⚡ Quick Verdict:
- Pricing: OpenVPN starts free, with Growth at $7/month. FastestVPN starts at $0.83/mo.
- Best for: OpenVPN for teams building their own VPN tunnels. FastestVPN for beginners who want a ready app.
- Key difference: OpenVPN is a protocol and software you run. FastestVPN is a VPN service that uses OpenVPN inside its apps.
- Our pick: OpenVPN for most tech-savvy users. Its open source code and control win on security.
Here’s a twist most comparisons miss.
FastestVPN actually runs OpenVPN inside its own apps.
So this isn’t a normal fight between two VPN services.
OpenVPN is an open source VPN protocol and software you control.
FastestVPN is a VPN provider that hands you servers and a simple app.
Your choice comes down to one question. Build it yourself, or rent it ready-made?
Overview
This OpenVPN vs FastestVPN comparison covers security, speed, pricing, and ease of use.
We reviewed documentation, pricing pages, and G2 and Trustpilot reviews for both tools.
Our writers also spent hands-on time with each one.
Those notes appear in the “What Our Team Noticed” sections below.
By the end, you’ll know which one fits your needs.
What is OpenVPN?
OpenVPN is an open source tunneling protocol for building a virtual private network.
It first launched in 2001.
It builds a secure tunnel between a VPN client and a VPN server.
That tunnel runs on SSL/TLS, the tech behind secure sockets layer encryption.
OpenVPN works by wrapping each data packet in extra encrypted layers.
The OpenVPN company also sells OpenVPN Access Server and cloud plans for businesses.
You can also use it through any OpenVPN compatible service, like Surfshark or ExpressVPN.
In 2026, IT teams still pick it for creating VPN tunnels into private networks.
OpenVPN
Free to start and open source. Built for people who want full control over their VPN tunnels.
OpenVPN Pricing
Here’s what OpenVPN costs in 2026. The plan list is short.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Free | $0 | Community Edition users and home setups |
| Growth | $7/month | Small teams that need managed remote access |
| Enterprise | Custom | Large firms with site-to-site networks |
Pricing verified September 2026.
Free trial: The Free plan has no time limit. It works as an open-ended trial.
Money-back guarantee: No refund window appears on the plan list. Test the Free plan before you pay.
📌 Note: The OpenVPN Community Edition is free software. But you host your own OpenVPN server. That means you pay for the cloud server or hardware.
⚠️ Warning: OpenVPN doesn’t come with a server network. Want an IP address in another country? You need a VPN provider or your own servers abroad.
Key Benefits of OpenVPN
Here’s what makes OpenVPN worth considering:
- Open Source Code: Anyone can inspect the code for flaws. A global developer community reviews it and ships fixes fast.
- Flexible Encryption: It supports AES, Blowfish, and other encryption algorithms. You choose the encryption ciphers and key lengths.
- Firewall Friendly: It passes through firewalls and NAT gateways with ease. That helps on strict hotel or office networks.
- Perfect Forward Secrecy: Fresh encryption keys protect each session. One leaked key doesn’t expose all your past data traffic.
- Scales Up: It handles one remote worker or full site-to-site links. It also supports both IPv4 and IPv6.
- Runs Almost Anywhere: It works on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. It even runs on Tomato routers and Solaris.
- Extendable: Third-party apps, scripts, and plugins can add features. Config files are plain text with a .ovpn extension.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer installed OpenVPN and spent hands-on time with its apps. Here’s what stood out:
OpenVPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Open source code with public community review
- Free Community Edition with no time limit
- AES-256 support with Perfect Forward Secrecy
- Works through strict firewalls and NAT
- Runs on nearly every operating system
❌ Cons
- Slower than the newer WireGuard protocol
- Manual configuration is hard for beginners
- No built-in server network or location switching
- Less user-friendly on mobile devices than desktop
What is FastestVPN?
FastestVPN is a budget VPN service with its own apps and servers.
It’s based in the Cayman Islands.
That country has no mandatory data retention laws.
It also sits outside international surveillance alliances.
