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Microsoft BitLocker VS OpenVPN

Compare Microsoft BitLocker VS OpenVPN and see what are their differences

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Microsoft BitLocker logo Microsoft BitLocker

BitLocker is a full disk encryption feature included with Windows Vista and later.

OpenVPN logo OpenVPN

OpenVPN - The Open Source VPN
  • Microsoft BitLocker Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-09-25
  • OpenVPN Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-09-19

Microsoft BitLocker features and specs

  • Strong Security
    BitLocker provides robust encryption algorithms like AES to protect data at rest, ensuring that unauthorized users cannot access your data even if they have physical access to the device.
  • Seamless Integration
    As a native feature of Windows, BitLocker integrates seamlessly with the operating system, making it easy to deploy and manage within a Windows-based environment.
  • TPM Support
    BitLocker leverages Trusted Platform Module (TPM) hardware to provide enhanced security, such as allowing non-TPM systems to use a USB startup key instead.
  • Enterprise Management Tools
    BitLocker can be managed using Active Directory, Group Policy, and Microsoft Endpoint Manager, enabling IT administrators to enforce encryption policies and recover keys efficiently.
  • Transparent Encryption
    Once BitLocker is set up, it works in the background without requiring user intervention, offering a smooth and transparent user experience.

Possible disadvantages of Microsoft BitLocker

  • Performance Overhead
    Encrypting and decrypting data on the fly can slow down system performance, particularly on older or less powerful hardware.
  • Limited Non-Windows Support
    BitLocker is primarily designed for Windows operating systems, which limits its effectiveness and usability on non-Windows platforms.
  • Complex Recovery Process
    If a user loses their BitLocker recovery key, recovering the encrypted data can be complicated and, in worst-case scenarios, impossible.
  • Initial Setup Complexity
    Setting up BitLocker requires understanding various options and configurations, such as TPM settings and key management, which can be daunting for inexperienced users.
  • Cost
    BitLocker is available only with certain editions of Windows, such as Professional and Enterprise, meaning users may need to upgrade from a basic edition, which could incur additional costs.

OpenVPN features and specs

  • Security
    OpenVPN uses robust encryption standards like AES-256, providing a high level of security for data transmission.
  • Open Source
    Being open-source, OpenVPN allows users to verify its code for vulnerabilities, ensuring transparency and reliability.
  • Flexibility
    OpenVPN can run on various platforms, including Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android, offering extensive compatibility.
  • Customizability
    Users can configure OpenVPN according to their specific needs, allowing advanced network setups and policies.
  • Performance
    OpenVPN offers strong performance with efficient handling of large data transmissions and support for high and stable speeds.
  • Community Support
    A large and active community provides ample resources, including tutorials, forums, and user support.
  • Cost
    As a free and open-source solution, OpenVPN significantly reduces the cost compared to many commercial VPN offerings.

Possible disadvantages of OpenVPN

  • Complex Setup
    Setting up OpenVPN can be complex and may require technical expertise, particularly for advanced configurations.
  • Resource Intensive
    OpenVPN can be resource-intensive compared to some other VPN protocols, potentially impacting the performance of older or lower-spec hardware.
  • Client Software
    The official OpenVPN client software has a less user-friendly interface compared to some commercial VPNs, possibly deterring less tech-savvy users.
  • Mobile Experience
    Although OpenVPN supports mobile devices, the user experience on mobile can be less streamlined compared to desktop environments.
  • Initial Learning Curve
    New users may find the initial learning curve steep due to the multitude of configuration options and the need for understanding networking concepts.
  • Support
    While community support is strong, there may not be as much immediate or personalized support as found with some commercial VPN services.

Analysis of OpenVPN

Overall verdict

  • OpenVPN is generally regarded as a good option for both personal and enterprise-level VPN needs. Its strong encryption, adaptability, and community support make it a preferred choice for those who need secure and reliable virtual private network services.

Why this product is good

  • OpenVPN is considered a reliable and secure VPN solution due to its strong encryption standards, open-source nature, and flexibility. It supports a variety of operating systems and devices, and can be configured to meet different security requirements. Its open-source nature allows the community to inspect, modify, and enhance the code, ensuring transparency and continuous improvement. Additionally, it offers robust support for different authentication methods and network configurations.

Recommended for

  • Individuals seeking enhanced online privacy and security.
  • Businesses looking for a scalable and secure VPN solution.
  • IT professionals who require customizable and flexible VPN configurations.
  • Users who prefer open-source software with an active development community.

Microsoft BitLocker videos

No Microsoft BitLocker videos yet. You could help us improve this page by suggesting one.

