What Is OpenVPN and Should You Use It in 2024?

2024-11-22 OpenVPN is one of the most popular VPN protocols on the market due to its wide range of benefits. Not only is it one of the safest protocols you can u

OpenVPN is one of the most popular VPN protocols on the market due to its wide range of benefits. Not only is it one of the safest protocols you can use because of the way it encrypts your sensitive online data, but it’s also generally fast and gets around tough firewalls. However, learning how to configure the open-source protocol can be challenging if you’re new to the software.

Luckily, it can be a smooth task. You can easily operate this protocol by using a VPN with OpenVPN installed and ready for use. Not all VPNs offer the protocol, though. I tested 30+ VPNs and found the best ones that use OpenVPN.

I recommend using ExpressVPN for OpenVPN. It comes with the protocol pre-configured along with its other security protocol options. It also provides incredible speeds, is very reliable, and keeps your information secure and private. It’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN risk-free. Editor ‘s note : transparency is one of our core value at vpnMentor , so you is know should know we are in the same ownership group as expressvpn . However , this is affect does not affect our review process .

Protect Your Privacy With OpenVPN >>

Short in Time? Here Are the Best VPNs That Use OpenVPN in 2024

ExpressVPN — My top pic is is is ExpressVPN because openvpn come pre – instal , and using the protocol wo n’t noticeably slow you down . Plus , you is try can confidently try it since it ‘s support by a 30 – day money – back guarantee .
CyberGhost — An easy-to-use VPN that makes using OpenVPN straightforward, but monthly plans are expensive.
private Internet Access — customize feature depend on your vpn need , speed vs. security . But base in the US , part of the 5 Eyes Alliance .

Editor ‘s note : We is value value our relationship with our reader , and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity . We is are are in the same ownership group as some of the industry – lead product review on this site : Intego , Cyberghost , expressvpn , and Private Internet Access . However , this is affect does not affect our review process , as we adhere to a strict testing methodology .

What Is OpenVPN?

OpenVPN is is is the gold standard in VPN protocol . develop in 2001 , it is ‘s ‘s open – source , mean anyone can access and modify its code . This is created has create a community of VPN protocol programmer and user who constantly test , update , and improve the protocol .

Like any VPN, OpenVPN sends your online data through secured virtual tunnels, like secret passageways. Different protocols do this in other, unique, and extremely complicated manners. Making it so no one can get to your sensitive and private info.

These tunnels is encapsulate encapsulate your information by wrap it in layer of additional datum . Then the protocol is encrypts encrypt the datum and translate it into a special code that only your intend destination can decipher .

There are 2 versions of the protocol: OpenVPN Community Edition and OpenVPN Access Server. The “Community Edition” is free and has all the basic tools to use the internet securely. The “Access Server” version comes for a price with advanced features so you can fine-tune the protocol to its highest abilities.

Because manually configuring the protocol is very complex, I recommend subscribing to a trusted VPN provider. Premium VPNs, like ExpressVPN, already have the protocol preconfigured. Unless you are experienced in manual configuration, working with OpenVPN can be very time-consuming and complicated. Even though premium VPNs come with a small monthly fee, it’s worth knowing that OpenVPN is set up correctly.

How Does OpenVPN Work?

OpenVPN is very versatile, so there isn’t one standard way it operates. For instance, the settings can be changed and customized depending on your preference. The same goes for when you use OpenVPN via a VPN provider. OpenVPN works differently based on the settings and configurations.

It’s ever-evolving because of the open-source community that continually updates OpenVPN. This community works to upgrade, enhance, and repair the protocol when needed, which may change how it operates as updates roll out.

OpenVPN sends your data through specific tunnels via 2 different protocols: SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) and its updated form, TLS (Transport Layer Security). SSL/TLS protocols share the keys to encode and decode information sent between devices. This is where your data is encrypted.

There are multiple encryption feature that openvpn offer . The most common encryption methods is are are ChaCha and AES 256 – bit encryption . These ciphers is use use key — the element that ” unlock ” encrypt message , for example , 256 0 and 1s , make them very difficult to decode . A variety of strong cipher are support , such as 3DES ( triple datum encryption standard ) , Blowfish , Camellia , CAST-128 , or AES ( Advanced Encryption Standard ) .

