VPN

PiVPN - Turn Raspberry Pi into a Fully Functional VPN Server for More Privacy

Hazem Abbas

Oct 25, 2024 — 6 min read

Photo by Privecstasy / Unsplash

PiVPN is a lightweight, super user-friendly project that simplifies setting up a VPN server on a Raspberry Pi.

It allows you to configure either OpenVPN or WireGuard, two of the most popular VPN protocols, to securely access your home network from anywhere.

With PiVPN, you can protect your data, bypass regional restrictions, and connect securely to your home network, even on public Wi-Fi.

Features

Support for OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols
Simple setup through a command-line installer
Manage VPN clients easily with generated profiles and QR codes
Access local devices and networks remotely
Enhanced security through encryption
Automatic updates and maintenance tools
Integrates with Bitwarden
iOS keychain support
Supports multiple DNS providers
Supports Custom DNS Servers
Custom Search Domains (OpenVPN Only)
Runs with Pi-Hole®
Doesn't need to be a Raspberry Pi™, It runs on any x86_64 system
Supports unattended installation for automated deployments
Elliptic curve encryption keys up to 512 bit

Installation Guide: PiVPN on Raspberry Pi

Prerequisites:

Raspberry Pi running a compatible OS (e.g., Raspberry Pi OS).
Access to the terminal (either directly or via SSH).
Static IP configured on your router for the Raspberry Pi (recommended).
Port forwarding set up on your router (for VPN access).

Step 1: Update the System

Open a terminal and update your Raspberry Pi to ensure you have the latest software.

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

Step 2: Install PiVPN

Execute the following command to download and run the PiVPN installer:

curl -L https://install.pivpn.io | bash

This will initiate an interactive setup process.

Step 3: Choose a VPN Protocol

The installer will ask you to choose between OpenVPN and WireGuard.

OpenVPN: Widely supported but may be slower due to higher encryption overhead.
WireGuard: A faster, modern VPN protocol with a lean codebase.

Select the protocol based on your needs.

Step 4: Configure Network Settings

The installer will prompt you to select:

Interface: Choose your Pi’s network interface (typically eth0 or wlan0).
Port Number: Use the default or specify your own (ensure it matches the port forwarded on your router).

Step 5: Create VPN Clients

After installation, you can create VPN profiles with the following command:

pivpn add

You will need to provide a client name and, for WireGuard, the installer will generate a QR code for easy import into mobile apps.

Step 6: Test the VPN Connection

Download the client profile from your Raspberry Pi.
Import it into a VPN client on your device (such as the OpenVPN app or WireGuard app).
Test the connection by connecting to the VPN and verifying access to your home network.

Step 7: Managing PiVPN

List Clients: pivpn list
Revoke a Client: pivpn revoke [client-name]
Show WireGuard QR Code: pivpn -qr [client-name]

Final Note

Setting up a VPN with PiVPN on a Raspberry Pi is an excellent way to protect your online activities and access your home network remotely.

Whether you use OpenVPN for its versatility or WireGuard for its speed, PiVPN makes the process straightforward, even for beginners. With just a few commands, you can turn your Raspberry Pi into a personal VPN server.