IKEv2 stands for Internet Key Exchange version 2. It is a very secure encryption protocol that was developed by Microsoft and Cisco. As you might guess, it is becoming popular with a number of different VPN providers for a few reasons. While not all of them offer it yet, you can expect to see it more as time goes on. That said, it has some upsides and some downsides. We’ll explain both of those in a moment. Before we do, though please have a look at our list of the best VPNs for IKEv2.
| Rank | VPN Service | Our Score | Server Locations | Visit | No Logs | Browser Extensions | Smart DNS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  | 9.8 | 160 |  |  | | |
| 2 |  | 9.4 | 110 | | | | |
| 3 |  | 9.2 | 76 | | |
As we mentioned there are upsides and downsides to using IKEv2. First, we’ll start with the upsides.
- Outstanding security.
- Easy to configure.
- Fast reconnects if the connection is dropped or network switched.
- Good balance between security and speed.
Clearly, there are a number of positives in using this protocol over others, as long as it is available via the VPN provider.
From here, there are a number of downsides as well. Let’s take a look at them so we can make an accurate assessment. Here are the downsides.
- Created by 2 major tech companies, so there is some concern that those companies put back doors into the protocol.
- No multiport functionality. In other words, it can be easily blocked so it is not useful for that purpose.
- Offers little cross-platform compatibility in comparison to others.
- Cypher may have been compromised by the NSA.
Given the downsides of the protocol, it is one you may wish to be wary of. Of course, all of the protocols have some risk involved.
What is the Best VPN for IKEv2?
There are a number of different factors to consider to help us answer what the best VPN for IKEv2 is.
- large and stable networks to help you reconnect easily
- Ability to get around geo-restricted content
- Mobile app support including Amazon Firestick that uses IKEv2
- Strong military grade encryption to help protect your privacy
- High-Speed servers in the region that uses IKEv2
- Strict no-logs policy
Let’s take a more in-depth look at the best VPNs to use with IKEv2.
1. Best VPN for IKEv2: ExpressVPN
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If you are a fan of certain sports teams like those you may find in the English Premier League, you can watch some of the games on the BBC iPlayer website. Of course, you would need to be in the UK. However, if you are not, you will want to connect to a UK VPN server. To watch BBC coverage of your favorite football team or any other sports from outside the region, you would simply connect a server located there. That way, you can enjoy seeing your team lay waste to the competition.
2. Best VPN for IKEv2: CyberGhost
If you are familiar with the Amazon Firestick, Roku, or other streaming devices that you plug into your TV, you know they are great. What you may not know, however, is that a vast amount of the content is only available in the US. If you are traveling abroad or outside the country, connecting to a CyberGhost VPN server located in the US is crucial. When you do so, you will be able to gain access to your favorite shows and movies, all at your fingers.
3. Best VPN for IKEv2: IPVanish
IPVanish includes a nice addon called SugarSync cloud storage with their VPN service. While they are not the only ones to offer that type of benefit for their users, they were one of the first. It provides you with 250 GB of free cloud storage space. No matter what items you choose to store, it will help you make sure that you do not lose any non-replaceable documents, images, or files that you want to keep safe. That way, when something happens to your phone or computer, you don’t have to worry.
