Setting Up Pi VPN Server

Establishing your own VPN server can significantly enhance your online privacy and provide you with remote access to your local network. However, many may find the setup process quite complex. Fortunately, Pi VPN simplifies this by transforming your Raspberry Pi into an affordable and efficient VPN server, taking care of much of the setup for you.

With this setup, you can effortlessly navigate around internet restrictions imposed by workplaces or educational institutions. Additionally, you will have the capability to connect to various devices within your home network, such as printers and file servers. If you desire even more security, you can implement end-to-end encryption, allowing all your mobile internet traffic to flow through a secure and anonymous tunnel.

To better understand how to get started, here’s an overview of what you will encounter:

• Understanding Pi VPN and its benefits
• Selecting the right VPN provider
• Preparing your Raspberry Pi for installation
• Step-by-step installation of Pi VPN
• Utilizing the Pi VPN graphical user interface
• Configuring an outbound VPN connection
• Adjusting router settings for Pi VPN
• Administering user accounts on Pi VPN
• Setting up a mobile client for Pi VPN
• Installing Pi VPN on your desktop
• Exploring additional uses for Pi VPN within your network
• Engaging practically with Pi VPN

Pi VPN operates as a streamlined OpenVPN server, specifically designed for Raspberry Pi 2 and 3 models. By connecting a Raspberry Pi to your router, it functions as a conduit, enabling mobile devices to securely access your home network over the internet.

Transforming your Raspberry Pi into a VPN server opens up a world of possibilities. Here’s what you can achieve:

• Access your files, music, and videos from any location.
• Secure your mobile internet connection through encryption.
• Print documents remotely on your home printers.
• Circumvent firewalls and access restricted websites both at work and while traveling.
• Conceal your mobile IP address for enhanced privacy.
• Connect effortlessly with your home cameras and smart devices.

If you frequently find yourself forwarding various services via your router, consider establishing a home VPN connection instead. This approach is significantly more secure as each port you forward can potentially serve as an entry point for unauthorized access. In contrast, a Pi VPN only requires the opening of a single port, utilizing robust encryption to safeguard your local area network (LAN).

Before diving into this project, a critical decision is selecting the right VPN provider. Keep these essential factors in mind during your selection process:

• Security : It’s crucial to ensure that your VPN provider maintains a strict no-logs policy regarding your connection data.
• Bandwidth : Insufficient bandwidth can lead to a sluggish internet experience.
• Latency : High ping times can also detrimentally impact performance.

Choosing the right provider balances these elements to maintain a seamless and secure internet connection.

For this project, I highly recommend choosing IPVanish as your VPN provider.

IPVanish boasts exceptional latency rates and impressive bandwidth after extensive testing among various options.

This ensures a swift and responsive online experience, even while utilizing a double-hop VPN connection.

Key features of IPVanish include:

• A vast network of servers that remain uncongested, providing excellent speeds.
• Robust security and privacy measures that protect your data.
• Popular among users of Kodi and Amazon Fire Stick due to its app compatibility and streaming support.
• Family-friendly, allowing up to 10 devices to connect simultaneously.
• A risk-free trial with a 7-day money-back guarantee.

To get started on setting up your Raspberry Pi as a VPN server, you will need the following items:

• A Raspberry Pi 2 or 3 with Raspbian operating system installed.
• An 8GB or larger SD card for storage.

For optimal performance, it is advisable to connect your Raspberry Pi directly to your router using an Ethernet cable. However, if you prefer a wireless setup, you can still proceed with a Wi-Fi connection.

Just remember to replace 'eth0' with 'wlan0' in the instructions provided throughout this guide if you're using Wi-Fi.

To set up your Raspberry Pi as a VPN server, start by enabling the SSH service. You can do this via the interfacing options in the configuration menu.

Access the configuration tool by navigating through the Pi menu or simply enter the following command in the terminal:

sudo raspi-config

After enabling the SSH feature, reboot your Raspberry Pi to apply the changes.

Once your Pi is connected to your home network and SSH is activated, you have the option to disable the desktop interface and disconnect your monitor. Connecting remotely is straightforward with tools like PuTTY or the terminal on a Mac, making it just as convenient as direct input on the device itself.

Typically, you will prefer to operate your VPN server without a monitor attached. This is easily achievable with an SSH client, allowing you to access the command line interface of your Raspberry Pi from another computer seamlessly.

Before you remove the monitor from your Raspberry Pi, execute the command ifconfig .

This will display your Pi's IP address, which can be found in the inet section.

You will need this IP address for your SSH client connection.

If you're working with Windows to configure your Pi as a VPN server, download and install PuTTY.

You can find PuTTY available for free online.

Launch PuTTY and enter the IP address of your Raspberry Pi, which you recorded previously. Ensure that the connection type is set to SSH. To keep this configuration, click the save button to store your connection profile.

For users installing Pi VPN on a Mac or Linux machine, there’s no need to install a separate SSH client. Simply utilize the terminal that is built into your operating system, as it already includes SSH functionality.

When you initially connect to your Raspberry Pi, a prompt will appear asking you to save a security key.

Select the yes option to confirm the key's validity and store it on your device.

Following that, input your password. If you haven't modified it, the default password for Raspberry Pi is raspberry .

Once you see the prompt pi@hostname , it indicates that you have successfully logged in.

When you first connect via SSH, it's essential to update your default password for security. Use the command passwd to accomplish this task.

Before setting up your Raspberry Pi as a VPN server, ensure that your operating system is current.

