If you’re looking to set up Surfshark L2TP, you should know that Surfshark generally doesn’t recommend L2TP/IPsec as a primary VPN protocol due to its security limitations and older technology. Instead, they strongly encourage using more modern, secure, and faster options like WireGuard, OpenVPN, or IKEv2 through their dedicated apps. However, if you find yourself in a specific situation, like configuring an older router that only supports L2TP/IPsec, you can still make it work with a manual setup, though you might need to reach out to Surfshark’s customer support for the necessary server details.

When you’re trying to secure your online life, choosing the right VPN protocol feels a lot like picking the right tool for a job. There are so many options out there, each with its own strengths and quirks. Today, we’re going to talk about setting up Surfshark, specifically touching on L2TP, but more importantly, guiding you towards the best, most secure choices for your everyday needs.

At its core, a VPN protocol is just a set of rules that dictates how your device connects to the VPN server, how your data gets encrypted, and how it travels across the internet. Think of it as the blueprint for your secure connection. Surfshark, like many top VPN providers, offers a range of these protocols, each designed for different scenarios. But here’s the kicker: Surfshark themselves openly state that L2TP/IPsec is a bit of a legacy option, not something they usually recommend for general use. They even call it “outdated and no longer secure”.

So, why are we even talking about it? Well, sometimes you might have an older piece of hardware, like a router, that only supports L2TP/IPsec for VPN connections. In those niche cases, knowing how to set it up manually can be a lifesaver, even if it’s not the ideal solution for everyone. My goal here is to walk you through what L2TP/IPsec is, why Surfshark prefers other protocols, and how to get an L2TP setup going if you absolutely have to. But, and this is a big “but,” I’ll always steer you towards the more robust and user-friendly options that Surfshark provides.

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Table of Contents

Understanding L2TP/IPsec: The Basics and Its Limitations

Let’s break down L2TP/IPsec. L2TP stands for Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol. Now, here’s a crucial point: L2TP on its own doesn’t provide encryption. It’s purely a tunneling protocol, meaning it creates a pathway or “tunnel” for your data to travel through over a public network. Imagine putting a letter into an envelope to send it. L2TP is like that first envelope.

For actual security—the kind that scrambles your data and keeps it private—L2TP relies heavily on IPsec Internet Protocol Security. IPsec is the real workhorse here, bringing the encryption, authentication, and integrity checks to the table. So, when you hear “L2TP VPN,” it almost always implies “L2TP over IPsec”. It’s like putting that first envelope L2TP inside a second, much stronger, encrypted envelope IPsec before it goes out into the world.

Security Concerns with L2TP/IPsec

While L2TP/IPsec can provide a secure connection when implemented correctly, it comes with a few caveats:

Double Encapsulation: Because L2TP encapsulates data, and then IPsec encapsulates it again, it’s a bit of a redundant process. This double-layering can lead to performance hits and is less efficient than newer protocols.
Potential Vulnerabilities: The protocol has seen its share of scrutiny. For instance, a memory leak vulnerability in Microsoft’s L2TP VPN protocol was discovered in 2022, affecting many Windows versions. While Surfshark and other reputable providers work to patch and mitigate such issues, it highlights the inherent risks in older protocols. Some sources even suggest that L2TP/IPsec’s reliance on pre-shared keys can be easily compromised if those keys are weak, making it a target for attackers. There have also been concerns, though unconfirmed, about the NSA potentially compromising L2TP/IPsec.
Firewall and NAT Issues: You might run into problems with firewalls and NAT Network Address Translation gateways when using L2TP, which can make setup and connection less reliable.

Performance Considerations

That double encapsulation I mentioned? It doesn’t just impact security. it can slow things down too. All that extra bundling requires more device resources and “encryption overhead,” meaning more bandwidth is used just for security, which can noticeably reduce your internet speed. Modern protocols like WireGuard are designed to be much more lightweight and efficient, leading to significantly faster speeds.

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When Might You Still Consider L2TP with Surfshark?

L2TP/IPsec isn’t the star player in the VPN world anymore. But sometimes, it’s the only tool you have for a specific job. Here are the main situations where you might reluctantly reach for it:

Legacy Router Compatibility: This is probably the biggest reason. Many older routers, especially those with custom firmware like DD-WRT or Tomato though newer versions of these often support OpenVPN or WireGuard, might have native support for L2TP/IPsec but lack built-in clients for more advanced protocols. If you want to protect your entire home network via the router and L2TP is your only option, then you might consider it.
Specific Network Constraints: In rare scenarios, certain networks might have configurations that block newer VPN protocols, but still allow L2TP/IPsec traffic. This is less common today, but it’s a possibility if you’re troubleshooting connection issues in a highly restricted environment.

