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The proprietary protocol has been reimplemented for enhanced performance and security within Rust’s modern coding language.

Known for being one of thebest VPNs,ExpressVPNhas consistently championed user privacy and experience.

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Lightway V2 in detail

Lightwayis ExpressVPN’s own VPN protocol and was launched in 2020.

It was built with the aim of making your VPN experience faster, more secure, and more reliable.

VPN protocols determine how your data is encrypted and moved through networks and at what speed.

Timeline of ExpressVPN’s Lightway

There are a few different VPN protocols out there, each with their own strengths and weaknesses.

Consider reading our “understanding VPN protocols” page to learn more.

Lightway was originally built in C, but remaking it in Rust offers three key advantages.

ExpressVPN protocol Lightway code on a PC

It allocates memory by default and won’t let you access memory you shouldn’t be.

Rust prevents attackers from exploiting memory vulnerabilities and only one person can enter the code at a time.

This produces an ideal platform for implementing future improvements and builds without compromising Lightway’s core features.

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All findings were addressed by ExpressVPN and re-assessed by auditors.

Membrey added that ExpressVPN also wanted to “contribute its technology meaningfully to the VPN industry.”

When is it coming?

NordVPN in use on Windows laptop

The first machine to receive the Lightway in Rust upgrade is ExpressVPN’sAircoverouter.

You’ll need to drop in the latest update when Lightway in Rust comes to your equipment.

If you have automatic updates enabled on your devices there’s nothing more you’ll need to do.

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But if not, remember to initiate the update when it becomes available.

Lightway V2 will seamlessly replace Lightway V1 and there is no option to switch between the two protocols.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses.

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For example: 1.

Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).

Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.

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We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services.

Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

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