Start by retrieving a list of the latest available software updates. You can do this by executing the following command:

sudo apt-get update

After ensuring you have the most recent software list, initiate an upgrade on your Raspberry Pi by entering the following command:

sudo apt-get upgrade

When prompted, make sure to press y to initiate the upgrade process.

This process may take a few minutes, and you'll be able to monitor the progress directly on your screen.

Since your Raspberry Pi will provide crucial network services, it's essential to assign a static IP address to it beforehand.

Additionally, consider updating the hostname during this setup.

This change will modify the prompt displayed upon login, making it easier to differentiate between multiple Raspberry Pis.

However, changing the hostname is entirely up to you and not a mandatory step.

To configure a static IP address for your Raspberry Pi, start by modifying the /etc/dhcpcd.conf file.

First, ensure you have your router's IP address and the DNS servers you plan on using.

If you need to find this information, you can utilize the ifconfig command.

When you're prepared to proceed, open the file with the following command in the nano text editor:

sudo nano /etc/dhcpcd.conf

Locate the section in the file marked example static IP configuration .

To configure it, simply remove the comment markers from the example settings.

Next, replace the placeholders with your specific IP address, router details, and gateway information.

Remove the comment from the static ip_address line and enter your desired static IP address. I opted for 192.168.1.2 since it is near the router's IP and is simple to recall.

Remove the comment from static routers and static domain_name_servers , then input your specific values. After making the necessary adjustments, hit ctrl+x to exit, followed by y to confirm the save.

To modify your hostname, access the /etc/hostname file using the nano text editor with root privileges. You can do this by executing the command below:

sudo nano /etc/hostname

To start, modify the hostname by editing the appropriate configuration file. After making your changes, exit the editor by pressing ctrl+x and confirm saving with y .

Next, you will need to update the /etc/hosts file. Use the following command to open it for editing:

sudo nano /etc/hosts

Once inside, locate the line that begins with 127.0.0.1 and replace the existing hostname with your new choice, for example, pivpn . After making these changes, reboot your Raspberry Pi using this command:

sudo reboot

Upon restart, ensure that you adjust the IP address you are using to connect, so it matches the newly assigned static IP address.

Keep in mind that Raspbian, being a Linux-based operating system, has a built-in firewall that is enabled by default. However, during a new installation, it tends to be configured to allow all traffic.

The default policy for Raspbian's firewall (iptables) permits all incoming and outgoing packets and forwards requests without restrictions. I will guide you on how to secure the firewall later, but first, make sure it is fully open to incoming connections.

To verify your current firewall rules, you can use the command iptables -l . This allows you to ensure that they correspond with your intended settings. If you've made modifications and wish to revert to the default configuration, execute the following commands:

sudo iptables -f

sudo iptables -p input accept

sudo iptables -p output accept

sudo iptables -p forward accept

When configuring your Raspberry Pi as a VPN server, you will be prompted to select the level of encryption. The available options include 1024-bit, 2048-bit, and 4096-bit RSA encryption. Here are some considerations:

• The standard choice is 2048-bit RSA encryption.
• Weaker encryption can yield faster speeds.
• For downloading and streaming, 2048-bit is optimal.
• Stronger encryption levels enhance security.
• 4096-bit encryption is preferable for activities like email and web browsing.

While opting for 4096-bit RSA encryption might seem appealing, it can significantly slow down your experience, especially if you're streaming video or music, due to the added overhead. The 2048-bit standard is recommended for general use.

Keep in mind that SSH has a peculiar behavior. If your computer enters sleep mode during extended operations while connected via SSH, the connection may drop. This results in the cessation of any ongoing commands on your Raspberry Pi, requiring you to restart the process.

To simplify long SSH sessions, consider using a tool called screen . This utility allows you to initiate a session dedicated to a specific task. You can disconnect and reconnect at will, enabling you to monitor the task's progress without interruption.

To begin using the screen utility after installation, familiarize yourself with a few essential commands.

Start by installing screen via apt:

sudo apt-get install screen

After the installation completes, you can initiate screen by entering the following command:

screen

When you disconnect, it may seem like nothing has changed; however, your commands will continue to execute in the background.

If your connection happens to fail, simply SSH back into your Raspberry Pi and enter:

screen -r

This command will allow you to seamlessly rejoin your SSH session, provided it’s the sole active session.

To manage multiple screen sessions on your Raspberry Pi, you can easily check which sessions are currently active by running the command screen -ls .

If you find a session you want to reconnect to, note its unique 5-digit identifier. For example, to reconnect to the session with ID 11712, simply type:

screen -r 11712

Getting accustomed to using screen will greatly enhance your experience when managing your Raspberry Pi via SSH. For further insights into the various features of screen, more information is available here.

After setting up your Raspberry Pi, the next step is to connect to it and initiate the installation of Pi VPN. This marks the beginning of a multi-stage installation process that will equip your device with the essential VPN capabilities needed for Pi VPN. Future steps will involve setting up a management web interface and configuring an outbound VPN connection for improved privacy.

The installation of Pi VPN is facilitated by a script that you can download from its official website using the curl command-line tool. Curl allows you to fetch files from the internet without the need for a web browser.

To initiate the installation of your Raspberry Pi VPN, you will need to execute the following command:

curl -l https://install.pivpn.io/ | bash

To initiate the setup, you will run a command that retrieves the installation script from pivpn.io, which will then be executed using the bash interpreter.

Once you execute this command, the installation will kick off right away. The first thing it does is check for any available updates for your apt packages. However, as you've already performed a system update following this guide, the script will bypass this check and proceed to the subsequent steps.

