What is OpenVPN and How It Works

In an era where the internet is an integral part of daily life, online security and privacy have become paramount. OpenVPN is a name that VPN users are well-acquainted with, known as a VPN protocol with a reputation for high-level security. But what are the true strengths and considerations of OpenVPN? Let’s take a deeper look.

What Is OpenVPN?

OpenVPN is an open-source communication protocol used to create highly secure and configurable virtual private network (VPN) connections. What sets it apart is its open-source nature, meaning its core code is publicly available for security experts worldwide to inspect and fix vulnerabilities at any time.

While some might see "open" or "publicly available" as a security risk, it's actually its greatest advantage. If any security flaws are found, a community of experts can quickly detect and patch them. This makes OpenVPN one of the most reliable and secure VPN Protocols on the market, especially when combined with modern encryption algorithms.

How OpenVPN Works

OpenVPN creates an encrypted tunnel for all of your data before it is sent to the VPN server, protecting your information from prying eyes. It uses TLS/SSL (Transport Layer Security/Secure Sockets Layer) technology to establish and secure the connection, as well as AES-256 encryption, the same standard used by financial institutions and government agencies.

OpenVPN Security

OpenVPN is considered a very secure protocol. It supports multiple encryption methods like AES-256, RSA, and SHA, which are enterprise-grade standards. It also supports various authentication methods, including specific certificates, usernames/passwords, or TLS-auth, which ensures a highly secure connection.

OpenVPN Speed

When it comes to speed, OpenVPN offers two main modes: UDP (User Datagram Protocol) and TCP (Transmission Control Protocol).

OpenVPN UDP vs. TCP

OpenVPN UDP

This mode offers higher speeds, making it suitable for activities that require seamless performance, such as streaming video or online gaming, where low latency is crucial. However, UDP connections may have a slight chance of data errors.

OpenVPN TCP

While slightly slower, this mode is more stable because it performs a data integrity check every time, ensuring that the data is delivered completely. This makes it ideal for general use like downloading large files or browsing websites where reliability is key.

While OpenVPN is known for security, its connection speed may not be the fastest when compared to newer protocols like VPN WireGuard or VPN IKEv2. As mentioned, the speed of OpenVPN also depends on the mode you choose, allowing you to select the best option for your specific use.

Pros and Cons of OpenVPN

Pros of OpenVPN

• High Security: Being open-source and using enterprise-grade encryption makes OpenVPN one of the most secure protocols available.
• Cross-Platform Support: It can be used on all major operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
• Effective at Bypassing Blocks: It can be configured to effectively bypass connection blocks in countries that restrict internet access.

Cons of OpenVPN

• Slower Speed: Compared to newer protocols, OpenVPN may have a slower speed.

Who Is OpenVPN Right For?

• Individuals who need the highest level of VPN security.
• People in countries with strict internet censorship, as OpenVPN is highly effective at bypassing blocks.
• Organizations that require data security assurance.

OpenVPN is often compared with the WireGuard and IKEv2 protocols, as each has its own distinct strengths.

Protocol	Security	Speed	Firewall Bypass	Device Compatibility	Best For
OpenVPN	VeryHigh	Slow	Excellent	All platforms	Users who want full features and strong firewall bypass
IKEv2	High	Moderate	Good	All platforms	Users who need both speed and security
WireGuard	High	Fastest	Good	All platforms	Users who prioritize speed, gaming, or video streaming

OpenVPN is a protocol that prioritizes maximum security and is excellent at bypassing internet censorship. This makes it an ideal choice for those who need a stable connection in countries with restricted access.

IKEv2 protocol stands out for its speed and stability, making it suitable for mobile or portable devices that frequently switch between networks.

WireGuard protocol is a newer protocol that focuses on exceptional speed. With a small code base, it is highly efficient and uses fewer resources.

In short, OpenVPN emphasizes security and bypassing blocks, IKEv2 focuses on stability and agility, and WireGuard is all about maximum speed. If you need a VPN that is secure and can effectively bypass censorship, the OpenVPN protocol is the right choice.

FAQ

Does BullVPN have the OpenVPN protocol? 

BullVPN offers OpenVPN to provide the highest level of security for its users.

Can I use OpenVPN with a free VPN? 

While you can, it's not recommended. OpenVPN services on most free VPNs often lack proper and secure configurations, which can significantly reduce both performance and security.

Will using OpenVPN slow down my connection? 

Using OpenVPN will cause a slight decrease in connection speed because of the time required for data encryption and decryption. However, the speed reduction will vary depending on the mode you use (TCP/UDP) and your initial internet speed.

If you're looking for a VPN that meets a wide range of needs, BullVPN is the right choice. With popular protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard, you can select the perfect one for your specific use. Whether you're streaming movies, listening to music, gaming, or unblocking restricted websites, BullVPN is ready to provide you with a smooth and secure experience.