GoodAccess vs OpenVPN Access Server
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
GoodAccess is a cloud VPN and Zero Trust Network Access platform built for small and mid-sized businesses that need secure remote access without deploying specialized hardware or hiring dedicated security staff. It centralizes user, device, and policy management in a single web dashboard and layers on features like multi-factor authentication, device posture checks, DNS filtering, and IP whitelisting on top of a standard business VPN. The platform is aimed at companies that need to meet compliance requirements such as ISO 27001, SOC 2, HIPAA, or GDPR while supporting hybrid and remote workforces. It supports apps for Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, and Chrome OS, and integrates with identity providers like Azure AD, Okta, and Google Workspace, positioning itself as a faster-to-deploy alternative to traditional enterprise VPN appliances.
OpenVPN Access Server provides a secure, centrally managed VPN that can be deployed on‑premise or in the cloud. It offers a web‑based admin console, LDAP integration, and client‑side software for all major platforms. The free tier allows up to two concurrent connections, while additional users are licensed per connection. It is widely used by small businesses, remote teams, and enterprises needing granular access control and easy scalability.
- Fast setup described as around 10 minutes with no networking expertise required
- Strong compliance framework support (ISO 27001, SOC2, HIPAA, GDPR, NIS2)
- Broad platform coverage including Chrome OS
- High review ratings across Capterra, G2, and TrustRadius
- Easy web‑based administration
- Cross‑platform client support
- Free tier for small deployments
- Extensible via API and LDAP
- 5-user minimum on Essential and Premium plans makes it costly for solo users or very small teams
- Enterprise features like on-prem deployment require a custom quote
- Add-on gateways and connectors carry extra monthly fees
- Licensing costs increase with many users
- Limited built‑in reporting features
- Requires separate server for high‑availability
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The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataGoodAccess offers a fully managed, zero‑trust cloud VPN with fast setup and strong compliance, but at higher subscription cost; OpenVPN Access Server is self‑hosted, free for small use, and more customizable, but requires more admin effort and scaling costs.
Key differences
- •Deployment model: GoodAccess is cloud‑SaaS, OpenVPN is self‑hosted on your own infrastructure.
- •Pricing structure: GoodAccess has a paid subscription with a 5‑user minimum; OpenVPN provides a free tier for up to two connections and per‑connection licensing thereafter.
- •Compliance & security features: GoodAccess includes built‑in ISO 27001, SOC2, HIPAA, GDPR, NIS2 support and device posture checks; OpenVPN relies on external auth and offers basic 2FA only.
- •Setup complexity: GoodAccess advertises a 10‑minute setup with no networking expertise; OpenVPN requires server provisioning and HA configuration for larger deployments.
- •Platform coverage: GoodAccess ships native apps for Chrome OS and provides static IPs; OpenVPN offers native clients but no Chrome OS app.
Pricing & value
OpenVPN offers a free tier and per‑connection pricing, making it cheaper for small teams; GoodAccess requires a paid plan with a 5‑user minimum.
Ease of use / learning curve
GoodAccess promises a 10‑minute setup with a web dashboard; OpenVPN needs server installation and HA planning.
Features & depth
GoodAccess includes zero‑trust posture checks, DNS filtering, threat blocker, static IPs, and extensive compliance out‑of‑the‑box.
Integrations & ecosystem
GoodAccess integrates with Azure AD, Okta, Google Workspace, and SIEM tools; OpenVPN integrates mainly with LDAP/RADIUS/AD.
Scalability
GoodAccess scales via its global gateway network across 35+ locations; OpenVPN scaling incurs additional per‑connection licenses and separate HA servers.
Support
GoodAccess provides 24/7 phone support for Enterprise; OpenVPN offers email, ticket system, and community forum only.
Security & privacy
GoodAccess lists ISO 27001, SOC2, HIPAA, GDPR, NIS2 compliance and device posture enforcement; OpenVPN relies on external auth and basic 2FA.
Choose GoodAccess if…
Enterprises or SMBs needing a managed, compliant zero‑trust VPN with minimal setup.
Choose OpenVPN Access Server if…
Tech‑savvy teams or cost‑conscious organizations comfortable managing their own VPN servers.
Common questions
Can I try GoodAccess before committing?
Not specified in the provided facts.
What is the minimum cost for a 5‑user team on GoodAccess?
Pricing is paid subscription with a 5‑user minimum, but exact dollar amount is not specified.
Does OpenVPN support static IP addresses for remote users?
Not specified; GoodAccess explicitly offers static IPs, OpenVPN does not mention this capability.