Begin by installing the essential packages required for the setup.

Once this step is complete, the installation of the Pi VPN will initiate.

This installer operates as a semi-graphical wizard, making it ideal for use over an SSH connection.

When you see the blue screen indicating that the installer is ready, you can proceed with the configuration.

Start by hitting enter to notify the Raspberry Pi VPN setup wizard that you are prepared to proceed.

Before you begin the setup wizard, it's crucial to establish a static IP address for your Raspberry Pi.

If you haven't done this yet, please take a moment to exit the wizard and refer back to the instructions provided in the earlier section.

Setting a static IP address first will help avoid any connectivity issues later in the process.

The VPN setup on your Raspberry Pi will display the detected IP address. If this matches the static IP address you configured earlier, simply click the yes button to proceed.

To prevent IP address conflicts, it's important to check the DHCP range set on your router.

The best practice is to assign a static IP address that falls outside of this range.

For instance, if your router's DHCP range is from 192.168.1.100 to 192.168.1.200, you might choose a static IP like 192.168.1.2 to ensure there are no overlaps.

Once you have your settings in place, click OK to proceed.

In most situations, it's advisable to stick with the default pi user. Ensure that this option is chosen and then hit the ok button.

It is advisable to select yes when prompted about enabling unattended security updates for your Raspberry Pi VPN server.

Since your Pi will be accessible over the internet due to port forwarding, ensuring that your Pi VPN is consistently updated is crucial for maintaining security.

If you choose no , be diligent about performing updates manually on a regular basis.

After setting up automatic updates, it’s typical for the console to display briefly. You can expect the installer to return shortly thereafter.

For optimal performance, it's generally recommended to configure your Raspberry Pi VPN with the UDP protocol.

However, if you intend to utilize a subscription-based VPN service for enhanced security through a double-hop connection, you should opt for the TCP protocol instead.

Make sure to remember the port number that you select for your Raspberry Pi VPN; it will be important for later steps.

The standard port for UDP is 1194 , whereas for TCP, it typically uses 443 . However, if you’re setting up a double-hop VPN, it’s best to avoid using the default TCP port to prevent any potential conflicts. I opted for port 4430 as my TCP choice since it was straightforward and easy to recall.

Next, you will need to decide on your encryption settings. I previously discussed the various options available and the reasons to choose each one. If you're feeling uncertain about which encryption level to select, refer back to my earlier recommendations for guidance.

Choose your desired encryption level by pressing the space bar, then confirm by hitting ok . For better video streaming capabilities over the connection, I'm opting for 2048-bit encryption .

VPN Setup Process Overview

Creating the necessary keys may require some time, especially if you opt for advanced encryption methods.

It's important to exercise patience as the Pi VPN works through the key generation process.

Once the server keys are ready, you'll be nearing the end of the Pi VPN setup wizard. Just a few more actions are needed before you're ready to establish a connection.

Opt for this public IP unless you possess a dynamic DNS account. If dynamic DNS is in use, select DNS entry and provide your hostname along with the usual settings.

Selecting a DNS provider for your VPN is an important step.

For most users, I suggest using Google due to its simplicity and no cost.

If you're looking for a more secure option, consider OpenDNS or Norton , which offer robust DNS services to prevent potential leaks.

Alternatively, if you plan to manage DNS requests with Pi-hole, you might want to opt for a custom DNS solution.

To begin, the setup wizard provides instructions on adding users via the command line.

Next, we will proceed with the installation of a web application designed for user management.

Additionally, you have the option to utilize the command pivpn add for this purpose.

To complete the setup, click on the yes button and allow your Raspberry Pi to restart.

Pi VPN GUI serves as a web-based interface designed for managing Pi VPN. While it’s not mandatory, it significantly simplifies the process of user management and device addition, making it highly recommended for installation.

Whenever you create a new user within PiVPN, an *.ovpn profile will be generated. The Pi VPN GUI allows you to easily manage user accounts and facilitates the downloading of these profiles.

If you opt out of using the Pi VPN GUI, you'll need to handle user management through command line tools, specifically the pivpn add and pivpn remove commands. Additionally, you'll be responsible for manually transferring the generated *.ovpn profiles, often using command-line utilities such as scp.

Prior to installing the Pi VPN GUI, ensure your apt package manager is updated. You will need to add a repository to access and download all necessary software for the Pi VPN GUI installation. Here’s the procedure to follow.

To modify the list of sources for apt, you can use the nano text editor.

Simply enter the following command in your terminal:

sudo nano /etc/apt/sources.list

This will open the file where you can make the necessary changes.

To begin, locate your sources.list file and add the following line:

deb http://mirrordirector.raspbian.org/raspbian jessie main contrib non-free rpi

This addition informs the package manager that it can source packages from the older Debian Jessie release. This step is crucial as certain dependencies required by the Pi VPN GUI are not yet available in the Debian Stretch repositories.

However, it's important to note that including an older release in your sources.list is not considered a best practice. While it serves a purpose for now, it may lead to conflicts if you decide to install other software in the future.

Therefore, once you have completed the installation of the necessary software packages, it’s advisable to remove the line you added to maintain a cleaner and more stable environment.

To proceed, exit the nano editor by saving your changes.

Next, refresh the package lists by executing the command:

bash sudo apt-get update

After the update process is finished, ensure that all installed packages are up to date by running:

bash sudo apt-get upgrade

You have now successfully added the necessary repository to your package manager.

