Introduction to OpenVPN

Published on: October 12, 2023

OpenVPN is an open-source virtual private network (VPN) solution that allows for safe and encrypted internet connections. Numerous developers and collaborators have supported OpenVPN since its creation in 2001. After gaining a large open-source community, the project became the norm in practice in the open-source networking arena. With over 60 million downloads, OpenVPN is a widely acknowledged VPN technology that permits users to build a secure and encrypted communication channel. It operates well even while connected to possibly hazardous or untrustworthy networks, including public Wi-Fi hotspots.

OpenVPN secures connections by using a custom security protocol that utilizes SSL/TLS for key exchange. It makes the data sent over the internet encrypted and private. It provides flexibility and scalability by supporting various network configurations. These are networks with dynamic public endpoints, networks through connection-oriented stateful firewalls, and networks over NAT. OpenVPN is used to configure a scalable, load-balanced VPN server farm. You can use either static-key-based conventional encryption or certificate-based public-key encryption with OpenVPN to set up an expandable, load-balanced VPN server premise. Since it is an open-source project, any individual can access and evaluate its code. This has resulted in an ecosystem of coders, engineers, and enthusiasts to test, flourish, and upgrade the protocol on a regular basis. The community contributes to its safety, reliability, and stability over time.

OpenVPN was adapted and implemented on a variety of platforms over time and turned into a broadly accessible and operational tool. DD-WRT, for instance, which is a Linux-based alternative OpenSource firmware, contains an OpenVPN server, while a multi-protocol VPN server, SoftEther VPN, also adopts the OpenVPN protocol. Although it provides more protection, strong encryption, and more trustworthy connections, it could come with limitations like lower speeds, necessitating manual setup, and occasionally requiring third-party programs.

The following topics are going to be covered in this article:

• What is OpenVPN?
• Why Use OpenVPN?
• How OpenVPN Protects Your Privacy?
• What are the Disadvantages of OpenVPN?
• How OpenVPN Works?
• What is OpenVPN Protocol?
• What are the features of OpenVPN?
• Open-source security of OpenVPN
• Is OpenVPN compatible with my devices?
• What client software options are available for users to connect to OpenVPN?
• OpenVPN or WireGuard: Which protocol is better?
• What are the Differences Between OpenVPN and IPsec/IKEv2?
• How Fast Is OpenVPN?
• How to Install OpenVPN on OPNsense?
• How to Install OpenVPN on pfSense?
• How to Protect OpenVPN Network?
• What are Top VPN Services That Offer OpenVPN?

What is OpenVPN?

OpenVPN is a software program and protocol that creates encrypted connections to enable secure communications over a network and the Internet. OpenVPN is mainly a virtual private network (VPN) technology. A VPN is a means of establishing a private and secure communication channel over an insecure or public network. OpenVPN enables users to safely and privately have access to resources, share information, and browse the internet. It scrambles data packets using encryption methods and protocols, making them unreadable to unauthorized parties. This encryption assures that data, even if intercepted during transmission, cannot be interpreted without the correct decryption keys.

OpenVPN establishes encrypted tunnels between devices or networks, which ensures the secrecy, integrity, and authenticity of data transported between endpoints. These tunnels encapsulate data packets and protect them from exposure to the public network, effectively creating a secure pathway for communication. Peers authenticate each other via pre-shared secret keys, certificates, or username/password pairs. When utilized in a multi-client-server arrangement, it enables the server to issue an authentication certificate to each client via digital signatures and certificate authority. It runs over User Datagram Protocol (UDP) or Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) transports, multiplexing created SSL tunnels on a single TCP/UDP port.

OpenVPN is available in two versions:

1. OpenVPN Community Edition, which is a free and open-source version.
2. OpenVPN Access Server which delivers enterprise VPN solution.

OpenVPN provides multiple kinds of user and device authentication. Username/password, digital certificates, and multi-factor authentication are some of these methods. It is functional with many devices like PCs, cellphones, routers etc., and many operating systems. This cross-platform support enhances its versatility.