Even in these cases, it’s crucial to understand the trade-offs in terms of security and performance. Surfshark themselves would prefer you to use their recommended protocols whenever possible.

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Getting Your Surfshark L2TP/Manual Connection Credentials If You Insist

Since Surfshark doesn’t actively promote L2TP, finding the manual setup credentials can be a bit trickier compared to their preferred protocols. They typically provide manual setup guides for WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 directly on their website.

If you’re absolutely set on trying L2TP/IPsec with Surfshark, your best bet is to contact Surfshark’s customer support. Seriously, don’t waste time digging around. Their support team can often provide you with the specific server addresses, your unique L2TP username, and the pre-shared key PSK you’ll need.

Keep in mind that Surfshark explicitly states they do not provide L2TP configurations for Dedicated IP. So, if you have a dedicated IP, you’ll definitely need to use another protocol like OpenVPN or WireGuard for that.

For general manual setups for other protocols which is good to know, as the process is similar to L2TP if you have the details, you’d usually: Unlocking Online Freedom with Surfshark VPN: Your Ultimate Guide

Log in to your Surfshark account on their website.
Navigate to the “Manual setup” or “VPN” section.
Choose the protocol you want e.g., WireGuard, OpenVPN.
There, you’ll typically find options to generate configuration files or view the necessary server details, username, and password/key.

General Steps for Manual VPN Setup Applicable to L2TP if you have the details

Once you’ve managed to get your L2TP credentials either from support or if you’re following a guide for a different protocol like OpenVPN or WireGuard, the manual setup process usually follows a similar pattern across various operating systems. You’re basically telling your device how to connect to a specific VPN server without using a dedicated app.

Here’s what you’ll typically need and where these details usually go:

VPN Server Address/Hostname: This is the specific address of the Surfshark server you want to connect to e.g., “us-nyc.prod.surfshark.com”. You’ll get this from Surfshark.
VPN Type/Protocol: You’ll select “L2TP/IPsec” or “L2TP over IPsec” from a dropdown menu.
Username: Your specific Surfshark manual login username. This is different from your regular Surfshark account email. You’ll find it in your manual setup section on the Surfshark website or provided by support.
Password: Your specific Surfshark manual login password. Again, different from your regular account password.
Pre-shared Key PSK or Shared Secret: This is a cryptographic key used for authentication between your device and the VPN server. For L2TP/IPsec, it’s a critical component of the IPsec part. You’ll definitely need this from Surfshark support if you’re doing an L2TP setup.

Let’s look at how these general steps translate to different operating systems. Remember, for L2TP, these are generic operating system steps, and the exact fields and labels might vary slightly. Always default to the most up-to-date guide provided by Surfshark for their recommended protocols.

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Windows L2TP/IPsec Setup Manual

Setting up an L2TP/IPsec VPN manually on Windows typically involves using the built-in VPN client.

Open Network & Internet Settings: Right-click on the Wi-Fi/Ethernet icon in your taskbar and select “Open Network & Internet settings” or go to Settings > Network & Internet > VPN.
Add a VPN Connection: Click “Add a VPN connection.”
Fill in Details:
- VPN provider: Choose “Windows built-in.”
- Connection name: Give it a memorable name, like “Surfshark L2TP.”
- Server name or address: Enter the Surfshark L2TP server address you obtained.
- VPN type: Select “Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol with IPsec L2TP/IPsec.”
- Type of sign-in info: Choose “User name and password.”
- User name optional and Password optional: Enter your Surfshark manual login username and password.
Enter Pre-shared Key: After saving, you’ll need to go back to “Change adapter options,” right-click on your new VPN connection, go to “Properties,” then the “Security” tab. Under “Authentication,” select “Advanced settings” and choose “Use pre-shared key for authentication,” then enter the PSK.
Connect: Find your new VPN connection in the VPN settings and click “Connect.”

macOS L2TP/IPsec Setup Manual

For macOS, the process is similar, utilizing the system’s built-in VPN client.

