What Are The Different Protocols For VPNs?

In the digital age, where privacy concerns and cyber threats become large, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have become essential tools for securing internet connections and safeguarding online activities.

Protocols are at the core of these VPNs, the critical rules that manage the secure and encrypted data path between your device and a VPN server. These protocols are the unknown heroes that validate and encrypt your data to ensure confidentiality and integrity.

The most common VPN protocols are OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, PPTP, SSTP, IKEv2/IPsec, and the newer, streamlined WireGuard, each with unique strengths and trade-offs regarding security, speed, and compatibility.

As the first VPN protocol was developed in 1996, the evolution of these protocols has matched the internet’s growth, adapting to the ever-changing landscape of online security needs. This blog post aims to provoke your curiosity and guide you through the complex world of VPN protocols. This topic holds historical significance and remains at the forefront of the latest cybersecurity discussions.

What is a Virtual Private Network?

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a digital tool that establishes a secure connection between your device and a remote server, typically owned by a VPN provider. This connection creates a private tunnel through which your data travels, safeguarded by encryption, thereby improving your online privacy and security. 

VPNs are particularly useful in the internet, where data is often susceptible to interception and misuse. By masking your IP address and encrypting your data, VPNs allow you to explore the digital world without leaving a trace of your activities. This protects you from potential cyber threats and lets you bypass geographical restrictions on particular websites or services. 

From a broader standpoint, VPNs extend a private network across a public one, allowing users to send and receive data securely over the internet. Whether you’re a remote worker accessing company resources or an individual safeguarding your online privacy, VPNs offer a more secure, private, and unrestricted internet experience.

How does a VPN Work?

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a service that creates a secure, encrypted connection over a less secure network, such as the public internet. When you connect to a VPN, your internet traffic is routed through a VPN server, which acts as an intermediary between your device and the internet.

This server encrypts the data before it leaves your device, ensuring it remains private and secure as it travels across the internet. The VPN server then decrypts the data and sends it to the final destination on the internet. 

Contrarily, incoming data is encrypted by the VPN server before being sent to your device, where it is decrypted. This process helps to protect your personal information and browsing habits from being intercepted by third parties, such as cybercriminals or even your Internet Service Provider (ISP). 

Moreover, because the VPN masks your IP address, it can make it appear that you are accessing the internet from a different location, which can be helpful for bypassing geo-restrictions and maintaining online anonymity.

What is a VPN Protocol?

A VPN protocol is a plan for building a secure and encrypted connection between your device and a VPN server. It’s a set of instructions and standards that govern how data packets are transmitted over the network.

VPN protocols ensure that the data sent over the internet is done privately without being susceptible to spying or interception by unauthorized parties. They manage how data is encrypted, decrypted, authenticated, and encapsulated, providing a secure tunnel for data transmission. 

Different protocols offer varying balances between security, speed, and compatibility, with some prioritizing encryption strength and others focusing on faster data transfer rates. Standard VPN protocols include OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, PPTP, SSTP, IKEv2/IPsec, and the more recent WireGuard, each with specific use cases and security features.

Different Protocols for VPNs

VPN protocols control how data is encrypted and transmitted over a network. They are the backbone of any VPN service, ensuring secure and private connections. The most common VPN protocols are OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, PPTP, SSTP, IKEv2/IPsec, and WireGuard.

OpenVPN is an open-source protocol known for its robust security and flexibility. It supports strong encryption and is highly editable, making it a popular choice for many VPN services.

L2TP/IPsec combines the Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol (L2TP) with IPsec for added security. It creates a secure tunnel between two L2TP connection points, balancing security and speed.

PPTP, or Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol, is one of the oldest VPN protocols. While it offers fast speeds, it’s less secure than other protocols and is generally not recommended for sensitive data transmission.

SSTP, or Secure Socket Tunneling Protocol, is a Microsoft-developed protocol that provides robust security but is primarily limited to Windows devices.

IKEv2/IPsec is known for its stability, especially on mobile networks. It allows users to switch between networks without losing their VPN connection, making it best for mobile users.

WireGuard is a newer, streamlined protocol known for its speed and efficiency. It’s an open-source protocol with a lean codebase, making it faster and easier to deploy and audit.

