VPN protocols - compare and choose the best
To better understand what VPN protocols are, it is best to first understand what a VPN is. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a technology that allows us to layer incoming and outgoing traffic amongst multiple networks, thus, covering your legitimate online footprints. VPN protocols are necessary to securely surf the web, especially when connecting to unsecure third party wifi hotspots in any public places. When using a VPN all of your data is encrypted, thus making sure no outbound or inbound traffic from your device can be compromised. This way your data is under secure lock down that gives close to 0 chances for any harmful third parties to get their hands on your data.
What Is A VPN Protocol
VPN network protocols are a comprehensive service that provides a secure connection between two or more devices. It is a set of standards for encoding information from the users digital device to the web servers and back. VPN protocols have different characteristics which helps them be effective no matter the cyber conditions. For example the IKEv2 is ideal for stationary tech, while there are other protocols that are more suitable for portable devices.For an ordinary web user to better understand what a VPN protocol is, it is important that he/she understands what value exactly a VPN protocol provides. To put it simple, a VPN protocol is the technology behind Virtual Private Networks that decides what route is most secure for your incoming and outbound traffic, depending on your location and device. And just to make sure that you are secure when browsing the web to the highest of your VPNs capabilities, make sure you use the right type of VPN tools. If you are browsing the web via a PC note laptop, use the VPNs plugin for your browser. If you are browsing the web via your smartphone, make sure you use the VPNs app for either iOS or Android.
What Is VPN Encryption
VPN encryption is a sort of technology that encrypts data that would otherwise be open to the public, converting it from a readable and easy to access format into an encrypted code. Encryption makes your inbound and outbound data inaccessible for any harmful third parties online, and the only way to decrypt your data would be to use the appropriate key. Thanks to data encryption, the online information of users send and receive is protected from any third parties, even their internet providers.Overall, it is important to use VPN encryption whenever you are using the web when connected to unsecure public wifi. That is when you and your data are most vulnerable. If you are browsing the web without a VPN and are connected to a compromised public wifi hotspot, harmful third parties will be able to pinpoint your exact location and even obtain your personal information. This doesn't just threaten your personal data, but also gives harmful malicious software the change to compromise your computer.
What Protocols Are Used By Planet VPN
Planet VPN is a reliable VPN provider and offers its users the chance to safely and securely browse the web without any limitations, both geographical and speed wise. With Planet VPN you can even bypass any limitations that were made by an Internet provider, thus allowing you to browse any online content you would want without limitations.Planet VPN Includes:
- Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP) - a so-called point to point VPN tunneling protocol, through which a PC establishes a secure connection to the server.
- Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol через Internet Protocol Security (L2TP/IPSec) - a second level tunneling protocol, with encapsulation, which allows applications to interact for a long time.
- OpenVPN - is a VPN protocol that provides secure communication between network users.
- Internet Key Exchange v2 (IKEv2) is a VPN protocol that provides secure communication between network users.
Recommendations On How To Use VPN Protocols
Each VPN protocol contains individual algorithms for encoding information. In return, this affects the speed of processing requests and ensures the level of security in the network. Depending on the online needs of the user, you can indicate which VPN Protocol is needed.Here is a short overview of two types of VPN Protocols
- PPTP
PPTP protocol is the most popular among Internet users. A client can use the PPTPprotocol to send data from a PC or any mobile device through a VPN tunnel. Devices are automatically authenticated with a password.
Advantages: PPTP is convenient for the user, as there is no need to purchase additional equipment to form a secret key.It is a simple protocol which ensures stable operations in the online environment. It is easy to install even for non-professional users.
Disadvantages: A protocol with weak encryption, weak protection of the transmitted key. Not recommended for sharing confidential information.
- L2TP/IPSec
L2TP/IPSec is very similar to the RTR protocol. But the main distinctive feature is that L2TP/IPSec actually ensures data privacy. Dual encapsulation is used: L2TP itself, which does not provide encryption, is used for data transfer, and tunneling is provided by IPSec protocols, thus the name, L2TP/IPSec
Advantages: the user can configure the L2TP/IPSec protocol on mobile and stationary devices with iOS, Windows, Linux and Android software. Protocol support is built into all operating systems.
Disadvantages: due to the fact that the L2TP/IPSec protocol contains additional security options, using encapsulation, the speed of the network connection is reduced.
- OpenVPN
OpenVPN protocol creates an encrypted connection to the global web. This is not a pure protocol, but a complete open source VPN protocol solution that can quickly transfer data and authenticate your device.UDP and TCP transfer protocols are used to exchange encrypted information. Their use is determined by the end result: reliable secure connection or high speeds?Using UDP implies fast data exchange, where the verification of an array of transmitted data packets, or rather, the comparison of the number of transmitted and received packets, occurs at the last stage. This is an optimal solution when working with fast Internet connections.TCP-connection implies the instant confirmation of the receipt of each sent packet. To increase reliability, this protocol is used in case of possible traffic blockages, as well as in case of an unstable connection.
Advantages: open code, allowing the use of non-standard transmission and encryption settings, which makes it impossible to decrypt the encryption even for special services. OpenVPN provides an efficient performance and a higher level of security. According to experts, it is the best solution for creating a private virtual network today.
Disadvantages: OpenVPN installation is a bit more complicated, which is the case with other protocols. There is no built-in support operating systems, and third party software is required to use it.
- IKEv2
IKEv2 protocol is a modern VPN protocol from Cisco and Microsoft. It allows creating direct tunnels with classified IP’s between the client and server.In the IKEv2 protocol you can flexibly use cryptographic algorithms. The user chooses the most convenient way to encrypt data. IKEv2 also provides reliable protection against DoS attacks, which is an undeniable advantage for owners of web resources.In addition, IKEv2 is suitable for installation on various devices, including routers.
Advantages: It is considered to be the fastest data transfer protocol because it works on the OS kernel level. It is optimized for systems with relatively low performance and low-powered computers and mobile devices.
Disadvantages: not all operating systems are supported.