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OpenVPN videos

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OpenVPN Overview

More videos:

  • Tutorial - How to setup OpenVPN on Windows | macOS | Android | iOS - Smart DNS Proxy

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Microsoft BitLocker and OpenVPN)

Microsoft BitLocker

OpenVPN

Security & Privacy
30 30%
Security & Privacy
70% 70
VPN
0 0%
VPN
100% 100
Encryption
100 100%
Encryption
0% 0
Monitoring Tools
100 100%
Monitoring Tools
0% 0

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare Microsoft BitLocker and OpenVPN

Microsoft BitLocker Reviews

Best Disk Encryption Software – the 5 top tools to secure your data
Bitlocker is popular Windows-only software used to encrypt entire volumes using the AES encryption algorithm with a 128- or 256-bit key. Unlike TrueCrypt and VeraCrypt, Bitlocker cannot create encrypted containers. Entire partitions must be encrypted at once.
Source: www.comparitech.com

OpenVPN Reviews

The top 10 alternatives to OpenVPN
OpenVPN is an open-source software application that provides virtual private network (VPN) services. It allows the creation of secure network connections over the internet, using a custom security protocol that utilizes SSL/TLS for key exchange. OpenVPN is capable of traversing network address translators (NATs) and firewalls, providing users with the ability to securely...
Source: www.twingate.com
Best Top 20 OpenVPN Alternatives (Pros and Cons)
OpenVPN is a virtual private network system used to create trusted end-to-end connection configuration and remote access services. As with any other VPN service, OpenVPN also has its own drawbacks. For instance, its inability to bypass particular proxy servers and complexities in user journeys lead to less user-friendliness. Therefore, we will be discussing a few...
Source: cloudinfrastructureservices.co.uk
6 Types of VPN Protocols, Compared: Which is the Best to Use?
In most cases, OpenVPN or WireGuard will be your best bet. PPTP is a protocol we don’t recommend using because of its relatively low-level encryption. However, you could try this protocol when privacy and security are not your highest priorities, such as for unblocking streams. If OpenVPN is not supported or does not work well for whatever reason, you could consider using...
Source: vpnoverview.com
OpenVPN vs WireGuard: Which protocol is best?
OpenVPN was first released in May 2001. Although the PPTP protocol had been around for five years already at this point, OpenVPN became popular because it offered stronger encryption without too much of a drop in speed. Over the years, vulnerabilities were patched and new clients were developed that brought OpenVPN support to a greater range of devices. This previously...
Source: www.comparitech.com
9 Best NordVPN Alternatives You Must Use In 2022
The next alternative to NordVPN on our list is OpenVPN. OpenVPN allows you to establish a point-to-point secure connection between your device and the Internet. It is a flexible VPN solution that can cater to business needs as well.
Source: wethegeek.com

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, OpenVPN seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 40 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

Microsoft BitLocker mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of Microsoft BitLocker yet. Tracking of Microsoft BitLocker recommendations started around Mar 2021.

OpenVPN mentions (40)

  • Ask HN: Who is hiring? (October 2023)
    OpenVPN is hiring! https://openvpn.net/ C++ Developer in the United States. Full-time| Fully remote| Flexible work schedules Link to look at vacancy details and apply:. - Source: Hacker News / over 1 year ago
  • Are there any work arounds for the Netflix new "household" system?
    How you connect to your modem will depend on the device you are using, but for windows laptops as an example you download the OpenVPN program and input your modem details there, much like you would any other vpn service. I think there would be some guides on youtube. https://openvpn.net/. Source: almost 2 years ago
  • Can i use PFSense to control incoming user connections (without a vpn?)
    I just started playing with CloudConnexa for remotely managing my second pFSense. Really nice and is free for up to 3 concurrent users. https://openvpn.net. Can also self-host OpenVPN access server with a free 2 concurrent license. Source: about 2 years ago
  • Is the 7spotlight Markle family interview airing now? Is anyone watching and can provide comment? 👀📺
    If anyone is being blocked check out free OpenVPN. Source: about 2 years ago
  • Is it possible for a sysadmin to block only some packets from a VPN connection ?
    I too haven't used the client-nat directive in some years (I currently implement 1:1 NAT with pfsense to access my network because I'm too lazy to change the networks subnet from the default) so I decided to retest and it does appear that OpenVPN Connect clients do not properly support the client-nat directive but the traditional OpenVPN server/clients still do. I've just tested this on OpenVPN 2.6.3 Server,... Source: about 2 years ago
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What are some alternatives?

When comparing Microsoft BitLocker and OpenVPN, you can also consider the following products

Symantec Data Loss Prevention - Fully protect your data with the comprehensive detection technologies and unified policies of Symantec's industry leading Data Loss Prevention (DLP).

ProtonVPN - ProtonVPN is a security focused FREE VPN service, developed by CERN and MIT scientists. Use the web anonymously, unblock websites & encrypt your connection.

Paubox - Paubox provides HIPAA compliant email encryption without the hassle of extra steps.

Hotspot Shield - Hotspot Shield is a software application developed by AnchorFree, Inc.

OpenSSH - OpenSSH is a free version of the SSH connectivity tools that technical users rely on.

Psiphon - Psiphon is circumvention software for Windows and Mobile platforms that provides uncensored access to Internet content. Read more about Psiphon.

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