What is VPN?
What kind of system?
VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a technology that creates a virtual communication path between devices and networks located in distant locations using public networks such as the Internet.
VPNs combine technologies such as tunneling, encryption, and authentication to reduce the risk of interception or tampering of communications. By creating a secure communication environment without the need to install physical dedicated lines, they are used to protect individual privacy and connect internal networks in corporate remote work environments.
However, using a VPN alone does not prevent all communication threats. Security depends on the method, settings, and operational policies of the VPN you use.
VPNs use software technology to ensure the same level of security as a physical dedicated line without the need to install a dedicated line. They are primarily used to protect public Wi-Fi for personal use and to connect internal networks for remote work for corporate use.
Three ways VPNs protect your communications
VPN mainly uses technologies such as tunneling, encapsulation, and encryption to enhance the security of communications. The respective roles are as follows:
- Tunneling
It is a technology that creates a virtual communication path between the sender and the destination. With VPN, data is sent and received through this path. - Encapsulation
In a packet containing the original data, a header is added to transfer it to the external network, and it is treated as a new packet. Depending on the VPN method, the original IP header and other information are stored inside the tunnel. - Encryption
The process of converting communication data into a format that cannot be read by a third party without the corresponding key. VPNs are used to reduce the risk of data being viewed by third parties on the communication path. The actual protection function depends on the encryption method and authentication/integrity protection mechanisms used.
By combining these technologies, it is possible to enhance the security of communications through public networks such as the Internet.
Types of VPNs
(Classification by connection method)
VPNs can be classified primarily into the following categories depending on the target connection and the purpose of use:
- Remote Access VPN
This is a method of connecting to VPN servers or corporate networks from devices such as PCs and smartphones. In addition to corporate telework environments, the method of connecting to VPN servers from devices is also used for personal VPN services. - Inter-site VPN
This is a method of connecting networks located at different locations, such as headquarters and branches, using VPN. It is built using network devices such as routers, protecting data communication between locations.
Furthermore, the usage purpose, connection destination, and necessary settings differ for personal VPN services and corporate VPN services.
Personal VPN services are primarily used to protect internet communications and change IP addresses, while corporate VPNs are used for secure connections to internal networks.
MillenVPN offers remote access VPN services.
Comparison of VPN protocols
A VPN protocol is a standard that defines the tunneling and encryption procedures. The speed and security level vary depending on the application.
| Protocol name | Features of encryption and authentication | Characteristics such as speed and connectivity | Points to note |
|---|---|---|---|
| WireGuard | Use encryption methods specified in the specifications, such as ChaCha20-Poly1305 | It features a simple design and high communication efficiency. | In networks where UDP communication is restricted, connection may not be possible. |
| OpenVPN | Depending on the settings, you can use encryption methods such as AES. | Open source, supporting both TCP and UDP | Speed and connectivity vary depending on settings and communication environment |
| IKEv2/IPsec | The encryption method and authentication settings used in IPsec vary. | Strongly resistant to connection switching, suitable for mobile devices as well | There may be cases where you cannot connect due to network restrictions or settings. |
| L2TP/IPsec | It varies depending on the encryption method and authentication settings on the IPsec side. | It may be supported by previous OS or routers. | Capsulation results in overhead costs. In the case of a new implementation, we would like to consider other methods as well. |
| PPTP | Older authentication methods such as MS-CHAP have security issues. | It may be used with older equipment or systems. | Due to security concerns, current use is not recommended. |
Reference:
- NIST "Guide to IPsec VPNs (SP 800-77 Rev. 1)"
— Guidelines for configuring IPsec and setting encryption and authentication - Microsoft Learn "How to install and configure Remote Access (RAS) as a VPN server"
— Notes regarding VPN support for Windows Server and PPTP - WireGuard "Protocol & Cryptography"
— WireGuard encryption method
Precautions when using an older VPN protocol
VPN protocols come in two types: the methods that have been used for many years and the ones designed to suit the current usage environment. On older equipment and systems, L2TP/IPsec and PPTP may be configured, but this does not mean that they are compatible and can be used safely.
In particular, PPTP is not suitable for communications that handle sensitive information because security issues are known regarding encryption and authentication. For L2TP/IPsec, you should determine whether to use it after checking the status of support, settings, and the encryption method used.
If you are using these methods in your existing environment, check the compatibility of your equipment and connection points, and consider migrating to WireGuard, IKEv2/IPsec, or OpenVPN.
