Those who have had the chance of using multiple VPNs and gone through their features and services; they must have seen OpenVPN on the list. It’s a VPN protocol that’s introduced 15 years back; it is currently the only protocol of its kind that is accessible via an open source application. Since it’s widely popular; it has been integrated to work on a few of the most famous user platforms like macOS, WindowsXP, iOS, Android, and Linux. Today, we are going to shed some light on what is OpenVPN and how does it work?(Also see, THE ULTIMATE PRIVACY GUIDE).
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OpenVPN Explained – What Is OpenVPN & How Does It Work?
Reason Behind Its Popularity
A vast majority of users with familiarity with the service will second me; to the fact that it offers a high level of security and configurability. These are the top reasons behind its massive popularity. OpenVPN’s native support over a broad range of devices and different platforms is also something appreciatable. Its service enables you to work around Firewalls through offering improved access to the content that is geo-restricted in your region.
Peers connected through VPN are authenticated through either a pre-shared key; a combination of username and passwords, or a verified certificate. The connection is also guaranteed to be stable and reliable; with a large support network to ensure everything stays on track.
How Does It Function?
OpenVPN works on client-server communication mode of operation mainly. Due to this; it ensures secure transfer of data between the user and the internet. The connection consists of two tiers; the users need to connect the one to the server side; which then connects to the Internet. Once the connection is made; the user appears as the server itself; and therefore, it employs the physical location of the server by hiding the real identity of the user.
Moreover, it relies on the OpenSSL for authentication and encryption processes; with the choice to employ either TCP or UDP for transmission. OpenVPN enables the users to go past HTTP and NAT(Also check, WHAT IS A NAT FIREWALL?); which are security checks put in there to control access to the web content. Read on to know more about What is OpenVPN and how it works.
Technical Specs:
We present you some raw technical attributes behind the working of OpenVPN; for those who want to go through these pointers; here we go:
- Platforms and devices such as Windows 2000, XP, Vista, 7 & 8, and supports Android, Linux, FreeBSD, Maemo and Windows Phone.
- OpenVPN operates under a 256-bit OpenSSL encryption, where the quality of the connection is undeviatingly determined by that of the encryption.
- IPSec, L2TP, and PPTP are not compatible, but OpenVPN depends on its own protocols based on TLS and SSL.
- Third-party plugins and scripts are to enhance attributes such as logging and authentication.
OpenVPN: Pros And Cons
As with most things, using OpenVPN has its very own benefits and drawbacks. This is why we suggest testing the service out by a VPN provider to see whether or not it’ll meet your needs. Here’s what to expect:
Pros
- OpenVPN can make use of a significant number of encryption methods and algorithms. It, consequently, ensures an advanced level of online protection.
- The service enables you to work around firewalls.
- OpenVPN as a technology has been thoroughly and tested as a method of providing security.
- It also provides for multiple options for configuration.
Cons
- There’s a great understanding of technical knowledge needed to harness the full benefits of OpenVPN.
- OpenVPN proceeds to have more support for mobile use despite only being new to mobile users.
- It has a significant dependence on 3rd party software and applications.
Conclusion -OpenVPN Explained – What Is OpenVPN & How Does It Work?
The benefits that the users get to have by relying on OpenVPN as their VPN protocol are numerous, and level of encryption implemented by the service is also a cut above the rest. If you need to obtain the benefits of using this service; make sure to go through the supported VPN protocols by any VPN provider you’re considering before moving forward with the subscription. You should better know that not every service offers OpenVPN option to choose as a VPN protocol.
