What is LogMeIn and how does it work?
LogMeIn is a remote access and remote desktop service that allows users to control computers over the internet from anywhere. It was designed for IT professionals, businesses, and individual users who need to access their devices remotely.
Rather than routing all traffic through encrypted VPN tunnels, LogMeIn works by installing a client on the host machine and allowing a secure connection through its own servers. This connection provides control over the desktop, file transfers, and system resources.
Key features of LogMeIn include:
- Remote desktop control over the internet
- File transfer between local and remote devices
- Multi-monitor support
- Secure connections with TLS 1.2 encryption
- Access via desktop app or web browser
However, LogMeIn does not encrypt all internet traffic like a traditional VPN. It only secures the connection between the local and host machines.
is logmein a vpn or just a remote access tool?
The answer is no—LogMeIn is not a VPN. While it offers some features that resemble VPN-like remote access, it does not function as a Virtual Private Network in the traditional sense.
VPN vs LogMeIn:
| Feature | LogMeIn | VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Encrypts entire device traffic | ❌ | ✅ |
| Provides IP masking/location change | ❌ | ✅ |
| Used for anonymous browsing or streaming | ❌ | ✅ |
| Remote desktop control | ✅ | ❌ (usually) |
LogMeIn provides a secure point-to-point remote desktop solution, but it doesn’t reroute all traffic through a virtual tunnel as a VPN does.
If you’re specifically looking to understand how VPNs compare to proxy systems, this guide on is ascaler vpn also a proxy server – Clear Insight can help explain the distinction clearly.
Is LogMeIn Hamachi a VPN?
Yes, LogMeIn Hamachi is an exception within the LogMeIn product family. Hamachi is a VPN.
Hamachi is designed to set up virtual private networks for small business or gaming use. It allows users to simulate a local area network (LAN) over the internet and encrypts traffic between the endpoints.
LogMeIn vs Hamachi:
- LogMeIn (Pro, Central, Rescue): Remote access software
- Hamachi: Full VPN software for creating secure LAN-style connections over public networks
If you’re trying to build a secure network for activities like gaming or remote team collaboration, Hamachi can behave like a traditional VPN, though it has limitations in speed and configuration flexibility.
When should you use LogMeIn instead of a VPN?
LogMeIn is best used in scenarios where:
- You need remote control of a device’s desktop environment
- You want to manage files and troubleshoot remotely
- You require access to workstations or servers without configuring a full VPN
In contrast, a VPN is better suited for:
- Securing all traffic on public Wi-Fi
- Streaming geo-restricted content
- Bypassing censorship and surveillance
- Ensuring privacy across multiple apps and services
For example, if your goal is to access streaming services like JioCinema from abroad, you’ll want to follow this easy guide on how to watch JioCinema in USA without VPN.
Does LogMeIn offer the same level of security as a VPN?
Not exactly. While LogMeIn uses strong encryption (TLS 1.2) and robust authentication (2FA), it only secures the remote session—it does not encrypt the entire internet connection from your device.
A VPN encrypts all outbound/inbound data, hiding your IP address, online behavior, and destination traffic. LogMeIn is secure for remote sessions but should not be relied upon for privacy, anonymity, or secure browsing.
For users prioritizing privacy and speed, you might want to review our NordVPN Review: Top Features & Performance in 2025 or the ExpressVPN Review – Tested in 2025.
Are there other tools like Hamachi that function as VPNs?
Yes. If Hamachi doesn’t meet your needs, here are alternatives:
- ZeroTier – virtual networks, easy configuration
- Tailscale – built on WireGuard, very fast and secure
- SoftEther VPN – open-source, multi-protocol support
Each offers private networking features with better scalability or configuration for modern business or gaming needs.
For more information on VPN technologies and infrastructure, see our full guide to what is a VPN concentrator: Secure Multi‑Tunnel VPN Device, especially if you’re deploying enterprise-scale secure tunnels.
Final Verdict: is logmein a vpn or not?
To summarize, LogMeIn is not a VPN, but LogMeIn Hamachi is.
- LogMeIn = Remote access software (not a VPN)
- Hamachi = VPN software (for secure network connections)
If you’re unsure whether you need remote desktop or full VPN access, think about your use case:
- Remote control of a PC: Use LogMeIn
- Encrypt traffic and change IP address: Use a VPN
Depending on your privacy needs, our in-depth comparisons like AirVPN vs NordVPN and advanced use guides like how to bind qBittorrent to VPN can help you decide on the right tools.
Even communities like Leaked.cx benefit from choosing the right VPN setup for anonymity and access.
And if you’re trying to find the best location settings to bypass AI restrictions, don’t miss our advice on What Location to Put VPN for Unrestricted Chat GPT.
Conclusion
While LogMeIn provides secure and robust remote access, it doesn’t replace the comprehensive privacy and protection a VPN offers. Only LogMeIn Hamachi functions as a VPN—ideal for virtual LAN environments.
If you’re asking, “is logmein a vpn?”—the clear answer is: Not generally, but Hamachi is.
Make sure you choose the right tool for your goal—remote access or full privacy.
For more VPN clarity, explore our other expert breakdowns and reviews.