Following this, you need to install the essential packages for the Pi VPN graphical user interface. Use the command below to do so:

bash sudo apt-get install git apache2 php5 libapache2-mod-php5 php5-mcrypt expect geoip-bin

When you see the prompt, simply hit y to proceed and allow the installation to complete.

Once the software installation is done, you’ll need to make some adjustments to the configuration files before proceeding with the installation of the Pi VPN GUI.

After ensuring that the necessary software is set up, the next step is to delete the entry you previously added to /etc/apt/sources.list . Following this, execute the command sudo apt update once more.

To operate correctly, the Pi VPN GUI, which is a web application, requires an Apache web server. Although we installed Apache earlier, there are some additional configurations that need to be implemented for the Pi VPN GUI to function seamlessly on your Apache server.

To begin, it's essential to modify the user account for Apache. By default, Apache operates under an unsupported user account, so we will update it to run as the pi user.

To do this, open the Apache configuration file by entering the following command in your terminal:

sudo nano /etc/apache2/apache2.conf

Navigate down the page until you encounter the line labeled user $(apache_run_user) , which is immediately followed by the word group .

Adjust the user and group settings to pi for each. After making these changes, hit ctrl+x to exit, followed by y to confirm and save your modifications.

To set the ownership of the /var/www directory, which is utilized by Apache to hold website files, you need to execute a command.

This command will assign the user pi as the owner of the web directory:

sudo chown -R pi:pi /var/www

Make sure to use the -R option for recursive change.

To begin, navigate to the directory /var/www/html by executing the following command:

cd /var/www/html

This is the location where you'll finalize the installation of the Pi VPN GUI.

After all the preparations, downloading and setting up the Pi VPN GUI is a straightforward process. Simply use git to check out the project. If you've been keeping up, you should have already installed the git utility in an earlier step.

Ensure you are located in the /var/www/html directory before proceeding.

Next, execute the following command:

git clone https://github.com/aaronwphillips/pivpn-gui

This command will clone the Pi VPN GUI project into your web server's root directory, allowing you to access it as a web page.

To confirm that the installation was successful, simply check it via your web browser.

With the Pi VPN GUI now set up, you can launch it in your browser to manage VPN users. For instance, if your Raspberry Pi is assigned the IP address of 192.168.1.2, you can access the Pi VPN GUI at:

http://192.168.1.2/pivpn-gui.

To begin, access the Pi VPN GUI via the IP address assigned to your Raspberry Pi installation in your web browser.

When you successfully connect, a login prompt will appear. In case you encounter issues logging in, a simple restart of your Raspberry Pi should resolve the problem.

For convenience, it's a good idea to bookmark the Pi VPN GUI link for easy access later. The subsequent step involves configuring an outbound VPN connection to secure your internet traffic. If you prefer not to subscribe to services like IPVanish, you can directly proceed to the router setup and user addition.

Keep in mind, without an outbound VPN connection, any devices linked to your VPN will utilize your local area network's public IP address to access the internet. This means that regardless of your actual location, websites will perceive your connection as originating from home. While this can be beneficial—such as when attempting to stream Netflix while traveling—it’s advisable to use an outbound VPN provider. This creates a ‘double-hop’ connection, enhancing your online privacy and security.

Utilizing a double-hop VPN setup enhances your mobile internet security by providing thorough encryption, especially when accessing websites secured with HTTPS.

This additional layer of protection is not merely about having two tunnels; it ensures that the initial request remains anonymous since the outbound VPN server cannot trace it back to the source.

Consequently, any logs maintained by your VPN service will not reveal the specific device that made a request, as everything traces back to your Raspberry Pi VPN server. This setup effectively increases your online anonymity.

If your primary goal for setting up Pi VPN is to access your home network remotely, you can bypass this section. However, if you aim to establish a secure and private internet connection for various devices like phones, laptops, and tablets, integrating an outbound VPN with your Pi VPN is advisable.

For readers interested in VPN services, IPVanish provides a complimentary 7-day trial exclusively for Comparitech customers for those who haven't chosen a VPN provider yet.

If your existing gateway router supports outbound VPN connections, you can consider your task complete. With all outbound traffic encrypted at the router level, you achieve a double-hop VPN setup, allowing you to proceed with connecting your client devices.

If you're keen on establishing a VPN-enabled router or need assistance with your existing setup, we offer comprehensive guides for that purpose.

For those equipped with a VPN-enabled router and looking to configure it as a VPN client, explore our resources on selecting a suitable VPN provider and the router configuration process.

For the rest, utilizing a Raspberry Pi can efficiently manage the encrypted outbound connections and routing essential for a secondary VPN hop.

When it comes to a double-hop VPN connection, IPVanish stands out due to its low latency. This feature is particularly beneficial, as your connection relies on two VPN servers to process traffic. The setup procedure remains consistent across different VPN providers that offer OpenVPN profiles for their servers.

To begin, you'll need to obtain an autologin profile along with the digital certificate from your chosen VPN provider. If IPVanish is your provider of choice, you can find these files available for download on their website.

To easily acquire the necessary files for your Raspberry Pi VPN server, you can utilize SSH to connect and the wget command for downloading.

Firstly, ensure that your Raspberry Pi VPN server is online.

Next, navigate to the correct directory by executing the following command:

cd /etc/openvpn

Then, you can download the required files using these commands:

sudo wget http://www.ipvanish.com/software/configs/ca.ipvanish.com.crt sudo wget http://www.ipvanish.com/software/configs/ipvanish-us-chicago-chi-a01.ovpn

Keep in mind that you should adjust the second URL according to the specific IPvanish server you wish to connect to. For this example, an IPvanish server located in Chicago is being used.