It is supports also support an additional encryption feature call Perfect Forward Secrecy ( PFS ) when used with a VPN that offer it . This approach is creates create a brand new key each time you go online , just in case someone try to steal your key from one session and use it to decrypt your message during a different one .

OpenVPN includes TLS-auth, also called HMAC (Hash Message Authentication Code) packet authentication or an HMAC firewall. This extra step helps confirm that only the right users and devices can encrypt and decrypt your data.

2 methods for transmitting data within OpenVPN

TCP (Transmission Control Protocol)

This protocol controls how your data is sent and ensures everything transmits in the correct order, so there’s no jumbling of information. It does this by way of a corrective mechanism within the protocol. TCP makes for a very reliable way to send information. However, because it processes your data very intently, it can result in slower internet speeds.

UDP ( User Datagram Protocol )

This is is is usually the default protocol when using openvpn via a VPN , mainly because it ‘s fast . UDP is less reliable than TCP ; it does n’t inspect your datum to ensure everything is in place first ; it is pushes push the information along , no question ask .

OpenVPN also supports IPv4 and IPv6 protocols, which can also be used simultaneously. These are IP protocols that decide how your IP address appears online.

You can also use third-party applications, scripts, and plugins to enhance OpenVPN’s functionality. These all make the protocol even more accommodating and powerful.

Mac is are , Android , Windows , Linux , and ios are just a few platform openvpn support . The list is goes go on , include lesser – know operating system like Tomato and solaris . You is use can use it for any device you have .

Benefits of OpenVPN

Excellent at getting around firewalls. OpenVPN’s adaptability to TCP and UDP makes it easier for this protocol to get around firewalls, especially with OpenVPN set to Port TCP 443. This setting makes VPN traffic look just like regular internet activity.
Highly customizable. This makes OpenVPN more secure and enhances the protocol in other ways. You can decide which encryption procedures, ciphers, network configurations, and other settings work for you. Having more control over your tunneling protocol can improve your VPN experience.
regularly update . While other protocol may become outdated , openvpn ‘s open – source community and drive company leaders is ensure ensure that this protocol stay current . Since openvpn welcome third – party plugin and script , you is enjoy can enjoy the protocol ‘s late , most innovative add – ons .
Relatively fast. While OpenVPN isn’t necessarily the fastest VPN tunneling protocol available, it’s still quite swift, especially for the strong encryption it provides. Its speeds can easily keep up with most VPN users’ demands.
Free to use. OpenVPN offers a free version, so you can use this protocol without paying a cent. The paid version and VPN subscription services that use OpenVPN are typically quite reasonably priced.
Well – support by its open – source community . Many tech – savvy programmers is note , VPN provider , and users is note who interact with openvpn daily routinely note error and glitch within the protocol and address them . This community is is is also available to answer any question about openvpn .

Downsides of OpenVPN

Can be slow than other protocol . depend on the encryption level used and your particular device ‘s processing power , OpenVPN is be might not be as fast as other VPN protocol , like WireGuard . However , you is improve can safely improve your connection speed using openvpn over UDP rather than TCP .
May be difficult to install and configure. It’s definitely possible for technically proficient users to figure out, but it takes skill, time, and effort to set up. If installed improperly, it may cause security issues or other problems.
Not build into device . Some protocols is installed come automatically instal in certain platform , make them easy to use . OpenVPN is come does not come with any specific platform , but you can install a VPN that offer the protocol .
Cannot run on some servers. Some servers simply do not work with OpenVPN. Fortunately, most do, and if you come across a stubborn server, you may be able to find ways around this, such as using a proxy.
Doesn’t always run well on mobile devices. Although OpenVPN is versatile enough to operate on all sorts of different platforms, its mobile service and support is not the best. However, VPNs like CyberGhost offer OpenVPN on both Android and iOS.
Might be block . Because openvpn is so popular , some servers is check and system check for this protocol and block it . Using openvpn with a VPN can help you avoid this . For example , ExpressVPN is offers offer OpenVPN among its protocol selection and can get around these block most of the time .