One more feature of OpenVPN, which is considered as an advantage by many, is that it is an open-source software. The software's source code is accessible to the public and can be examined and vetted by the community. The transparency contributes to its security and reliability. With over 60 million downloads, OpenVPN is used in a variety of applications. Remote access to corporate networks, site-to-site connections between multiple sites, safeguarding public Wi-Fi access points, and providing secure communication between IoT devices are some of these scenarios. Because of its long track record and grassroots backing, it is a stable and trusted choice for many users, and it has evolved into the standard open-source VPN solution in the network field.

Why Use OpenVPN?

Because of its multiple features, OpenVPN is a preferred option for VPN connections. Clients can customize OpenVPN to their individual requirements. They have control over encryption, ciphers, network layouts, and other options. It is a low-cost solution for many clients, and it works with the main operating systems.

OpenVPN is widely regarded as one of the most reliable VPN protocols. It improves protection by employing 256-bit encryption keys and advanced ciphers. It is harder for attackers to intercept and manipulate data packets. OpenVPN supports a wide range of encryption methods and provides sophisticated safety mechanisms such as HMAC authentication, OpenSSL, and shared keys. It employs perfect forward secrecy, which does not let an intruder decrypt previous communications in case they take over the private key. Its' client-server model helps establish a secure channel between the VPN client and server, ensuring a stable and secure connection. OpenVPN is good at getting around firewalls with its adaptability to TCP and UDP protocols, allowing it to bypass firewalls, especially when set to Port TCP 443, which makes VPN traffic look like regular internet activity.

For more than two decades, OpenVPN has been the industry-standard VPN protocol. It gathered a huge and active community of users and developers in time. The vast group brings assistance and resources for diagnostics and customization. Given its lengthy history and community support, it is a reliable and trusted option for many users. Its code has undergone an audit, and the developers have immediately fixed any security issues found. It is one of the most widely used protocols for router configurations and makes it possible for customers to secure their whole network.

How OpenVPN Protects Your Privacy?

OpenVPN's privacy policy focuses on transparency, data protection, and user control over personal information. OpenVPN does not log the user's traffic or the content of any communications. It does not throttle or rate limit the Internet connection and does not perform deep or shallow packet inspection of the traffic, except where requested by the customer for firewall purposes.

OpenVPN collects and uses personal data for the purpose of providing and improving its services. Users' voluntarily submitted information or anonymous, general data gathered through cookies and website analytics are both acceptable sources of this data. It only keeps personal data long enough to meet the goals of the privacy policy. It adopts and maintains suitable technical and organizational security measures to secure and ensure the confidentiality of customer data. OpenVPN does not sell or disclose user information to third parties unless it is required by law. Users have the right to access, correct, update, or have their personal information deleted. They can reject the processing of their personal data, request that it be restricted, or request portability.

The open-source design of OpenVPN adds to its transparency and security. The code is open to the public, assuring that there are no concealed defects or risky designs and implementations for user privacy. It abides by the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) and does not intentionally collect personal information from individuals under thirteen. To secure personal information, it implements Standard Contractual Clauses for data transfers from the European Economic Area (EEA).

OpenVPN has a privacy policy that ensures that all supplied sensitive or credit information is transmitted via Secure Socket Layer (SSL) technology and then encrypted into their payment gateway provider's database. It is now accessible only to individuals who have been granted special access rights to such systems and are expected to keep the content confidential. It provides security recommendations after installation, such as securing the root user account, keeping the Access Server updated, securing the administrative user for the Admin Web UI, installing an SSL certificate for the web interface, and hardening the web cipher suite string.

What are the Disadvantages of OpenVPN?

OpenVPN is a very popular, secure, and reliable VPN protocol, but it does have some disadvantages. Here are a few of the known disadvantages of OpenVPN:

• Because it employs more advanced encryption methods, it may be slower than other protocols, such as WireGuard.
• The need to download and set up a client software application is not the best scenario for all types of users.
• OpenVPN doesn't come integrated into all devices, so users must install a third-party VPN client program for them.
• It utilizes TCP Port 443, so some school and business entity firewalls may block the usage. The reason is that the same port is also employed for HTTPS connections.
• It is possible that it comes with high overheads and some proxy issues

Here are some tips for mitigating the disadvantages of OpenVPN:

• OpenVPN supports a variety of encryption algorithms. Pick a fast one like AES-256-GCM.
• Pick a VPN client app that has been tested for good performance.
• Connect to a server that is close to you to establish a faster connection.
• Try 80, 443, or another TCP port if a firewall is blocking OpenVPN, although some firewalls may block all TCP ports.