Each protocol has its strengths and weaknesses, and the best one for you depends on your specific needs and circumstances, such as your device type, network conditions, and the level of security you require.

What are the Benefits of Using a VPN?

In an era where digital privacy and security are the main focus, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) offer many benefits. Some of them are discussed below:

Enhanced Security

Enhanced security is crucial to using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). When you use a VPN, your online data is encrypted, making it unreadable to anyone who might obstruct it, including cybercriminals, Internet Service Providers (ISPs), and government entities.

This encryption applies to all data types, including personal messages, passwords, and financial information. VPNs also mask your IP address, making it difficult for third parties to track your online activities or determine your geographical location. 

Furthermore, VPNs can protect against specific threats such as data breaches, bandwidth hijacking, and botnet attacks. VPNs can secure their network for businesses, ensuring that sensitive company and customer data remains safe. Whether browsing the internet at home or accessing resources from a remote location, a VPN provides an added layer of security, making your online experience safer and more private.

Privacy 

Privacy is a significant benefit of using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN enhances your online privacy by encrypting your data and masking your IP address, making your online activities less detectable.

Third parties, including your Internet Service Provider (ISP), cannot easily monitor your online behavior or gather your data. VPNs also prevent websites and applications from tracking your online activity and collecting data about you. 

This is particularly important in an age where personal data can be used for targeted advertising, identity theft, or oversight. Using a VPN, you can browse the internet, send messages, and conduct transactions with an added layer of privacy, reducing the risk of your personal information falling into the wrong hands.

Accessibility

One of the significant benefits of using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is enhanced accessibility. VPNs allow you to bypass geographical restrictions and censorship on the internet, providing access to content and websites that may be unavailable in your region. This is particularly useful for accessing region-specific content, such as streaming services, news outlets, or sports coverage restricted to specific locations. 

VPNs achieve this by masking your IP address and routing your internet connection through a server in a different location, making it appear that you are accessing the internet from that location.

This feature of VPNs can also benefit remote workers, allowing them to access their company’s network securely anywhere in the world. Thus, a VPN can enhance your internet experience by providing unrestricted access to the global digital landscape.

Cost Savings

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can lead to significant cost savings for businesses. By supporting VPN technology, companies can reduce expenses associated with hired lines and expensive hardware infrastructure. Instead of investing in costly equipment, VPNs allow enterprises to connect to their resources securely and remotely, eliminating the need for additional hardware or maintenance costs, which the VPN provider typically handles. 

Furthermore, a VPN setup incorporating cloud computing architecture can save considerable money on support services. The cost savings are often passed on to the users through lower fees. VPNs also contribute to an improved return on investment (ROI) by facilitating remote work and reducing office space and travel expenses.

VPNs offer a cost-effective solution for secure, remote access to resources, making them a valuable tool for businesses seeking to optimize their financial efficiency.

Increased Speed

Increased speed is a potential benefit of using a Virtual Private Network (VPN), particularly in cases where Internet Service Providers (ISPs) use bandwidth throttling. ISPs may limit communication speed with certain services or during peak usage times. A VPN can prevent this throttling because the VPN’s encryption prevents the ISP from knowing which services the user is communicating with. 

Moreover, a VPN can provide faster speeds if your ISP has poor peering agreements, which can cause your connection to operate below optimal speeds. A VPN gets around this issue by masking the origin of your data, making it appear as though it came from a different network. Furthermore, some VPNs use optimized communication protocols and high-speed servers, which can enhance connection speeds. 

However, it’s important to note that while a VPN can improve speeds in certain situations, it may also increase the response time due to the additional steps involved in encrypting and routing data.

Potential Drawbacks of Using a VPN

Although VPN is a beneficial tool, there are some drawbacks associated with its usage. Some of them are mentioned below. 

Limited Compatability

Limited compatibility can be a notable drawback when using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). Not all devices or applications are compatible with every VPN, which can lead to issues accessing crucial apps or services required for personal or business use.

For instance, an employee may find that their device needs to support the VPN necessary for their job, resulting in lost productivity and potential delays. Similarly, businesses may encounter difficulties if a critical application is incompatible with their VPN, leading to inefficiencies and possible financial losses. 

