What Is a Point-to-Point VPN?

Key Takeaways:

• A point-to-point VPN refers to a VPN that uses Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol.
  
• Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol is one of the oldest VPN protocols. It is known for its lack of security features, making it less commonly used.
  
• Point-to-point VPNs are best used in cases where connection speed is more of a priority than security. 

VPNs offer useful privacy features and can help everyday users protect their internet activity. Since not all VPNs work the same way, it’s worth understanding the options so you can choose the one that fits your needs.

What Is a VPN? 

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) creates a private, encrypted connection between your device and a remote server owned by the VPN provider. VPNs create a digital tunnel between your device and the server through which data passes. 

Data is encrypted as it leaves your device and enters the tunnel, and decrypted once it reaches the server. The same process happens when the data is sent back to your device. 

Without the use of a VPN, your device will connect to a nearby server, meaning that your IP address will reveal your true location. In the event of a security breach, this can be dangerous. Depending on the VPN provider you use, you’ll have access to different levels of security features and locations. 

What Are the Perks of a VPN? 

Any VPN (including one that uses a Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol) comes with a variety of perks: 

• Boosted security and privacy: Your internet activity and location are shielded from prying eyes.
  
• Stream location-based content: Especially with VPN providers that offer up to hundreds of location options, you can stream location-based content like TV shows on Netflix.
  
• Work from home:Remote access VPNs are commonly used to connect to private networks from home. While often part of remote work setups, they can also be helpful for personal use when accessing files or devices on another network.

What Is Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol? 

A point-to-point VPN is a VPN that uses Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP). It is one of the oldest VPN protocols still in use, created in the late 90s by Microsoft. Because of its age, it is one of the less secure protocols and thus avoided when possible. But some of its benefits may appeal to users looking for an easy-to-use protocol that won’t impact connection speeds. 

PPTP can be used in any situation in which a VPN is used, like working from home or streaming location-based shows online. But because it’s one of the least secure protocols, it’s best to use it only for personal use (not for sensitive corporate data/business work) and only when you want to emphasize speed over privacy. 

How PPTP Works

Like all VPNs, PPTP still creates a private, encrypted tunnel through which data flows between your device and server as you use the internet. It works in a similar fashion to most VPNs; the main differences lie in the type of programming and security measures used. 

Here’s how it works: 

1. The user starts the VPN connection between their device and the VPN server.
   
2. PPTP uses a Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) and a Generic Routing Encapsulation (GRE) to establish this connection.
   
3. The user and server authenticate the connection via a password or other credentials (this would be mostly in the case of connecting to a workplace server or something with restricted access).
   
4. The tunnel is officially established between the device and server.
   
5. Data encapsulation occurs, adding security.
   
6. PPTP uses an encryption protocol (can be Microsoft’s Point-to-Point Encryption, aka MPPE) to encrypt the data.
   
7. The data is sent through the tunnel.
   
8. At the VPN server, the encapsulated and encrypted data is decapsulated and decrypted so it can be read.
   
9. Via a private network, the legible data is sent to its destination (i.e. the website you’re accessing). 

What Are the Pros and Cons of PPTP?

Because PPTP is considered outdated, it comes with clear trade-offs. Still, it has a few advantages that may appeal in specific situations.

Pros

• It’s easy to set up and use, especially for those less familiar with VPNs.
  
• It has faster data transmission speeds because the encryption is less complex than other protocols.
  
• It’s compatible with most operating systems, VPN providers, routers, and devices, whereas some newer protocols are more limited in compatibility. 

Cons

• It has 128-bit encryption, which is considered to be weaker than most.
  
• It’s vulnerable to outside brute force attacks from hackers because its security features are less airtight.
  
• Firewalls have been known to block PPTP connections, which limits its usefulness in some networks.

What Is the Best VPN? 

Burner VPN is a great VPN for your online security and privacy needs. It has fast connection speeds and uses IKEv2 and Wireguard protocols (not point-to-point, which is considered less secure than these options). With 7000+ servers across 70 countries, you’ll have access to a wide range of global locations.

Burner VPN also comes with Burner phone, a renowned second phone number app that can help you stay even more secure online. Try Burner today to experience the best of VPNs and second numbers. 

FAQs

Is PPTP the same as VPN? 

PPTP (Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol) is one type of protocol that some VPNs use to manage the connection between your device and a VPN server. It’s not the same as a VPN itself—PPTP is just one part of how a VPN works. 

Is PPTP still used? 

PPTP is still supported by some VPNs because of its broad compatibility with older devices and operating systems. However, due to its weaker security, it’s not widely used today.

What replaced PPTP? 

PPTP is the oldest VPN protocol. Since then, a variety of other protocols have been created including L2TP, OpenVPN, and IKEv2. 

Should I Use a Point-to-Point VPN? 

If possible, avoid using a point-to-point VPN. Security and privacy are the main reasons to use a VPN, and PPTP significantly weakens that benefit. That said, some encryption is better than none.

If your only option is a PPTP-based VPN, it can still provide a basic layer of protection. It’s also simple to set up, which makes it approachable for new users, as long as you’re aware of its limitations.

Sources: 

What is the PPTP (Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol)? | NordVPN

What is Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP)

Understanding the Role of L2TP and PPTP in Securing Data Transmission | by RocketMe Up Cybersecurity | Medium

How safe is PPTP VPN and should I stop using it?