How to Set Up a VPN on Your VPS: Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction to VPN and VPS: Exploring the Basics

As we shift to a digital work ethic, online security is vital for individuals and organizations. A VPN is very useful here. It encrypts internet connections and hides IP addresses, fostering secure and confidential online activities.

A Virtual Private Server (VPS) is a cost-effective and flexible web hosting solution. It can host a wide range of solutions, from websites to apps.

Learning How to Set Up a VPN on Your VPS combines the benefits of both. Users can build a secure tunnel for data transfer using the VPS’s dedicated resources. This setup improves internet security, allows access to geo-blocked content, and prevents data leaks.

OpenVPN is one of the most effective and versatile VPNs in use today. It is a great means of establishing a secure connection. This process teaches users to set up a VPN server. They can use it for personal browsing or to secure a space for remote businesses.

For more guides and articles like this, keep visiting our Blog regularly.

Understanding Virtual Private Networks (VPN) & Virtual Private Server (VPS)

Virtual Private Networks (VPN) connect through a secure, encrypted link over a less secure network, like the Internet. A VPN uses tunneling protocols. It lets people send and receive info as if their devices were on a private network. This setup boosts privacy. It also protects data from hackers.

VPNs are used for many reasons. They provide remote access to an organization’s network and allow access to geo-blocked content. They hide one’s identity while surfing the web. VPNs also help encrypt information, protecting it from unauthorized viewers. This makes them perfect for all users worried about online security.

On the other hand, a Virtual Private Server (VPS) is a virtualized server that mimics dedicated server functionality within a larger physical server. It gives users a portion of the server’s resources, including CPU, RAM, and storage. It shares the hardware with other VPS instances. 

This solution is more convenient and flexible than shared hosting. So, VPS is a good option for companies and developers who need custom setup or software on their servers.

In particular, VPS hosting is better suited to applications, websites, or catalogs that require a more robust server capability than those available through shared hosting. VPS uses virtualization. It lets multiple users share one main server, each with a distinct virtual environment. The technology is both efficient and economical.

Setting Up a VPN on a VPS: Step-By-Step Guide

Setting up a VPN for a VPS requires a few crucial steps. They ensure a safe and functional connection.

First, if you don’t have a VPS, choose a trustworthy provider. They must guarantee good performance and security. After registering, you must set up a new server, usually by selecting an operating system. After signing up on your VPS, connect to this server using an SSH client, such as PuTTY or OpenSSH. Once logged in, the next step is to update the server, which will ensure that all software is up to date.

Having completed all that, you may proceed to create a VPN on your freshly set-up VPS. Instructions on how to do that are further down. The steps to do just that are discussed below in detail.

1. Installing VPN Software on Your VPS

To set up a VPN on a VPS, choose a compatible VPN protocol. Then, follow the simple installation steps. This will ensure that the connection is as strong as possible.

A. Choosing the Right VPN Protocol

One of the first considerations when configuring a VPN is which VPN protocol to use. The most common options are OpenVPN, WireGuard, PPTP, and L2TP/IPsec.

• OpenVPN is known for its strong security and flexibility. It works with many operating systems.
• WireGuard, on the other hand, offers faster speed with less overhead. It is known for its simplicity and high performance.
• PPTP and L2TP/IPsec are older, easier-to-install protocols. But, they are less secure than OpenVPN and WireGuard.

A protocol must meet the organization’s needs for security, speed, and device compatibility.

B. Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Below are the general steps for installing OpenVPN on both platforms:

• For Linux (Ubuntu example):
  • Update Your System: Start by ensuring that your server’s package repository is up to date.
    • sudo apt-get update
    • sudo apt-get upgrade
  • Install OpenVPN: Use the following command to install OpenVPN.
    • sudo apt-get install openvpn
  • Check TAP/TUN Support: OpenVPN needs TAP or TUN support to work. You can check if TUN is enabled by running:
    • cat /dev/net/tun
    • If the output shows “File descriptor in bad state,” it means TUN is not enabled, and you may need to load the module using:
    • sudo modprobe tun
  • Download Configuration Files: You will need configuration files for your VPN connections. These files can often be obtained from your VPN provider. For example, with Surfshark, you can download them to your OpenVPN directory.
  • Connect to the VPN: After downloading the config files, choose a server config file and connect using:
    • sudo openvpn /etc/openvpn/your-chosen-server.ovpn
    • Replace your-chosen-server.ovpn with the server config file you want to connect to.
  • Verify Connection: After connecting, check the terminal for “Initialization Sequence Completed.” It means your VPN is active.
• For Windows:
  • Download OpenVPN Installer: Get the latest OpenVPN client from the official site.
  • Run the Installer: Execute the installer with administrative privileges.
  • Import Configuration Files: After installation, import your .ovpn file into the OpenVPN GUI.
  • Connect to VPN: Launch the OpenVPN client, select your configuration, and connect.
  • Check Connection Status: The GUI will show messages about your connection status. They will confirm if you are connected.

2. Configuring the VPN Server On Your VPS

Once you set up OpenVPN on your VPS, the next thing you need to do is Configure Your VPN Server. This includes generating the keys and certificates needed for a secure connection and setting up the server settings to define how the VPN operates.

A. Generating Keys and Certificates for Security

To set up a secure OpenVPN, you will have to create several keys and certificates using EasyRSA. This tool simplifies the process of managing your Public Key Infrastructure (PKI).

• Install EasyRSA: If you haven’t already installed EasyRSA, you can do so by running:
  • sudo apt-get install easy-rsa
• Setup EasyRSA: Create a directory for EasyRSA and navigate into it:
  • make-cadir ~/openvpn-ca
  • cd ~/openvpn-ca
• Initialize the PKI: Initialize the Public Key Infrastructure. This step prepares your server to issue certificates.
  • ./easyrsa init-PKI
• Build the Certificate Authority (CA): Create the CA to sign your server and client certificates.
  • ./easyrsa build-ca
  • Follow the prompts to set a strong passphrase.
• Generate Server Certificate and Key: Create and sign a server certificate request.
  • ./easyrsa gen-req server nopass
  • ./easyrsa sign server server
• Generate Client Certificate and Key: Similarly, create and sign a certificate request for the client.
  • ./easyrsa gen-req client nopass
  • ./easyrsa sign client client
• Generate Diffie-Hellman Parameters: This step is crucial for key exchange:
  • ./easyrsa gen-dh

Related Guide: How to Change VPS Server Hostname

B. Configuring Essential Server Settings

After generating the keys and certificates, configure the server settings.

Creating Configuration Files (e.g., server.conf)

• Navigate to OpenVPN Configuration Directory:
  • cd /etc/openvpn/
• Create/Edit the Server Configuration File: Create a new file named server.conf:
  • sudo nano server.conf
  • Add the basic configuration settings.
• Specify Parameters: Set the correct parameters, including the IP address range, protocol, and encryption settings. These settings are crucial for ensuring secure connections.
• Start the OpenVPN Service: Once your configuration file is ready, start the OpenVPN service with:
  • sudo systemctl start openvpn@server
  • To enable it at boot time, use:
    • sudo systemctl enable openvpn@server

Solve the Error: DNS Lookup Failed on Host OpenVPN

3. Setting Up Client Connections

Once your VPN server is running, set up client connections for devices that will connect to the VPN. 

A. Configuring Client Devices for VPN Access

Instructions for Windows, macOS, and Linux Clients

• Windows
  • Download OpenVPN Client: Visit the OpenVPN website and download the Windows client.
  • Install the Client: Run the installer. Then, follow the prompts to finish the installation.
  • Run OpenVPN: After installation, run the OpenVPN GUI from the Start menu.
  • Import Configuration: Copy your .ovpn configuration file to C:\Program Files\OpenVPN\config.
  • Connect: Right-click the OpenVPN icon in the system tray. Select your VPN connection, then click “Connect.” If prompted, Enter your credentials.
• macOS
  • Download OpenVPN Connect: Visit the App Store or OpenVPN’s website to download it.
  • Install the Application: Follow the installation instructions.
  • Import Configuration File: You can drag and drop your .ovpn file into the OpenVPN Connect app or use the import option in the app’s menu.
  • Connect: Select your VPN profile and click “Connect.” Enter your username and password when prompted.
• Linux
  • Install OpenVPN: Use your package manager to install OpenVPN:
    • sudo apt-get install openvpn
  • Copy Configuration File: Place your .ovpn file in /etc/openvpn/:
    • sudo cp /path/to/your/client.ovpn /etc/openvpn/client.conf
  • Connect to VPN: Use the following command to start the connection:
    • sudo openvpn /etc/openvpn/client.conf

