SoftEther vs OpenVPN
A detailed comparison to help you choose between SoftEther and OpenVPN.
SoftEther Multi-protocol VPN server supporting SSL-VPN, L2TP, OpenVPN, and SSTP. | OpenVPN Battle-tested open-source VPN protocol. | |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.4 (258 reviews) | 4.5 (386 reviews) |
| Pricing Model | free | free |
| Starting Price | Free | Free |
| Best For | Best for users seeking reliable VPN protection for online privacy | Best for users seeking reliable VPN protection for online privacy |
| Free Tier | ||
| API Access | ||
| Team Features | ||
| Open Source | ||
| Tags | — | — |
SoftEther
Pros
- + Multi-protocol server: SoftEther, OpenVPN, SSTP, IPsec
- + Built-in Dynamic DNS and NAT Traversal features
- + Open-source code under Apache License 2.0
- + Designed to work over HTTPS-shaped traffic
- + Supports L2TPv3/IPsec and EtherIP/IPsec modes
Cons
- - Not a consumer VPN service with exit locations
- - Can enable detailed packet logging if misconfigured
- - Requires ongoing patching and secure administration
- - SoftEther protocol security details require careful review
OpenVPN
Pros
- + Open-source GPL core with public code
- + Free Access Server tier supports two connections
- + DCO kernel offload improves Access Server performance
- + Independent OpenVPN code audits published
- + Works with OpenVPN-protocol compatible servers
Cons
- - OpenVPN Connect is not a VPN service
- - Free tier capped at two simultaneous connections
- - Privacy depends on server operator and configuration
- - Performance varies without DCO and tuning
- - Third-party apps may bundle outdated OpenVPN code
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