IKEv2 stands for Internet Key Exchange version 2 and it is a tunneling protocol that was created by Cisco in partnership with Microsoft. Like L2TP, IKEv2 is generally used along with an authentication protocol like IPSec to offer solid encryption. IKEv2 works with Microsoft VPN connect and if the connection drops, the protocol immediately reconnects. IKEv2 supports EAP (Extensible Authentication Protocol), digital signature and pre-shared keys. IKEv2 is ideal for mobile devices and it stands out thanks to its great speed.
Apart from being easy to set up and offering a wide set of secure ciphers, IKEv2 is a fantastic solution since it combines security and speed. Since it supports MOBIKE protocol, it can adapt to any network including home or public WiFi connection. Although the popularity of IKEv2 is increasing, the fact that it was developed by two large companies raises some concerns, particularly among privacy conscious users who fear that there may be backdoors installed or that the protocol is compromised on purpose by Cisco and Microsoft, as a result of their cooperation with government organizations.
Advantages of IKEv2
- IKEv2 offers an outstanding level of security
- It is easy to configure and works on a variety of platforms, including BlackBerry
- IKEv2 is very flexible and it can re-establish the connection in case it drops or the network is switched.
- IKEv2 offers a great balance between speed and encryption. It allows you to stream, play games and more without sacrificing the protection to your data.
Donwsides
- IKEv2 doesn’t have multi-port functionality, meaning that it only has one port
- If the IKEv2 protocol’s port is blocked, IKEV2 would be useless
- It is a proprietary solution, which may raise some concerns
Best VPNs that offer IKEv2
PureVPN
PureVPN allows you to connect to servers in over 140 countries and it offers all the features needed to keep your traffic protected. You can also enjoy great speeds for streaming, playing games or downloading content. The provider is based in Hong Kong, it doesn’t keep logs of your online activities and it protects traffic with high encryption. PureVPN is one of the providers that supports IKEv2 and it also uses OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP/IPsec and SSTP. There are detailed guides that will allow you to set up these options as required.
TorGuard
TorGuard is a logless provider that offers a variety of plans that will suit different requirements. The service is effective, easy to use and secure. With TorGuard, you can secure your connection while browsing the internet, playing games, downloading torrents and more. They have high encryption available to protect your privacy and support multiple protocols including SSTP, L2TP/IPsec, PPTP, OpenVPN and of course, IKEv2.
Hide.me
Hide.me is a highly secure solution based in Malaysia and it is set to provide solid protection for your privacy. With this service, you will be able to get access to a wide variety of content, even if it is subject to geographical restrictions. Although they have a convenient free option to disguise your IP address and location in order to enjoy all the benefits that this provider offers, it is advisable to opt for the Premium service. Hide.me supports a large selection of protocols: OpenVPN, L2TP and PPTP, which are very popular, as well as SSTP, IKEv1, IKEv2 and SoftEther.
VPN Shield
VPN Shield was established in 2012 and it offers plans that are affordable. It is a good option to add an extra layer of security to your connection, although it doesn’t provide a high level of privacy since their policies in this regard are not clear. However, if you only need to secure your general browsing activities, it would be a good option. It supports PPTP, L2TP and IKEv2.
TunnelBear
TunnelBear is a Canadian VPN provider that offers a simple, effective and affordable solution for everyday use. The service is easy to use and the customer support is very helpful. TunnelBear works on a variety of platforms and it supports IPSec/IKEv2, as well as OpenVPN. They have affordable prices and an amusing brand image that will capture the attention of many users.
Ivacy
This Singapore-based provider has been around for over a decade 2007 and it offers all the features required to be considered a good VPN. Their security features and technology have been upgraded in recent years to keep up with the high demands of the industry. Ivacy has a solid network of servers that will help you to make your connection more secure and flexible. The provider is also very affordable and it supports L2TP, IKEv2, SSTP, PPTP and OpenVPN.
SaferWeb
This is a flexible VPN service that is designed to offer a high level of protection for your data. Although it doesn’t offer advanced features and the pricing structure can be confusing, the provider continues evolving to offer a more complete service. The protocols supported by SaferWeb are PPTP, OpenVPN and IKEv2.