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VPN protocols are the processes by which your information is communicated over the Internet with the VPN server. The main purpose of using a VPN is to create a secure channel on an insecure network. Various protocols provide different levels of security, speed, and reliability. It is important to choose the best VPN protocol while keeping your requirements in mind. Let’s discuss the workings and types of VPN protocols in detail!
How do VPN Protocols Work?
VPN protocols work by forming a secure connection between the device used and the VPN server. This tunnel encodes the data communicated through it and makes unauthorized access impossible. This process involves several steps:
- Authentication: The VPN client and the server exchange credentials and confirm that the connection being made is valid.
- Encryption: Information is encrypted locally and transmits through the tunnel.
- Transmission: The encrypted data is then passed through the tunnel and sent to the VPN server. An online tool can be used to confirm whether your Internet is secured when using a VPN.
- Decryption: When the VPN server receives the encrypted data, it decrypts it and transmits it to the required destination.
- Reverse Process: Incoming data from the Internet is encrypted by the VPN server, relayed through the tunnel, and then decrypted at the receiving device.
Types of VPN Protocols
Some common types of VPN protocols are:
OpenVPN
OpenVPN is one of the most frequently used VPN protocols. It effectively combines security and fast connections. It is open, so other users can view the code, making it more likely to be accurate and reliable. OpenVPN supports both TCP and UDP, as both work on connection types. It employs SSL/TLS for key exchange, which is strong in encryption. The OpenVPN protocol is very configurable and, therefore, can be used by anyone, from regular users to organizations.
PPTP
PPTP is considered one of the oldest VPN protocols. It was created by Microsoft and is easy to use with a comparably easy installation process. PPTP has a high connection speed compared to L2TP since the latter has a higher encryption level. However, it is achieved at the cost of security. PPT is not used anymore because of security issues. It is generally suitable for non-security sensitive applications where high processing speed is essential for an application like video streaming.
WireGuard
WireGuard is a new VPN protocol, designed to be simpler and faster than most established VPN protocols. It has a simplistic code compared to the others. This simple code is easier to review and work with. WireGuard uses some of the most advanced data protection approaches, providing substantial security at relative costs. It is fast and has low ping, thus suitable for applications that require speed and stable connection, like gaming and video calling.
SSTP
SSTP is another protocol created by Microsoft for integration with the Windows OS. When it comes to security, SSTP uses SSL/TLS, just like OpenVPN, making it a secure protocol. This one is capable of bypassing corporate firewalls and network limitations. It operates on port 443, which is typical of HTTPS traffic. This makes SSTP preferable for areas where the Internet connection is heavily restricted.