Open Network Preferences: Go to System Settings or System Preferences on older macOS versions > Network.
Add VPN Configuration: Click the + button in the bottom left corner to add a new service.
Choose VPN Type: Select “VPN” from the Interface dropdown.
- VPN Type: Choose “L2TP over IPSec.”
- Service Name: Give it a name like “Surfshark L2TP.”
Configure Connection:
- Server Address: Enter the Surfshark L2TP server address.
- Account Name: Enter your Surfshark manual login username.
- Authentication Settings: Click this button.
  - User Authentication: Select “Password” and enter your Surfshark manual login password.
  - Machine Authentication: Select “Shared Secret” and enter the L2TP/IPsec Pre-shared Key PSK.
Apply and Connect: Click “OK,” then “Apply,” and finally “Connect.”

Android L2TP/IPsec Setup Manual

On Android, you’ll typically find the VPN setup under network settings.

Open VPN Settings: Go to Settings > Network & internet > VPN. The exact path might vary slightly depending on your Android version and device manufacturer.
Add VPN Profile: Tap the + icon or “Add VPN network.”
Configure Profile:
- Name: “Surfshark L2TP.”
- Type: Select “L2TP/IPsec PSK.”
- Server address: Enter the Surfshark L2TP server address.
- L2TP secret optional: Leave blank.
- IPSec identifier optional: Leave blank.
- IPSec pre-shared key: Enter the L2TP/IPsec Pre-shared Key PSK.
- Username: Your Surfshark manual login username.
- Password: Your Surfshark manual login password.
Save and Connect: Tap “Save” and then select your new VPN profile and tap “Connect.”

iOS L2TP/IPsec Setup Manual

iOS also has a built-in VPN client, but like Android, it’s generally recommended to use the Surfshark app for a better experience with their preferred protocols.

Open VPN Settings: Go to Settings > General > VPN & Device Management, then tap VPN.
Add VPN Configuration: Tap “Add VPN Configuration…”
Configure Settings:
- Type: Select “L2TP.”
- Description: “Surfshark L2TP.”
- Server: Enter the Surfshark L2TP server address.
- Account: Your Surfshark manual login username.
- Secret: Enter the L2TP/IPsec Pre-shared Key PSK.
- Send All Traffic: Toggle this ON.
Save and Connect: Tap “Done.” Then, toggle the VPN switch for your new configuration to connect.

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Router Setup with Surfshark: L2TP vs. Recommended Protocols

Setting up a VPN directly on your router is a fantastic way to protect every single device connected to your home network, from smart TVs and gaming consoles to smart home gadgets, without needing to install an app on each one. This is often where L2TP comes into play if you have an older router.

Why Set Up on a Router?

Whole-Network Protection: All devices connected to your Wi-Fi are automatically protected.
Unlimited Devices: Even if Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections which it does!, having it on your router means it only counts as one connection from Surfshark’s perspective.
Devices Without Native VPN Support: This is huge for things like some smart TVs, older gaming consoles, or other IoT devices that can’t run a VPN app directly.

Router Compatibility and Preferred Protocols

Here’s the thing about routers: not all routers are VPN-compatible out of the box. You usually need a router that has firmware with a pre-installed VPN client for protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, or L2TP. Many modern routers with custom firmware like DD-WRT or OpenWRT support OpenVPN or WireGuard, which are Surfshark’s recommended protocols for routers.

Surfshark strongly recommends OpenVPN or WireGuard for router setups because they offer better security and performance. They provide detailed guides for popular router brands and firmwares like Asus, DD-WRT, GL.iNet, OpenWRT, and Tomato, usually focusing on OpenVPN or WireGuard configurations.

General Steps for Router Setup Regardless of Protocol

The basic steps to set up a VPN on your router are usually: La VPN Surfshark: ¿Tu Mejor Aliada en el Mundo Digital?

Find Your Router’s IP Address: This is usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1. You can find it in your device’s network settings e.g., Command Prompt ipconfig on Windows, System Settings Network on Mac.
Log In to Your Router’s Admin Panel: Open a web browser, type your router’s IP address into the address bar, and hit Enter. You’ll then need your router’s username and password often found on a sticker on the router itself if you haven’t changed it.
Locate the VPN Section: This is usually under “Advanced Settings,” “VPN,” or “VPN Client”.
Configure the VPN Client: This is where you’ll input the server details, username, password, and any certificates or pre-shared keys. The exact steps vary wildly by router model and firmware.

If Your Router Only Supports L2TP

In the rare event that your router’s built-in VPN client only supports L2TP/IPsec and not OpenVPN or WireGuard, and you can’t flash it with compatible firmware, then you would proceed with the L2TP setup here. You would input the L2TP server address, username, password, and the all-important pre-shared key PSK that you’d get from Surfshark support.