B. Importing Configuration Files for Clients

Importing configuration files is crucial. It connects client devices to your VPN server.

• Obtain .ovpn Files: These files contain all necessary configurations, including server address, port, protocol, and encryption settings.
• For Windows Clients: Copy the .ovpn file to C:\Program Files\OpenVPN\config as mentioned above.
• For macOS Clients: You can add your .ovpn file by dragging and dropping it or using the file import feature in OpenVPN Connect.
• For Linux Clients: Rename your .ovpn file (e.g., client.conf) and place it in /etc/openvpn/.
• Connecting Using .ovpn Files: Once imported, for all platforms, select the profile of your .ovpn file in the OpenVPN client to connect.

4. Firewall and Security Settings: Essential Security Features

Setting up a VPN on a VPS will require a strong firewall and security settings. They must block unwanted traffic but allow essential secure connections. 

Different Types of Firewalls are vital in a VPS. They control traffic to and from it. Most VPS providers have firewalls set up. They deny all incoming traffic unless stated otherwise. To allow VPN traffic, you must configure some policies. They should enable access to the needed port.

A. Creating Effective Firewall Rules

General Steps for Most VPS Providers:

• Access the Control Panel: Log in to your VPS management portal.
• Navigate to Firewall Settings: Look for options related to security or firewall management
• Click Add Firewall, name your firewall, and create it.
• Click on Add rule to create a new ingress firewall rule.
• Fill in details such as:
  • Name: A descriptive name for the rule.
  • Protocol: TCP, UDP, or ICMP.
  • Source: Specify the IP addresses allowed in the CIDR notation.
  • Startport/Endport: Define which ports to allow traffic through.
• Click Submit to save the rule.

B. Configuring Specific Ports for VPN

For a typical VPN setup using OpenVPN, you will need to open specific ports:

• UDP Port 1194: This is the default port used by OpenVPN for secure connections.
• Depending on your configuration, additional ports may be required (e.g., TCP/UDP for other services).
• Example Rules:

These rules allow only necessary traffic. They block everything else by default.

C. Enabling Port Forwarding for VPN Traffic

If your VPS is behind a NAT or if you need to forward specific ports:

• Access your VPS control panel and look for port forwarding options.
• Specify which external ports should be mapped to internal ports on your server.

For example, to let external traffic on port 80 (HTTP) reach an app running on port 8080, set up a rule to forward traffic from port 80 to port 8080.

5. Testing Your VPN Connection: Important Testing Steps

After setting up your VPN, verify that the connection works from client devices. 

A. Verifying Successful Connection from Client Devices

• Check Connection Status:
  • Windows: Open the OpenVPN GUI. Look for a green icon in the system tray. It means you are connected. You can also check the OpenVPN log for connection messages.
  • macOS: In OpenVPN Connect, the status should show as “Connected.” You can also view logs for any errors or connection details.
  • Linux: Use the terminal to check the OpenVPN status with:
    • sudo systemctl status openvpn@client
  • Mobile Devices: On Android or iOS, check for VPN connection notifications.
• Verify IP Address Change:
  • Before connecting to your VPN, find your public IP. Use a service like “What is my IP address?” After connecting, refresh the page. Check if your IP address has changed to one from your VPN. This indicates that your traffic is being routed through the VPN.
• Check VPN Logs:
  • Check your VPN client app’s logs for errors in the connection process. Logs typically provide information about successful connections and any issues encountered.

