Internet Key Exchange version 2 (IKEv2) VPN
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Enjoy robust security with strong encryption.
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Benefit from automatic reconnections after drops.
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Get fast speeds for seamless streaming and gaming.
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Experience stable connections during network switches.
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What is IKEv2?
IKEv2 is a VPN protocol that facilitates strong, secure connections over the internet. This protocol is known for its quick connectivity and stability, particularly during network switches. Commonly referred to as IKEv2/IPsec, it combines IKEv2’s key management capabilities with IPsec’s secure tunneling, making it a favored choice for reliable VPN services.
How Does IKEv2 Work?
IKEv2 establishes and manages Security Associations (SAs) between your device and a VPN server, ensuring robust authentication and determining the encryption protocols to be used. It works closely with IPsec, which handles the encryption, decryption, and transmission of data.
How Good is IKEv2?
IKEv2 is known for its speed and reliable connections, seamlessly transitioning between network types like Wi-Fi to cellular. It features robust AES-256 encryption with SHA2-384 for integrity, enhancing security. Additionally, it supports Perfect Forward Secrecy (PFS) with 3072-bit Diffie-Hellman keys, securing data effectively.
Which is Better, IPsec or IKEv2?
IPsec and IKEv2 are often paired together to leverage their combined strengths in VPN technology. IPsec excels in secure, reliable data transmission and operates transparently to third parties, while IKEv2 enhances this setup with its stability, fast data transfer, and seamless network switching. Therefore, many VPN providers favor IKEv2/IPsec as their protocol of choice.
Pros and Cons of IKEv2
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Strong security with IPSec: L2TP combined with IPSec offers robust encryption, keeping data secure and private against most types of breaches.
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Compatibility Issues: IKEv2 may not be supported on all platforms, especially older or less common operating systems.
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Strong Security Features: It employs robust encryption standards like AES-256 and offers Perfect Forward Secrecy, enhancing data security.
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Complex Manual Configuration: Setting up IKEv2 manually can be complex, requiring more technical knowledge compared to simpler protocols.
How to Set Up an IKEv2 VPN
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Subscribe to PureVPN
Visit our order page and get a plan that best suits your needs. Then, download our app on your device.
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Choose IKEv2
Upon logging in, go to Settings > Advanced > Connection Protocol and choose IKEv as your option.
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Establish a Connection
Once done, connect to your desired server location to send your online traffic through an IKEv2 tunnel!
IKEv2 VPN – Key Features
Low Latency
IKEv2 uses UDP port 500 which is ideal for network applications. As such, it supports those apps where user-perceived latency is important.
Fast Speed
IKEv2 offers faster speeds than L2TP and PPTP. It has newer architecture and a more effective response/request message exchange scheme.
High-Security
Certificate-based authentication ensures no actions are performed until the requestor’s identity is determined.
Constant Connection
MOBIKE support allows you to keep the VPN connection active while you switch between Wi-Fi and cellular data.
Perfect Forward Secrecy
The PFS feature in IKEv2 assures complete secrecy and integrity of your data. It does so by ensuring the non-duplication of keys and session expiration.
Control Network Traffic
With MOBIKE, it is also possible for a multi-homed host to move traffic to another network interface if the one currently in use stops working.
IKEv2 protocol comparison
Let’s take a quick look at how IKEv2 compares to other VPN protocols
| VPN Protocol | Speed | Encryption | Streaming | Stability | P2P | Available in PureVPN app |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OpenVPN | Fast | Fast | Fast | Fast | Fast | |
| IPSec/IKEv2 | Fast | Fast | Fast | Fast | Fast | |
| WireGuard* | Very Fast | Very Fast | Very Fast | Very Fast | Very Fast | |
| SSTP | Medium | Medium | Medium | Medium | Medium | |
| L2TP/IPSec | Medium | Medium | Medium | Medium | Medium | |
| PPTP | Fast | Fast | Fast | Fast | Fast |
Other VPN Protocols
WireGuard
WireGuard is a lightweight and fast VPN protocol known for its modern encryption. It offers exceptional performance and simplicity, making it a popular choice for secure connections on various platforms.
SSTP
SSTP, developed by Microsoft, provides secure VPN connections over HTTPS. It is primarily used by Windows users, offering enhanced security and compatibility for reliable encrypted connections.
OpenVPN
OpenVPN is a highly configurable VPN protocol known for its robust security and cross-platform compatibility. It is widely adopted and offers flexibility in VPN setups, providing strong encryption and reliable connections.
IKEv2
IKEv2 is a secure and efficient VPN protocol suitable for mobile devices, ensuring quick reconnects after network disruptions. It offers strong security features and is widely supported.
IPSec
IPSec is a widely used VPN protocol suite that offers strong encryption and authentication mechanisms. It ensures the privacy and integrity of data transmissions, and is commonly used alongside IKEv2 and L2TP.
L2TP
Since it does not provide strong authentication, L2TP is used with IPSec for security. Though it may conflict with some firewalls, it is a great alternative to the OpenVPN protocol because it supports all modern platforms, and can get around ISP/network limitations.
Frequently asked questions
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What is IKEv2 in VPN?
IKEv2 is a VPN protocol that provides fast, secure, and stable connections. It is often used in conjunction with IPsec to enhance security and performance.
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How do I get an IKEv2 VPN?
All you have to do is subscribe to a VPN service that supports the IKEv2/IPsec protocol, then download and install their app, and finally connect with IKEv2.
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Is IKEv2 safe?
Yes, IKEv2 is very safe. It uses strong encryption standards like AES-256, supports Perfect Forward Secrecy (PFS), and includes robust authentication methods to ensure data security.
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What is IKEv2 mostly used for?
IKEv2 is recommended for those who want secure and stable VPN connections, particularly mobile users due to its support for seamless network switching and fast reconnection capabilities.