PPTP VPN: Legacy Support and Its Security Risks
PPTP is an obsolete VPN protocol that VPNresellers keeps only for compatibility with old systems. Its security is weak by modern standards. Do not use it for sensitive traffic; choose WireGuard, OpenVPN or IKEv2 instead.
- Status
- obsolete
- Security
- weak, not recommended
- Use instead
- WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2
Security warning: PPTP is not secure for sensitive use
PPTP deployments commonly use MS-CHAP v2 authentication, whose documented weaknesses allow captured credentials to be cracked. Microsoft itself has advised moving PPTP deployments to stronger authentication or to more secure VPN types. Treat PPTP as a legacy compatibility option only, never as an equal alternative to modern protocols.
What Is PPTP?
PPTP (Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol) is one of the earliest widely deployed VPN protocols. It was common because it was built into many operating systems, not because it was secure.
Over the years, researchers showed that the MS-CHAP v2 authentication typically used with PPTP can be broken, which also undermines the encryption that depends on it. That is why modern guidance, including Microsoft's, steers users away from PPTP.
Legacy only
Kept for old systems that cannot run anything else.
Weak authentication
The MS-CHAP v2 authentication common in PPTP deployments has documented weaknesses.
Better options exist
WireGuard, OpenVPN and IKEv2 are included in the apps.
When PPTP Might Still Be Used
- A very old device or system that offers no other VPN option.
- Non-sensitive use where compatibility is the only requirement and the risks are understood.
Why You Should Avoid PPTP
- Not suitable for protecting passwords, payments, business data or any sensitive traffic.
- Should never be marketed as equally secure as WireGuard, OpenVPN or IKEv2.
- Uses ports and packet types that many networks block.
PPTP Availability
VPNresellers supports PPTP on the service side for legacy compatibility only. Inside the ready-made apps, PPTP is a mode in the Windows and macOS VPNclient apps. It can also be set up manually on compatible phones, routers and other clients that still offer PPTP. Many current phone operating systems no longer include a built-in PPTP client, so support depends on the device, client and router.
Download links for every platform are on the white label apps page. Setup help is in the Help Center.
PPTP in a White Label VPN Offering
Our advice to resellers is simple: do not promote PPTP. If it appears in your product, label it as a legacy option and recommend WireGuard, OpenVPN or IKEv2 to your customers.
Being honest about protocol security builds trust in your brand and avoids support issues later.
PPTP FAQ
Is PPTP secure?
No, not by modern standards. PPTP deployments commonly use MS-CHAP v2, whose documented weaknesses mean PPTP should not be used for sensitive traffic. Use WireGuard, OpenVPN or IKEv2 instead.
Why does VPNresellers still offer PPTP?
Only for compatibility with old systems that cannot run a modern protocol. It is not a recommended option.
Where can PPTP be used?
PPTP is a mode in the Windows and macOS VPNclient apps and can be set up manually on compatible routers, phones and other clients that still offer it. Many current phones no longer include PPTP. Use it for legacy compatibility only, never for sensitive traffic.
What should I recommend instead of PPTP?
WireGuard for everyday use, OpenVPN when compatibility or TCP is needed, and IKEv2 for devices that switch networks or use a built-in client.
Background reading: Microsoft guidance on PPTP and MS-CHAP v2
Sell a VPN Built on Modern Protocols
WireGuard, OpenVPN and IKEv2 are included in the ready-made VPNclient apps. PPTP stays legacy only.
Read the VPNresellers API documentation →