B. Tools for Checking IP Leaks and Connection Stability

• IP Leak Test Tools:
  • WhatIsMyIPAddress.com: This site shows your IP address. It checks if it matches the expected VPN IP.
  • DNS Leak Test: Use tools like dnsleaktest.com to verify that your DNS queries are routed through the VPN. A successful test will show your VPN’s DNS servers, not your ISP’s.
• Connection Stability Tests:
  • Ping Test: Use command line tools (e.g., ping) to check connectivity and response times while on the VPN.
  • Speed Tests: Use speedtest.net to check your VPN connection speed and stability. Compare speeds with and without the VPN enabled.
• Monitoring Tools:
  • Consider using network monitoring tools. They can show traffic patterns, leaks, and connection stability.

Conclusion: Final Thoughts on VPN Setup

A VPN using a virtual private server (VPS) boosts online privacy and security. A VPN can be used with Virtual Private Servers. It will encrypt data to mask internet traffic, hide info, and bypass geo-blocks.

The process is technical but not too difficult. With the right equipment and info, a good VPN like OpenVPN or WireGuard can help.

This guide from ARZ Host has detailed steps to install, set up, and run your own VPN server on a Virtual Private Server (VPS). Knowing how to connect a VPN on a VPS is important. It’s needed for private use, telecommuting, and organizations, as well as secure browsing for others. 

Choosing the proper protocol, installing the VPN software, configuring the secure protocols, and testing the VPN connection are all critical steps for ensuring a safe and reliable VPN.

After setting up the VPN, it’s vital to test and monitor it. Check for IP and DNS leaks. Also, monitor the firewall rules and config. Ensure the proper rules block unwanted traffic but allow necessary traffic.

With these best practices, you can enjoy a secure, efficient, and customized VPN. It will protect your online activities and improve your browsing.

FAQS (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is the main benefit of setting up a VPN on a VPS?

A VPN on a VPS encrypts the user’s internet traffic. It is secure from end to end. VPNs are known for keeping your info private and safe from intruders. They also let you view content that is blocked in some regions. You also get your own VPN server. It is faster and more customizable than commercial VPNs.

Do I need technical knowledge to set up a VPN on a VPS?

Yes, setting up a VPN on a VPS is not for everyone. It requires some technical skills in managing Linux or Windows servers, commands, and network settings. 

Nevertheless, everyone can follow the tutorials and tips provided on the web, like this one. It’s important to be comfortable with SSH, install software, and modify configuration documents. 

Which VPN protocol should I choose for my VPS?

OpenVPN and WireGuard are the most commonly used VPN protocols. OpenVPN is very secure. It offers some customization. WireGuard is said to be faster, but it’s less customizable.

Your choice will depend on your security needs, speed, and client devices.

Can I use a VPN on a VPS to stream restricted content?

Yes, a VPN on a VPS can securely stream geo-restricted content. It bypasses regional restrictions on the content you want to access. If a user connects to a server in the content’s region, they can use a streaming service that is otherwise unavailable in their location.

 Will setting up a VPN on a VPS slow down my internet connection?

You’re likely to experience slightly lower speeds with a VPN connection. This is normal with most connections. It usually happens due to bandwidth competition with other VPN users or your encrypted traffic. A good VPS provider should not cause significant slowdowns.

It should have enough bandwidth and performance. For VPN WireGuard, WireGuard is said to be faster than OpenVPN and other similar protocols. Therefore, you can optimize your setup for better performance.

How do I ensure my VPN connection is secure?

Remember to implement key security measures. Use strong encryption. Generate keys and store them securely. Configure the firewall to block unauthorized access.

It’s also crucial to keep your VPS, VPN, or other related services up to date to avoid security flaws. Also, check for IP or DNS leaks. This confirms that the service hides all traffic.

Can I use my VPN on multiple devices?

Yes, once your VPN server is set up on your VPS, you can connect multiple devices, such as computers and smartphones, to it. However, you will need to prepare configuration files for the other devices and ensure that the right credentials and settings are used.

Fortunately, OpenVPN and WireGuard clients support many OSs, so one connection lets you access various platforms.

Read More:

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• How to Set Up a VPN on Your VPS: Step-by-Step Guide