OpenVPN server on Windows
Introduction
OpenVPN is an open-source software application that implements virtual private network (VPN) techniques for creating secure point-to-point or site-to-site connections in routed or bridged configurations and remote access facilities.
This article contains step-by-step instructions on how to create and run an OpenVPN server on a PC that runs on Windows OS. The information provided here is geared towards users of almost any knowledge level. The instructions apply to Windows 7 and newer systems.
Configuration overview and prerequisites
Before we begin, let's overview the configuration that we are attempting to achieve and the prerequisites that make it possible.
Prerequisites:
- A PC or Laptop running on Windows 7 or a later version
- The PC in question must have a Public IP address
- An active Internet connection
Objective:
The purpose of this article is to provide the know-how needed to configure a working OpenVPN server on a Windows PC.
Step 1: installing OpenVPN software
- The first thing that we'll to do is to install the necessary software needed in order to run an OpenVPN server. You can download the OpenVPN installer file from here.
Simply run the downloaded file and follow the instructions of the installation guide.
- Important note: at one point before the installation process, you will be prompted to select which components should be included in the installation. Make sure to select EasyRSA as it will be needed later on to generate keys and certificates. You can leave the rest as defaults:
