Best WireGuard Alternatives in 2025
Looking for alternatives to WireGuard? In this comparison, we take a closer look at WireGuard alongside similar software solutions including WireGuard, OpenVPN, ProtonVPN, OpenVPN Connect, ProtonVPNTap, FRITZ!Fernzugang, FortiClient VPN, PureVPN and hide.me VPN.
Our detailed comparison table highlights key features, pricing, and performance of these leading solutions, empowering you to make an informed decision. Whether you're seeking robust functionality, user-friendly design, or cost-effective alternatives, explore how WireGuard, OpenVPN, ProtonVPN, OpenVPN Connect, ProtonVPNTap, FRITZ!Fernzugang, FortiClient VPN, PureVPN and hide.me VPN stack up to find the perfect software for your goals.
Encryption Protocols
 WireGuard
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Modern cryptographic algorithms using the Noise protocol framework and Curve25519 elliptic curve function for secure connections. |
 OpenVPN
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Uses a combination of asymmetric and symmetric encryption algorithms with support for strong encryption protocols and HMAC-based authentication. |
 ProtonVPN
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Employs AES-256 encryption, supports OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPSec protocols with Perfect Forward Secrecy. |
 OpenVPN Connect
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Based on the OpenVPN protocol which provides strong encryption using TLS. |
 ProtonVPNTap
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Uses AES-256 encryption with a strict no-logs policy ensuring privacy and security. |
 FRITZ!Fernzugang
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Implements high-strength SSL encryption and IPsec VPN protocols for secure remote connections. |
 FortiClient VPN
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Supports strong encryption protocols, including IPSec and SSL, with advanced threat protection features. |
 PureVPN
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Offers military-grade encryption with multiple supported security protocols. |
 hide.me VPN
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Uses AES-256 encryption with IKEv2/IPsec protocol support and DNS leak protection for enhanced privacy. |
Platform Support & Compatibility
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WireGuard
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Compatible with multiple operating systems including Linux, Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS; limited compatibility with some older systems. |
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OpenVPN
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Cross-platform compatibility including Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, and routers; supports a wide range of devices. |
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ProtonVPN
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Available on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS; supports multiple devices per subscription. |
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OpenVPN Connect
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Supports Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS; used as official client for OpenVPN protocol connections. |
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ProtonVPNTap
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Compatible with Android, iOS, Linux, Mac, Windows; supports up to 10 simultaneous devices. |
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FRITZ!Fernzugang
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Supports Windows and Mac computers and mobile devices including Android and iOS; optimized for use with FRITZ!Box routers. |
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FortiClient VPN
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Available on Windows, Mac, Android, iOS; some compatibility issues on older or lower-spec devices. |
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PureVPN
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Supports all major platforms including Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS; supports up to 10 simultaneous connections. |
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hide.me VPN
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Compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS; available browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox. |
User Experience & Setup
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WireGuard
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Simplified configuration with minimal setup; suitable for both beginners and advanced users but requires some technical knowledge for advanced features. |
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OpenVPN
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Complex setup process requiring technical expertise; offers GUI clients and web-based management interface to ease configuration. |
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ProtonVPN
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User-friendly interface with multiple pricing plans; offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and good customer support options including live chat and email. |
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OpenVPN Connect
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User-friendly interface designed for beginners; easy setup through official app available on app stores but limited customer support options. |
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ProtonVPNTap
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User-friendly interface focusing on privacy; requires paid ProtonVPN subscription; provides helpful resources and customer support via email and live chat. |
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FRITZ!Fernzugang
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Simple and user-friendly interface with a setup wizard designed to assist inexperienced users; limited customization options. |
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FortiClient VPN
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Easy-to-use interface with quick setup guided by an installer wizard; however some users report slow connection speeds and limited customer support. |
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PureVPN
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User-friendly interface suitable for beginners; offers 31-day money-back guarantee and live chat customer support; some users report slower connection speeds. |
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hide.me VPN
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Easy navigation with a user-friendly interface across platforms; multiple subscription plans including a free plan; includes customer support via chat and email. |
Choosing the right software isn’t just about features. Size, license type, user ratings, and popularity also matter.
This quick comparison shows how WireGuard stacks up against WireGuard, OpenVPN, ProtonVPN, OpenVPN Connect, ProtonVPNTap, FRITZ!Fernzugang, FortiClient VPN, PureVPN and hide.me VPN in these key areas—helping you find the best alternative for your needs.
Size
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WireGuard
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|
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OpenVPN
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4.9MB |
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ProtonVPN
|
|
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OpenVPN Connect
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67.6MB |
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ProtonVPNTap
|
|
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FRITZ!Fernzugang
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7.8MB |
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FortiClient VPN
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79.2MB |
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PureVPN
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50.2MB |
|
hide.me VPN
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18.8MB |
License
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WireGuard
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Shareware |
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OpenVPN
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Open Source |
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ProtonVPN
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Shareware |
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OpenVPN Connect
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Freeware |
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ProtonVPNTap
|
Shareware |
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FRITZ!Fernzugang
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Shareware |
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FortiClient VPN
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Shareware |
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PureVPN
|
Shareware |
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hide.me VPN
|
Shareware |