Additionally, certain VPNs may not function optimally with specific operating systems or require additional adjustment, which can be a barrier for less tech-understanding users. This limitation in compatibility requires careful consideration when selecting a VPN to ensure it suits the user’s device and application needs.

Security Risks

While Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are designed to enhance security and privacy, they are not without potential security risks. One risk is that VPNs can expose entire networks to malware, DDoS attacks, and spoofing attacks if a device is compromised. VPNs do not protect your device from viruses or malware, so users must be cautious when downloading files. 

VPNs can also be susceptible to man-in-the-middle attacks, where an attacker intercepts and potentially alters data. Moreover, if a VPN provider’s infrastructure is compromised, user data, including IP addresses and location information, could be breached. Furthermore, weak or poor encryption can leave data susceptible to decryption by threat actors. Lastly, some VPNs may contain security flaws or vulnerabilities that hackers can misuse. 

Therefore, while VPNs can provide significant security benefits, users should be aware of these potential risks and take appropriate precautions.

Slower Speeds

While Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) offer numerous benefits, they can also lead to slower internet speeds. This is primarily due to the additional steps involved in the data transfer, such as encryption and routing through a VPN server. The physical distance between you and the VPN server can also impact speed, as data takes longer to travel back and forth over greater distances. 

Server congestion, where a server is overloaded with users, can further slow your connection. Activities that require high-speed internet, such as gaming, streaming, or video conferencing, can be particularly affected, leading to buffering, pixelation, or delays. 

It’s important to note that while some VPNs can improve speeds in certain situations, the overall impact on speed can vary based on several factors, including the quality of your internet service provider (ISP), the VPN protocol used, and your network condition.

Violation of Terms of Services

Using a VPN can sometimes violate terms of service (ToS) for specific online platforms, particularly streaming services. Many online services, such as Netflix or Hulu, have particular terms that prohibit VPNs from accessing their content, especially when it involves bypassing geo-restrictions. 

While using a VPN in such a manner is not illegal per se, it does breach the platform’s ToS, which could result in the service blocking your access or closing your account. This is because these services have licensing agreements that restrict content to specific regions, and by using a VPN to circumvent these restrictions, users are violating the contractual agreements between the service provider and the content distributors. 

It’s essential for users to be aware of these limitations and to understand that while VPNs can enhance privacy and security, they can also lead to complications with service access if used against the ToS of online platforms.

Geographical Restrictions

Geographical restrictions can pose a significant drawback when using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). While VPNs are often used to bypass geo-blocking, there are instances where this can lead to complications. For example, streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime use geo-blocking to comply with licensing agreements.

If a user employs a VPN to access content from a region where it’s not licensed, it could violate the service’s terms of use, potentially leading to account termination. 

Additionally, some countries have laws against using VPNs to bypass geo-restrictions, which could lead to legal outcomes. Furthermore, not all VPNs are effective at bypassing geo-restrictions, particularly on platforms with robust detection mechanisms. Therefore, while VPNs can help overcome geographical restrictions, they can also introduce potential legal and access issues.

How do you set up a VPN on any device?

Setting up a VPN varies slightly depending on the device.

Go to Start > Settings > Network & Internet > VPN > Add VPN for Windows. Choose Windows (built-in) as the VPN provider, and enter a recognizable connection name and the address for the VPN server. Choose the type of VPN connection your service uses and save.

On a Mac, go to the Apple menu > System Settings > Network. Click the Action pop-up menu, choose Add VPN Configuration, and select the type of VPN connection. Enter a name for the new VPN service in the Display Name field.

For an iPhone, open the “Settings” app, choose “General,” press “VPN,” tap “Add VPN Configuration,” and press “Type,” and pick the type of VPN protocol you’re using. Then, type in a description, remote ID, and a server for the VPN.

On Android, go to Network & Internet > Advanced > VPN. Type in the VPN’s name, enter your username and password, and connect.

Remember, you’ll need to know the type of VPN connection your service uses, and you may need to enter additional settings such as server address, account name, password, and authentication method.

