Comparison of VPN Gateways 2026

What is a VPN gateway and why is it needed

Main functions of a VPN gateway

A VPN gateway is a device or software that provides encryption and data transmission over the internet, hiding your IP address. The main functions of a VPN gateway include data protection, bypassing blocks, and ensuring anonymity online. In Russia, where access to many resources is restricted, a VPN gateway becomes an indispensable tool for users.

Advantages of use

Using a VPN gateway allows you to safely bypass blocks set by providers and Roskomnadzor. This is especially important for accessing popular platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Telegram. VPN also helps protect your data from interception, which is critical in the modern internet environment.

Comparison of popular VPN protocols

WireGuard

WireGuard is a modern protocol with a high level of security and speed. It is often used for bypassing blocks due to its lightweight code and ease of setup. Compared to other protocols, WireGuard provides a more stable connection and low latency.

OpenVPN

OpenVPN is one of the most popular protocols, known for its flexibility and support on various platforms. Although it may be slightly more complex to set up, its high level of security makes it an excellent choice for users who need reliability.

IKEv2

IKEv2 is great for mobile devices due to its ability to quickly restore connections when signal loss occurs. This makes it ideal for use on smartphones and tablets, especially when you frequently switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data networks.

Shadowsocks

Shadowsocks is a proxy server often used for bypassing censorship. It is not a full-fledged VPN but can be effective in circumventing blocks, especially in regions with strict internet censorship.

VLESS/XRay

VLESS and its version XRay are updated protocols that provide a high degree of privacy and obfuscation. They may be less known but offer good capabilities for bypassing DPI detection.

Amnezia

Amnezia is a Russian project that provides users with a simple way to bypass blocks and protect their privacy. It supports several protocols, including WireGuard and OpenVPN, and is focused on ease of use.

How to set up a VPN on various devices

Android

To set up a VPN on Android, simply download an app from Google Play, such as NvoVPN, and follow the installation instructions. Choose a server, connect, and enjoy a secure internet.

iPhone/iOS

On iOS, setup is done through the App Store. Install an app, such as NvoVPN, and follow the instructions. Enable VPN in settings and choose the required server.

Windows

On Windows, VPN setup can be done through the system's built-in tools or with a third-party app. Install the program, enter the profile data, and connect to the server.

Mac

For macOS, VPN setup is also simple. Use system settings or an app to connect to the network. Enter the connection data and enjoy a secure internet.

Routers

Setting up a VPN on a router allows you to protect all devices on your network. It's more complex but worth it. Check your router's manual for VPN support and follow the instructions.

Smart TV

Many Smart TVs support VPN through apps or DNS settings. This is a good way to bypass regional restrictions on streaming video.

Apple TV

Apple TV does not support VPN directly, but you can set it up through a router or use the "Internet Sharing" feature from another device.

Consoles

Gaming consoles, such as PlayStation and Xbox, can be protected via VPN at the router level. This helps bypass regional blocks and improve security.

VPN speed and stability tests

Testing methodology

For testing the speed and stability of VPN gateways, we used several servers in different regions. Measurements were taken on different protocols, including WireGuard and OpenVPN, using Speedtest.net.

Test results

During the tests, WireGuard showed the best speed results, reaching up to 150 Mbps on a stable connection. OpenVPN also demonstrated good results but with slightly higher latency. Shadowsocks was useful under DPI restrictions but did not always provide high speed.

Avoiding blocks and DPI

How to bypass provider blocks

Bypassing provider blocks is possible by encrypting traffic and changing the IP address. Use protocols like WireGuard or Shadowsocks for maximum efficiency.

The role of DPI and how to bypass it

Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) is a data analysis technology that can block VPNs. It's important to use protocols with obfuscation, such as VLESS/XRay, to bypass such restrictions.