsec is a tunneling protocol that combines Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol (L2TP) with IPsec for encrypted communication. When combined, L2TP encapsulates the data being transmitted, and IPsec encrypts it, providing a secure communication channel.

L2TP/IPsec is widely supported, making it easy to use across different platforms. Its lightweight design lets it run efficiently without consuming too many resources, which can be an advantage if you have limited system capacity.

On the downside, L2TP doesn't have its own encryption and depends on other protocols like IPsec for encryption. This can lead to vulnerabilities if IPsec isn't implemented correctly or if weak encryption algorithms are used. It’s also not as secure as options like OpenVPN or WireGuard®, which could be a concern if you prioritize security.

L2TP is slower on average than other protocols as well because it encapsulates data twice. Most protocols only encrypt your data once. It also struggles with firewalls as it lacks methods to bypass them. This makes it vulnerable to firewalls used by surveillance-focused administrators, so users who set up L2TP are manually easier to target.

L2TP has faced attacks like denial-of-service (DoS) attacks, brute-force, and packet sniffing, putting sensitive data at risk. It has also not seen many improvements or updates in recent years, which may result in more security vulnerabilities.

6. PPTP

PPTP (Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol), created in 1999, was once popular for its easy setup. Due to the outdated encryption methods it uses, it's now considered insecure. As a result, people prefer safer options like OpenVPN and WireGuard® instead.

Even so, PPTP is known to be one of the fastest protocols around, and it doesn’t need a lot of resources to run, which makes it appealing to people who want high-speed connections. It’s also widely supported on older devices, making it a good option if you're working with outdated hardware.

PPTP has some major drawbacks. It has encryption weaknesses and authentication flaws, which cybercriminals can use to access your private data. If speed is your top priority and security isn’t as much of a concern, PPTP might work for you, but it’s important to be cautious.

What Is the Best VPN Protocol?

The ideal VPN protocol comes down to your personal preference. It largely depends on your specific needs, priorities, and how you plan to use the VPN. Each protocol has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it's important to weigh these factors before deciding. To help with this, we’ve compiled a cheat sheet you can use to pick the best VPN protocol for your needs:

  • Best VPN for speed and performance

WireGuard® is widely recognized as the speediest VPN protocol out there. Designed for efficiency and speed, WireGuard® boasts a smaller codebase than other protocols and uses the most up-to-date cryptographic techniques, setting it apart from more traditional protocols like OpenVPN and IPSec.

  • Best VPN for compatibility

As an open-source protocol, OpenVPN is highly versatile and works across nearly all platforms, including both desktops and mobile devices. IKEv2 is widely compatible with most mobile platforms, while SSTP is a solid option for Windows users due to its native support on that system.

  • Best VPN protocol for streaming

WireGuard's fast speed, efficient design, and streamlined code make it perfect for streaming. This means shorter buffering times and smooth playback, even for high-definition content. It’s also reliable, maintaining stable connections to minimize interruptions during your streaming session. On top of that, WireGuard® uses strong encryption to keep your data and online activity private.

IKEv2/IPsec is another solid option. It delivers fast speeds and is especially useful for quickly reconnecting if your network connection drops, making it ideal for fluctuating internet conditions.

  • Best VPN protocol for gaming

WireGuard® stands out for its impressive speed and minimal system resource usage, making it a top choice for gamers. It also maintains stable connections, seamlessly transitioning between Wi-Fi and mobile data, resulting in uninterrupted gaming sessions.

  • Best VPN protocol for downloading large files

WireGuard® tends to offer the best balance of speed and security. That said, if you're downloading files with sensitive info, choose OpenVPN for best-in-class security, even though it might be slower by comparison.

  • Best VPN protocol for mobile devices

IKEv2/IPsec offers a reliable connection on mobile devices, enabling people to switch between networks without compromising their security. This makes it the most dependable VPN protocol for mobile use.

  • Best VPN protocol for bypassing firewalls and restrictions

SSTP uses port 443, which is commonly open on most networks, letting it bypass firewalls and network restrictions. OpenVPN can also be set up to use port 443, providing an alternative to SSTP.

What Is the Most Secure VPN Protocol?

OpenVPN and WireGuard® are the safest choices respectively, as these protocols are known for providing strong encryption and high security. OpenVPN uses near-unbreakable AES 256-bit encryption, which organizations like NASA and the military trust. WireGuard®, on the other hand, uses the newer XChaCha20 encryption, which is faster than AES 256-bit and works without special hardware, gaining popularity in cybersecurity circles.

Quick Comparison of VPN Protocols

For a quick summary, here's a table highlighting key aspects of common VPN protocols:

ProtocolSecuritySpeedCompatibi- lityEase of UseBest Use CasesCons
OpenVPNStrong encryptionModerate to fastHighly compatibleModerateGeneral-purpose VPN use, security-conscious usersCan be slow on UDP; manual setup can be complex for non-technical users.
WireGuard®Strong encryptionVery fastLimited compatibilityEasyHigh-bandwidth activities, like streaming, gaming, and downloading filesStatic IP addresses can affect anonymity unless mitigated.
IKEv2/IPSecRobust encryptionFastWidely supported on mobileModerateMobile devices, fast reconnectionNot open-source; limited compatibility with older devices.
L2TP/IPSecModerate securityModerateBuilt-in on many platformsEasyCompatibility, basic security needsSlower due to double encapsulation; struggles to bypass firewalls.
PPTPWeak encryptionExtremely fastWidely supportedEasyAvoid using itHighly insecure; vulnerable to cyberattacks and outdated encryption.
SSTPStrong encryptionModerate to fastNative support on WindowsEasyWindows usersLimited cross-platform support; closed-source; lacks customizability.