However, be aware of the downsides:

Reduced Speed: L2TP/IPsec on a router will likely be slower than other protocols.
Limited Features: You’ll lose access to many of Surfshark’s advanced features like CleanWeb, Kill Switch, and other benefits that come with their dedicated app.
Management: Switching servers or protocols on a router is much less convenient than in the app.

My honest advice for routers: If your router supports OpenVPN or WireGuard, go with those. If it doesn’t, consider upgrading your router or flashing it with compatible firmware like DD-WRT or OpenWRT if you’re comfortable with that process. This will give you a far better and more secure VPN experience. Surfshark’s website has excellent, up-to-date guides for various router models using OpenVPN and WireGuard.

Why You Should Prefer WireGuard, OpenVPN, or IKEv2 with Surfshark

We’ve established that L2TP/IPsec is generally a last resort. Now let’s talk about the VPN protocols Surfshark actually recommends and why they’re so much better for most users. These protocols are built into the Surfshark app, making them incredibly easy to use and providing optimal security and performance.

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WireGuard: The Speed Demon

WireGuard is the new kid on the block that has quickly become an industry favorite for good reason.

Blazing Fast Speeds: It’s often the fastest VPN protocol out there. WireGuard’s lightweight codebase only about 4,000 lines of code compared to OpenVPN’s ~100,000 means less overhead and higher speeds. This is perfect for streaming, gaming, or any activity where speed is critical.
Modern Security: WireGuard uses state-of-the-art cryptography and is easier to audit due to its smaller codebase, which means fewer potential vulnerabilities.
Efficiency: It’s designed for efficiency, leading to better battery life on mobile devices.

If you’re looking for a balance of speed and security, WireGuard is usually your best bet with Surfshark.

OpenVPN: The Reliable Veteran

OpenVPN has been around for a while and is highly respected for its robust security.

Industry-Leading Security: It supports strong encryption standards like AES-256, which is used by top organizations like NASA. It’s open-source, meaning security specialists worldwide have scrutinized its code, making it incredibly trustworthy.
Flexibility: OpenVPN can run on both TCP Transmission Control Protocol and UDP User Datagram Protocol modes. TCP is more reliable for data integrity, while UDP is faster, giving you options depending on your needs.
Wide Compatibility: It’s highly versatile and compatible with almost all platforms, including many routers that natively support it. This makes it a great general-purpose protocol for privacy protection and bypassing firewalls.

OpenVPN is a fantastic choice for general use, especially if you prioritize ironclad security and cross-platform support. For routers, it’s often the most readily available and recommended option. Streaming Kayo Sports with Surfshark VPN: Your Ultimate Guide to Uninterrupted Action

IKEv2/IPsec: The Mobile Champion

IKEv2 Internet Key Exchange version 2 paired with IPsec is a speed and stability powerhouse, particularly for mobile users.

Fast and Stable: IKEv2 is known for its ability to quickly reconnect to the VPN server, especially when you’re switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data or moving between different networks. This makes it incredibly stable for on-the-go browsing.
Mobile-Friendly: It’s excellent for mobile devices because it handles network changes seamlessly, ensuring your connection stays secure even if you drop Wi-Fi and switch to cellular.
Strong Security: When combined with IPsec, it offers robust encryption and authentication.

For anyone primarily using Surfshark on their phone or tablet, IKEv2/IPsec is usually an excellent choice for a stable and speedy connection.

How to Switch Protocols in the Surfshark App

The beauty of using the Surfshark app is how easy it is to switch between these protocols. You don’t need to mess with complex manual settings. it’s usually just a few taps:

Open the Surfshark App: Launch the app on your device Windows, Mac, Android, iOS.
Go to Settings: Look for the gear icon or “Settings.”
Find VPN Settings/Protocol: Navigate to “VPN Settings” or directly to a “Protocol” tab.
Select Your Protocol: Choose WireGuard, OpenVPN UDP or TCP, or IKEv2 from the list. The app often has an “Automatic” option, which lets Surfshark pick the best protocol for your current network conditions.

