Introduction

In today's digital world, privacy and security are paramount. Whether you're browsing the internet on a public Wi-Fi network or accessing sensitive information remotely, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) provides a secure and private connection. Instead of relying on third-party VPN services, you can transform your Linux VPS into your own private VPN server using OpenVPN. This not only gives you complete control over your data but also ensures maximum privacy and security. 

Also read Why you should choose Own VPN Server instead of Free VPN ?

In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to install and set up OpenVPN on an Ubuntu server and show you how to connect to your VPN using the OpenVPN Android app.

Why Choose OpenVPN on a VPS?

  • Full Control: By setting up your own VPN, you retain full control over your data, encryption methods, and connection logs.
  • Enhanced Privacy: No third-party services mean no risk of your data being logged or sold.
  • Cost-Effective: Running a VPN on a VPS can be more cost-effective than subscribing to a premium VPN service.
  • Customizable Security: You can fine-tune your VPN's security settings to meet your specific needs.
  • Free Plan: OpenVPN free plan offers 2 connections limit without any additional charges.

If you don't have linux vps, consider purchasing to one of our Linux VPS Hosting Packages to take full advantage of this powerful setup. Our VPS packages offer robust performance, full control, and unbeatable security for your VPN needs.

Step 1: Setting Up OpenVPN on Your Ubuntu Server

1.1 Update Your System

Before installing any software, ensure your Ubuntu server is up-to-date:

sudo apt-get update

1.2 Install OpenVPN Access Server

To install Access Server on your Linux server, run this command:

bash <(curl -fsS https://as-repository.openvpn.net/as/install.sh)

After installation completed, run below command to get login details of openvpn admin panel.

cat /usr/local/openvpn_as/init.log

Step 2: Access the OpenVPN Admin Web UI

  1. Log In to the Admin Panel:
    • Open your web browser and navigate to the following URL:
      https://your_server_ip:943/admin
    • If you encounter a security warning, it's because the SSL certificate is self-signed. You can safely bypass this warning.
    • Log in with the username openvpn and the password retrieved or set earlier.

Step 3: Create a New User Account

  1. Go to User Management:

    • After logging in, navigate to the "User Management" section in the admin panel.
    • Click on "User Permissions."

  2. Add a New User:

    • In the "User Permissions" section, click "Add User."
    • Enter the desired username and set the options for the user, such as:
      • User Type: Select whether the user is an admin or a standard user.
      • Password: Set a password for the user. Alternatively, you can allow the user to set their own password.

  3. Save the User:

    • After filling in the details, click "Save Settings" at the bottom.

  4. Configure Additional User Settings (Optional):

    • You can configure additional settings such as access control, group permissions, and VPN-specific options.

Step 4: User Login and VPN Connection

  1. User Login to the Client Web Interface:

    • The user can log in to the client web interface to download the OpenVPN client and their configuration file.
    • Have them navigate to:
      https://your_server_ip:943/
    • They can log in using the credentials you created.

  2. Connect to the VPN:

    • After logging in, users can download the appropriate OpenVPN client software and configuration file.
    • Once installed, they can use these credentials to connect to the VPN.

Step 5: Download and Install the OpenVPN Connect App

  1. Download: Go to the Google Play Store on your Android device.
  2. Install: Search for “OpenVPN Connect” and install the app.

Step 6: Setting Up and Connecting to OpenVPN on Your Android Device

Before you can connect, ensure you have the following information:

  • Server IP Address: The public IP address of your VPS where OpenVPN is installed.
  • Username: The username you created in the OpenVPN Access Server.
  • Password: The password associated with the username.
You can choose to save the password to avoid re-entering it each time.
Tap the “Save” checkbox if you want to save your credentials.
Tap the “Connect” button.
  • Once connected, you'll see a key icon in your notification bar, indicating that the VPN is active.
  • You can also check the status within the OpenVPN app to ensure you’re connected.

    Conclusion

    Setting up your own VPN on a Linux VPS with OpenVPN not only enhances your online security but also gives you full control over your data. This guide makes it easy for anyone to turn their VPS into a private, secure VPN server. Whether you're a web hosting provider offering VPS services or an individual seeking privacy, OpenVPN is a reliable and powerful solution.

    By following these steps, you can offer your clients a VPS that doubles as a secure VPN, adding value to your hosting services while ensuring their online privacy and security.



Tuesday, August 13, 2024







« Back