Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol (L2TP) VPN
L2TP is a VPN protocol that combines the features of L2F and PPTP to provide secure and private communications over the internet. PureVPN supports L2TP through manual configuration.
What is L2TP?
L2TP, also called Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol, is a tunneling protocol used to create VPN connections. Its main purpose is to securely transport data over public networks. However, to ensure VPN functionality and the protection of data, L2TP incorporates IPSec, which provides the necessary encryption and confidentiality measures.
How does L2TP work?
L2TP builds upon two older tunneling protocols: Cisco’s Layer 2 Forwarding Protocol and Microsoft’s PPTP. It works by packaging data in a way that is compatible with the network it travels through, ensuring smooth communications.
Is L2TP secure?
While L2TP alone lacks encryption and security mechanisms, even L2TP/IPSec is now considered outdated. To prioritize stronger security, PureVPN no longer offers L2TP/IPSec as an option in its apps.
L2TP VPN Pros
L2T is compatible with most operating systems and supported natively by many devices. It offers better security than the outdated PPTP protocol, providing a more secure option for users.
L2TP VPN Cons
L2TP relies on IPSec for encryption and uses poor authentication measures. It may result in slower connection speeds due to the encapsulation process. There have also been concerns about the compromise of L2TP by the NSA.
Key Features of L2TP VPN
Dual-layered security
L2TP combines the tunneling capabilities of L2TP with the encryption and authentication features of IPSec.
Multiprotocol support
L2TP VPN can encapsulate various protocols within its tunnel, allowing the secure transmission of multiple types of network traffic.
NAT traversal
L2TP VPN has built-in support for traversing network address translation (NAT) devices, enabling successful connections even in network environments with NAT.
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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.