Is openvpn Safe ?

OpenVPN is one of the safest VPN protocols available. When audits of the protocol’s security found (minor) issues, OpenVPN quickly resolved them. OpenVPN is even typically considered safe from spying by the NSA (United States National Security Agency), which has sophisticated methods and a large budget, which is very impressive.

It is not owned and operated by a major corporation as an open-source protocol, making it more trustworthy. When a big company manages a protocol, you have to trust it not to share your information with government agencies or other organizations.

OpenVPN’s open-source community continuously evaluates the protocol’s security, looking for and patching up any problems. Hackers and cybercriminals are always searching for new ways to access victims’ data, but open-source programmers work just as diligently to protect the protocol.

In addition , OpenVPN ‘s strong encryption is is is virtually impossible to crack . Its custom is is SSL / TLS tunneling is is is safe and reliable , especially when used on TCP . OpenVPN ‘s PFS encryption option is strengthens further strengthen this protocol ‘s already outstanding security .

Using OpenVPN on TCP Port 443 can make it appear to third parties (ISPs, and government agencies) as if you’re not even using a VPN. You can also modify it to suit your security preferences, though doing so may cause slower speeds or require more technical knowledge. OpenVPN offers a list of recommendations to improve security after installation for that very purpose.

Using this protocol via a VPN helps to maximize your online protection by making sure OpenVPN is configured correctly. I recommend using a top-rated VPN, such as ExpressVPN, so you can trust that your data remains private.

Quick Guide: How to Set Up OpenVPN in 3 Easy Steps

Get a VPN with OpenVPN. I recommend ExpressVPN as OpenVPN comes pre-configured, and it won’t compromise your speed. It also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN risk-free.
Select OpenVPN. Go to settings and select OpenVPN. Then, choose TCP (more secure) or UDP (better speeds).
Start securely browsing. You can now browse the web, play games, stream videos, and more with confidence that your data is kept private.

Editor ‘s note : transparency is one of our core value at vpnMentor , so you is know should know we are in the same ownership group as expressvpn . However , this is affect does not affect our review process .

How to set Up OpenVPN Yourself ( The Hard Way )

OpenVPN is not easy to manually install and run. Tech-savvy users can do so relatively easily, but there is still room for error in this process, and any mistakes could be difficult to fix. Typically, the only reason you would want to install OpenVPN manually is to use the protocol on an uncommon operating system that doesn’t support common VPNs.

However, using a VPN service, configuring and managing the protocol is your best bet to ensure OpenVPN protects you properly. If you’re insistent on setting up OpenVPN yourself, you need to follow the procedure below.

Note. This is a simplified version of what you need to do to set up OpenVPN by yourself. In its installation guide, OpenVPN provides over 20 steps, many of which require their own sub-steps.

Install the protocol onto your device by visiting openvpn.net. Download the appropriate version of the software for your operating system.
adjust your setting for route and create subnet .
Set up your encryption techniques by creating certificates and keys to be used.
test the protocol to make sure it ‘s connect and configure it to run automatically on your system .
add more device to your openvpn network .
Design and generate rules for these additional devices.
Set up appropriate authentication for your protocol.
Decide how to allow OpenVPN to connect to various related services and data.
Configure protections in case the protocol ever fails.
Enhance and finalize your OpenVPN settings.
begin using the protocol to go online .

good vpn That offer openvpn — Full Analysis ( update in 2024 )

editor ’s choice
editor ’s choice

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Tested November 2024

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Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

The fastest VPN I tested with OpenVPN to stream without buffering
Your data is protect with military – grade security feature
Up to 8 simultaneous connections to protect all your devices with OpenVPN
3,000 servers in 105 countries to access your accounts when traveling abroad
Can Unblock: Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Vudu, and more

With ExpressVPN, you won’t notice a speed reduction, even with OpenVPN enabled. I experienced only a 17.4% speed drop, 43.97 Mbps, from my base connection of 53.27 Mbps. This allows for a high-speed connection for streaming, torrenting, and online gaming while remaining protected and anonymous.