Best Protocols For VPNs to Use

Every VPN protocol provides its potential benefits. You can call one “best” according to your needs. We have discussed some suitable VPN protocols in detail below:

OpenVPN

OpenVPN is often considered the best VPN protocol due to its strong encryption, flexibility, and excellent device compatibility. As an open-source protocol, it offers transparency and is continuously fine-tuned by a global coding community to respond to the latest cybersecurity trends. 

OpenVPN supports up to 256-bit, virtually uncrackable encryption, and various strong codes. It can be configured to run on any port and both UDP and TCP, making it highly adaptable.

OpenVPN is also known for bypassing firewalls and network restrictions, ensuring a seamless VPN experience. It’s suitable for general-purpose use, such as personal browsing and accessing geo-blocked content. Despite not being the fastest VPN protocol, its security and versatility make it a preferred choice for many users.

However, it’s important to note that the “best” VPN protocol can depend on specific user needs. While OpenVPN offers robust security and flexibility, other protocols like WireGuard and IPsec may offer faster speeds. Therefore, when choosing a VPN protocol, users should consider particular requirements, such as speed, security, and device compatibility.

IKEv2/IPsec

IKEv2, or Internet Key Exchange version 2, is often considered one of the best VPN protocols due to its speed, security, and stability balance. It is particularly effective for mobile users, as it can seamlessly switch between networks without dropping the VPN connection, thanks to its support for the Mobility and Multihoming (MOBIKE) protocol. 

IKEv2 is also known for its speed, as it uses less bandwidth data and supports NAT traversal, which keeps latency low. Regarding security, IKEv2 supports high-end ciphers and 256-bit encryption algorithms, making it highly secure. It also has built-in defenses against denial-of-service attacks and supports the Extensible Authentication Protocol (EAP). 

WireGuard

WireGuard is often advertised as the best VPN protocol due to its impressive balance of speed and security. It’s designed with a lean codebase, with significantly fewer lines of code than traditional protocols like OpenVPN, which increases its performance and makes it easier to audit for security vulnerabilities. 

WireGuard operates over UDP and employs state-of-the-art cryptographic tools such as Curve25519, ChaCha20, and Poly1305, ensuring robust security without compromising speed. Its rapid reconnection capability is particularly beneficial for mobile users who frequently switch networks, as it maintains a stable VPN connection. 

Additionally, being open-source, WireGuard benefits from community oversight and continuous improvement. However, it’s essential to recognize that the “best” protocol may vary based on individual needs. While WireGuard excels in many areas, other protocols might be preferred for specific use cases or preferences.

SSTP

Secure Socket Tunneling Protocol (SSTP) is often considered one of the best VPN protocols due to its robust security and ability to bypass firewalls. As a patented protocol developed by Microsoft, SSTP uses SSL encryption and operates over TCP ports, making it difficult to block and capable of bypassing most firewalls and proxies.

This makes SSTP particularly useful for users who need to maintain a secure connection in environments with restrictive internet policies. SSTP also offers decent speeds and is relatively easy to set up, especially on Windows devices.

L2TP/IPsec

Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol (L2TP) is often appreciated for its strong security when paired with Internet Protocol Security (IPSec), making it an ideal choice for VPN users. L2TP/IPSec provides robust encryption that is virtually invulnerable, ensuring that data remains secure and private, a key aspect of protocols for VPNs.

This protocol is particularly well-suited for extending local area networks (LANs) and connecting remote workers to central offices, as it can create direct tunnels for layer two traffic while IPSec handles encryption and authentication.

This functionality aligns with the capabilities of protocols for VPNs. L2TP is also embedded in most operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile OSes, which makes it widely compatible and relatively easy to configure, demonstrating the versatility of protocols for VPNs.

Moreover, L2TP/IPSec is known for delivering relatively fast speeds, which benefits both general VPN use and corporate applications. However, it’s essential to recognize that the “best” VPN protocol can vary based on specific user needs. While L2TP/IPSec is secure and versatile, other protocols for VPNs, offering faster speeds or newer technology, may offer advantages.

PPTP

Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP) is often praised for its speed and ease of setup. It is a viable choice for applications where speed is the main focus, such as audio or video streaming, and on older devices with limited processors.

PPTP is one of the oldest VPN protocols developed by Microsoft and is supported by default on all versions of Windows. This makes it easy to set up and use, even for those with basic networking knowledge. 

