NordVPN supports a number of security encryption protocolsto provide aVPN service. The security levels and purposes of these VPN protocols are different, but so are our customers’ needs. We encourage you to take a closer look at the strengths and weaknesses of each VPN protocol. While we want you to be able to choose freely, we also feel it’s our duty to advise you on what might suit you best.
1. OpenVPN
OpenVPN is a mature and robust piece of open-source software that enables us to provide a reliable and secure VPN service. It is a versatile VPN protocol that can be used on both TCP and UDP ports. OpenVPN supports a great number of strong encryption algorithms and ciphers: to ensure the protection of your data, we use AES-256-GCM with a 4096-bit DH key. If you are conscious about your security and are wondering what the most stable NordVPN protocol is, we recommend OpenVPN.
2.IKEv2/IPsec
IKEv2/IPsec significantly increases the security and privacy of users by employing strong cryptographic algorithms and keys. NordVPN uses NGE (“next-generation encryption”) in IKEv2/IPsec. Phase1 keys are generated using AES-256-GCM, SHA2-384, and PFS (Perfect Forward Secrecy) using 3072-bit Diffie-Hellman keys. IPsec then secures the tunnel between the client and server, using strong AES-256 encryption. This VPN protocol provides the user with peace-of-mind security, stability, and speed.
3. WireGuard (NordLynx)(Recommended by NordVPN and used by default in most of our apps)
WireGuard is the newest and fastest tunneling protocol, and the entire VPN industry is talking about it. It uses state-of-the-art cryptography that outshines the current leaders, OpenVPN, and IPSec/IKEv2. However, it’s still considered experimental, so VPN providers need to look for new solutions (likeNordLynx by NordVPN) to overcome WireGuard’s vulnerabilities.
Modern, extremely fast, and incredibly lean in its architecture, WireGuard is backed by thorough academic research. WireGuard consists of only 4,000 lines of code, making it easy to deploy, audit, and fix. To put it into perspective, OpenVPN runs on 400,000 lines of code, meaning that WireGuard makes up only 1% of OpenVPN’s massive architecture.
NordLynx is currently used by default in NordVPN apps. If you’re wondering which VPN protocol is best for gaming or other online speed-dependent activities, the answer is always NordLynx.
FAQs
If you are conscious about your security and are wondering what the most stable NordVPN protocol is, we recommend OpenVPN. WireGuard is the newest and fastest tunneling protocol, and the entire VPN industry is talking about it. It uses state-of-the-art cryptography that outshines the current leader, OpenVPN.
What is the best VPN protocol setting? ›
The best VPN protocol for you depends on a number of factors, including what device you're using, how much balance between security and speed you want, what type of activities you're doing online, and more. OpenVPN and WireGuard are generally considered the best VPN protocols for day-to-day use.
Should I use NordVPN TCP or UDP? ›
NordVPN wants to provide the best browsing experience without compromising on speed, so we use the UDP protocol by default. We recommend trying the UDP protocol first and only switching to TCP if you experience any issues.
Which of the following VPN protocols is the best choice for security? ›
The choice of VPN protocol depends on your specific needs. For a balance of security and speed, OpenVPN is often a reliable choice. If you prioritize speed, WireGuard or IKEv2 may be more suitable.
Should I use WireGuard or IKEv2? ›
Based on these findings, if you're looking for the fastest secure tunneling protocol, you should go with NordLynx (or WireGuard). The second fastest will be IKEv2, which can confidently hold its own even when connecting to the other side of the world.
What are the 3 most common VPN protocols? ›
The most common VPN protocols are OpenVPN, WireGuard, L2TP/IPsec, IKEv2/IPsec, PPTP and SSTP. These protocols offer different trade-offs between security, speed and compatibility, so the best option will depend on your specific needs.
Does VPN protocol matter? ›
A VPN protocol is the backbone of any VPN service, and its importance cannot be overstated. It's the linchpin that determines how your data is encrypted, transmitted, and ultimately secured. Choosing the right protocol is crucial as it directly impacts factors like speed, security, and compatibility.
What protocol does always on VPN use? ›
standard IKEv2 VPN protocol support
TCP is best used for direct communication in which a reliable connection is needed, such as web browsing, email, text messaging, and file transfers. UDP is best used for live and real-time data transmission when speed is more important than reliability.
How do I change the protocol on NordVPN? ›
Open NordVPN the app and click on the cog (gear) icon to access the app settings. Click on “Connection.” Under “VPN protocol,” select “OpenVPN (UDP)” or “OpenVPN (TCP)” from the drop-down menu.
UDP (user datagram protocol)
The advantage is that UDP is much faster than TCP, especially over long distances, and is also more data-efficient. The downside is that if the receiver is overwhelmed or if there is an outage, the data will simply be lost.
What protocol should I use for VPN? ›
OpenVPN is the most secure VPN protocol and the safest choice thanks to its near-unbreakable encryption, which keeps users' data private even when using public Wi-Fi. Because it's open source, users can check the source code for vulnerabilities and reassure themselves that there are no weaknesses in its security.
What is the most advanced VPN protocol? ›
IKEv2 – Internet Key Exchange
Based on the IPSec framework, IKEv2 is the most recent and advanced VPN protocol.
Which VPN setting is best? ›
What is the most secure VPN protocol? Lightway, IKEv2, L2TP, and OpenVPN are all secure protocols, but the title of the most secure VPN protocol should go to Lightway, which uses wolfSSL, a well-established cryptography library that is FIPS 140-2 validated—which means it has been rigorously vetted by third parties.
Which is better, OpenVPN TCP or UDP? ›
By default, you will experience faster speeds over UDP. On unreliable networks, however, you may have a better experience switching to TCP.
Is NordLynx better than OpenVPN? ›
Backed by the results of this extensive speed testing, we can say that the download and upload speeds can get up to two times faster with NordLynx compared to OpenVPN and IKEv2. That applies when the distance between a VPN server and a content server is up to a few thousand kilometers.
Which NordVPN plan is best? ›
A VPN is an essential tool that encrypts your online traffic and protects your data from snoopers. NordVPN advises opting for the 2-year plan because the VPN will cost you less in the long run and provide a longer protection period.
