VPN Protocols Comparison
Comprehensive comparison of VPN protocols including security, performance, and compatibility analysis.
OpenVPN
Recommended
Open-source VPN protocol known for its security, flexibility, and wide platform support. Uses SSL/TLS for key exchange.
Security
Speed
Compatibility
Ease of Use
Key Features
- Open source and auditable
- Strong encryption (AES-256)
- Flexible configuration options
- Works through NAT and firewalls
- Active development community
Best Use Cases
General UsePrivacyBypassing CensorshipRemote Access
WireGuard
Modern Choice
Next-generation VPN protocol designed for speed and simplicity with state-of-the-art cryptography.
Security
Speed
Compatibility
Ease of Use
Key Features
- Ultra-fast performance
- Modern cryptography (ChaCha20, Curve25519)
- Minimal code base
- Built into Linux kernel
- Simple configuration
Best Use Cases
GamingStreamingMobileSite-to-Site
IPsec
Enterprise Standard
Internet Protocol Security suite providing authentication and encryption at the IP layer.
Security
Speed
Compatibility
Ease of Use
Key Features
- Built into most operating systems
- Multiple authentication methods
- Tunnel and transport modes
- Industry standard
- Perfect Forward Secrecy
Best Use Cases
EnterpriseSite-to-SiteGovernmentCorporate
L2TP/IPsec
Legacy Compatible
Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol combined with IPsec for encryption, offering good compatibility.
Security
Speed
Compatibility
Ease of Use
Key Features
- Native support in most OS
- Double encapsulation
- NAT traversal support
- Stable and mature
- Easy to configure
Best Use Cases
Legacy SystemsBasic PrivacyMobile DevicesQuick Setup
Technical Specifications
| Protocol | Encryption | Port | NAT Support | Performance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OpenVPN | AES-256, RSA-2048 | UDP 1194, TCP 443 | Yes | Good |
| WireGuard | ChaCha20, Curve25519 | UDP 51820 | Yes | Excellent |
| IPsec | AES-256, 3DES | UDP 500, 4500 | Yes | Good |
| L2TP/IPsec | AES-256, 3DES | UDP 500, 1701 | Yes | Fair |