To establish a VPN connection using the OpenVPN service with IPVanish, you will first need to rename the downloaded autologin profile. This is crucial because the OpenVPN service recognizes only files with a *.conf extension.

To rename your file, execute the following command:

sudo mv /etc/openvpn/ipvanish-us-chicago-chi-a01.ovpn /etc/openvpn/outgoing.conf

With your files correctly renamed, you can now proceed to configure the connection to your VPN service.

For better management of multiple VPN connections, it is advisable to rename the network interfaces to clearly indicate their functions. I recommend using /dev/tun-incoming for incoming traffic and /dev/tun-outgoing for outgoing traffic.

This renaming strategy prevents confusion between the interfaces, which could otherwise be assigned the generic names /dev/tun0 and /dev/tun1 , depending on their connection status. Knowing the exact names of your devices is essential for proper firewall configuration.

To change the names of the network interfaces, you will need to edit the respective connection settings files. Each OpenVPN connection corresponds to a *.config file, and by modifying the initial lines in these files, you can assign new names to the network interfaces.

Begin by modifying the VPN configuration file on your Raspberry Pi. You can access it using the following command:

sudo nano /etc/openvpn/server.conf

Locate the initial line that reads:

dev tun

Replace it with:

dev tun-incoming

Additionally, add this line right below it:

dev-type tun

After making these changes, press ctrl+x followed by y to save the file. Upon the next startup of the Pi VPN, a new device named /dev/tun-incoming will be established.

To configure your outgoing VPN connection, begin by accessing the configuration file located at /etc/openvpn/outgoing.conf . You can do this using the following command:

sudo nano /etc/openvpn/outgoing.conf

As with the previous configuration, modify the first line and add a new line at the top of the file. The revised lines should appear as follows:

dev tun-outgoing dev-type tun

However, there are additional adjustments required for the outgoing VPN connection. Specifically, you will need to reference the server certificate that you obtained earlier, as well as include your username and password for automatic VPN connection.

Within your outgoing.conf file, update the line beginning with ca to link it to the IPVanish server certificate:

ca /etc/openvpn/ca.ipvanish.com.crt

Next, ensure you include or modify the auth-user-pass directive to point to the password file for IPVanish, which we will set up shortly:

auth-user-pass /etc/openvpn/passwd

To ensure your VPN connection doesn’t route local network traffic, you must modify your outgoing.conf file.

Add the following line at the end of the file:

route 192.168.1.0 255.255.255.0 192.168.1.1

Make sure to replace the IP address with your local network's if it differs from the example provided.

Once you've made the changes, save the file in nano by pressing ctrl+x , followed by y to confirm.

Begin by creating a password file for OpenVPN that will store your IPVanish login credentials. The structure of this file is straightforward: your username should be on the first line, followed by your password on the next line. To create and edit this file, execute the following command:

sudo nano /etc/openvpn/passwd

In this file, input your email on the first line and your corresponding password on the second line. To save your changes, press Ctrl + X , followed by Y .

Since the /etc/openvpn/passwd file holds sensitive information in plaintext, it's crucial to secure it properly. You can restrict access to this file using the chmod command as follows:

sudo chmod +600 /etc/openvpn/passwd

This command ensures that only the root user has permission to read or write to the passwd file, providing the necessary level of security for handling plaintext credentials.

Next, in order to activate your VPN and safeguard your internet connection, you will need to configure your Raspberry Pi to route traffic correctly. Remember to adjust the static IP address of your Pi if it differs from the example provided.

To configure your Raspberry Pi as a VPN server, start by modifying the routing table.

Access the configuration file by executing the following command:

sudo nano /lib/dhcpcd/dhcpcd-hooks/40-routes

Once you’re in the file, insert these lines:

ip rule add from 192.168.1.2 lookup 101

ip route add default via 192.168.1.1 table 101

After adding the lines, save your modifications by pressing ctrl+x , then y to confirm.

This adjustment will allow your Raspberry Pi to handle both incoming and outgoing VPN connections seamlessly once you've restarted the device.

To ensure your VPN connection remains secure, it is essential to prevent DNS leaks. A DNS leak can occur when your VPN connection queries a DNS server that is not part of the encrypted network, potentially compromising your privacy and security.

To mitigate this risk, you should configure your Raspberry Pi to direct all VPN clients to utilize the DNS server provided by your VPN service. For instance, if you're using IPVanish, you'll want to set their DNS servers for your clients.

To update your DNS settings without reinstalling the VPN software, edit the configuration found at:

sudo nano /etc/openvpn/server.conf

Make the necessary edits to ensure your DNS settings align with your VPN provider’s requirements.

Navigate through the configuration file until you locate the sections related to DNS settings for your VPN clients. In my setup, I initially configured Pi VPN to utilize Google's DNS servers, and the relevant lines in the server.conf file appear as follows:

push “dhcp-option dns 8.8.8.8”
push “dhcp-option dns 8.8.4.4”

If you're utilizing IPVanish as your VPN provider, modify these lines to:

push “dhcp-option dns 198.18.0.1”
push “dhcp-option dns 198.18.0.2”

For other VPN services, it's essential to search online for their specific DNS servers.

After making the necessary changes, save the file by pressing ctrl+x followed by y . Your updates will take effect upon the next restart of the OpenVPN service, ensuring that VPN clients automatically utilize the secure servers.

Before configuring OpenVPN for automatic connections to your chosen VPN provider, it's advisable to test the connection. Execute the following command in the terminal:

sudo service openvpn@outgoing start

This command will display the connection status on your screen. If you encounter any issues, check the /etc/openvpn/outgoing.conf file to verify that your username and password are accurately entered on separate lines within /etc/openvpn/passwd .

Once you confirm a successful connection, you can disconnect by pressing ctrl + c . The final step in establishing an outgoing VPN connection is to enable autostart for the service.

After verifying that the connection works correctly, configure both VPN connections to start automatically. OpenVPN simplifies this by allowing you to reference each connection by its configuration file name.

To begin this process, open OpenVPN's global configuration file with the following command:

sudo nano /etc/default/openvpn

Setting Up Raspberry Pi VPN

To begin, locate the line in your configuration file that reads:

autostart="home office"

Modify it to:

autostart="server outgoing"

After making the change, save the file by pressing Ctrl + X, then Y to confirm. To apply your changes, restart your Raspberry Pi VPN server by executing the command:

sudo reboot

Upon reboot, your Raspberry Pi VPN server will establish a connection with your chosen VPN provider and will be ready to accept incoming connections.

The fundamental concept behind a VPN is to create a secure tunnel from outside your network to the inside. Consequently, it’s essential to configure your router to permit specific connections. This process is known as port forwarding and can vary in complexity based on your router model.

In this example, I’m using a basic Linksys router, but rest assured, all consumer-grade routers support port forwarding. The steps might differ slightly for your device, however, most router manufacturers provide online resources detailing this process.

Keep in mind, no VPN clients will be able to access your network unless you enable the port forwarding you set up earlier. Typically, routers block these requests for security purposes, but in this situation, we need to make an exception to allow VPN clients to connect to your Raspberry Pi VPN over the internet.

Begin by accessing your router's settings.

Typically, you can do this by clicking on one of the links provided here.

If that doesn’t work, locate your router's IP address and enter it into your web browser.

After logging into your device, navigate through the menus until you locate the port forwarding section. For me, this option is found under the 'Apps and Gaming' category, specifically labeled as Firewall Settings .

To begin setting up port forwarding, first, you'll need to identify the specific port number you wish to use, which you should have chosen earlier in the process. Additionally, make sure you have the static IP address of your Raspberry Pi VPN server handy. For this example, let’s say the port number is 1134 and the static IP address is 192.168.1.2 .

Once you have this information, proceed to click on the option to add a new port. After entering the necessary details, don’t forget to click save to finalize your port forwarding configuration. This step is crucial as it enables VPN clients to access your server from outside your local network.

In my experience, I encountered challenges when trying to configure port forwarding on my Comcast Xfinity router. The issue stemmed from the router's integrated intrusion detection system (IDS), which functions similarly to a firewall, designed to safeguard your home network against potential threats. Unfortunately, this IDS cannot be disabled, and attempts to connect to a VPN via the Comcast router would trigger it, subsequently blocking the VPN connection.

To set up your VPN server on Raspberry Pi, follow these steps for optimal performance.

Start by configuring your Xfinity router to bridge mode. This adjustment allows your wireless router to handle the network routing duties. With the wireless router in charge, you can enable port forwarding, which is essential for your VPN to accept incoming connections.

If you're facing challenges with port forwarding on Comcast, don’t hesitate to leave a comment for assistance.

Next, it's important to create user accounts for every device that will access your VPN. Each time you set up a new user, the Pi VPN software will produce an OpenVPN profile. These profiles, with the *.ovpn extension, are crucial for easy setup on your devices.

To add users to your Pi VPN, follow the provided instructions. Once you complete this process, you'll have the necessary profiles ready to download, allowing your devices to connect seamlessly to your private network.

To add a new user, simply click on the create VPN profile button.

Begin by entering a username, then select the create profile button.
It’s advisable to name each user according to the device you intend to connect.
This strategy simplifies the process of identifying connected devices at a glance.

A status window will appear, allowing you to monitor the progress of the profile creation.
Keep in mind that generating cryptographic keys may require significant time, particularly when opting for 4096-bit encryption.

After successfully setting up a profile, you may encounter a 404 error message when using the PiVPN GUI.

To resolve this, simply click on the pivpn link located in the upper-left corner.

This action will take you back to the profile browser, allowing you to continue managing your VPN settings.

You will find an option to access your OpenVPN client profile along with a download button. If you need to eliminate a user account, simply click the revoke client button. This action will instantly disconnect the client.

Continue clicking the create VPN profile button until you have generated a client profile for every device that requires access to your VPN. For example, I created profiles for my tablet and phone, in addition to a Raspberry Pi that I utilize for streaming television content.

After securing profiles for all your devices, you can proceed to the next stage of connecting to your VPN.

In certain cases, you might encounter issues with a profile or decide to delete it from your VPN setup. This can be accomplished by revoking the client through the Pi VPN graphical user interface.

To manage your VPN profiles on the Raspberry Pi, start by launching the Pi VPN GUI and logging into your account.

You'll find a list of currently active profiles displayed on the main interface.

To remove a specific device’s profile, simply click on the revoke profile button associated with that device.

Once you do this, the profile will be deleted from the list.

However, it's important to note that this action does not remove the associated *.ovpn file from your storage. To delete that file, use the following command in your terminal:

rm ~/ovpns/profile_name.conf

Make sure to replace profile_name.conf with the actual name of your OpenVPN autologin profile.

While retaining revoked profiles does not pose a security threat, as they cannot be used to log in, it is advisable to delete them for tidiness.

For mobile connections to your Pi VPN, the recommended application is OpenVPN Connect, which is the official client available for both iOS and Android platforms.

To install it, head to your device’s app store, whether that be the App Store or Play Store, and search for OpenVPN Connect .

Agree to the terms and proceed with the installation as you normally would.

Next, ensure that your device is connected to your home Wi-Fi network. Then, open the Pi VPN GUI using a web browser.

Remember to enter the correct path, which includes the local IP address of your Raspberry Pi VPN server. For example, it might look like this: http://192.168.1.2/pivpn-gui/.

Access your Raspberry Pi by logging in with the username pi and entering the appropriate password.

If you're using iOS, be aware that the Pi VPN graphical user interface functions best in Safari. On the other hand, Android users have the flexibility to use any browser they prefer for the connection.

Locate the profile you created for your mobile device and select the download option.

To set up your Raspberry Pi as a VPN server, start by importing the *.ovpn file using the OpenVPN Connect app.

Once the app is open, look for and select the green plus icon.

Your connection to the Pi VPN is now prepared for use.

The final step is to activate the tunnel through the OpenVPN Connect application.

To establish a VPN connection using your Raspberry Pi, begin by launching the app and toggling the button to connect.

Once activated, the button should turn green, and a VPN icon will appear in your phone's notification area.

To verify that your VPN is functioning correctly, visit a website like http://www.ipaddress.com. If you are not connecting a computer to your VPN, you can proceed to the next steps.

For Windows and Mac users, there are several VPN clients available, but I highly recommend using the official OpenVPN client. It’s user-friendly, free to use, and allows for easy import of your Raspberry Pi VPN setup with minimal effort.

You can download the official OpenVPN client from their website and install it like any other application.

If you plan on connecting a computer that is on your local network (LAN) to the VPN, you can obtain the autologin profile directly from the Pi VPN GUI. To do this, navigate to the installation path of the Pi VPN GUI. For instance, if your setup is located at http://192.168.1.2/pivpn-gui/, you can access the profile from there.

When setting up a VPN server on your Raspberry Pi located in a remote area, direct access to the Pi's VPN interface may not be possible.

To overcome this, first, acquire the autologin profile by accessing it from a device connected to the local network.

After downloading the profile, email it to your remote computer.

Once you receive the email, simply download the profile and proceed with the configuration as normal.

After downloading the autologin profile, the next step is to right-click the OpenVPN icon located in your system tray and select the import option.

Once you've added the Pi VPN connection, right-click the OpenVPN icon again and choose the profile name to initiate the connection.

A status window will pop up displaying the connection log. If there are issues connecting your computer, you have the option to copy the error code for troubleshooting. Typically, connection failures are due to improper port forwarding setup.

To verify that your VPN is functioning correctly, visit a site like http://www.ipaddress.com.

Having a remotely accessible server opens up numerous possibilities for projects with your Raspberry Pi, especially after completing the VPN server setup.

Although Raspberry Pi comes with a fairly open firewall by default, it is advisable to implement stricter rules when operating a VPN server.

Here’s a set of sample iptables rules to help you configure your firewall. Remember to adjust the protocol and port according to your VPN server's specifications. Lines starting with # are comments and can be omitted during input.

Allow incoming traffic on all interfaces, restricting eth0 to VPN only

sudo iptables -A INPUT -i eth0 -m state --state NEW -p protocol --dport port -j ACCEPT sudo iptables -A INPUT -i tun-incoming -j ACCEPT sudo iptables -A INPUT -i tun-outgoing -j ACCEPT

Permit forwarding traffic between subnets

sudo iptables -A FORWARD -i tun-incoming -j ACCEPT sudo iptables -A FORWARD -i tun-outgoing -j ACCEPT

Forward traffic through eth0

sudo iptables -A FORWARD -i tun-incoming -o eth0 -m state --state RELATED,ESTABLISHED -j ACCEPT sudo iptables -A FORWARD -i tun-outgoing -o eth0 -m state --state RELATED,ESTABLISHED -j ACCEPT

Forward traffic through tun-incoming

sudo iptables -A FORWARD -i eth0 -o tun-incoming -m state --state RELATED,ESTABLISHED -j ACCEPTTo configure your Raspberry Pi as a VPN server, follow these essential steps:

First, set up your iptables to manage traffic efficiently:

• Allow traffic through the tun-outgoing interface:

bash sudo iptables -A FORWARD -i tun-outgoing -o tun-incoming -m state --state RELATED,ESTABLISHED -j ACCEPT

• Permit traffic from the ethernet interface to the tun-outgoing:

bash sudo iptables -A FORWARD -i eth0 -o tun-outgoing -m state --state RELATED,ESTABLISHED -j ACCEPT

• Enable masquerading for the tun-incoming directed to eth0:

bash sudo iptables -t nat -A POSTROUTING -s 10.8.0.0/24 -o eth0 -j MASQUERADE

After configuring the iptables rules, ensure to save your changes with:

bash sudo iptables-persistent save

To review your current iptables configuration, use:

bash sudo iptables -L

Next, consider implementing Dynamic DNS. This feature allows you to connect to your Pi VPN server using a hostname rather than a fluctuating IP address. For example, you could establish a redirect from vpn.websitename.com to your VPN server. This is particularly beneficial if you intend to host web services or email, as you can manage everything from your Raspberry Pi.