The server network is small, with around 800 servers in 49 countries.
NordVPN and ExpressVPN each run thousands.
Its main draw is price, including a lifetime plan few rivals offer.
FastestVPN
A simple VPN app with an ad blocker, a kill switch, and ten device slots. Good for budget streaming and daily privacy.
FastestVPN Pricing
Here’s what a FastestVPN subscription costs in 2026. All plans include the same security features.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Year + 1 Year Free | $0.83/mo | Budget users who want the lowest monthly rate |
| 1 Month Plan | $5/mo | Short trips or a quick test |
| Exclusive Lifetime Plan | $40 | One payment with no renewals |
Pricing verified September 2026.
Free trial: There’s no free plan. Tom’s Guide notes a 7-day trial, but it isn’t free.
Money-back guarantee: Every plan comes with a 31 day money back guarantee.
📌 Note: Add-ons cost extra. A dedicated IP address is $1.49/month. It keeps the same VPN IP address every session. Extra connections cost $4 each per month.
⚠️ Price check: Some review sites list the annual plan at $19.95, about $1.66/month. The current 1 Year + 1 Year Free deal works out to $0.83/mo. Confirm the total at checkout.
Key Benefits of FastestVPN
Here’s what makes FastestVPN worth considering:
- Lifetime Option: One payment covers you with no yearly renewals. Very few VPN providers sell this.
- Audited Privacy: Altius IT audited its no logs policy. The audit confirmed it doesn’t store activity or connection logs.
- 10 Devices at Once: One account covers up to 10 simultaneous connections. That’s enough for a whole family.
- Built-in Protection: FastestVPN offers an ad blocker, malware protection, and a NAT firewall. The firewall blocks unwanted incoming traffic.
- Streaming Tab: The app has a dedicated tab for streaming servers. It points you to the right server for each channel.
- Split Tunneling: You pick which apps use the VPN. Everything else stays on your normal internet connection.
- Beginner-Friendly Apps: The Windows and Mac apps are clean and simple. The mobile apps look and work the same way.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer signed up for FastestVPN and spent time with its apps. Here’s what stood out:
FastestVPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Rare lifetime plan with no renewals
- No logs policy confirmed by a third-party audit
- Up to 10 simultaneous device connections
- Built-in ad blocker and NAT firewall
❌ Cons
- Small server network of about 800 servers
- Speeds drop sharply on long-distance servers
- Reported DNS and IP leaks on Windows
- Inconsistent results with some Netflix libraries
Feature Comparison
OpenVPN and FastestVPN overlap in some areas, but not all. Below, we compare nine key features, plus pricing.
| Feature | OpenVPN | FastestVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $0 (Free plan) | $0.83/mo |
| Free Plan | ✅ | ❌ |
| Open Source Code | ✅ | ❌ |
| Built-in Server Network | ❌ (self-hosted) | ✅ ~800 servers, 49 countries |
| TCP and UDP Modes | ✅ | ✅ (via OpenVPN) |
| WireGuard Support | ❌ | ✅ |
| Ad Blocker | ❌ | ✅ |
| Site-to-Site Networking | ✅ | ❌ |
| Lifetime Plan | ❌ | ✅ |
| Best For | IT teams and self-hosters | Budget home users |
1. Security & Encryption
OpenVPN: OpenVPN uses the OpenSSL library for encryption. It supports AES, Blowfish, and other encryption protocols. Admins pick the cipher and key length, and those choices set the final strength.
It runs a custom security protocol built on SSL/TLS. It checks both sides before any data moves. The authentication OpenVPN relies on combines passwords with digital certificates from a public key infrastructure.
FastestVPN: FastestVPN uses AES-256 encryption on every connection. It adds DNS leak protection and a NAT firewall on top. Its malware blocker helps, but it doesn’t replace antivirus software.
⚠️ Warning: Strong encryption can’t fix a weak setup. A badly configured OpenVPN server can be less safe than a well-run commercial app.
