VPNs, or Virtual Private Networks, let users hide their real IP addresses and safely handle all internet traffic, guaranteeing an encrypted and private connection between their devices and the desired web source. Depending on their specific use, VPNs take several forms. One can categorize them based on technological and functional analysis.

In this research I’ve tried to summarize the several VPN services together with details on their objectives, methods of use, and technology applied. Usually speaking, VPNs divide into two categories depending on their application:

Remote Access VPN

Often referred to as host-to-network, Remote Access VPN lets users connect to a private network and access files and resources from a far distance. Like other VPNs, this one protects the link that connects users to the internet. Once the user is confirmed, a Remote Access VPN creates an encrypted tunnel to the VPN gateway thus providing a safe channel for data flow.

Perfect for: remote access For remote workers connecting to the corporate network and mobile users safeguarding private data, VPNs are perfect.

Using OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPsec.

Site-to-site VPN, sometimes called Router-to-Rower VPN

Site-to-site VPN servers let users create links across several networks. Big companies with offices all around the world mostly use this system since it lets staff members easily access and distribute resources. Site-to-site VPN consists of two subtypes:

  1. An intranet-based VPN connects several sites of the same company using the Site-to-Site VPN configuration. The Site-to-Site VPN is only available to staff of the company, allowing a thorough connection all around the company.
  2. An extranet-based VPN is the link between an internal corporate network and outside networks including those of other companies, suppliers, or customers. The management and restriction of the resources of the company is the responsibility of external stakeholders.

Ideal for government agencies and multinational companies linking their headquarters with regional offices.

Standard procedures: Usually used for site-to-site VPNs is IPsec, Internet Protocol Security.

The two most often used VPNs are site-to-site VPNs and remote access VPNs; nevertheless, there are several other VPN variants used mostly depending on their technology and application.

Cloud VPN

Cloud-based virtual private network (VPN) services enable access to resources kept on systems such as Microsoft Azure and Amazon Web Services (AWS). Among the most well known substitutes are the Cloud VPN offerings from Google, Azure, and AWS. Those businesses looking to move their resources to the cloud will find this VPN solution ideal.

VPN via Mobile Devices

Usually using a cell network, a Mobile VPN (Virtual Private Network) allows mobile users to access a private network. Usually used for accessing region-restricted information and encrypting messages to stop illegal access to private data, this tool is Workers can use mobile VPNs for safe access to corporate resources including internal websites and email. Common protocols consist of WireGuard and IKEv2/IPsec.

To set a Mobile VPN on your gadget by hand:

  • iOS: Select Add VPN Configuration → VPN & Device Management ← Access Settings. Choose IKEv2/IPsec; other options consist of IPsec and L2TP.
  • Android: Network & Internet → VPN → Add VPN → Select IKEv2 → Access Settings

SSL VPN – Virtual Private Network – Secure Sockets Layer

By means of the SSL/TLS mechanism, SSL VPNs create a safe link between a client and the target network. Different from traditional VPN systems, SSL VPNs are available via a web browser. Remote VPN users would find them appropriate since they do not need particular VPN software. Two kind of web-based SSL VPNs exist:

  • SSL without clientless behavior VPN Virtual Private Network Users of a web browser without software installation can connect only to specific applications; access is limited.
  • SSL VPN applying Client Software: requires VPN software installation for total network access, so offering more possibilities than a clientless VPN.

Point-to-point Tunneling Protocol, PPTP Digital Private Network

One of the most often used and first VPN protocols Microsoft developed in the 1990s is PPTP, Point-to-point Tunneling Protocol. VPNs running the PPTP protocol stand out from other VPN solutions in speed and simplicity of setup. For this virtual private network server, the client’s device does not need any further software installation. They work with Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS among other operating systems.

A PPTP VPN is appropriate if privacy is not your top concern and you want basic IP masking with fast speed for low-risk operations. It is inappropriate, meanwhile, for handling corporate security or sensitive data. For these uses L2TP/IPsec or OpenVPN could be used.

Layer2 Tunneling Protocol, or L2TP Virtual Private Network:

A development of PPTP, L2TP (Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol) captures data packets to create a secure connection. Combining PPTP with L2F (Layer 2 Forwarding Protocol) L2TP VPN offers improved security relative to PPTP. L2TP calls for no additional software installation. Works with Linux, Android, Windows, macOS, iOS, and routers. If your device isn’t compatible with OpenVPN or WireGuard and you want more security than PPTP, L2TP/IPsec is a suitable alternative.

Open VPN

Well-known open-source VPN tool OpenVPN stands out for its remarkable encryption and cross-platform compatibility. Among other sophisticated technologies including AES-256 encryption, it employs two-factor authentication and a kill switch. It handles Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, routers, cloud services. Error-checking overhead in OpenVPN makes this approach possibly slower than WireGuard.

Most often used VPN protocols

  • Internet Protocol Security (IPSec) encrypts and protects data flow to guarantee safe Internet connectivity over an IP network. It runs in tunnel mode to offer complete security covering transportation as well as tunneling techniques.
  • SSL, or Secure Sockets Layer, and TLS, or Transport Layer Security: Rather than granting VPN users access to the entire network, SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) and TLS (Transport Layer Security) are encryption technologies allowing VPN users web-based access to particular applications.
  • By means of port 22, Secure Shell (SSH) is a network protocol creating a safe connection for remote access. Network managers usually use this kind of communication to help remote system and application management.
  • Developed by Microsoft, the Secure Socket Tunneling Protocol (SSTP) is only found on Microsoft systems. SSL/TLS (port 443) encrypts all data moved across SSTP.
  • Designed for mobile users, IKEv2, Internet Key Exchange version 2, is a VPN protocol. Made by Cisco and Microsoft, it IPsec encrypts data. Encrypts AES-256 under control. It is used extensively in business settings where security and continuous communication across several networks are absolutely required.

FAQs Regarding VPNs

How different is tunneling from a VPN?

To guarantee anonymity, privacy, and security during online activities, a VPN—Virtual Private Network— encrypts internet links. A VPN tunnel is a safe link made between a client’s device and the VPN server.

Which VPN fits you best?

Your particular needs, situation, and objectives will determine the perfect VPN for you whether your search is for a virtual private network (VPN) for business or leisure. For personal use, the Remote Access Virtual Private Network (VPN) is the best option; but, for business uses Site-to- Site VPN or Cloud VPN could offer more suitable benefits.

What are the top benefits of VPN Use?

  • VPN improves your online experience: When using public Wi-Fi networks, guard your sensitive data including location tracking and payment information.
  • Get beyond local restrictions to access material from all around the world.
  • Working remotely allows staff members to easily access corporate resources via a safe connection anywhere they are based.
  • Cut the surveillance done by Internet Service Providers and outside companies including web activity and device IP addresses. A VPN protects your private data and hides your IP address.

Should one use a VPN, is it advantageous?

Unlike many countries in Europe and Latin America, most—including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom—allow the use of virtual private networks (VPNs). Still imposing restrictions on the use of virtual private networks (VPNs), nations including China and Russia include

When referring to a VPN, what exactly is a Kill Switch?

Essential security tool, a VPN kill switch instantly disconnects the user’s internet connection should the VPN fail, thus preventing possible data exposure.

Is using a VPN illegal?

Unlike many European and Latin American nations, most countries—including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom—allow VPN use. Russia and China continue to limit VPN access.