How OpenVPN Works?

To secure data exchanged between devices, OpenVPN employs a variety of encryption techniques. SSL/TLS is one of them, and it protects data delivered over the VPN connection from spying and intrusion. It establishes a virtual tunnel between the connected devices. Data can be safely sent from one endpoint to another over the tunnel without being exposed to the internet or other potentially insecure networks.

To secure the tunnel, OpenVPN employs a number of additional mechanisms. To begin with, it protects data integrity by employing HMAC (Hash-based Message Authentication Code). This approach assures that data passed via the tunnel isn't interfered with. Secondly, OpenVPN uses replay protection by employing sequence numbers to prevent replay attacks, in which an attacker tries to resend captured packets to trick the victim into taking a specific action. It utilizes perfect forward secrecy, meaning even if an attacker is able to compromise the session key, they will not be able to decrypt past or future traffic.

OpenVPN data transmission and tunneling operate basically by following the following steps:

1. Establish a TLS connection
2. Exchange authentication credentials
3. Agree on the encryption algorithm
4. Create the tunnel,
5. Transmit data (IP traffic, web traffic, and email traffic) through the tunnel
6. Close the tunnel

OpenVPN supports various authorized authentication approaches for devices and clients to access the VPN. Username/password authentication and digital certificates are some of these methods. For better security results, multi-factor authentication is utilized. OpenVPN is employed in scenarios like accessing a corporate network remotely, enhancing the internet connection's level of security, or creating site-to-site VPNs between different locations.

What is OpenVPN Protocol?

OpenVPN is mainly a secure VPN protocol. A VPN protocol is a collection of procedures, rules, and steps that allow a device to do a task. Hence, the OpenVPN protocol defines a way to set up a VPN connection. Meanwhile, OpenVPN, as software, is an application that helps set up a VPN server or network individually.

One of the most popular open-source encryption protocols is OpenVPN, for some specific reasons. It creates secure point-to-point or site-to-site connections by utilizing a proprietary security protocol with SSL/TLS for key exchange. The OpenVPN protocol uses SSL/TLS key exchange to apply encryption when creating VPN tunnels. This process employs 256-bit encryption as standard, which is a high level of protection that is almost not able to be cracked in a reasonable time period. The protocol supports advanced encryption techniques like Blowfish, AES, and CAST-128, making data transmissions almost invulnerable to outside attacks. As it's based on TLS (Transport Layer Security) and SSL( Secure Sockets Layer), it works according to widely accepted standards. The OpenVPN project enhances the security level even further by using a custom security protocol instead of employing an existing one. OpenVPN supports UDP or TCP tunnel transports. This renders your web traffic indistinguishable from conventional HTTPS over SSL traffic, making it exceedingly difficult to identify and prevent. Furthermore, OpenVPN employs Perfect Forward Secrecy (PFS). For each session or data transfer, PFS generates a distinctive encryption key. Replacing encryption keys makes it very hard for external attackers to steal keys and work around encryption ciphers.

What are the features of OpenVPN?

OpenVPN is an open-source virtual private network (VPN) system that offers a range of features and benefits, making it a popular choice for secure and reliable network connections. Some of the key features of OpenVPN are as follows:

