OpenVPN VPS Hosting

The open-source application OpenVPN is a good and cost-effective way to ensure secure data transmission. Thanks to VPN (Virtual Private Network) technology, it can be used on the go from anywhere in the world. The basis for using the open-source application is usually a virtual server. Here you can find out everything you need to know about VPS hosting with OpenVPN.

After numerous incidents such as the NSA scandal, most people are now aware of how important security is when transmitting data over the Internet. This applies to both private individuals, but even more so to companies, where business-critical and confidential data is exchanged between employees and customers, as well as between the office computer and various mobile devices. Especially employees who connect to the internet while on the go through public hotspots in hotels, restaurants, cafes, airports, and train stations should ensure a secure connection to prevent confidential company data from falling into the wrong hands. The use of a VPN (Virtual Private Network) is recommended here, which can be implemented on a vServer using applications like OpenVPN.

What is a Virtual Private Network (VPN)?

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) ensures an encrypted data transfer between the user's own device, known as the VPN client, and the corresponding VPN server. Since the encrypted connection is independent of the applications used, data that would otherwise travel through the network unencrypted can also be transmitted securely. For example, protocols like HTTPS for browsing or SFTP for FTP transfers handle the encryption. With a VPN, data can be securely transmitted even over typically unencrypted protocols like HTTP or FTP. Connections to email services or individual software applications can also be secured in this way.

What is OpenVPN?

OpenVPN is a specific program used to establish a Virtual Private Network (VPN). The application utilises the program libraries of OpenSSL for encryption. OpenVPN is open-source software that can be used completely free of charge. Versions are available for almost all popular operating systems such as Windows, Linux, or Mac OSX. However, when setting up a Virtual Private Network (VPN), it is usually necessary to use a Dedicated Server with a Linux operating system. The transport protocols used are the User Datagram Protocol (UDP) and the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP). The connection is established between the OpenVPN client and the OpenVPN server. OpenVPN also uses virtual network devices such as the Tap Device, responsible for communication between the application program and the server's network card. Therefore, a server with OpenVPN must have the virtual network kernel drivers TUN and TAP.

VPS Hosting with OpenVPN

A VPS hosting with OpenVPN is not among the simplest solutions. Extensive basic knowledge of server administration and Linux is essential for successful setup. Additionally, depending on the application, one should consider the advantages and disadvantages of a virtual server:

A virtual server offers almost the same extensive access rights (Root access) as a dedicated server, allowing customers to make changes and settings directly at the operating system level. However, the system itself is available at significantly lower monthly costs, as it is a virtual system and the server hardware is shared by multiple customers simultaneously. Since OpenVPN itself is free software, there are no costs associated with its use. The major advantage of a VPS hosting with OpenVPN is therefore the cost factor. Secure data transmission from anywhere in the world, even over public and unsecured Wi-Fi or LAN networks, is affordable for any business with a small budget and even for individuals using this method.

Advantages of OpenVPN VPS hosting:

• Low costs
• Settings possible at the operating system level
• Secure data transmission

Unfortunately, there are also some disadvantages to this option. Since multiple users share the available hardware resources on a VPS, it is not possible to adjust the computing power to individual needs. In such cases, a switch to a better VPS is necessary, which also involves a system reinstallation due to the migration. Configuration and administration of the systems also require a person with expertise. Handling Linux and configuring OpenVPN on the VPS is relatively complex and can only be reliably done by skilled personnel. To access the VPN from end devices, corresponding software is also required on the client side. While this software is easier to use, it still needs to be installed and configured once, which may not be easy for those less tech-savvy. A competent system administrator is beneficial here as well, to set up the system correctly.

Disadvantages of OpenVPN VPS hosting:

• Shared hardware resources
• Expertise required for administration
• Software required on server and client side

If you also want to benefit from the numerous advantages of a secure connection and plan to use your own Virtual Private Network (VPN) for transferring your personal and business data, you can find suitable offers for VPS hosting for Open VPN here in our VPS hosting comparison.