VPN Guides · September 29, 2026 · 5 min read
Which VPN protocol should I use? WireGuard, OpenVPN, V2Ray, L2TP or SSH
By FreeVPNNet Team
This site offers five ways to connect. They all send your traffic through the VPN server; they differ in setup and in how well they get through restrictive networks.
| Protocol | Best for | Setup | Needs an app |
|---|---|---|---|
| WireGuard | Everyday use on phones and laptops | Import a file or scan a QR code | Yes (WireGuard) |
| OpenVPN | Devices and routers that support OpenVPN profiles | Import a profile, enter username and password | Yes (OpenVPN Connect) |
| V2Ray (VLESS) | Networks that block ordinary VPNs | Import a link or scan a QR code | Yes (for example v2rayNG or V2Box) |
| L2TP/IPsec | iPhone, Mac and Windows without installing anything | Type server, username, password and key | No (built in), except Android 12+ |
| SSH tunnel | Tunnel apps and advanced users | Enter host, port, username and password | Usually |
A quick way to choose
- Start with WireGuard. It is the simplest and usually the fastest.
- If WireGuard does not connect on your network, try V2Ray, which looks like normal HTTPS traffic on port 443.
- If you cannot install apps, use L2TP/IPsec on iPhone, Mac or Windows.
- Use OpenVPN or SSH when your device or app specifically needs them.
Good to know
- Android 12 and newer removed L2TP/IPsec from the built-in VPN settings. Use WireGuard or OpenVPN there.
- Every account expires automatically; the exact time is shown on your account page.
Guides for every protocol and device: connection guides.