2. VPN Protocols: TCP, UDP, and WireGuard
OpenVPN: OpenVPN runs over two transport modes. UDP, the user datagram protocol, is faster but doesn’t guarantee delivery. TCP, the transmission control protocol, delivers packets in order but runs slower.
OpenVPN UDP suits streaming and calls. OpenVPN TCP suits shaky or filtered networks. It’s slower than WireGuard, a newer rival among tunneling protocols. Some security writers still prefer OpenVPN for its flexibility.
Security guides rate it above most VPN protocols, including old PPTP. Most VPN providers support it too. A TLS auth key adds an HMAC firewall. It uses a hash message authentication code to drop unsigned packets.
FastestVPN: FastestVPN lets you pick the WireGuard protocol, OpenVPN, and other VPN protocols. Pick OpenVPN TCP on strict networks. Pick WireGuard when speed matters most.
💡 Pro Tip: Try the UDP protocol first. Switch to TCP only if your connection keeps dropping.
3. Remote Access & Business Networking
OpenVPN: This is where OpenVPN shines. OpenVPN Access Server lets remote workers reach company files safely. It scales from one employee to full office-to-office links.
Site-to-site networking connects whole offices through one encrypted link.
FastestVPN: FastestVPN is built for personal privacy, not company networks. It has no remote access gateway or site-to-site tools. Businesses should look elsewhere.
4. Device Compatibility & Setup
OpenVPN: OpenVPN runs on all major operating systems, plus Tomato and Solaris. It can also secure IoT devices like cameras and sensors. To install OpenVPN on Windows, you use the OpenVPN GUI or OpenVPN Connect.
OpenVPN Connect is free client software. Many other VPN clients can also read .ovpn files.
FastestVPN: FastestVPN’s apps cover Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux. You install FastestVPN, log in, and tap connect. Devices like Apple TV may need a router setup.
The Windows app and the FastestVPN iOS app share one clean layout. Android users get the same streaming tab and kill switch.
5. Leak Protection & Kill Switch
OpenVPN: OpenVPN’s cloud DNS security can block bad domains before they load. On personal OpenVPN connections, leak protection depends on your client settings. You control how DNS requests leave the tunnel.
FastestVPN: FastestVPN includes a kill switch that cuts your internet if the VPN connection drops. DNS leak protection sends DNS queries through its own servers.
The kill switch is your backup if the tunnel fails. It stops data leaks before they happen.
⚠️ Warning: Reviewers who tested FastestVPN on a Windows computer found DNS leaks and exposed IP addresses. Others questioned how well the kill switch works. Run your own DNS leak tests after setup.
6. Split Tunneling & App Access
OpenVPN: OpenVPN’s cloud plans can lock down access to SaaS apps. Admins decide who reaches which cloud tool. Split tunneling lives in the config file, not behind a simple toggle.
SaaS protection also shows who touches each cloud app.
FastestVPN: Smart tunneling is FastestVPN’s name for split tunneling. You choose which apps use the VPN tunnel. Its browser extensions only cover browser traffic, not your whole device.
7. Simultaneous Connections
OpenVPN: Self-hosted OpenVPN has no fixed cap on VPN connections. Your server hardware sets the real limit. Paid plans are priced for business teams instead.
FastestVPN: One account supports up to 10 simultaneous device connections. You can buy extra slots as an add-on.
8. Speed & Streaming
OpenVPN: Speed depends on your OpenVPN servers, your base internet, and TCP versus UDP. On its own, it can’t unblock streaming sites. You’d need servers in other countries.
FastestVPN: Reviewers testing FastestVPN found downloads drop about 45% on average. One test hit around 730 Mbps on a nearby server using WireGuard. Long-distance servers lost up to 55% of their speed.
Upload speeds slowed about 22% in one test. Ping rose 33% on one of two computers. A slow base connection means slow VPN speeds too.
With so few servers, peak times can crowd FastestVPN’s servers and cause slow speeds. Torrenting works on all FastestVPN servers, but it’s not quick.