• Cross-platform portability: OpenVPN is designed to run on a variety of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile platforms. It is recognized as versatile, accessible, and portable.
• Stability and scalability: OpenVPN has earned a reputation for its stability and capacity to handle significant deployments. Both startups and enterprise-level corporations benefit from this. It features dependable protocols for connecting to VPN servers regardless of difficult network situations.
• VPN framework: OpenVPN provides a flexible and customizable framework that allows for site-specific customization. It distributes customized installation packages to clients and supports alternative authentication methods through its plugin module interface. It is employed to create a variety of different types of VPN connections, like site-to-site VPNs, remote access VPNs, and mesh VPNs. Users can choose the encryption algorithms and other settings that they need.
• Industrial-strength security model: OpenVPN uses SSL/TLS for session authentication and the IPSec ESP protocol for secure tunnel transport over UDP, providing protection against both passive and active attacks. The X509 PKI protocol is used for session authentication, the TLS protocol is used for key exchange, the OpenSSL cipher-independent EVP interface is used to encrypt tunnel data, and the HMAC-SHA1 algorithm is used to verify tunnel data.
• Modular design: A modular design separates the cryptographic functions (which are handled by the OpenSSL library) from the IP tunneling functions (which are handled by the TUN/TAP virtual network driver). This modularity enhances performance and flexibility.
• Authentication and encryption protocols: OpenVPN allows peers to authenticate each other using pre-shared secret keys, certificates, or username/password combinations, as well as two-factor authentication. This gives the user flexibility to select the best-fit authentication approach in the particular network. It also supports AES-256-GCM, ChaCha20-Poly1305, and Camellia-256-GCM encryption algorithms.
• IPv6 support: OpenVPN fully supports IPv6 as the virtual network protocol within a tunnel, allowing it to create connections across IPv6.
• Proxy and firewall bypass: OpenVPN can connect through most proxy servers, including HTTP ones, and can get past network address translators (NATs) and firewalls, making sure that connections are stable in a range of network settings.
• Data Link Layer access: AlliedWare Plus OpenVPN, a version of OpenVPN, provides full Data Link Layer access, SSL/TLS authentication and encryption, and implicit firewall/NAT traversal, offering a secure and seamless connection for remote employees.
• Multiple connections and tunneling: OpenVPN has support for multiple VPN connection types, including site-to-site VPNs, remote access VPNs, and mesh VPNs. It supports DNS tunneling to bypass censorship and improve privacy and lets dynamic IP addresses, which is ideal for mobile users.

Open-source security of OpenVPN

Open-source software is crucial for cybersecurity and provides a wide array of solutions to today's real-world problems. The software allows innovative solutions to be brought to issues relating to cybersecurity, private access, scaling databases, scaling cloud infrastructure, software management, and provisioning, among others. Open source promotes increased transparency and security by allowing anyone to examine, assess, and modify the source code. This improves the general safety and stability of the product by allowing programmers and security specialists to detect and resolve bugs and weaknesses in security more quickly. Because productive members examine the source code as it is written, security vulnerabilities are resolved. You can examine the source code to determine whether the quality is satisfactory. For instance, a group of developers who work on the project can remedy a problem if a security flaw is found in an open-source project. This organization is capable of quickly finding a repair and providing a patch that may be widely applied, thereby improving the security of the software for all users.

On the contrary, privately owned software is developed behind closed doors, with only the product's vendor having access to the underlying code. You never know how developers get the outcomes they do, including employing shady techniques that introduce bugs or other concerns in the future. It is the vendor's responsibility to address the problem and make a patch available when a security flaw in proprietary software is found. If the supplier lacks the drive to do so, the procedure might take time or possibly fail entirely.

Being an open-source project comes with some benefits. The OpenVPN community, which includes numerous developers and collaborators from both OpenVPN Inc. and the larger OpenVPN community, supports OpenVPN. The encouragement for cooperation and innovation is the major benefit of being an open-source project with a large organization. Other projects and extensions around the VPN protocol are another aspect. It provides availability, quality, easy integration, and training. The OpenVPN community provides resources, forums, and support for users, making it a robust and dynamic ecosystem for VPN solutions.

Is OpenVPN compatible with my devices?

OpenVPN adheres to industry standards. It is a user-space VPN daemon that supports SSL/TLS, RSA certificates, and X509 PKI, NAT, DHCP, and TUN/TAP virtual devices. It is, on the other hand, incompatible with IPSec, IKE, PPTP, SSTP(/docs/network-security-tutorials/what-is-sstp)and L2TP.

Starting with version 1.5, OpenVPN can tunnel over a TCP connection, but a web browser cannot be utilized for an OpenVPN server connection. OpenVPN is not a web application proxy, although it employs the SSL/TLS protocol for encryption. It is an OSI layer 2 or 3 full-mesh tunneling solution that entails both the client and the server running OpenVPN.

