However, while native apps from providers like ExpressVPN and CyberGhost will securely connect you to their server networks via OpenVPN automatically, there are reasons why you might want to set up your OpenVPN connection yourself. You might be running an older operating system that does not support the native apps, for example, but still want to securely access the robust server network offered by a premium VPN provider. Or you might just want the satisfying feeling of taking control of your own internet security and anonymity. Whatever your reason for manually configuring OpenVPN on your mobile device or computer, we’ve got you covered with detailed setup guides below. We should offer a disclaimer, however: While manually setting up your VPN connection can offer a great deal of geeky fun – and might be necessary if your operating system isn’t supported – premium VPN services strongly recommend using their native OpenVPN apps for the best security and privacy protection.
Best VPNs with Native OpenVPN Apps for Your Device
Before we get into manual configuration options, here’s a quick look at a few top VPN services that give you OpenVPN’s security the easy way. By using native clients from one of these providers, you can get all the security of OpenVPN with no manual setup required!
1. ExpressVPN
Native ExpressVPN apps use the OpenVPN protocol by default and will choose the most secure settings for your connection automatically. However, you can choose other protocols within the app or via manual installation if you prefer. ExpressVPN uses military-grade encryption with AES, doesn’t keep user logs, and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee for new users. It’s also the fastest premium VPN we’ve tested. Get ExpressVPN NOW!
2. CyberGhost
Native CyberGhost apps are supported by most operating systems and devices, and use the OpenVPN protocol by default. You can protect up to 7 devices with one subscription, too. CyberGhost uses military-grade 256-bit encryption technology, adheres to a strict no-log policy, and offers more than 9,074 servers worldwide. New users can test out the service with the 45-day money-back guarantee, though most of this VPN’s happy users stick with it long term. Get CyberGhost NOW!
Advantages of the OpenVPN Protocol
The term “VPN protocol” refers to the combination of encryption and transmission methods that VPN providers use to make sure you can safely and anonymously connect to their servers. OpenVPN remains the industry standard for VPN connections. It provides a robust and reliable combination of speed and security. And because OpenVPN is open-source software, it becomes stronger and more secure over time as developers continuously inspect and strengthen the code. OpenVPN was released in 2001 and has been repeatedly tested and improved ever since. It supports the strongest encryption algorithms and cyphers, including military-grade 256-bit with AES, and offers an industrial-strength security infrastructure designed to withstand and protect against both passive and active attacks. In time, another protocol will surpass OpenVPN; that’s the nature of technology. Recently, the release of open-source versions of IKEv2 gave a big boost to that protocol’s status. For now, however, OpenVPN remains the first protocol we look for and the last one we would give up.
How to Set Up OpenVPN on Your Device – Installation Guides
We are going to use ExpressVPN for our examples, and will cover Mac OS, Windows, Linux, Android, and iOS. However, you can also set up OpenVPN on many other devices and operating systems, including routers and Raspberry Pi. You can find more guides on the ExpressVPN website. To set up OpenVPN manually, you will need to download a client that allows you to connect to a network via the OpenVPN protocol. We’ll explain which third-party app you need for your device below. Remember that while these instructions will allow you to connect to OpenVPN, you still need to subscribe to ExpressVPN – or another VPN provider – in order to access VPN servers.
Windows OpenVPN Setup Guide
Mac OS X OpenVPN Setup Guide
If you are a Mac user, you can use either the TunnelBlick client or the Viscosity client to manually install OpenVPN. For this example, we are going to use Viscosity.
Linux OpenVPN Setup Guide
On a Linux system, you can connect to OpenVPN via Via Ubuntu, Debian, and Fedora. We are going to use Ubuntu for this example.
Android OpenVPN Setup Guide
iOS OpenVPN Setup Guide
Manual OpenVPN Installation with Other VPNs
If instead of ExpressVPN, you choose CyberGhost VPN, you’ll find that the manual setup process for your device is very similar to the steps shown above. And if you’re looking for other trustworthy VPN options for your computer or phone, see our top providers list below. All of them offer apps with OpenVPN as the default protocol and support manual OpenVPN setup as well.
Summary
The OpenVPN protocol remains the industry standard for its combination of speed, encryption strength, and code security. The best VPN providers offer apps that use OpenVPN by default or through an easy Settings change within the apps. However, there are still circumstances in which you might want to set up the protocol manually. Whether you have an older device or are just interested in how the process works, now you know how to bypass the native apps and connect to OpenVPN in a few simple steps! If you want to learn more about the differences between various VPN protocols, check out our comprehensive guide to the most secure (and least secure) VPN tunneling methods. For a great VPN with OpenVPN built right into the apps, try any of these highly recommended providers. Follow the links to get an insider’s deal!
The information above can be used to track you, target you for ads, and monitor what you do online.
VPNs can help you hide this information from websites so that you are protected at all times. We recommend ExpressVPN — the #1 VPN out of over 350 providers we've tested. It has military-grade encryption and privacy features that will ensure your digital security, plus — it's currently offering 49% off.
Visit ExpressVPN
