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.

L2TP VPN what is l2tp
how does l2tp work

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While L2TP alone lacks encryption and security mechanisms, even L2TP/IPSec is now considered outdated.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.

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Pros and Cons of L2TP

  • Strong security with IPSec: L2TP combined with IPSec offers robust encryption, keeping data secure and private against most types of breaches.

  • Compatibility issues with NAT: L2TP often faces problems when navigating through firewalls and NAT, requiring configurations like passthrough settings.

  • Ease of implementation: L2TP is easy to set up on major operating systems, allowing quick configuration through standard network settings.

  • Reduced speed with IPSec: The security provided by IPSec can slow down L2TP connections, especially when using double encapsulation.

How to Setup L2TP VPN

How to Set Up L2TP VPN

  • Subscribe to PureVPN

    Go to our order page and get a subscription that best suits your needs (your purchase will be covered by a 31-day refund guarantee).

  • Configure L2TP Manually

    Open your device’s built-in VPN settings and enter the required information (server address, username, password, etc).

  • Establish a Connection

    Once done, simply save the VPN profile and connect to start sending your online traffic through a L2TP tunnel!

    • Get PureVPN

Key Features of L2TP VPN

Dual-layered security

L2TP combines the tunneling capabilities of L2TP with the encryption and authentication features of IPSec.

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Dual-layered security
Multiprotocol support

Multiprotocol support

L2TP VPN can encapsulate various protocols within its tunnel, allowing the secure transmission of multiple types of network traffic.

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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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NAT traversal

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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.

Frequently asked questions

  • What are the benefits of L2TP VPN?

    L2TP VPN offers enhanced security by supporting strong encryption protocols such as IPSec, providing confidentiality, data integrity, and authentication of origin. It is also easy to set up on most devices.

  • What are the limitations of L2TP VPN?

    L2TP VPN can be slower than other protocols due to the double encapsulation of data and its reliance on a single port means it is easier to block by firewalls.

  • Which is better, PPTP or L2TP?

    L2TP is generally considered better than PPTP as it offers stronger security features and better encryption, although it may be slightly slower due to its more complex encryption protocols.

  • Is L2TP encrypted?

    Yes, L2TP itself does not provide encryption but is usually implemented with IPSec, which encrypts the data transported through the L2TP tunnel, ensuring secure data transmission.