Is streaming FastestVPN’s strong suit? Mostly. It works with streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Hotstar, Prime Video, and Hulu. Its streaming servers unblocked US, UK, Japan, and Sweden Netflix libraries.
⚠️ Warning: The name suggests the fastest VPN, but FastestVPN claims don’t match independent tests. The US Netflix library loaded slowly, and the Australian library didn’t work.
9. Customer Support
OpenVPN: OpenVPN offers documentation, community forums, and ticket support on business plans. G2 reviews of OpenVPN Access Server often praise its technical support.
FastestVPN: FastestVPN offers 24/7 live chat with real people, plus email support. Replies come fast but can feel generic. The knowledge base has setup guides, though its search is weak.
✅ Good sign: Positive Trustpilot reviews often mention FastestVPN’s customer support by name. Still, some users found support unhelpful on tricky issues.
10. Pricing & Cost
Here are the plans side by side.
| Plan Type | OpenVPN | FastestVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Free | Free: $0 | ❌ |
| Monthly | Growth: $7/month | 1 Month Plan: $5/mo |
| Best Value | — | 1 Year + 1 Year Free: $0.83/mo |
| One-Time | ❌ | Exclusive Lifetime Plan: $40 |
| Business | Enterprise: Custom | ❌ |
OpenVPN: The free tier is real, but running it isn’t free. You still pay for a VPN server, cloud hosting, or hardware. Growth suits small teams that want managed access.
FastestVPN: FastestVPN is the cheaper path for one person who wants servers ready to go. The lifetime plan beats years of monthly billing. Watch add-on costs like dedicated IPs.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| A cheap VPN with no setup | FastestVPN | Low plans and ready servers |
| Remote access for a team | OpenVPN | Access Server and site-to-site tools |
| Full control over security | OpenVPN | Open source, custom ciphers |
| Streaming Netflix or BBC iPlayer | FastestVPN | Dedicated streaming servers |
| Many server locations | FastestVPN | 49 countries built in |
| The easiest setup | FastestVPN | One-tap apps for beginners |
💰 Your Budget
FastestVPN costs less for one person who just wants privacy. OpenVPN software is free, but hosting servers adds real cost.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
Already run Linux servers or company firewalls? OpenVPN plugs into scripts, plugins, and existing gear.
🎯 Your Main Goal
FastestVPN hides your IP address from your internet service provider right away. OpenVPN is built for reaching office files and private servers from anywhere.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Most VPN users can set up FastestVPN in minutes. OpenVPN rewards people who are comfortable with config files and certificates.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
Try the free OpenVPN Community Edition if you’re curious. FastestVPN has no free plan, but its 31-day refund window lowers the risk.
🛟 Support Options
FastestVPN gives you 24/7 live chat for quick questions. OpenVPN leans on docs and forums unless you pay for a business plan.
🔒 Data Privacy and Security
OpenVPN keeps logs on hardware you own, so you decide what’s stored. FastestVPN relies on its audited no-logs promise and offshore base.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these tools? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from OpenVPN to FastestVPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Ready-made servers in 49 countries
- Streaming servers and a built-in ad blocker
- 24/7 live chat support
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Full control over encryption settings
- Site-to-site links and remote access to private networks
- Open source code you can inspect
📋 How to switch:
- Save any .ovpn profiles you still need for work.
- Buy a FastestVPN plan and install the app on each device.
- Pick OpenVPN or WireGuard in settings, then connect.
🔄 Switching from FastestVPN to OpenVPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Open source transparency
- Custom ciphers and authentication rules
- Remote access and IoT security tools
❌ What you’ll lose:
- One-tap server switching
- FastestVPN’s ad blocker and NAT firewall
- Lifetime pricing
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel or let your FastestVPN plan expire.
- Set up the Community Edition or Access Server on a server.
- Import .ovpn profiles into OpenVPN Connect on each device.
What Our Review Didn’t Cover
This comparison focused on home users and small teams. We didn’t run OpenVPN Access Server at enterprise scale. We also didn’t review port forwarding or double VPN servers. Nor did we check which server locations are virtual servers.