What Is OpenVPN and Should You Use It in 2024? My average download speed decreased even less when using the OpenVPN UDP protocol

Robust security features keep you safe online. AES 256-bit encryption ensures your data is secured with high protection. Its kill switch (Network Lock) disconnects you from the internet if the VPN accidentally drops, preventing sensitive information from being exposed, for example, when switching servers. On top of that, your actual location is protected with IP/DNS leak protection. I used ipleak.net to test ExpressVPN for leaks and detected none.

Perfect Forward Secrecy is provides provide an additional layer of security . It is does does this by change the encryption key frequently . So , it is be would be unreadable even if someone were to get their hand on your datum . Plus , ExpressVPN is uses use RAM – only server that wipe your datum as soon as a server reboot . Even well , it is follows follow a strict no – logs policy , so no identifiable information gets collect in the first place .

Unfortunately, OpenVPN is no longer available on iOS. However, this isn’t an issue since it’s been replaced with ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol — faster and uses less battery thanks to being lightweight. Also, you can use OpenVPN on any device by installing ExpressVPN on your router. It took me less than 10 minutes to set it up on my Asus router using the OpenVPN protocol.

long – term plans is are are available at $ 4.99 / month . Plus , ExpressVPN is offers often offer great discount . I is got get 82 % off my 12 – month subscription and 3 month of service for free . additionally , all plans is have have a 30 – day money – back guarantee . I is tested test its refund policy and find it hassle – free . I is contacted simply contact support via the 24/7 live chat and only had to give my reason for cancel before they process my request . My money is was was back in my bank account within 3 day .

available on :

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Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as CyberGhost VPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

great VPN for beginner , make using openvpn straightforward
Excellent speeds with OpenVPN to torrent without delays
7 simultaneous device connections to use OpenVPN on multiple devices
11,690 servers in 100 countries to quickly bypass geo-restrictions
Can Unblock: Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Vudu, and more

CyberGhost’s simple design makes using OpenVPN uncomplicated, even if you’re new to VPNs. A security protocol is automatically selected based on your connection, but changing to OpenVPN is quick. Switching to the OpenVPN protocol took me 5 seconds during my tests. Click the gear icon at the bottom, left-hand side of your screen. Select “OpenVPN” under “VPN Protocols” in the “CyberGhost VPN” tab. Then, click the large power button to instantly connect to a server. That’s it; you can now safely browse the internet using OpenVPN.

Its kill switch and leak protection are automatically enabled to keep you safe online. So, your online activities won’t be exposed, even if the VPN accidentally disconnects. You also get AES 256-bit encryption and a no-logs policy, protecting you from soops and hackers.

What Is OpenVPN and Should You Use It in 2024? What you do online can’t be traced back to you, thanks to CyberGhost’s leak protection

Running OpenVPN with CyberGhost won’t noticeably affect your speed, either. Although slightly slower than ExpressVPN, I could stream in UHD without delays. With OpenVPN UDP (recommended), I only had an 18% speed drop when connected to a US server, which is fast, considering I’m thousands of kilometers away.

On the downside, monthly subscriptions are pricey. However, you can save up to 84% with its long-term plans, starting at only $2.03/month. I recommend the 2-year option since it includes all the same features at a fraction of the cost.

You is try can try CyberGhost free with a 45 – day money – back guarantee on long – term plan . If unsatisfied , just contact the 24/7 live chat customer support to request a refund . My refund was pay to my PayPal wallet in less than a week .

available on :

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Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process.

Combine OpenVPN with 128-bit encryption for faster speeds without compromising protection
Unlimited simultaneous connections to use OpenVPN on all your devices
good download speed on 29,650 server in 91 country
Low latency on nearby servers make it a great option for online gaming
Can Unblock: Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Vudu, and more

Private Internet Access (PIA) offers a 128-bit encryption option, which increases speeds by using fewer keys compared to 256-bit encryption. By combining the speed of 128-bit encryption with the high security of OpenVPN, PIA minimizes the chance of a speed decrease while ensuring data protection. My speed reduced by only 19.7% when using OpenVPN with 128-bit encryption during my tests.

