Introduction
This article explains the key differences between the OpenVPN (TCP) and OpenVPN (UDP) protocols available in all NordVPN apps and manual connections, such as routers. When connected using them, the NordVPN app and OpenVPN programs use both to send data over the internet when connected to a VPN server. Still, they balance speed and reliability in different ways. Understanding how they work will help you choose the best protocol for your needs, whether for web browsing, streaming, or gaming.
OpenVPN (TCP)
TCP, or Transmission Control Protocol, is designed for reliability. It establishes a formal connection between two devices before sending any data.
- How it works: TCP breaks data into smaller packets, sends them, and waits for confirmation that they have arrived in the correct order.
- Reliability over speed: It prioritizes safe packet delivery over speed. If a packet goes missing during transmission, it is sent again to ensure complete data integrity.
- Common uses: This makes TCP ideal for activities where accuracy is critical, such as loading websites, sending emails, and downloading files.
OpenVPN (UDP)
UDP, or User Datagram Protocol, is designed for speed. It is a "connectionless" protocol, meaning it sends data without first establishing a connection or checking for errors.
- How it works: UDP sends data packets continuously without waiting for confirmation or guaranteeing they will arrive in order.
- Speed over reliability: It prioritizes speed at the cost of packet checks to keep the transmission uninterrupted. You might lose some packets along the way, but this avoids the delays caused by re-sending data.
- Common uses: This makes UDP the preferred choice for time-sensitive activities like online gaming, live video streaming, and VoIP calls, where minor data loss is less noticeable than lag or buffering.
Additional tips
- Check out our guides on NordWhisper and NordLynx to learn more about what protocols are available in the NordVPN app.
- Use OpenVPN (TCP) when you need a stable and reliable connection, and the integrity of your data is the top priority.
- Use OpenVPN (UDP) when speed is most important, and you can tolerate minor data loss, such as for streaming or online gaming.
