How to Install and Configure OpenVPN Access Server?

Virtual Private Network (VPN) technology is essential for secure remote access to networks and resources. OpenVPN Access Server is a popular VPN solution that provides a scalable and robust VPN infrastructure for enterprises and organizations of all sizes. In this tutorial, we will walk through the complete process of installing and configuring OpenVPN Access Server on Ubuntu 20.04.

Prerequisites

Before we start, ensure you have the following prerequisites

• A VPS or dedicated server with Ubuntu 20.04 installed

• Root access to the server

• A domain name pointing to your server IP address

• A static IP address for the server

• Basic knowledge of Linux command line

System Update

The first step is to update the Ubuntu system to the latest packages. Run the following commands

sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade -y

Download and Install OpenVPN Access Server

To install OpenVPN Access Server, download the package from the official website. Use the following command

wget https://swupdate.openvpn.org/as/openvpn-as-2.8.9-Ubuntu20.amd_64.deb

Once the package is downloaded, install it using the following command

sudo dpkg -i openvpn-as-2.8.9-Ubuntu20.amd_64.deb

If there are any missing dependencies, fix them by running

sudo apt-get install -f

Initial Configuration

After installation, the OpenVPN Access Server creates a default admin user called openvpn. Set a password for this user

sudo passwd openvpn

Access the web-based administration interface by opening a web browser and navigating to

https://<server-ip-address>:943/admin

Replace <server-ip-address> with the static IP address of your server. You will see a warning message because the server uses a self-signed SSL certificate. Click "Advanced" and proceed to the web interface.

Log in using username openvpn and the password you set earlier. You will see the OpenVPN Access Server dashboard.

Network Configuration

Before creating VPN users, configure the network settings. Click on the "VPN Settings" tab and configure the following

After configuring the network settings, click the "Save Settings" button and restart the server when prompted.

User Management

To create VPN users, follow these steps

1. Click on the "User Management" tab

2. Click the "Create User" button

3. Enter a username and password for the user

4. Select the "VPN Access" checkbox

5. Optionally, set additional permissions and restrictions

6. Click "Save Settings"

After creating a user, you can download the OpenVPN configuration file by clicking on the user's profile and selecting "Download Configuration".

Client Connection

To connect to the VPN, install an OpenVPN client on your device and import the configuration file. The process varies by platform

• Windows/macOS/Linux Use OpenVPN Connect or community clients

• Android/iOS Install OpenVPN Connect from app stores

• Web-based Access https://<server-ip>:943 for browser-based connection

Advanced Features

OpenVPN Access Server offers several advanced features

• Two-Factor Authentication Enhanced security with TOTP or SMS

• LDAP/Active Directory Integration Centralized user management

• Multi-Gateway Support Load balancing across multiple servers

• Custom Routing Fine-grained traffic control

Firewall Configuration

Configure UFW firewall to allow VPN traffic

sudo ufw allow 22/tcp
sudo ufw allow 443/tcp
sudo ufw allow 943/tcp
sudo ufw allow 1194/udp
sudo ufw enable

Conclusion

OpenVPN Access Server provides a comprehensive VPN solution with enterprise-grade security and management features. Following this installation guide, you can quickly deploy a secure VPN infrastructure for remote access to your network resources. Remember to regularly update the software and implement proper security practices to maintain a secure VPN environment.