A VPN protocol is the bedrock creating a secure, encrypted connection between your unit and a VPN server.

Essentially, a protocol dictates how your gear talks to the server.

On the other hand, emails may be both fast and secure.

Different VPN protocols offer various types of encryption and internet speeds.

Lets explore the various protocols so you’re able to learn which is best for your needs.

What types of protocols are used in VPNs?

A virtual private data pipe protocol requires both an internet protocol and an encryption protocol.

L2TP, SSTP and PPTP are rarely used in VPNs these days.

WireGuardis a comparatively newer, faster VPN protocol that still provides solid privacy.

WireGuard is open-source, meaning anyone can inspect its source code for debugging and identifying vulnerabilities.

WireGuard uses ChaCha20 encryption, which is faster but offers similar security to AES-256 encryption.

Most modern VPNs support WireGuard, and several virtual private online grid providers feature proprietary WireGuard-based protocols.

OpenVPN is highly secure and reliable but slower than other VPN protocols, namely WireGuard.

Therefore, OpenVPN is ideal for folks with serious privacy concerns.

The seasoned tunneling method boasts outstanding AES-256 encryption.

Because OpenVPN is open-source, anyone can analyze its source code for flaws or backdoors.

Coupled with its open-source code thats easily audited, OpenVPN is widely used, time-tested and therefore reliable.

The majority of current VPNs support OpenVPN.

Therefore, IKEv2/IPSec is a solid choice for mobile devices, like iOS and iPadOS phones or tablets.

IKEv2 also supports MacOS, but not Windows, Android or Linux.

Like OpenVPN, IKEv2 uses AES-256-bit encryption.

IKEv2/IPSec is fast, reliable and secure – but both WireGuard and OpenVPN provide more robust security.

Linux, Android and Windows users are out of luck.

What is the best VPN protocol to use?

WireGuard provides the best experience for low-lag online gaming, fast downloads and buffer-free streaming video.

Folks with serious privacy concerns or anyone requiring obfuscated servers should choose OpenVPN.

Use OpenVPN UDP for faster internet speeds or TCP for beefed-up privacy.