If you decide to switch to Dynamic DNS, it’s advisable to re-run the Pi VPN installer. After updating your settings, you will have consistent access to your VPN server at your chosen URL.

Utilizing Dynamic DNS means you won’t need to generate new VPN client profiles whenever your public IP changes.

Your Raspberry Pi also shines as a Samba file server. By connecting several USB drives and installing lvm2 , you can create a unified filesystem that spans across all drives, allowing you to share files with VPN clients.

While enabling Samba over your VPN requires some setup, the ability to access your files, music, and movies from mobile devices makes it worthwhile.

During the VPN installation, when prompted to select a DNS provider, consider installing Pi-hole. Change your DNS provider to 127.0.0.1 to automatically block ads on mobile devices while connected to your VPN.

Utilizing a Raspberry Pi to create a VPN server can significantly enhance your online experience, especially when paired with Pi-hole.

This setup allows you to effectively block unwanted ads on your mobile devices without the need for rooting.

For example, you can eliminate pre-roll advertisements on YouTube and minimize exposure to sponsored content on platforms like Amazon.

For detailed instructions on setting up Pi-hole, consider checking out guides from Comparitech.

Once your outbound VPN is established, your internet traffic will be fully encrypted, providing a secure browsing experience.

This anonymity is particularly advantageous for activities like torrenting.

Additionally, transforming your Raspberry Pi VPN server into a seedbox using Transmission is a straightforward process.

To set up your Raspberry Pi as a VPN server, the first step is to ensure that your connection is secure. After that, you can install Transmission along with its web client. This setup allows you to manage downloads remotely, whether you're using your smartphone or laptop, while the actual downloading happens at home.

When it comes to the number of simultaneous users that the PiVPN can support, it is not fixed. Factors such as the specifications of your hardware, your internet connection, and the activity level of connected devices all play a role. Although there is no strict limit, performance may start to decline if too many users are accessing the VPN simultaneously. Essentially, the number of users your PiVPN can accommodate will depend on the capabilities of your CPU and network infrastructure, and this will vary based on your unique setup.

As a tech enthusiast, my home network is equipped with various smart gadgets, including Hue lights, a Nest thermostat, and Sonos speakers. I also have a file server running Transmission, a Plex server, and devices using Kodi, alongside a network printer and a DNS server configured with Pi-hole for ad-blocking.

If your home network resembles mine, you will find that PiVPN is transformative. It has allowed me to secure my network by closing all but one port on my firewall, ensuring that my mobile internet usage is encrypted while providing me with access to my local area network from virtually anywhere. The enhancement in my network security has been significant, and I no longer need to fiddle with port forwarding on the router whenever I introduce a new device.

After dedicating some time to the initial setup, you'll discover that PiVPN is remarkably effective. Many Raspberry Pi projects can be entertaining yet ultimately impractical. However, I'm pleased to say that PiVPN stands out as a major exception.

What is a Netflix VPN and How to Get One

A Netflix VPN is a virtual private network that enables users to access region-restricted content on Netflix by connecting to servers in various countries. By using a Netflix VPN, users can bypass geographical limitations and enjoy a wider range of shows and movies that are otherwise unavailable in their location. To utilize a Netflix VPN, one must select a trustworthy VPN provider that supports streaming, install the VPN application, connect to a server in the desired region, and then access Netflix to explore the expanded library.

Why Choose SafeShell as Your Netflix VPN?

If you want to access region-restricted content by Netflix VPN, you may want to consider the SafeShell VPN . Unlike other services where your Netflix VPN is not working, SafeShell VPN provides a more secure and stable solution thanks to its high-speed servers optimized for seamless Netflix streaming. These servers ensure you enjoy your favorite shows and movies without interruptions, offering lightning-fast connection speeds for buffer-free playback and high-definition streaming. Additionally, SafeShell VPN allows you to connect up to five devices simultaneously, supporting a wide array of operating systems such as Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Apple TV, Android TV, and Apple Vision Pro. This means you can enjoy your favorite content on any device of your choice.

Furthermore, SafeShell VPN boasts an Exclusive App Mode that enables you to unlock and enjoy content from multiple regions simultaneously, providing access to a diverse range of streaming services and libraries. It offers lightning-fast speeds with no bandwidth limitations, ensuring you experience unprecedented internet performance. With SafeShell VPN, say goodbye to buffering and throttling, allowing you to stream, download, and browse at unparalleled speeds. Most importantly, SafeShell prioritizes your online privacy with its proprietary "ShellGuard" VPN protocol, delivering top-level security for your private browsing sessions. With advanced encryption and robust security features, SafeShell VPN ensures your data is protected, allowing you to surf the web with confidence.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Watch Netflix with SafeShell VPN

To enjoy Netflix content from different regions using SafeShell Netflix VPN , follow these straightforward steps.

• Subscribe to SafeShell VPN by visiting their website at https://www.safeshellvpn.com /. Choose the plan that suits your needs and budget, then click "Subscribe Now".

  
  

• Download and install the SafeShell VPN on your device. Navigate to the website, select your device type (such as Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android), and download the corresponding app or software version.

  
  

• Launch the SafeShell VPN app and log in to your account. SafeShell supports two modes, and for an enhanced Netflix experience, select the APP mode.

  
  

• Browse through the list of available VPN servers and select one in the region whose Netflix content you wish to access, such as the US, UK, or Canada. Click "Connect" to establish a connection.

  
  

• Open the Netflix app or website, log in with your Netflix account, and start enjoying the content available in the region you selected with SafeShell Netflix VPN.