OpenVPN is compatible with a wide range of platforms and operating systems. The commercial version of OpenVPN, OpenVPN Access Server, is compatible with the majority of VPN clients that use the OpenVPN protocol. With that, certain preferences on a client device may restrict or deactivate some normally functioning parts, which would result in not having a perfect establishment. Following is a list of OpenVPN-compatible devices and operating systems:

• Linux, Windows XP/Vista/7, and later, OpenBSD, FreeBSD, NetBSD, Mac OS X, and Solaris
• Linux distributions like Ubuntu, Debian, Red Hat Enterprise Linux, CentOS, and Amazon Linux 2
• Android version 4.2 and higher, and iOS version 9.0 or higher.

What client software options are available for users to connect to OpenVPN?

Users can connect to OpenVPN using a variety of client software options available for different operating systems and devices. OpenVPN's versatility and popularity have led to the development of numerous compatible clients. Here are some common client software options for connecting to OpenVPN:

1. OpenVPN Client: OpenVPN Inc. develops and maintains the official OpenVPN client software. It has support for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and ChromeOS. The recommended client program for the OpenVPN Access Server is OpenVPN Connect, which has a practical import capability. It lets users import profiles directly from their OpenVPN Access Server or save profiles to disk.
2. Tunnelblick: It is a popular OpenVPN client for macOS that is open-source. It comes with a simple user interface that allows users to effortlessly set up and connect to OpenVPN servers. It allows a variety of setups, like concurrent connections. It includes sophisticated features and encryption protocols like DNS leak protection and auto-reconnecting.
3. OpenVPN for Android: It is an open-source client for mobile devices running on Android to connect to OpenVPN servers. A variety of settings are supported, like concurrent connections. Some advanced capabilities come with automatic reconnection and DNS leak security.
4. OpenVPN GUI: It is a free and open-source client for Windows devices to connect to OpenVPN servers. It supports simultaneous connections, DNS leak protection, and auto-reconnectability.
5. OpenVPN Client Export Package: This is a pfSense software package that lets you export OpenVPN client configurations for different platforms like Windows, macOS, and Linux. It streamlines the process of setting up and joining OpenVPN servers.
6. VPNCilla: VPNCilla is an Android app that allows users to connect to OpenVPN servers. It is known for its compatibility with a wide range of OpenVPN configurations.
7. Viscosity: Viscosity is a paid OpenVPN client available for macOS and Windows. It offers advanced features like script execution, traffic routing, and more.
8. Linux Network Manager: Several releases of Linux come with OpenVPN integration via the Network Manager. Configurations can be made by the Network Manager interface to access OpenVPN servers.

These are a handful of the numerous client software alternatives for connecting to OpenVPN. Several VPN providers, like ProtonVPN, Surfshark, ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Private Internet Access, provide their own unique client software support for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.

The user's device, operating system, and particular needs and preferences all influence the client software choice. Its beneficiary should consider the following aspects while deciding on the client software:

• Pick client software that is suitable for your OS.
• Evaluate the characteristics that are crucial to you. Is it important for you to be able to connect to numerous servers at the same time and to use various protocols for encryption?
• Pick a client software preference that is simple to install and use.
• Try out a few different OpenVPN client software options, as most VPN services offer free trials or money-back guarantees.
• Ensure that the chosen client is compatible with the OpenVPN server configurations you intend to use, as server settings may vary.

OpenVPN or WireGuard: Which protocol is better?

WireGuard is a newer VPN protocol that has gained popularity due to its speed, simplicity, and modern cryptography. Some differences between WireGuard and OpenVPN are outlined below:

• WireGuard is generally faster than OpenVPN and requires less battery consumption due to its simplified codebase and use of newer cryptography algorithms. Some tests showed it is up to three times faster, and the battery efficiency supports mobile devices. It handles network changes better than OpenVPN, making it a more reliable connection for mobile users.
• WireGuard's codebase is much smaller than OpenVPN's, with about 4,000 lines of code, compared to OpenVPN's 70,000 lines of code, making it easier to audit and verify for security researchers.
• WireGuard is generally considered easier to use than OpenVPN, with a simpler configuration process and less bulky codebase. Meanwhile, OpenVPN is more commonly installed on embedded devices.
• OpenVPN does not keep any information that identifies a user, whereas WireGuard keeps the user's IP address on the server until the next reboot.
• WireGuard uses a fixed set of algorithms, including ChaCha20 for encryption, Poly1305 for authentication, Curve25519 for key agreement, and BLAKE2s for hashing. OpenVPN, in contrast, offers a wide range of cryptography algorithms to choose from. This flexibility allows OpenVPN to quickly change the algorithm used in case of a vulnerability, while WireGuard requires a software update on all devices.
• OpenVPN has wider support and is more commonly used, making it a better choice for situations where compatibility is crucial, such as accessing censored regions or dealing with strict firewalls. It has been the industry-standard VPN protocol for over 20 years and was developed by a community of contributors. Its long history and community support make it a reliable and trusted choice for many users.
• OpenVPN is often used for secure remote access to corporate networks by remote employees or traveling users. It is suitable for connecting multiple offices or remote locations in a secure manner. It is a good choice when compatibility with older or diverse systems is required. OpenVPN clients and servers are available for a wide range of operating systems, making it versatile and accessible on many platforms. It has undergone extensive testing and auditing over time and has a good track record.
• WireGuard is designed with simplicity and minimalism in mind. Its software is more compact and simpler to audit, yet it employs an innovative encryption architecture. This could minimize the attack surface while enhancing privacy. It is well-known for its high performance and low latency, thus providing an excellent solution for instances in which speed is critical. WireGuard is a stateless protocol that does not rely on sophisticated connection construction and teardown operations. It differs from OpenVPN with this feature, and this simplicity can improve reliability and efficiency. The enhancement in performance and low resource requirements make it suitable for mobile devices, IoT applications, and peer-to-peer VPN setups.

It's important to note that WireGuard is a newer protocol and has been put through less rigorous testing than OpenVPN, and its traffic is more easily detected and blocked by firewalls. OpenVPN also offers higher privacy and more encryption options than WireGuard. Personal needs, preferences, and priorities determine the decision between WireGuard and OpenVPN. The devices being used and network environments also make a difference. They both come with distinct benefits and drawbacks, but they won't cause any problems while providing secure connections in general. OpenVPN is mostly preferred for a mature, highly configurable, and flexible VPN solution, especially in corporate or complex network environments. WireGuard, on the other hand, is better to pick to prioritize performance, simplicity, and security, particularly for mobile, IoT, or privacy-centric use cases. WireGuard is especially valuable in scenarios where speed and efficiency are critical.

What are the Differences Between OpenVPN and IPsec/IKEv2?

OpenVPN would be a wise choice if you want a VPN that is extremely flexible and can avoid censorship and firewalls. If you want a VPN that is swift and stable and can rejoin quickly after a connection loss, IPsec/IKEv2 is a suitable option. Below are some more details, similarities, and the main differences between OpenVPN and IPsec/IKEv2:

• The design and implementation have differences. OpenVPN utilizes SSL/TLS for encrypted communication and is an open-source protocol for VPN connections, whereas IPsec/IKEv2 is a standard protocol that is frequently used in conjunction with IPSec for extra protection functions.
• Many OSs support IPsec and IKEv2 for easy setup without the use of third-party programs. A distinct client for each operating system has to be utilized for OpenVPN.
• Because of its design and development, IKEv2 is generally faster than OpenVPN when speed is the topic. Meanwhile, it is possible that the specific connection and network conditions could affect the true performance.
• IKEv2 and OpenVPN are both considered secure VPN protocols as they guarantee full confidentiality, authentication, and integrity.
• OpenVPN is considered to have the strongest encryption available, while IKEv2 offers a wide selection of cryptographic algorithms.
• OpenVPN is known for its stability and flexibility, allowing multiple instances and supporting both L2 and L3 class connections. On the other hand, IPsec/IKEv2 can be more complex to configure and may require additional setup for devices behind NAT routers.
• OpenVPN offers a single and configurable port with the option to choose between UDP or TCP, while IPsec/IKEv2 can have multiple ports and protocols.
• OpenVPN can easily work over NAT, while IPsec/IKEv2 may require specific NAT traversal support from both the server and client.
• Because it uses certain ports and protocols, IKEv2 is easier to block than OpenVPN. In some scenarios, this is considered an advantage.
• OpenVPN is an open-source protocol for transparency supported by a vast community. IPsec/IKEv2 is a proprietary technology that Cisco and Microsoft created, though there are some open-source alternatives as well.