However, it’s important to note that while PPTP may be the fastest and easiest to set up, there are more secure options. It has known security vulnerabilities and offers weaker encryption compared to other protocols. Therefore, while PPTP may be the best VPN protocol for speed and ease of setup, there may be better choices for users who prioritize security.

Other Tools For VPN Functionality

The tools that work best for VPN functionality are elaborated below:

Peer-to-peer File Sharing

Peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing is a decentralized method of distributing data, allowing users to connect directly for efficient transfers. In the era of VPNs, P2P functionality is essential as it enables secure and private sharing of files, aligning with the capabilities of protocols for VPNs.

A P2P VPN encrypts data and routes it through a secure tunnel, masking activities from ISPs and potential eavesdroppers, thus alleviating risks associated with direct file transfers, a key feature in protocols for VPNs. This encryption also helps prevent ISP throttling, which can slow down P2P activities like torrenting, demonstrating the efficacy of protocols for VPNs.

Furthermore, P2P VPNs facilitate access to a broader range of peers and content by connecting to various global servers. While P2P simplifies the distribution of large files, the added layer of a VPN ensures that this convenience does not compromise security, highlighting the importance of incorporating protocols for VPNs in P2P activities.

Multi-Protocol Label Switching

Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) is essential for Virtual Private Network (VPN) functionality. It enhances data transfer efficiency by using labels to route packets instead of relying on network addresses. This method bypasses the routing decision-making process at each router, reducing its activities to those of a switch. Hence the term “switching”. 

MPLS supports creating virtual private networks (VPNs), enabling traffic separation and optimal routing through shorter pathways. It also provides a scalable and protocol-independent solution, making it suitable for forwarding over private wide area networks. In a VPN environment, MPLS can facilitate the interconnection of sites, improving network performance and user experience.

Dynamic Multipoint Virtual Private Network

Dynamic Multipoint Virtual Private Network (DMVPN) is a network framework that enables secure connections between multiple locations without requiring traffic to pass through a central VPN server or router at the organization’s headquarters, a key feature in protocols for VPNs.

DMVPN creates a mesh VPN topology, simplifying the configuration of hub-and-spoke connections and allowing for on-demand, direct, spoke-to-spoke communications, which align with the functionalities of protocols for VPNs. This is achieved through the Next Hop Resolution Protocol (NHRP), which dynamically discovers the public IP addresses of the destination radius, thus facilitating the establishment of VPN tunnels between them, a process integral to protocols for VPNs.

DMVPN is particularly beneficial for its scalability, supporting “zero-touch” deployment for adding remote sites and reducing management fees by minimizing configuration overhead. It also integrates encryption, such as IPsec, to secure the data transfer across the network.

This makes DMVPN an efficient and flexible solution for organizations with multiple branches or remote users, ensuring secure and seamless connectivity across the business, and is a significant aspect of protocols for VPNs.

IKEv2 Mobility and Multihoming (MOBIKE)

IKEv2 Mobility and Multihoming (MOBIKE) is a vital tool for VPN functionality, particularly for mobile users. MOBIKE is an extension to the Internet Key Exchange version 2 (IKEv2) protocol that maintains a VPN session even when a user moves from one IP address to another without reestablishing IKE security associations. If a user changes their network connection, such as switching from a home Wi-Fi network to a mobile data network, the VPN connection remains uninterrupted. 

MOBIKE also supports multihoming, which allows for the use of multiple IP addresses for IKEv2 Security Associations, providing flexibility and resilience in network disruptions. This makes MOBIKE particularly beneficial for enhancing the stability and reliability of VPN connections, especially in mobile environments.

SecureShell (SSH)

Secure Shell (SSH) is a protocol that can be used as a tool for VPN functionality, although it’s not a complete replacement for a dedicated VPN, which utilizes protocols for VPNs. SSH allows for establishing a secure, encrypted connection between two networked devices, which can transmit data or securely implement commands, similar to protocols for VPNs.

This can be particularly useful for accessing a remote network or server securely. SSH can also be used to create an SSH tunnel, a type of VPN-like connection that aligns with the functionalities of protocols for VPNs for local, dynamic, and remote port forwarding.