4 Different Types of VPNs

Now that we’ve explored the most commonly used VPN protocols, let’s take a look at the different types of VPNs that use them.

Personal VPN services

Personal VPN services are widely used by individuals who want to enhance their digital privacy and online security. These VPNs encrypt your data and redirect your internet traffic through their servers. This helps to protect your activity from everyone and masks your IP address from websites and third parties. This means your ISP can't see the websites you visit or the data you transmit — it only sees you’re connected to the VPN server.

Remote access VPNs

Remote access VPNs enable employees to securely connect to their company's network from anywhere, granting access to files as if they were in the office. This secure connection safeguards data during internet transit, which is ideal for telecommuting and maintaining productivity from any location.

Mobile VPNs

Mobile VPNs, tailored for smartphones and tablets with iOS or Android operating systems, encrypt internet connections on Wi-Fi and mobile data connections. Use a mobile VPN to stay safe online, like when accessing corporate resources or making online transactions.

Site-to-site VPNs

Site-to-site VPNs securely connect separate networks, commonly used by organizations to link multiple offices or campuses. They create encrypted tunnels between network gateways for seamless communication while ensuring confidentiality. Two main types exist:

  • Intranet-based VPNs: Intranet-based VPNs connect multiple sites within the same organization over a single Wide Area Network (WAN), facilitating secure internal communication and resource sharing.
  • Extranet-based VPNs: Extranet-based VPNs connect private networks of separate organizations, enabling secure collaboration and data exchange between trusted partners and vendors with strict access controls and privacy boundaries.

Browser-based VPN

A browser-based VPN or VPN proxy extension is a lightweight tool that you install directly into your web browser, like Chrome or Firefox, to provide a basic level of privacy and security. Unlike full VPNs, which encrypt all your internet traffic, across all apps, a browser-based VPN only secures the traffic that passes through the browser itself.

Emerging Trends Among VPN Protocols

  • Post-quantum cryptography: As quantum computers improve, they might be able to break codes faster than regular computers. Many VPN providers are already exploring and implementing post-quantum protection to enhance their overall privacy and security.
  • User-friendly interface: Making VPN protocol setup easier and providing user-friendly interfaces are becoming important to attract non-technical people who value digital privacy.
  • Integration with other security tools: By combining VPNs with malware protection and other security solutions, you can improve your online safety by leaps and bounds. Some VPNs include built-in security extras, like a kill switch, DNS protection, ad blocker, or password manager.
  • QUIC: Another noteworthy protocol is QUIC, a transport layer protocol initially developed by Google, which has evolved into a strong competitor for secure, low-latency connections. QUIC reduces latency and improves performance by running over UDP instead of TCP, making it ideal for real-time applications like gaming and streaming.

The Verdict

Choosing the right VPN protocol can make a big difference in how well your VPN serves your needs, whether you're prioritizing speed, security, or compatibility across devices.

The perfect protocol is the one that fits your needs. Remember, though, regardless of the protocol you choose, your digital privacy also depends on the security practices adopted by your VPN provider.

FAQ

What is the best VPN protocol to use?

The best VPN protocol depends on your needs. WireGuard® is one of the fastest, making it ideal for streaming, gaming, and large file downloads. For maximum security, OpenVPN is the most trusted, offering robust encryption. IKEv2/IPSec is perfect for mobile users, providing a stable connection while switching between networks. If you need to bypass firewalls and restrictions, SSTP or OpenVPN using port 443 is effective.

Is IKEv2 better than WireGuard®?

Whether IKEv2 is better than WireGuard® depends on your specific use case. WireGuard® is generally faster and has a simpler, more efficient codebase, making it ideal for high-performance tasks like streaming, gaming, and large file downloads. It also uses cutting-edge encryption, ensuring robust security with minimal resource use. IKEv2, however, excels in mobile environments due to its ability to maintain stable connections when switching between networks (e.g., Wi-Fi to cellular). It's also highly secure but can be slightly slower than WireGuard® and may not be as efficient in performance-heavy tasks. For speed and simplicity, WireGuard® often comes out on top, while IKEv2 is better for mobile reliability.

Is TCP or UDP better for VPN?

TCP offers greater reliability, but UDP is often preferred for many applications and is commonly the default protocol for most VPN services. UDP is faster and more efficient than TCP, using less data to accomplish the same tasks. This makes it ideal for activities like streaming, gaming, and other real-time applications where speed is crucial. Due to these advantages, many VPN providers set UDP as the default protocol for OpenVPN connections.

What is the fastest OpenVPN protocol?

The fastest OpenVPN protocol is OpenVPN over UDP. UDP is designed for speed, as it doesn't perform error checking or data sequencing like TCP does. This allows for quicker data transmission, making UDP ideal for tasks like streaming, gaming, and other activities where speed is more important than data integrity. While it may experience occasional packet loss, the faster performance makes OpenVPN over UDP the preferred option for users who prioritize speed.

Chantelle Golombick

Chantelle writes about technology, cybersecurity, law and SaaS. Having spent a decade in corporate law and five years teaching at University, she now enjoys a freelance life doing what she loves – working with words and learning something new every day.

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