Benefits of Using the Surfshark App

Beyond just easy protocol switching, the dedicated Surfshark app offers a ton of features that manual L2TP setup simply can’t match:

Automatic Security Features: The app configures things like a Kill Switch, which automatically cuts your internet connection if the VPN drops, preventing your real IP from leaking.
CleanWeb: Blocks ads, trackers, and malware, making your browsing cleaner and safer.
Easy Server Switching: Connect to any of Surfshark’s 3200+ servers in 100 countries with a single click.
MultiHop: Route your connection through two different VPN servers for an extra layer of privacy.
Bypasser Split Tunneling: Choose which apps or websites use the VPN and which bypass it.
Regular Updates and Support: The app is regularly updated with the latest security patches and features, and customer support is integrated.

For most users, using the official Surfshark app with a recommended protocol like WireGuard or OpenVPN is the most secure, fastest, and most convenient way to protect your online activities. Why is My Surfshark VPN So Slow? Troubleshooting Tips for Faster Speeds

Best Practices for VPN Usage

Whether you’re reluctantly using L2TP/IPsec or happily cruising with WireGuard, a few best practices will help you get the most out of your VPN:

Always Use the Official Surfshark App Where Possible: This cannot be stressed enough. The apps offer the best security, features, and ease of use. Manual setups are primarily for devices that don’t support the app.
Keep Your Software Updated: This includes your Surfshark app, operating system, and router firmware. Updates often contain critical security patches that protect you from new vulnerabilities.
Understand Your Protocol’s Limitations: Be aware that L2TP/IPsec has inherent limitations compared to modern alternatives. If security is your absolute top priority, and you have the choice, pick WireGuard or OpenVPN.
Verify Your Connection: After connecting, especially with a manual setup, always do a quick check to ensure your VPN is working. You can visit a site like “What is my IP?” to confirm your IP address has changed to the VPN server’s location.
Strong Passwords and Keys: If you are using a manual setup with pre-shared keys, ensure those keys are long, complex, and unique. Weak keys are a major vulnerability.

By following these guidelines and prioritizing Surfshark’s recommended protocols, you’ll be well on your way to a more secure and private online experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is L2TP/IPsec a secure VPN protocol?

L2TP on its own is not secure because it doesn’t offer encryption. It needs to be paired with IPsec for encryption and authentication. While L2TP/IPsec can be secure if implemented with strong keys and proper configuration, it’s considered less secure than modern protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN, and it has known vulnerabilities and performance drawbacks.

Why does Surfshark not recommend L2TP/IPsec?

Surfshark considers L2TP/IPsec a “legacy protocol” that is “outdated and no longer secure” compared to newer options. They point to its double data encapsulation which can slow down speeds and potential security vulnerabilities as reasons to prefer more modern, efficient, and robust protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2.

Can I still set up Surfshark with L2TP/IPsec manually?

Yes, you generally can, especially for devices like older routers that might natively support L2TP/IPsec but not other protocols. However, Surfshark usually requires you to contact their customer support directly to obtain the specific server addresses, username, password, and pre-shared key PSK needed for an L2TP manual setup.

What VPN protocols does Surfshark recommend instead of L2TP/IPsec?

Surfshark strongly recommends WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2. WireGuard is praised for its speed and modern security, OpenVPN for its robust security and flexibility, and IKEv2 for its stability and mobile-friendliness. These protocols offer a better balance of speed, security, and performance for most users. Why Won’t My Surfshark VPN Connect? Let’s Get You Back Online!

Is it better to use the Surfshark app or a manual L2TP setup?

For almost all scenarios, using the official Surfshark app is significantly better. The app provides an easier setup, automatic protocol selection, and access to essential security features like a Kill Switch, CleanWeb, and MultiHop, which are not available with a manual L2TP setup. Manual L2TP setup should only be considered as a last resort for specific hardware limitations.

Can I use L2TP/IPsec for a router with Surfshark?

Some older routers might support L2TP/IPsec, and you could potentially set it up manually if you obtain the credentials from Surfshark support. However, Surfshark generally recommends using OpenVPN or WireGuard for router setups, as these provide better performance and security. Setting up L2TP/IPsec on a router will likely result in slower speeds and fewer features compared to modern protocols.

Does NordVPN support L2TP?

While the main topic is Surfshark, for context, similar to Surfshark, NordVPN has also moved away from widely supporting L2TP/IPSec. Modern VPN providers generally deprioritize or remove support for L2TP/IPSec in favor of more secure and efficient protocols like WireGuard or custom variations like NordLynx and OpenVPN. If you’re looking for L2TP support, you’d typically need to check with each VPN provider’s support documentation, but it’s often discouraged or phased out.

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