However, unlike a VPN, which encrypts all internet traffic and is part of the broader category of protocols for VPNs, SSH only encrypts the data of the applications configured to use the SSH tunnel. This means that while SSH can provide a level of VPN functionality, it may offer a different level of absolute security and privacy than a dedicated VPN solution, which typically involves more comprehensive protocols for VPNs.

Layer 2 Forwarding Protocol (L2F)

Layer 2 Forwarding (L2F) is a protocol developed by Cisco Systems that plays a significant role in the functionality of protocols for VPNs. L2F operates at the OSI model’s data link layer (Layer 2) and facilitates secure data transfer between systems or locations, maintaining confidentiality and protection against unauthorized access as part of the protocols for VPNs.

It is beneficial for establishing secure VPN connections for remote workers, partners, vendors, or contractors requiring controlled access to specific network resources. L2F also supports secure VPN connectivity for mobile devices and enables secure communication and resource sharing among geographically dispersed sites as a part of the protocols for VPNs.

However, it’s important to note that L2F does not provide encryption or confidentiality by itself; it relies on a tunneling protocol to provide privacy.

Generic Routing Encapsulation

Generic Routing Encapsulation (GRE) protocol encapsulates packets to route various protocols over Internet Protocol (IP) networks, functioning like a VPN but without encryption, as seen in protocols for VPNs.

GRE tunnels transport packets from one endpoint to another through the public network, allowing routers in two networks to operate as if they were directly connected. This creates a private point-to-point connection, similar to a VPN, and is a crucial aspect of protocols for VPNs.

GRE is beneficial when there is a need to set up a direct connection, such as in an enterprise where different networks support different business units or departments, aligning with the functionalities of protocols for VPNs. However, it’s important to note that GRE does not provide encryption or confidentiality alone; it relies on a tunneling protocol to provide privacy, a common characteristic of protocols for VPNs.

Tips for Staying Safe Online When Using a VPN

To stay safe online while using a VPN, it’s essential to follow several best practices:

• Choose a Reputable VPN Service: Select a VPN provider with a strong reputation for security and privacy. Look for features like robust encryption protocols, such as AES-256, and a no-logs policy.
• Keep Your VPN Updated: Regularly update your VPN software to ensure you have the latest security enhancements and performance improvements. Outdated software can have vulnerabilities that cybercriminals could exploit.
• Use Strong Passwords: Combine your VPN use with solid and unique passwords for your online accounts to enhance security.
• Enable the Kill Switch: A VPN kill switch is a critical feature that disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing data leaks.
• Secure Your Internet Connection: Use secure Wi-Fi, especially when transmitting sensitive information. Public Wi-Fi can be insecure, so a VPN is essential in these scenarios.
• Be Cautious with Personal Information: Avoid sharing personal details online and be vigilant about the links you click and the websites you visit.
• Use Multi-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your accounts by enabling multi-factor authentication wherever possible.
• Install and Update Antivirus Software: Use reliable antivirus software alongside your VPN to protect against malware and other online threats.
• Backup Your Data: Regularly back up important data to recover it in case of a cyber incident.
• Be Mindful of Online Behavior: Exercise caution in your online interactions and be aware of the potential risks associated with internet use.

Adhering to these tips can significantly enhance your online safety and make the most of your VPN’s security features.

Conclusion

So, now you understand that VPNs utilize various protocols for VPNs to ensure secure and efficient data transmission. OpenVPN is often considered the best due to its strong encryption, flexibility, and compatibility. At the same time, IKEv2 is praised for its balance of speed, security, and stability, especially for mobile users due to its MOBIKE feature.

WireGuard stands out for its impressive speed and security balance, with a lean codebase and state-of-the-art cryptographic tools. SSTP, a Microsoft protocol, offers robust security and the ability to bypass firewalls. L2TP/IPSec provides robust security and is well-suited for extending local area networks, aligning with the protocols for VPNs. PPTP is appreciated for its speed and ease of setup, although it has known security vulnerabilities.

Each protocol has its strengths and potential weaknesses, and the choice of the “best” protocol may depend on specific user needs, such as speed, security, device compatibility, and the nature of the network environment, reflecting the importance of protocols for VPNs. So, select one according to your needs.