Introduction
When it comes to protecting your online presence, a Free VPN for Ubuntu can be a game‑changer. Whether you’re a casual user or a tech enthusiast, setting up a VPN on your Ubuntu machine helps you keep your browsing private, bypass geo‑restrictions, and secure public Wi‑Fi connections.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through a comprehensive Ubuntu VPN setup that works on the latest releases, from 20.04 LTS to 24.04. Our focus is on free options that offer solid privacy, high speeds, and an easy installation process.
We’ll cover everything you need to know—from choosing the right provider to troubleshooting common connectivity issues. By the end, you’ll have a reliable VPN running on Ubuntu that protects your data while you stream, browse, or work remotely.
Remember, a Free VPN for Ubuntu isn’t just about encryption; it’s also about choosing a trustworthy service that won’t log your activity or sell your data. Below, we’ll discuss key factors to evaluate before you commit to any VPN.
With a clear understanding of what a Free VPN for Ubuntu can do, let’s dive into the step‑by‑step instructions for setting up a robust, user‑friendly VPN on your system.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Pick a Reputable Free VPN Provider
When selecting a Free VPN for Ubuntu, look for providers that offer a no‑log policy, strong encryption standards, and a solid track record of privacy. Popular choices include ProtonVPN’s free tier, Windscribe, and TunnelBear.
Each of these services has dedicated Ubuntu clients or simple OpenVPN configurations. For this guide, we’ll focus on ProtonVPN because of its straightforward setup and strong security features.
To start, download the ProtonVPN configuration files or installer from their official website.
2. Install OpenVPN and NetworkManager Plugin
Open a terminal and run the following commands to ensure you have all the necessary packages:
sudo apt update && sudo apt install openvpn network-manager-openvpn network-manager-openvpn-gnome
These packages provide the OpenVPN client and the NetworkManager plugin that allows you to manage VPN connections graphically.
3. Add the ProtonVPN Repository (Optional)
If you prefer using the ProtonVPN Linux client, you can add their repository for easier updates:
sudo curl -s -o /usr/share/keyrings/protonvpn-archive-keyring.gpg https://repo.protonvpn.com/debian/public_key.asc
echo "deb [signed-by=/usr/share/keyrings/protonvpn-archive-keyring.gpg] https://repo.protonvpn.com/debian stable main" | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/protonvpn.list
sudo apt update && sudo apt install protonvpn-client
After installation, launch ProtonVPN from the application menu and log in with your credentials.
4. Create a VPN Profile in NetworkManager
Open the “Settings” application, go to “Network,” and click the plus (+) icon. Choose “VPN” from the list of connection types.
Select “OpenVPN” as the VPN type. For a free ProtonVPN setup, you’ll need the .ovpn files downloaded from their website.
Fill in the required fields: import the .ovpn file, enter your ProtonVPN username and password, and save the profile.
5. Connect to the VPN
Back in the “Network” settings, toggle the newly created VPN connection on. A secure icon will appear in the system tray once the connection is established.
To confirm your IP has changed, use an IP‑checking service such as Cloudflare’s IP checker or EFF’s IP tracker. They’ll show you the VPN’s IP rather than your home address.
Congratulations! You now have a functional Ubuntu VPN setup that encrypts all traffic.
6. Verify No Leaks
Use an online DNS leak test to ensure your traffic is fully protected. Tools like Cloudflare’s DNS leak test can quickly verify that no data is being leaked.
If any leaks are detected, double‑check your VPN profile and restart the connection.
7. Automate the Connection (Optional)
You can set the VPN to connect automatically on login by enabling the “Connect automatically” option in the NetworkManager settings.
Alternatively, create a systemd unit that starts the VPN service at boot, ensuring your machine is always protected.
Tips
Use ProtonVPN’s “Secure Core” for Extra Privacy
If you’re concerned about government surveillance, ProtonVPN’s Secure Core routes traffic through servers located in privacy‑friendly countries before leaving the network. This extra hop adds a layer of anonymity.
Check for Connection Issues
Many users report a “connection timed out” error when using free VPNs on Ubuntu. A quick fix is to switch to a different server or change the port in the .ovpn file. If problems persist, consult ProtonVPN’s troubleshooting guide or visit Free VPN for Ubuntu for detailed solutions.
Avoid Unnecessary Port Blocking
Some firewalls block UDP traffic, which can cause VPN disconnections. Switch the protocol to TCP in the .ovpn file or adjust your firewall rules accordingly.
