VPNs can be divided into different types, based on their features, protocols, setup, and environment. It can be overwhelming to distinguish between the different types of VPNs and understand the optimal choice for your needs. So what types of VPN are there? What do you need them for?

What Are the Different Types of VPN?

For better understanding, we have divided VPNs into five categories.

1. Remote Access VPN

Remote access VPN is the most common type of VPN in use today. It connects users to a private network via a secure remote server. A remote access VPN works by routing user’s data through a virtual tunnel between the user’s device and the private network.

The encryption protocols ensure that your data isn’t compromised as it moves through networks. Users must install the client VPN software to establish a connection to the VPN.

Remote access VPNs are simple to use and easy to set up. They can easily bypass geo-blocks and access content that is otherwise restricted. Remote access VPNs are ideal for personal use.

2. Site-to-Site VPN

A Site-to-Site VPN is commonly used in large companies where multiple users in various locations need to access shared resources. Organizations with branches in numerous locations rely on site-to-site VPNs to connect the network of one branch to the network at another branch.

These connections can take one of the two forms.

Intranet based VPN: An Intranet based VPN links two offices of the same company. It connects two separate LANs to a single WAN. Extranet based VPN: Some organizations need to connect to a network of another organization using an extranet-based VPN. A possible example of such a connection would be a company that connects to its supplier’s network for efficient trade.

A Site-to-Site VPN connects geographically distant offices through the internet and ensures secure communication. As the VPN connection is established on router-to-router communication, one router acts as a client while the other as a VPN server. Communication between the routers only starts after authenticating both the end points.

3. Client to Server VPN

A client to server VPN establishes a secure connection between clients and a corporate network, while still maintaining the security and resources of the network. It provides a new VPN tunnel that allows users to access a network without compromising security and privacy.

A client to server VPN is particularly useful when accessing insecure public WLANs. It prevents ISPs and third parties from compromising data since the connection is encrypted all the way to the provider.

A major advantage of client to server VPN is universal access of employees to company resources. Clients, for instance, can connect to corporate network from a home office and work as if they were present at the company workplace.

4. P2P VPN

A Peer-to-Peer (P2P) VPN is a service that is compatible with peer-to-peer network. When searching a file on a P2P network, the service locates copies of the file and creates connections with sources that contain part of or the entire requested file.

P2P quickens the file sharing process since you’re downloading it not from a single location, but from multiple nodes that contain small chunks of the same data. As you download the file, it’s uploaded to more users who are requesting the same file.

Despite the advantages, P2P networks carry a negative reputation. A P2P VPN can protect your data, but it cannot keep you safe for from malicious files. Since peer-to-peer networks rely on data being hosted by different nodes, there is always a risk of malicious actors within the network. A P2P VPN won’t be able to protect your device if you download malware masquerading as a normal legitimate file.

Some users also use P2P VPN to access illegal content like copyrighted software, movies, and music. This is why many countries have strict laws to discourage P2P file sharing.

5. Single-Protocol Vs. Multi-Protocol VPNs

VPN protocols determine how data is routed thorough a network. VPN services give users versatility in protocols; each protocol offers different benefits and functionality. Some prioritize data encryption for security and privacy while others connection speeds.

Some VPN services focus on a single protocol while others offer users the freedom to choose a protocol based on their needs. Popular VPN protocols include PPTP, L2TP/IPSec, IKev2, and OpenVPN.

AirVPN is an example of a single-protocol VPN. It uses OpenVPN, which is open-source and considered as the most secure option among VPN protocols. While a VPN with a single protocol doesn’t offer any additional advantage, they can be just as reliable as those using multiple protocols.

If you’re wondering which VPN to choose, a multi-protocol service is the answer most of the time. They provide you with the freedom to choose VPN features that are important to you at any given moment or task.

Services like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, and CyberGhost support all major VPN protocols. They also offer strong encryption and even proprietary protocols like HotSpot Shield’s Catapult Hydra. Having versatility in protocols allows you to securely bypass VPN blocks, stream geo-restricted videos, and access censored content.

Which VPN Should You Use?

Choosing the right VPN service involves several variables, including speed, security, cost, bandwidth, and VPN protocols. Even if you’ve a clear understanding of VPN features and your requirements, choosing the optimal service among the countless VPNs can be a challenge.

For individual users looking to browse the web anonymously or access restricted content, a remote access VPN is the best bet. A P2P VPN is ideal for users who focus on file-sharing and torrenting large files without worrying about restrictions. However, a site-to-site VPN makes the most sense for businesses that want to secure communications between offices at different geographic locations.