What is a VPN protocol?

A VPN protocol defines the rules for how your device establishes the encrypted tunnel to the VPN server. Different protocols make different trade-offs between speed, security, and compatibility.

NordLynx (recommended)

SkyDomeVPN's flagship protocol, built on WireGuard with a custom double-NAT system that adds privacy without sacrificing WireGuard's speed. Best choice for most users on most networks.

• Encryption: ChaCha20-Poly1305.
• Speed: Fastest available.
• Best for: Daily use, streaming, gaming.

OpenVPN

The veteran open-source protocol. Slower than NordLynx but extremely well-tested and capable of bypassing strict firewalls by tunneling over TCP port 443 (same as HTTPS).

• Encryption: AES-256-GCM.
• Speed: Moderate.
• Best for: Restrictive networks, high-security environments.

IKEv2 / IPsec

Native to iOS and macOS. Excellent at maintaining the VPN connection when your device switches between Wi-Fi and mobile data (called MOBIKE).

• Encryption: AES-256.
• Speed: Fast.
• Best for: Mobile devices, frequent network switching.

Which protocol should I use?

Use NordLynx for everyday use. Switch to OpenVPN (TCP) if your network blocks VPN connections. Use IKEv2 on mobile if you frequently switch between Wi-Fi and cellular.