VPN Server are now more popular than ever as more people realize how important online security and privacy are.
However, paying for a VPN or signing up for a free VPN service does not guarantee your privacy.
A VPN server can be a great option if you want to keep your browsing private.
This article will show you how to set up a VPN from home.
Let's get to the point.
Tips to Set Up a VPN From Home
Here are the steps to set up a VPN on multiple devices.
Setup a VPN Server on a Router
You can install a VPN on a router to provide network-wide VPN coverage. You don't need to worry about your VPN provider limiting the number of simultaneous connections or whether your device can be installed as VPN-compatible.
It is best to install VPN software on your router to make sure all your Internet traffic is encrypted. These routers support VPN protocols such as OpenVPN or Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol.
Configuring a Router to be a VPN
You will need to set up and install the VPN on routers that have built-in VPN functionality.
- Open the router configuration panel. Type the router's IP address in the search bar of your browser and log in using your credentials.
- Find the VPN settings. It should be under "Advanced" and "Advanced settings".
Configure the VPN client. This will depend on which VPN you use and what router you are using. You will need to download and copy the configuration files to your client folder. - The majority of VPN providers and routers offer instructions in their manuals, or online, on how to configure VPN.
Flashing Routers to Use It as a VPN
While VPN-compatible routers can be convenient, they are also expensive.
You can save money by flashing your firmware with third-party firmware. This firmware will include built-in VPN server support. Tomato, OpenWRT, and DD-WRT are all popular options.
After you have the new firmware installed, you will need to configure the router to run the VPN client.
This method will only work if your router supports the latest firmware.
Setup a VPN Server on Mac or Windows
Windows OS has a function that allows you to host VPN servers. It's called "Incoming Connections". However, it uses PPTP (a tunneling protocol Microsoft developed back in 1999), which isn’t the most secure.
An OpenVPN server is a better option. This is the industry standard for security, but it is slower than WireGuard.
These are the basics.
- Modify firewall settings. This will allow you to set up port forwarding, and allow inbound connections.
- OpenVPN software is available for download. Ensure that you check the "EasyRSA” box during installation.
- Install TAP drivers, and configure EasyRSA
- Create the Certificate authority and VPN certifications.
- Configure the VPN client clients with configuration files and configure them using these files.
More detailed information can be found on your Windows device or OpenVPN’s website.
You can create a VPN server on a macOS computer. However, you will need to do some extra steps to configure your Mac to support the protocol.
You will need to install third-party software such as Tunnelblick or Homebrew since macOS does not natively support OpenVPN.
Create a VPN Server With Raspberry Pi
There are many benefits to setting up a VPN server with your Raspberry Pi. The most important is that it is inexpensive and uses very little power.
You will need a micro SD card and either an Ethernet cable or Wi-Fi connection to make it work.
It can be difficult to create a Raspberry Pi VPN server. The VPN script supports OpenVPN as well as WireGuard protocols. This makes it easy.
First, you need to set up port forwarding. Next, download the PiVPN install script from the GitHub page. Set up a static IP and assign a user to the configuration files. After that, you can connect to your home network via a VPN tunnel.
How to Set Up a VPN Server in the Cloud (AWS)
You can also set up a VPN in the cloud from any provider including Azure, DigitalOceal, and Scaleway.
Many providers offer subscription packages. Some of these packages are free or low-cost and usually include limited versions of their services.
AWS offers a free tier that can be used to host a private VPN server. It is available for 12 months.
Things You Need to Know Before Setting Up a VPN at Your Home
If you need to connect to your local network while you are away from home, a home VPN is a great idea.
Before you can start tweaking your device you need to determine whether your address is static (constant and constant) or dynamic (temporary changes).
You can see the type of IP address that you have on your computer's Network settings, under System Preferences.
A static IP address is required to set up a VPN server from home.
A Dynamic Domain Name System is required if your network device uses a dynamic address. Your IP records will be updated automatically by the DDNS whenever an IP address changes. You can configure DDNS on any device, including routers, Windows, and Raspberry Pi.
It is important to remember that a VPN setup at home requires technical knowledge to avoid security vulnerabilities.
Although you may believe you will get there error-free, it is not a good idea to set up your VPN if your upload bandwidth is slow.
A paid VPN, which is commercially available, will let you download, torrent, stream, and browse anonymously without the need to set up a home VPN.
Bottom Line
A VPN server can be an excellent way to increase online security and secure your network. It can also allow you to access it privately and securely from anywhere, even when you aren't there. No matter what type of device you choose, technical knowledge is required to ensure a secure setup and minimize security risks.