We didn’t check every Netflix library FastestVPN supports. Our notes reflect the September 2026 versions of both tools. Features may change after that.
We also skipped FastestPass, the company’s separate password manager. Our full FastestVPN review goes deeper on apps and speed.
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing | FastestVPN |
| 🔒 Security & Transparency | OpenVPN |
| 🛠️ Customization | OpenVPN |
| 🏢 Remote Access | OpenVPN |
| 🔌 Device Compatibility | OpenVPN |
| 👶 Ease of Use | FastestVPN |
| 📺 Streaming | FastestVPN |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | OpenVPN |
🏆 WINNER: OPENVPN
OpenVPN wins 4 out of 7 categories.
Best for: IT teams, self-hosters, remote access, and custom security setups
OpenVPN and FastestVPN solve different problems. Both build virtual private networks, just in different ways. OpenVPN is one engine. FastestVPN is one car that uses it.
OpenVPN takes the win for security, control, and business remote access. Its open source code and flexible settings are hard to match. That’s why it holds a 4.3 rating to FastestVPN’s 3.8.
FastestVPN is the better buy if you just want a cheap app. It covers the core VPN features most people need. You get streaming, an ad blocker, and servers in minutes.
Not sure yet? Start with the free OpenVPN Community Edition. If setup feels like too much, FastestVPN’s refund window keeps your risk low.
More of OpenVPN Compared
Here’s how OpenVPN stacks up against other options:
OpenVPN wins on: Free self-hosted option, open source code you can audit, and site-to-site networking.
NordVPN wins on: Thousands of ready servers, faster WireGuard-based speeds, and one-click apps for beginners.
OpenVPN wins on: No subscription needed, custom cipher control, and business remote access.
ExpressVPN wins on: OpenVPN comes pre-configured, faster everyday speeds, and wide streaming support.
OpenVPN vs Surfshark
OpenVPN wins on: Self-hosting, IoT and SaaS protection, and full config control.
Surfshark wins on: Unlimited device connections, OpenVPN offered as a built-in tunneling protocol, and ad blocking.
OpenVPN vs CyberGhost
OpenVPN wins on: Open source transparency, site-to-site links, and a free tier with no monthly fee.
CyberGhost wins on: An easy interface for switching to OpenVPN, streaming-labeled servers, and a simple setup.
More of FastestVPN Compared
Here’s how FastestVPN stacks up against other options:
FastestVPN wins on: A lifetime plan, lower long-term cost, and a simpler app with fewer menus.
NordVPN wins on: Thousands of servers, faster long-distance speeds, and steadier Netflix unblocking.
FastestVPN wins on: Far lower prices, a built-in ad blocker, and a one-time payment option.
ExpressVPN wins on: A much larger server list, stronger speed results, and broader streaming support.
FastestVPN vs Private Internet Access
FastestVPN wins on: A lifetime option, an offshore base with no data retention laws, and a simpler interface.
Private Internet Access wins on: A far bigger network, a choice of encryption level with OpenVPN, and unlimited device connections.
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime pricing, a dedicated streaming tab, and lower paid plans.
ProtonVPN wins on: A free plan with no data cap, open source apps, and Secure Core routing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is OpenVPN free?
Yes. The Community Edition and the OpenVPN Connect client are free. Business plans start at $7/month, and you still pay for any server you host.
Is it safe to use OpenVPN?
Yes. It uses SSL/TLS, strong encryption, and Perfect Forward Secrecy. Its open source code gets constant public review. Safety still depends on correct configuration.
What is the difference between VPN and OpenVPN?
A VPN is a service or network. OpenVPN is a protocol and software used to build one. Many VPN services run OpenVPN inside their apps.
Is FastestVPN worth it?
For budget users, yes. You get audited no-logs privacy, 10 device connections, and a lifetime option. Expect a small network and slower long-distance speeds.
Does FastestVPN work with Netflix?
Mostly. Reviewers unblocked US, UK, Japan, and Sweden libraries. The US library loaded slowly, and the Australian library didn’t work at all.
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