SoftEther VPN

SoftEther VPN is a free and open-source, cross-platform, multi-protocol VPN software solution. It functions as both a VPN client and server, offering high compatibility and advanced features for building secure and flexible VPN connections. Developed by University of Tsukuba

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License: Open Source

Categories:

VPN Client VPN Server Network Security Tool Network Virtualization

Available for:

Mac OS X Windows Linux BSD

About SoftEther VPN

Comprehensive VPN Solution: SoftEther VPN

SoftEther VPN stands out as a highly versatile and powerful VPN software that is completely free and open-source. Designed for both individual and organizational use, it provides robust capabilities for establishing secure and encrypted connections across various networks. Unlike many VPN solutions that focus solely on the client side, SoftEther VPN includes both server and client functionalities, giving users the flexibility to create and manage their own VPN infrastructure.

One of the key strengths of SoftEther VPN is its extensive protocol support. It is not limited to a single VPN protocol but supports multiple widely used standards, including:

SoftEther VPN Protocol: A proprietary protocol developed by the SoftEther project, designed for high performance and resilience, even over firewalls and NATs.
OpenVPN: Offers compatibility with the popular open-source VPN protocol, allowing SoftEther to connect to and from OpenVPN clients and servers.
L2TP/IPsec: Provides support for this common VPN protocol suite, often used for mobile devices and corporate networks.
MS-SSTP: Microsoft's Secure Socket Tunneling Protocol, which can traverse most firewalls.
EtherIP: A simple tunneling protocol.
IKEv2/IPsec: An updated version of IKE/IPsec.

This multi-protocol support makes SoftEther incredibly adaptable, enabling it to work in diverse network environments and integrate with existing VPN setups. For instance, users can configure a SoftEther VPN server to accept connections from various clients, including those using the standard OpenVPN client application or built-in L2TP/IPsec support in operating systems.

Beyond protocol compatibility, SoftEther VPN incorporates advanced networking features that go beyond basic VPN functionality. It supports Virtual LAN (VLAN) within the VPN tunnel, allowing for network segmentation and complex network topologies. The concept of a Software Defined Network is inherent in SoftEther's architecture, providing greater control and flexibility over network configurations. It also facilitates P2P Network capabilities, although this is not its primary focus.

Security is a core element of SoftEther VPN. It employs strong encryption algorithms, including mandatory AES256 encryption, to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of data transmitted through the VPN tunnel. The software is designed with a focus on preventing common VPN vulnerabilities and ensuring secure communication.

The software is Configurable to a high degree, catering to both novice and experienced users. It offers a graphical user interface for easy setup and management, as well as a Command Line Interface for advanced users and scripting. Its cross-platform nature means it can be installed and run on various operating systems, including Windows, Linux, macOS, FreeBSD, and Solaris.

For users seeking anonymity and privacy, SoftEther VPN can be configured to Surf Anonymously by routing internet traffic through the encrypted tunnel, effectively masking the user's real IP address. This aspect is crucial for individuals concerned about online surveillance and data tracking.

The integration with Cisco AnyConnect clients further expands its compatibility and usefulness in corporate environments. SoftEther's architecture also supports Ssh tunnel capabilities, adding another layer of secure connectivity options.

In summary, SoftEther VPN is a comprehensive, secure, and versatile open-source VPN solution that offers a rich set of features and extensive protocol support. Its ability to function 作为both a server and a client, combined with advanced networking capabilities and robust security measures, makes it a compelling choice for a wide range of VPN applications.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Free and open-source software.
Supports a wide range of VPN protocols.
Includes both server and client functionalities.
Strong encryption with AES256.
Cross-platform compatibility.

Cons

Server setup and configuration can be complex for beginners.
Documentation can be technical.
Requires networking knowledge for advanced features.

What Makes SoftEther VPN Stand Out

Free and Open Source

SoftEther VPN is completely free to use and its source code is publicly available, promoting transparency and community-driven development.

Multi-Protocol Support

Exceptional support for multiple VPN protocols in a single software package simplifies deployment and maximizes compatibility with various devices and networks.

