Installing and configuring VPN Access

Installing and configuring VPN access can vary depending on the type of VPN you’re setting up (e.g., for personal use, work, or specific protocols like OpenVPN, PPTP, etc.). Here’s a general guide for installing and configuring VPN access on different platforms:

Step 1: Choose a VPN Provider or Set Up a VPN Server

• Personal VPN: Choose a VPN provider that suits your needs (NordVPN, ExpressVPN, etc.). You’ll need to create an account with them.
• Business/Work VPN: You’ll typically get VPN settings from your workplace, or you might need to set up your own VPN server using services like OpenVPN or WireGuard.

Step 2: Download and Install VPN Software

• Windows/Mac:
  1. Download the VPN client software from the provider’s website or set up a built-in VPN client through network settings.
  2. Run the installer and follow the prompts to complete installation.
• Linux:
  1. Install OpenVPN or WireGuard using your package manager:
     • For OpenVPN: sudo apt install openvpn
     • For WireGuard: sudo apt install wireguard
  2. You may need to download configuration files from your VPN provider or create them manually.
• Mobile Devices (iOS/Android):
  1. Download the VPN app from the App Store or Google Play.
  2. Install and open the app, then sign in using your account credentials.

Step 3: Configure VPN Settings

• Using VPN Provider:
  • Open the VPN client and log in.
  • The client will usually come pre-configured with server options, so you just need to select a server location and connect.
• Manually Configuring on Windows:
  1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > VPN.
  2. Click Add a VPN connection.
  3. Fill in the following details:
     • VPN provider: Windows (built-in).
     • Connection name: Name your connection.
     • Server name or address: Provided by your VPN provider or workplace.
     • VPN type: Choose from PPTP, L2TP/IPSec, SSTP, or IKEv2.
     • Sign-in info: Usually username and password.
  4. Click Save, then connect from the VPN settings.
• On Mac:
  1. Go to System Preferences > Network.
  2. Click + to add a new VPN connection.
  3. Choose the VPN type (e.g., L2TP over IPSec) and fill in the necessary details.
  4. Enter the server address, account name, and password provided by your VPN service or IT department.

Step 4: Test the Connection

• Once your VPN is set up, connect to the VPN and ensure that your IP address changes to reflect the VPN server location.
• Check that you can still access the resources you need (e.g., company servers, internet, etc.).

Step 5: Advanced Settings (Optional)

• Split Tunneling: Configure whether certain traffic routes through the VPN or bypasses it (useful for work VPNs).
• DNS Settings: Some VPNs allow you to use their own DNS servers to avoid leaks.
• Kill Switch: Many VPN clients offer a “kill switch” that cuts your internet connection if the VPN drops.

External Sources:

How To Set Up and Configure an OpenVPN Server on Ubuntu 20.04