A TURN server and a VPN can both be used to bypass firewall restrictions, but they operate in different ways and have different benefits. Here are key points to consider:
TURN Server
1. Functionality: A TURN server is designed to relay media traffic through a service when a direct connection between two endpoints is not possible due to restrictive firewall rules. It acts as a relay server, allowing traffic to pass through it to reach the target endpoint[1].2. Deployment Options: You can deploy your own TURN server on a server like Ubuntu, which offers better control over the server and its configuration. Alternatively, you can use cloud services like Google Cloud, which provides a free small server for life and a $300 free credit tier[2].
3. Security: TURN servers typically use username/password authentication and can provide increased security by reducing the chance of IP leaks. They can also enhance network compatibility and improve video quality by forcing TCP data transfer[1].
4. TCP/TLS Mode: If UDP traffic fails, TURN servers can fall back to TCP mode, which wraps the TCP data in a standard TCP packet and relays it through the server. This can be effective in many restrictive environments. If the network is extremely restrictive, TURN servers can use TCP/TLS mode, which wraps the TCP data in a secure TCP socket and initiates an HTTPS handshake to bypass the firewall[1].
VPN
1. Functionality: A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and a VPN server, allowing you to bypass firewall restrictions by encrypting your internet traffic. This makes it difficult for firewalls to inspect and block the traffic[3].2. Deployment Options: VPNs are available from various providers, such as Google Cloud, Twilio, and Speedify. You can also set up your own VPN server using specialized software[2][3].
3. Security: VPNs provide strong security measures by encrypting your data, making it difficult for firewalls to detect or interfere with the traffic. They can also offer additional privacy and anonymity by masking your IP address[3].
4. Performance: VPNs can introduce some latency due to the encryption and routing of traffic through the VPN server. However, they can be effective in bypassing firewalls and maintaining privacy[3].
Comparison
- TURN Server:- Media Traffic: Designed specifically for media traffic, such as video conferencing.
- Relaying: Relays traffic through a server to bypass firewalls.
- Security: Provides increased security by reducing IP leaks and enhancing network compatibility.
- VPN:
- General Traffic: Encrypts all internet traffic, not just media traffic.
- Encryption: Encrypts traffic to bypass firewalls and maintain privacy.
- Performance: Can introduce latency due to encryption and routing.
In summary, a TURN server is designed for media traffic and relays traffic through a server to bypass firewalls, while a VPN encrypts all internet traffic to bypass firewalls and maintain privacy. Both can be effective in bypassing firewall restrictions, but they operate in different ways and have different benefits depending on your specific needs.
Citations:[1] https://developer.liveswitch.io/liveswitch-server/guides/what-are-stun-turn-and-ice.html
[2] https://docs.vdo.ninja/common-errors-and-known-issues/hosted-your-own-turn-server
[3] https://softwareg.com.au/blogs/internet-security/can-a-vpn-bypass-a-firewall
[4] https://serverfault.com/questions/295469/does-a-vpn-connection-bypass-a-routers-firewall
[5] https://www.expressvpn.com/blog/firewall-vs-vpn-whats-the-difference/