Integrated Server and Client

Offers both VPN server and client capabilities within the same software suite, providing a comprehensive solution for building and using VPNs.

What can SoftEther VPN do?

Multiple Languages

Provides a user interface available in a variety of languages, catering to a global user base.

Command Line Interface

Provides a command-line interface for scripting and automation of encoding tasks.

Security Focused

Implements various security measures to protect users from tracking and surveillance.

Configurable

Offers various options for customization, allowing users to tailor the client's behavior and appeara...

Cross-platform Support

Available on multiple operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, for broad accessibilit...

Encrypted Connection

Support for connection encryption to enhance privacy during transfers.

Review

SoftEther VPN Review: A Powerful and Versatile Open-Source Solution

SoftEther VPN presents itself as a robust, free, and open-source VPN software package that caters to a wide spectrum of users, from individuals seeking enhanced privacy to organizations building complex network infrastructures. Its most defining characteristic is its dual role as a comprehensive VPN server and client solution, a distinction that sets it apart from many consumer-focused VPN applications.

One of the primary strengths of SoftEther VPN is its extensive protocol support. It’s not locked into a single standard but embraces compatibility with the SoftEther VPN Protocol (its own high-performance protocol), OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, MS-SSTP, EtherIP, and IKEv2/IPsec. This multi-protocol capability offers immense flexibility, allowing users to connect to or host a VPN that can interact with a diverse range of clients and existing VPN setups. This is particularly valuable in environments where different devices or networks utilize different VPN protocols.

The security architecture of SoftEther VPN is founded on strong encryption, prominently featuring AES256. The commitment to robust encryption is evident throughout the software, aiming to ensure that data traversing the VPN tunnel remains confidential and protected from unauthorized access. The open-source nature of the project further contributes to trust, as the underlying code is available for public scrutiny and validation.

Beyond basic tunneling, SoftEther VPN incorporates advanced networking features. The support for creating and managing Virtual LANs (VLANs) within the VPN tunnel is a powerful tool for network segmentation and organizing virtual network resources. This feature, coupled with the inherent Software Defined Networking capabilities, provides administrators with granular control over network topology and traffic flow.

The usability of SoftEther VPN is facilitated by both a graphical user interface (GUI) and a command-line interface (CLI). The GUI simplifies initial setup and configuration for less experienced users, while the CLI offers advanced control and scripting possibilities for network professionals. This dual interface approach makes the software accessible to a broader audience.

Cross-platform compatibility is another significant advantage. SoftEther VPN is available on major operating systems including Windows, Linux, macOS, FreeBSD, and Solaris, ensuring that it can be deployed across diverse computing environments. This makes it suitable for organizations with mixed IT infrastructures.

For individual users concerned about online privacy, SoftEther VPN can be configured to anonymize internet traffic by routing it through a secure server, effectively masking the user's real IP address. While not a substitute for a dedicated anonymity network, this feature provides a layer of privacy against tracking and surveillance.

The ability to integrate with Cisco AnyConnect clients is a notable feature for corporate users. This compatibility simplifies deployment in environments that already utilize Cisco networking equipment and software.

While SoftEther VPN is feature-rich and powerful, it is not without its complexities, particularly when configuring the server component. Setting up a SoftEther VPN server requires a good understanding of networking concepts and VPN protocols. The extensive configuration options, while offering flexibility, can also be overwhelming for beginners.

The performance of SoftEther VPN is generally reported to be high, particularly when using the native SoftEther VPN Protocol. However, performance can vary depending on the chosen protocol, server hardware, network conditions, and configuration.

The documentation for SoftEther VPN is comprehensive but can be technical, reflecting the software's advanced nature. While there is an active community, finding readily available assistance for specific niche configurations might require delving into forums and documentation.

In conclusion, SoftEther VPN is a highly capable, secure, and versatile VPN software that is particularly well-suited for users who require both server and client functionalities, multi-protocol support, and advanced networking features. Its open-source nature and strong security focus are significant advantages. While it requires a certain level of technical proficiency for server configuration, the power and flexibility it offers make it a compelling choice for a wide range of VPN applications.