Managing Multiple VPNs
If you use more than one VPN service, NetworkManager can handle multiple profiles. Just be sure to disconnect the previous one before connecting to another to avoid routing conflicts.
Use ProtonVPN on Windows or macOS
For those who also use Windows or macOS, you can download the respective ProtonVPN clients from their website. Follow similar steps to install and configure the VPN on those platforms.
Uninstalling VPN Clients
Should you decide to remove ProtonVPN from your system, use the built‑in uninstaller. If you encounter problems, the ProtonVPN support page provides guidance, such as how to uninstall ProtonVPN on Windows. For Mac users, see uninstall WireGuard on Mac. If you’re on Linux and cannot remove a package, ProtonVPN’s community forums often discuss solutions.
Managing VPNs on Linux Mint
Linux Mint users can use the same NetworkManager steps. If you have trouble, the Mint community forums usually have helpful tips.
Watch for Service Outages
Keep an eye on ProtonVPN’s status page or their Twitter feed for any outages that may affect your connection.
Keep Your System Updated
Security patches for both Ubuntu and OpenVPN are released regularly. Run sudo apt upgrade to ensure you’re protected against new vulnerabilities.
Use a VPN for Public Wi‑Fi
Always connect to a VPN when using public Wi‑Fi networks to prevent eavesdropping and man‑in‑the‑middle attacks.
Enable Kill Switch (If Available)
Some free VPN clients offer a kill switch that stops all traffic if the VPN disconnects. Check the ProtonVPN app for this setting and enable it for maximum security.
Alternative Methods
Using OpenVPN Configurations Directly
If you prefer a command‑line approach, download the .ovpn file and run:
sudo openvpn --config /path/to/file.ovpn
Enter your credentials when prompted. This method is lightweight and avoids the GUI overhead.
Using WireGuard on Ubuntu
WireGuard is a modern VPN protocol that offers better performance. To install:
sudo apt install wireguard qrencode
Generate a key pair and configure the client using the server’s public key and endpoint details.
Once set up, you can start the connection with sudo wg-quick up wg0 and stop it with sudo wg-quick down wg0.
Installing a VPN via Snap Packages
Some VPN providers offer Snap packages for easy installation:
sudo snap install protonvpn-client
Use protonvpn login and protonvpn connect to manage the VPN.
Using Tor as a VPN Alternative
For anonymity at the cost of speed, consider Tor. Install via:
sudo apt install tor torbrowser-launcher
Configure NetworkManager to route traffic through Tor, but note that not all applications handle SOCKS proxies gracefully.
Free VPNs with Browser Extensions
Some providers offer browser‑only VPN extensions for Chrome or Firefox. These are convenient for web browsing but do not encrypt other applications.
Installing a VPN on a Raspberry Pi
If you run a Raspberry Pi, you can use the same OpenVPN or WireGuard configurations. This is useful for creating a private home network or securing remote access.
Using a VPN on a Cloud Server
For advanced users, you can spin up an inexpensive VPS and set up a VPN server there. This gives you full control over encryption and routing.
Running a VPN via Docker
Deploy a containerized VPN using docker run -d --name openvpn --cap-add=NET_ADMIN --device /dev/net/tun and mount your configuration files. This method isolates the VPN from the host system.
Choosing a Commercial VPN on Ubuntu
If you need more features, consider a paid VPN service like ExpressVPN or NordVPN. They usually provide Ubuntu apps or .ovpn files that are easy to import.
Setting Up a VPN on Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)
WSL 2 supports VPN clients. Install OpenVPN inside WSL and connect as you would on a native Ubuntu installation.
Conclusion
A robust Free VPN for Ubuntu is essential for maintaining privacy and security in a world where data breaches and surveillance are commonplace. By following the detailed steps above, you’ll have a reliable VPN running on your Ubuntu machine.
Remember to keep your system and VPN client up to date, monitor for leaks, and use a kill switch for peace of mind. When you’re ready to explore beyond the free tier, consider upgrading to a paid VPN service for additional features and higher speeds.
Whether you’re a student, a developer, or a casual user, a well‑configured VPN protects your browsing, keeps your data private, and lets you explore the internet without restrictions.
By investing time in learning how to set up and troubleshoot a VPN on Ubuntu, you’re taking a proactive step toward digital sovereignty.
We hope this guide has helped you navigate the world of free VPNs on Ubuntu. Stay secure, stay anonymous, and enjoy the open internet.