How Fast is OpenVPN?

Although some users claimed that they reached a speed of over 800 Mbps, it is not considered the typical speed. A more realistic average speed was measured at around 400 Mbps. In general, the speed that can be delivered over OpenVPN strongly depends on the encryption and cipher suite, the server hardware and its location, the network bandwidth and its condition, and the device that the client employs.

Some recommendations for attaining the fastest OpenVPN speeds include:

• Connecting to a server that is near your location.
• Using the fastest available encryption protocol, such as AES-256 with GCM.
• Disabling features such as ad-blocking and virus protection if not needed.
• Using a VPN service that has a vast network of fast servers.
• Utilizing a wired connection instead of wireless, if possible.
• Making sure that the hardware and software employed are up-to-date, including the VPN client software.

How to Install OpenVPN on OPNsense?

This part of the article is going to explain how to install and configure the OpenVPN server on your OPNsense firewall that will allow your remote clients to safely access the Internet through your VPN tunnel. It is recommended that you install Zenarmor on your OpenVPN server to increase the security of your network. You can block security threats coming from your OpenVPN tunnel interface by configuring Zenarmor®, using web filtering, and applying application control.

The OpenVPN configuration on the OPNSense firewall can be set up by following the steps provided in the link below, which are quite simple and includes:

1. Creating a Certificate Authority
2. Configuring OpenVPN in OPNsense
3. Creating a VPN User
4. Adding TOTP Access Server
5. Creating SSL VPN Service
6. Adding Firewall Rules
7. Exporting OpenVPN Client

How to Install OpenVPN on pfSense?

OpenVPN has been built into numerous router systems, including OPNsense and pfSense software, allowing customers to operate OpenVPN as a VPN client or VPN server on their routers. The pfSense® software is an open-source customized installation of FreeBSD that can be used as a router and firewall and is completely administered via a web interface. It has been demonstrated to be effective in a wide range of situations. It is useful and flexible to be employed from single device protection in small home networks to numerous network devices in large organizations and any educational establishments.

This section of this article will explain how to install and configure the OpenVPN server on the pfSense® software firewall. Distant users can safely access the office or home network. They can route all network traffic through to secure the internet traffic.

It is recommended to install Zenarmor on your OpenVPN server for a more secure network. By configuring Zenarmor, applying web filtering, and applying application control, you can block security threats coming from your OpenVPN tunnel interface.

The OpenVPN configuration is quite straightforward. You can install OpenVPN on pfSense® software by just following the five main steps given below:

1. Installing the Client Export Package
2. Creating a Certificate Authority
3. Configure OpenVPN on pfSense using the OpenVPN Wizard
4. Creating a VPN User
5. pfSense OpenVPN Client Export

How to Protect OpenVPN Network?

Deploying Zenarmor NGFW is the best way for securing your OpenVPN network. Zenarmor is a network security solution that can be integrated with OpenVPN to provide a variety of benefits, including:

• Improved security: Zenarmor includes a number of security features, such as advanced threat protection, web filtering, and intrusion detection and prevention (IDS/IPS), that can help protect OpenVPN networks from a variety of threats.
• Improved visibility: Zenarmor provides insights into OpenVPN traffic, which can aid in the identification and mitigation of threats.
• Enhanced compliance: By providing audit trails and reports on OpenVPN activity, Zenarmor NGFW can assist organizations in complying with security regulations.

You have three options for installing Zenarmor on your OpenVPN server: as a virtual machine, a container, or directly on physical hardware. You can easily and quickly install Zenarmor on your VPN server. In the Zenarmor installation process, during the deployment mode and interface selection section, you can choose the OpenVPN interface you want to safeguard. You may follow the instructions for protecting OpenVPN network with Zenarmor:

1. Select the deployment mode depending on your topology and requirements. By default, the Routed mode with emulated netmap driver option is selected.

2. Select the OpenVPN Interface(s) that you want to be protected by Zenarmor.

3. Click the Set Security Zone drop-down menu to assign a tag for the interface. You may set a custom security zone name, such as VPN, or select one of the options available.