MillenVPN's VPN protocol
MillenVPN allows you to use three connection methods with one subscription.
- MillenVPN AppWireGuard, IKEv2, OpenVPN
- MillenVPN Native OpenConnectOpenConnect
- MillenVPN Native：IKEv2
When is VPN used?
VPNs are useful when you want to use the internet more securely or when you want to change the IP address of the source connection. Specifically, they are used in the following scenarios:
When you want to use free Wi-Fi while traveling safely
Free Wi-Fi available at cafes, hotels, and airports is convenient, but depending on the network settings and usage environment, there is a risk that the content of communications may be viewed by third parties or that it may be connected to a false access point.
Using a VPN allows you to encrypt the communication between your device and the VPN server, reducing the risk of eavesdropping on your network.
However, using a VPN does not prevent all threats. You must be extra careful when accessing fake websites or engaging in phishing scams.
When you want to use Japanese services while traveling or on business trips abroad
If you want to use web services and video streaming services for Japan while you are abroad, access may be restricted depending on the country you are visiting.
When you connect to a VPN server in Japan, it appears that you are accessing the service from a Japanese IP address. This makes it an option for accessing services in Japan from overseas.
However, even if you use a VPN, you may not be able to access all services. Be sure to check the terms of use for each service and the compatibility of your VPN connection beforehand.
When you want to use websites and services for overseas use
Some websites and online services abroad are designed to attract traffic from specific countries.
By connecting to a VPN server in the country you want to use, you can access it using the country's IP address. It can also be used if you want to check the access environment while traveling abroad or to check the display of different websites depending on the country.
Additionally, access via VPN may be restricted for services that impose regional restrictions.
When you don't want your IP address to be known directly on a website
When accessing a website, the IP address used for the connection usually gets transmitted to the destination.
When using a VPN, the IP address you see on the website you are connected to is, in principle, not your own but that of the VPN server. This prevents the estimation of location information based on the IP address.
Furthermore, VPNs do not provide complete anonymity. Other information, such as the account logged in, cookies, and browser settings, can be used to identify users.
When you want to protect your everyday internet communications at home or on the go
VPN can be used not only for accessing websites, but also for protecting communications when using the internet from compatible devices.
For example, by connecting to a VPN on your home PC, laptop when you are traveling, or smartphone, you can encrypt the communication between your device and the VPN server.
MillenVPN is compatible with devices such as Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
When you want to fix the IP address of the connection source
Fixed IP VPNs are useful when you want to keep the IP address of the connection constant, such as when using internal systems or business services that have been set up to restrict access based on IP addresses.
However, with regular VPN connections, the IP address may change each time you connect, so if you need a fixed IP, choose a service that supports it.
MillenVPN offers fixed IP connection methods, plans, and options.
What is a fixed IP address?
A fixed IP address is a system that allows you to continuously use the same IP address when connecting to the Internet. VPNs have "dynamic IP addresses" where the IP address changes each time you connect, and "fixed IP addresses" where you can continuously use the same IP address.
In general, personal VPN services employ a dynamic IP method that assigns a connection to multiple IP addresses. However, using a VPN service that supports a fixed IP allows you to always present the same IP address to the connection.
Advantages of using a fixed IP address
Fixed IP addresses have the following main advantages:
- Easy to support access restrictions based on IP addressIt can be used by fixing the source of the connection on websites or internal systems that only allow access from specific IP addresses.
- Easy to use for remote workEven when connecting to a VPN from a public place or from your home, you can keep the IP address used as the source of the connection constant.
- It can streamline access managementBy registering the fixed IP address in the allow list, it becomes easier to manage access to the corresponding system.
- The impact of changes in IP addresses can be mitigatedIn environments where changing the connection IP address affects authentication or access restrictions, it makes it easier to maintain stable operation.
However, using a static IP address alone does not improve security. In addition to limiting access sources, measures such as managing authentication information and multi-factor authentication are also important.
When a fixed IP address comes in handy
If the main purpose is to use free Wi-Fi or access foreign websites, a fixed IP address is not necessarily required. Depending on the purpose of use, it is important to use a regular VPN connection and a VPN with a fixed IP address.
How to use a fixed IP address with MillenVPN?