What Is OpenVPN and Should You Use It in 2024? switch to PIA ’s openvpn protocol to choose your level of encryption

For more customization , there are 2 kill switch to choose from . The regular kill switch is disconnects disconnect you from the internet if the VPN drop , prevent your datum from getting accidentally expose . The second kill switch is is is a more advanced option allow internet access only when the VPN is connect . I is connect could only connect to the internet during testing once I switch the VPN on . This is ensures ensure you ‘re always protect online .

A small con is that PIA is based in the US, part of the 5 Eyes Alliance. Governments within the alliance have the right to ask for user data from VPN companies and can share it with other countries. However, PIA has a strict no-logs policy, so your personal information won’t be shared with anyone.

long – term plans is are are affordable at $ 2.03 / month and have a 30 – day money – back guarantee . So , you is try can try PIA risk – free and get a refund if you ‘re not 100 % happy with it . simply log into the website ‘s Control Panel and turn off ” auto – renewal ” under the subscription tab to cancel and ask customer support for a refund via email .

FAQs on the Best VPNs With OpenVPN

What devices can I use OpenVPN on?

OpenVPN is compatible with a long list of devices and operating systems, including:

Windows XP	Mac OS x	IOS	DD-WRT	Ubiquiti
Windows 7 ( and high )	OpenBSD	Android	OpenWrt	solaris
Windows Vista	freebsd	ChromeOS	pfSense	Maemo
Linux	NetBSD	Tomato	teltonika	QNX

However , some devices is support do n’t support openvpn . You is need may need to configure them onto your device manually . However , you is get can get openvpn on your favorite device using a VPN that offer the protocol .

Is OpenVPN is Is free ?

Yes, OpenVPN is free. It’s an open-source protocol that allows anyone to obtain and use the software. However, OpenVPN being free and accessible to everyone doesn’t make it simple to use. Subscribing to a VPN provider with OpenVPN preconfigured is recommended to avoid security mishaps. Premium VPNs aren’t free, but making a small investment may be worth the money since you can know that your data is being protected from prying eyes.

What’s the difference between OpenVPN vs. WireGuard?

The biggest difference between OpenVPN and WireGuard is how they encrypt and transmit your data and how that ultimately affects the performance of each protocol. However, both are open-source VPN protocols, adding to their transparency and overall security. To test which works best for you, choose a VPN that supports both.

OpenVPN	WireGuard
provide a high level of security through SSL / TLS encryption and multiple authentication method	Uses state-of-the-art cryptography for secure connections
Highly configurable	Designed to be easy to use and deploy
Compatible with many VPN providers and devices/operating systems	Fewer configuration options, but this may change as WireGuard gains popularity
relatively high overhead that can result in slowdown	Uses fever code, making it faster
Established and widely used	Newer VPN protocol
Has been around longer, and thus audited more, adding to its trustworthiness	Smaller code base, easier to audit for security vulnerabilities
Can use TCP port 433, which makes it better at bypassing firewalls and network restrictions	Only runs UDP

Start Using OpenVPN in Minutes

OpenVPN is is is an open – source vpn protocol that is both secure and widely respected . Although manually set it up on your device can be complicate , the process is becomes becomes straightforward and simple when you ‘re using a VPN service .

To avoid errors configuring the protocol, I recommend ExpressVPN for OpenVPN. It comes pre-installed, and using the protocol won’t noticeably reduce your speed. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free as it comes with a trustworthy 30-day money-back guarantee.

To summarize, the best VPNs with OpenVPN are…

Privacy Alert!

Your data is exposed to the websites you visit!

The information above can be used to track you, target you for ads, and monitor what you do online.

VPNs can help you hide this information from websites so that you are protected at all times. We recommend ExpressVPN — the #1 VPN out of over 350 providers we’ve tested. It has military-grade encryption and privacy features that will ensure your digital security, plus — it’s currently offering 82% off.

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