What Handshake Method Is Used When Connecting to a VPN?

The most common handshake methods that are used when connecting to a VPN are TLS Handshake. Different VPNs use different handshake methods. such as:

1. TLS Handshake – Used by OpenVPN. It works like HTTPS security in web browsers.
2. IKEv2/IPSec Handshake – Common in mobile VPNs. It is fast and good for switching networks.
3. WireGuard Handshake – A newer, faster method using the Noise Protocol Framework.

Each method has its way of setting up a secure connection.

What Is Handshake in VPN?

A handshake in a VPN is like a secret greeting between two devices. Before a VPN connection starts, the client (your device) and the VPN server must agree on how to communicate securely. This process is called a handshake.

The handshake makes sure that:

• Your data stays encrypted (scrambled so others cannot read it).
• Only the right server can talk to your device.
• No hacker can interrupt or spy on your connection.

Without a proper handshake, a VPN cannot protect your internet traffic.

How Each Handshake Method Works In VPN?

Here is the working method of each handshake in VPN.

1. TLS Handshake (Used in OpenVPN)

1. The client (your device) sends a “hello” message to the VPN server.
2. The server responds with its security certificate and a public key.
3. The client checks the certificate to confirm the server is real.
4. The client creates a secret key, encrypts it with the server’s public key, and sends it back.
5. Both sides now use this secret key to encrypt all data.

This method is very secure but can be slow because of multiple verification steps.

2. IKEv2/IPSec Handshake

1. The client and server agree on encryption methods.
2. They authenticate each other using digital certificates or passwords.
3. They create shared secret keys for the session.
4. IPSec then encrypts all data moving between them.

IKEv2 is great for mobile users because it reconnects quickly if the network changes.

3. WireGuard Handshake

1. The client and server exchange public keys.
2. They use a mathematical method (Diffie-Hellman) to create a shared secret.
3. This secret key encrypts all future messages.

WireGuard is faster than TLS and IKEv2 because it skips complex certificate checks.

Why do Different VPNs Use Different Handshake Methods?

VPN services choose different handshake methods based on several factors:

• Security requirements – Some methods offer stronger protection against advanced threats. TLS with perfect forward secrecy is very secure but slower.
• Connection speed – WireGuard is designed to be extremely fast, making it good for gaming or video streaming.
• Device compatibility – IKEv2 works particularly well on smartphones that frequently switch between WiFi and mobile data.
• Network conditions – Some handshakes work better on unstable or slow networks. IKEv2 is good at reconnecting quickly if your internet drops momentarily.
• Battery usage – More complex handshakes use more device resources. WireGuard is lightweight and good for saving battery life.

Comparing VPN Handshake Methods

Feature	TLS (OpenVPN)	IKEv2/IPSec	WireGuard
Handshake Speed	Medium (1-2s)	Fast (~1s)	Very Fast (<1s)
Security Level	Very High	High	High
Best For	Maximum privacy	Mobile devices	Speed & simplicity
Encryption	AES-256	AES-256	ChaCha20
Authentication	Certificates	Certificates/PSK	Public Keys
Reconnection	Slow	Very Fast	Fast