What is SoftEther VPN? Features, setup, and practical uses

In contrast to a typical subscription-based VPN service, SoftEther provides the software needed to build and manage VPN infrastructure. You can host your own VPN server, configure user access, and connect compatible devices. Its support for multiple VPN protocols makes it useful for remote access, office networks, and customized networking projects.

What is SoftEther VPN?

SoftEther stands for Software Ethernet. It is an open-source, multi-protocol VPN software project originally developed by Daiyuu Nobori at the University of Tsukuba in Japan. The software is distributed under the Apache License 2.0, allowing users to download, modify, and distribute it under the license terms.

SoftEther supports remote-access and site-to-site VPN connections. 

It also includes server software, client components, network bridging tools, and administration utilities. One important distinction is that SoftEther itself is not a commercial VPN subscription. Users or organizations must arrange suitable servers and configure the connections they want to operate.

Key features of SoftEther VPN

SoftEther offers networking features designed for different deployment requirements.

1. Multiple VPN protocols

A single SoftEther VPN Server can support several connection protocols, including its native SSL-VPN, OpenVPN-compatible connections, L2TP/IPsec, and Microsoft SSTP. It also supports networking protocols used for particular site-to-site arrangements, including L2TPv3 and EtherIP.

2. Encrypted communication

SoftEther uses encryption technologies to protect supported traffic between VPN endpoints.  

It also provides authentication options, including passwords, certificates, and integrations with external authentication systems. Actual security depends on the selected protocol, cryptographic settings, software version, and server configuration.

3. Virtual hubs and network bridging

Administrators can create hubs, manage users, and connect remote devices or networks according to their requirements. SoftEther also supports Layer 2 bridging and Layer 3 routing for different network designs.

4. NAT traversal and dynamic DNS

SoftEther includes NAT traversal and dynamic DNS functionality to help establish connections in supported network environments. These tools may reduce the need for certain manual router configurations. Their effectiveness depends on firewall policies, network permissions, and the chosen deployment.

5. Administration and user management

Administrators can manage servers through a graphical management utility or the vpncmd command-line tool. The software supports account management, access policies, authentication settings, and connection monitoring. Windows-based graphical administration and command-line management provide different options for technical teams.

How does SoftEther VPN work?

SoftEther creates a virtual networking environment that connects devices through an encrypted VPN tunnel.

The basic process involves three components.

• VPN Server: Receives connection requests, authenticates users, and manages network communication.
• Virtual Hub: Organizes connections and provides virtual networking functions.
• VPN Client: Establishes a connection from a compatible device to the configured server.

For its native protocol, SoftEther uses TLS-based communication over HTTPS-style transport.

This supports encrypted connections, but it doesn’t mean SoftEther traffic will look identical to ordinary HTTPS traffic. Administrators can configure how traffic reaches internal networks or other permitted destinations.

Advantages and limitations of SoftEther VPN

Organizations can manage different VPN connection types within one server environment. 

The software also offers detailed administrative controls and supports several operating systems. Its open-source license removes licensing costs for the software itself. 

But running a VPN server still requires hosting, bandwidth, administration, and maintenance. 

Setup can also be challenging for beginners. Creating an account and installing a consumer VPN app is generally different from configuring a self-hosted VPN. The administrator remains responsible for server security, software updates, authentication, and network routing.

SoftEther VPN vs OpenVPN and WireGuard

SoftEther, OpenVPN, and WireGuard are related VPN technologies, but they aren’t identical products.

• SoftEther is a multi-protocol VPN platform with server administration and virtual networking capabilities.
• OpenVPN is a VPN protocol and software ecosystem that SoftEther can support through its compatibility functionality.
• WireGuard is another VPN protocol with a streamlined design.

Performance depends on server hardware, network routes, configuration, and implementation. Rather than assuming one technology is universally faster, evaluate the protocols supported by your intended server and client devices.

How to set up SoftEther VPN

The following steps outline a basic SoftEther VPN setup for remote access.

Step 1: Prepare your server

Choose a computer or server that will host SoftEther VPN. Confirm operating-system compatibility, network connectivity, and the permissions required to install and manage networking software.

Step 2: Download and install SoftEther

Visit the official website and download the appropriate package. Install SoftEther VPN Server on your selected host. For production deployments, review the Stable Edition documentation and security updates before installation.

Step 3: Configure server administration

Open SoftEther VPN Server Manager or use vpncmd. Connect to your server and create a strong administrator password. Review the server certificate, available listener ports, and authentication settings.

Step 4: Create a Virtual Hub and user accounts

Create a Virtual Hub for your intended network. Add user accounts with appropriate authentication credentials. For organizational deployments, consider access permissions and account management policies.

Step 5: Configure network access

Choose a network configuration that matches your requirements. A local bridge can connect a Virtual Hub to an existing network. SecureNAT offers virtual NAT and DHCP functions for suitable deployments. These options serve different purposes, so configure them carefully to prevent network conflicts.

Step 6: Configure a compatible VPN client

Install the SoftEther VPN Client where supported, or use another compatible client for the selected protocol. Enter the server hostname, Virtual Hub information, and required credentials. Client compatibility varies by operating system, protocol, and software edition.

Step 7: Test the connection

Connect to the server and confirm that authorized network resources are reachable. Check routing, DNS resolution, connection stability, and access permissions. Review server logs for configuration errors and apply relevant security updates.

Common uses of SoftEther VPN

• Secure remote access: Organizations can use SoftEther to provide authorized employees with encrypted connections to internal company resources.
• Connecting office networks: Site-to-site VPN configurations can link separate offices or network environments through managed connections.
• Personal networking projects: Technically experienced users can create private connections between their own devices or networks.

These arrangements require appropriate hosting and ongoing administration.

Conclusion

SoftEther VPN is a flexible, open-source solution for creating encrypted remote-access and site-to-site network connections. Its multi-protocol support, Virtual Hubs, and administration tools make it suitable for users who need control over their VPN infrastructure.

Before deploying it, review platform compatibility, security settings, and operating requirements. A carefully configured and maintained setup is more important than promises of universal speed or security.

Frequently asked questions