Selecting which VPN type to use

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Mobile users

If you're a mobile user, or plan to travel, we recommend you configure all available VPN types. The different network environments you encounter may require you to use different VPN types.

Stationary users

There is no one VPN that's best for everyone. Much depends on the limitations of your network environment as well as your exact needs. Allow us to outline the main differences, which may help you make the right choice. Keep in mind that 12vpn support all VPN mentioned at no extra cost.

Native vs 3rd party client: L2TP and PPTP tend to be natively supported by most operating systems. This means you don't need to install any 3rd party software. This reduces potential compatibility issues and ensures the VPN experience is one that integrates well with your system.

Depending on your operating system L2TP/PPTP error messages can be quite cryptic. OpenVPN however produces a readable and detailed log which often helps our support staff resolve any issues you may run into.

PPTP is an old protocol. In the right environment it can be very reliable and perform well, but under many circumstances it is unstable or may not work at all. This is largely because PPTP is not NAT-aware and most NAT routers (incl. most home and SOHO routers) provide very limited 'pass-through' support. PPTP can also have a hard time penetrating firewalls.

The original L2TP suffers from many of the same problems as PPTP. Most modern clients and servers however support a fall-back mode which handles network traffic differently. This allows it to work properly in environments where PPTP fails.

OpenVPN requires the installation of 3rd party software. Depending on your platform this software may cause compatibility problems or not integrate well. Most users however choose to use OpenVPN because, if it works properly, its connections are the most stable end secure. For our support staff OpenVPN is much easier to debug than native clients - especially on Windows.

Should you have specific questions on this topic, please don't hesitate to contact us.

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