How can you compare VPN protocols for your virtual team?

1 What are VPN protocols?

VPN protocols are the rules and standards that define how your VPN connection works. They determine how your data is encrypted, authenticated, and transmitted between your device and the VPN server. Some of the most common VPN protocols are OpenVPN, IKEv2, L2TP/IPsec, SSTP, and WireGuard.

3 How to compare VPN protocols for speed?

Speed is an essential factor to take into account when selecting a VPN protocol, as it affects your online experience and productivity. The speed depends on various components, such as the encryption algorithm, the network latency, the server load, and the bandwidth. The encryption algorithm and key length are two factors that impact the speed of a VPN protocol; generally, the higher the encryption algorithm and key length, the slower the VPN protocol. For instance, OpenVPN is more secure but slower than IKEv2 since it uses a more complex encryption algorithm and a longer key length. Additionally, the network latency affects the speed of a VPN protocol; usually, the higher the network latency, the slower the VPN protocol. For example, L2TP/IPsec is slower than SSTP since it adds an extra layer of encapsulation and requires more hops. Finally, server load and bandwidth are two other elements that affect the speed of a VPN protocol; usually, the higher the server load and bandwidth, the slower the VPN protocol. For example, WireGuard is faster than OpenVPN because it uses less server resources and supports more concurrent connections.

4 How to compare VPN protocols for compatibility?

Compatibility is a key factor to consider when choosing a VPN protocol, as it affects the availability and accessibility of your VPN service. It depends on the operating system, device, and network environment. Factors that influence the compatibility of a VPN protocol include the operating system and device you use to connect to the service, as well as the type and configuration of the network. Generally, the more widely used and updated the operating system and device, or the less restrictive and regulated the network environment, the more compatible the VPN protocol. For example, IKEv2 is more compatible than SSTP since it supports more operating systems and devices, while SSTP is more compatible than L2TP/IPsec since it uses the same port as HTTPS and can bypass most firewalls and censorship.

5 How to compare VPN protocols for reliability?

Reliability is a key factor to consider when selecting a VPN protocol, as it affects the stability and consistency of your connection. The reliability of a VPN protocol is determined by its error correction, reconnection, and performance. For instance, WireGuard offers more reliable error correction than OpenVPN as it utilizes a simpler and faster mechanism to reduce overhead and latency. IKEv2 is more dependable than L2TP/IPsec due to its MOBIKE feature, which allows you to switch between networks without losing your VPN connection. Additionally, OpenVPN is more reliable than SSTP as it offers greater flexibility and customization to improve performance. You can adjust parameters such as encryption algorithm, compression, and MTU.

6 How to choose the best VPN protocol for your virtual team?

Choosing the best VPN protocol for your virtual team is not an easy task, as each protocol has its own advantages and disadvantages. To make the right decision, you should start by evaluating your VPN goals and scenarios. Consider what you need a VPN for, such as remote work, online collaboration, data protection, or geo-restriction bypassing. Then, compare the different VPN protocols based on criteria such as security, speed, compatibility, and reliability. Test the VPN protocols with your VPN service to see how they perform. Finally, select the protocol that best suits your needs and preferences in terms of security, speed, compatibility, and reliability. By following these steps, you can ensure that you have a secure, fast, compatible, and reliable VPN connection.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?