What makes a next-gen VPN in 2023?

Virtual private networks have given us much-needed security and privacy. And since the boom of VPNs in the early 2010s, virtual private network technology has gone a long way. However, with the rise of quantum technology, chances are that quantum computers will be able to crack current encryption methods.

Nevertheless, some providers are doing their best to prevent that from happening. They push their limits to become next-generation VPNs.

But what is a next-gen VPN? What features and characteristics define it? If you’re keen to find out, read on and familiarize yourself with next-generation virtual private network services.

What is a next-gen VPN?

At its core, there are not many differences between a regular VPN and a cutting-edge VPN. Both encrypt your data, hide your IP address, and spoof your whereabouts.

However, the best next-gen VPNs do everything better. They use innovative technologies, like hardcore encryptions, state-of-the-art server networks, or ground-breaking tunneling protocols. That, of course, means better security, more privacy, and overall better performance.

What are the characteristics of a next-gen VPN?

A next-generation VPN offers loads of features that surpass the capabilities of a regular virtual private network. So, below, you’ll find what most cutting-edge VPN providers offer.

Tunneling protocols

Tunneling protocols are the cornerstone of VPN performance. If a virtual private network utilizes outdated tunneling protocols (L2TP/IPsec, PPTP), chances are you’ll face sloth-like speeds and security issues. With the next-generation VPNs, however, you won’t notice major issues.

The most innovative VPNs are using the WireGuard tunneling protocol. Unlike its predecessors, it’s open-source and easy to implement. Not to mention,  you won’t notice major speed drops and weak links in the safety department.

On top of that, some VPN providers started building on top of WireGuard and creating their own proprietary tunneling protocols. One of the best examples is NordVPN’s next-gen NordLynx tunneling protocol.

Innovative server network

Quality and quantity of VPN hardware are essential for smooth operations. If a virtual private network has few pieces of hardware, chances are they will get overcrowded and crash. Moreover, hackers and snoopers can wreak havoc on them if VPN providers don’t take extra precautions.

Therefore, cutting-edge providers do everything they can to ensure their servers. For instance, reliable VPNs own and manage all of Surfshark’s servers to prevent tampering. Additionally, RAM-only servers boost your privacy by instantly terminating any information after your web sessions. 

Surfshark, for example, takes its server game to the next level. It has Implemented the Nexus technology that connects all of their pieces of hardware into one single network with the help of Software Defined Networking (SDN). That improves server safety, stabilizes connectivity, and boosts speeds globally.

Encryption types

A top-tier VPN encryption is needed to scramble your data and protect you against privacy breaches. Most VPNs utilize AES-256 cipher, which is an industry standard at this point. However, some people are afraid that AES will soon be obsolete. As we mentioned, the spooky quantum computers are out to get the poor AES encryption type.

Luckily VPN providers are one step ahead. Some services come with xChaCha20 encryption. It’s faster, less prone to human errors, and doesn’t require hardware to run smoothly. Additionally, other services, such as PureVPN, offer quantum-resistant encryption keys. They already provide extra security against quantum attacks.

Privacy guarantees

Many VPNs claim to be confidentiality-friendly and promise their users not to collect logs or disclose any information. Sadly, this pledge is often broken. 

Some providers, especially free ones, collect your data and sell it to advertisers and other third parties. Also, there have been cases of VPNs giving information to the authorities. For example, HideMyAssVPN has de-anonymized their user and given the data to the FBI.

Thankfully, next-generation VPNs go the extra mile to ensure your confidentiality online. For that reason, they go through third-party audits to check if everything is in line. Moreover, some providers move their base of operations to privacy-respecting countries like Panama, Switzerland, or British Virgin Islands. Lastly, they might use privacy-boosting technologies like RAM-only servers.

Compatibility and ease-of-use

Gone are the days when you could only use a VPN on a single OS or device. New next-generation virtual private networks offer user-friendly applications that work on the major operating systems, such as Windows, Max, iOS, Android, and Linux. 

Moreover, you should be able to set up the VPN on your router to protect your whole home network. Some make it easier to stream geo-blocked content on devices that don’t support VPNs natively. For example, grab a VPN with the Smart DNS feature if you want to watch something on your smart TV or console.

Other features

If regular VPNs give you the bare minimum, then cutting-edge services will provide you with heaps of valuable features that will make your online experience a lot safer and smoother. For instance, for more security, some VPNs come with ad or malware blockers that protect you against digital dangers. We should mention Multi-hop too. It’s a useful feature that twofold your security and privacy by routing your traffic through multiple servers.

Moreover, with Stealth VPN technology, people can bypass strict firewalls and finally have access to the free internet. It’s especially handy for people living in highly restricted countries like China, Russia, or Afghanistan. Not to mention there are loads of other features that are worth looking into. For example, Tor over VPN, GPS spoofer, VPN Accelerator, and so on.

Conclusion

All in all, with quantum technology and computers on the rise, many people and VPNs are in danger. Malicious actors with ill intentions will be able to use this technology to crack popular encryption methods.

But there is nothing to worry about. There are plenty of next-gen VPNs that are doing their best to prevent that from happening. They offer loads of cutting-edge features to improve your security and privacy. Plus, they ensure stable and fast performance, so you won’t have to worry about e-snail speeds.

So, if you’re still struggling with a regular VPN, grab a next-gen virtual private network and be prepared for a post-quantum future.