   

   Figure 1. Setting Security Zone

4. To add a custom security zone tag, click the Custom link in the Set Security Zone drop-down menu. After typing the new security zone name, such as VPN, click the Add button.

   

   Figure 2. Setting Custom Security Zone

Zenarmor offers a rich collection of web filtering and application control features that are invaluable for keeping malicious traffic at bay when it enters your network via the VPN tunnel.

For web filtering configuration, simply head to the Zenarmor web interface and navigate to the "Web Controls" section on the Policies page. There, you can establish rules to block access to particular websites or categories of websites.

To control applications, go to the "Application Control" tab on the Polices page. You can make rules here to stop specific programs from running on your network.

You can use Zenarmor Free Edition to protect your OpenVPN network from a wide range of possible threats forever. This is a very important security measure that keeps your VPN safe.

What are Top VPN Services That Offer OpenVPN?

When choosing a VPN service, it is important to consider your individual needs and preferences. Some factors to consider when selecting a VPN service are listed below:

• Using strong encryption protocols and a good reputation for its security

• Servers in locations that you need to connect to, with good speeds

• Being easy to set up and use

All these VPN services offer OpenVPN as a standard feature, and they all have a good reputation for making VPN services reliable. Note that the availability, quality, and support of VPN services may depend on platforms and can change over time. The specific features, pricing, and server locations can change from one product to another. The best practice is to have a look at the latest user reviews and feedback and to try out a few different VPN services before you choose one. They can range in price from a few dollars per month to over $10 per month, but most VPN services offer free trials and a guarantee to pay you back in case of dissatisfaction. There is a list of the top VPN services that offer OpenVPN below:

1. ExpressVPN: It is a high-quality OpenVPN client with a large network of extra-fast servers. It has the ability to work with major operating systems, and your money is paid in a month if you are not satisfied. It is a widely recognized VPN service that offers OpenVPN as one of its protocols. It's known for its fast speeds, strong security features, and a large server network. The servers are located in more than 90 different countries, and there are more than 3000.

2. NordVPN: A mid-range VPN with secure and robust OpenVPN encryption, fast servers, stealth service, and various customizations It's known for its robust security, no-logging policy, and large number of servers worldwide. It supports OpenVPN on most platforms. It offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

3. PrivateVPN: An inexpensive OpenVPN service for all popular platforms, with a strict no-logs policy and excellent geo-spoofing capabilities. It is compatible with major platforms and ensures privacy and access to restricted content.

4. IPVanish: IPVanish is an all-round OpenVPN client that excels in privacy protection, features high-speed servers optimized for seamless streaming and delivers a top-notch OpenVPN implementation for an enhanced VPN experience.

5. VPNArea: A great value-for-money VPN with strong OpenVPN encryption, a zero-logging policy, DNS leak protection, and other useful security features.

6. CyberGhost: CyberGhost offers OpenVPN support along with a user-friendly interface. It's a good choice for beginners and offers a large server network.

7. Private Internet Access (PIA): Private Internet Access (PIA) is well-known for its emphasis on privacy and security. It supports OpenVPN, has a strong no-logging policy, and has an easy-to-use UI.

8. VyprVPN: VyprVPN offers OpenVPN as one of its protocols, and it is noted for its robust privacy standards. They have their own server facilities.

9. Surfshark: Surfshark offers OpenVPN on all of its supported platforms and allows unlimited simultaneous connections. It's known for its affordability and strong privacy protections, with a robust service, fast servers, and the ability to shield your data over public networks.

10. Mullvad: Mullvad is a privacy-focused VPN service that supports OpenVPN. It's known for its anonymous account creation and commitment to user privacy.

11. AirVPN: AirVPN is an open-source VPN service that prioritizes privacy. It supports OpenVPN and contains sophisticated capabilities for clients with advanced needs and preferences.

12. ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN includes OpenVPN support as well as robust privacy features. It provides free tier with limited servers and

13. TunnelBear: TunnelBear is a user-friendly VPN service that supports OpenVPN on most platforms. It's known for its simplicity and a free tier with a limited amount of data.

These VPN services are known for their reliable and secure OpenVPN implementations, offering users a combination of privacy, speed, and ease of use.