====== OpenVPN: Linux/*BSD/*NIX CLI generic method ======

This documentation is for people comfortable with command line interface.


===== OpenVPN installation =====

Install the openvpn package for your distribution, or compile from [[https://openvpn.net/community-downloads/|source]]. You need OpenVPN 2.3.4 or newer.

For Debian/Ubuntu based systems, the command is: ''sudo apt-get install openvpn''


===== OpenVPN configuration =====

Generate and download a configuration file ([[https://www.arethusa.co/account/|My account > Services: VPN > "Generate OpenVPN configuration file" > "Generate"]]), and save it in your home directory (or any place you want on your computer).


===== DNS configuration =====

When using this connection method, OpenVPN will not automatically configure your computer to use the DNS servers provided by the VPN.

You need to:
  * install a script to dynamically update your DNS configuration when the VPN goes up or down,
  * or configure your computer to use public DNS resolvers (easiest way),
  * or install a local DNS resolver and configure your computer to use it (best choice if you don't reboot your computer very often).


===== Connection =====

  * Open a new terminal.
  * If you did not save the configuration file in your home directory, ''cd'' to that directory.
  * Type: ''%%sudo openvpn --config arethusa.ovpn%%''
  * Enter your VPN username, then your VPN password (if needed).
  * Keep the terminal open.

Once connected, [[ip_check|check your IP addresses]].

Press Control-C when you want to stop the VPN.


===== Diagnostics =====

The OpenVPN log is directly shown on your terminal.