At MillenVPN, you can choose the connection method to use a fixed IP address depending on your needs.
| Connection method | Types of IP addresses | Main applications |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed IP option (only for subscription plans) | Dedicated Static IP | If you want to use a dedicated fixed IP for personal use |
| MillenVPN Native / Native OpenConnect | Shared fixed IP | If you want to use a fixed IP without additional charges |
| MillenVPN Dedicated Server | Dedicated Static IP | When you want to share and manage a fixed IP for companies or teams |
The Fixed IP option is a service that can be added to MillenVPN's subscription plans. It allows you to connect to a dedicated fixed IP address from the regular MillenVPN app, and it also supports fixed IPs in Japan and overseas.
MillenVPN NativeWith Native OpenConnect, you can use a fixed IP address to share with other users.
If you want multiple staff members to use the same fixed IP address or require a dedicated server environment, the MillenVPN dedicated server option is also available.
Each connection method has its own compatible device and usage conditions, so choose a service that suits your needs. The MillenVPN Quick Diagnosis is a useful tool for finding the right combination of plan and connection method for you.
Advantages of using a VPN
VPNs are used for purposes such as protecting communication routes and changing IP addresses. The main uses are as follows:
- Communication protection when using public Wi-FiWhen using Wi-Fi in cafes, hotels, and other places, it encrypts the communication between your device and the VPN server, reducing the risk of your communication being intercepted.
- Change of IP addressYou can present the IP address of the VPN server instead of the user's own IP address on the destination website, etc.
- Assistance in protecting privacyThis can suppress the estimation of location based on IP addresses, but it does not prevent identification through cookies or login information.
- Protection of remote access environmentEnterprise VPNs allow you to securely connect from external devices to your internal network. To use them, you need to set up and configure the corresponding VPN environment.
- Response to regional access restrictionsBy using a VPN server from the country you want to use, you can access it using the country's IP address. However, it may not be available due to service restrictions or terms of use.
Disadvantages and Precautions of VPNs
While VPNs have many benefits, there are also some important things to know before using them.
- There may be a decrease in communication speedCommunication speeds may be reduced due to changes in the communication path caused by passing through a VPN server and the effects of encryption processes.
- You need to trust the operator of the VPN service.The operators of VPN services are in a position to intercept communications. When choosing a service, be sure to check the privacy policy, how the logs are handled, and the information about the operator.
- Some services may be restricted from use.Access via VPN may be restricted on video streaming services and financial institution websites, for example.
- VPN alone cannot prevent all threatsPhishing scams, virus infections, and information leaks caused by malicious apps all require measures other than VPNs.
What VPNs can and cannot do
VPNs are technologies used to enhance the security and privacy of communications; however, they do not solve all security issues. It is important to understand what can and cannot be done, and to take necessary measures such as combining security measures with the intended use.
| Encryption of communications | It encrypts communication to the VPN server, reducing the risk of eavesdropping on the network. |
|---|---|
| Change of IP address | You can provide the VPN server's IP address to the destination website. |
| Improved anonymity | Complete anonymity cannot be achieved, but tracking based on IP addresses can be suppressed. |
| Antivirus | VPN alone cannot prevent virus infections |
| Anti-phishing measures | VPN alone cannot prevent access to fake websites or fraud victims. |
| Avoiding regional restrictions | Services and websites that cannot be accessed from your home location may be accessible through a VPN. However, access may be restricted by service limitations. |
Points to consider when choosing a VPN service
When choosing a VPN service, it is important to compare not only the price but also its security, ease of use, and suitability for your specific needs.
- Reliability of the operator: Is the operator and contact information clear, and can you confirm the service's operational policies?
- Log handling: Can you see how the information about connection history and communications is handled, for example in the privacy policy?
- Compatible devices and connection methods: Does it support my PC or smartphone? Can it use the required VPN protocol?
- Server in the country you want to use: Is there a server available in the country or region you want to connect to?
- Fees and terms of contract: Can I check not only the monthly fee but also the contract duration, renewal conditions, and cancellation/refund terms?
- Support system: Is there a contact or setup guide available if you have trouble connecting or with questions about the settings?
Reasons to choose MillenVPN
Both data usage and connection count are unlimited.
You don't have to worry about additional fees when using VPN on your PC, tablet, and smartphone separately.
Easy connection with dedicated app
After completing the initial installation and login, you can choose the connection destination and press the connect button for the second time. After that, you can continue using your usual app as usual.
Total security
We comply with the Japanese Constitution and laws and regulations, and have also submitted a notification to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications.
You can use it with confidence thanks to 256-bit AES encryption, a no-logs policy, and other security features provided by financial institutions.
