How to Set Up a Secure VPN for Your OMC Cloud Server - Quick & Easy Guide

Short version: a VPN creates an encrypted connection between your computer and your cloud server and blocks unauthorised access. The fast way: in the OMC console, create a new server from the OpenVPN template and your VPN server is ready in under 60 seconds (1 core, 2GB RAM and 30GB storage are plenty). For experienced users: install it by hand with the openvpn-install script, copy the .ovpn file to your computer and connect with OpenVPN Connect, Tunnelblick or NetworkManager.

Why do you need a VPN in the cloud?

A cloud server is usually reachable over the internet, which exposes it to break-in attempts. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) lets you:

• Create a secure, encrypted connection between your computer and the cloud server.
• Reach your servers securely from anywhere in the world.
• Protect your data from unauthorised access.
• Reduce risk and significantly improve information security.

There are several common VPN types: OpenVPN (open source, highly secure and easy to install), WireGuard (modern, fast and lightweight) and IPsec/L2TP (older, but still common and secure). This guide focuses on OpenVPN, one of the most widely used and reliable.

What is the fastest way to set up a VPN on OMC?

In the OMC cloud console you can launch a VPN server from a ready-made OpenVPN template (image) in under 60 seconds, with no manual installation and no advanced knowledge.

1. Log in to the cloud console at console.omc.cloud.
2. Click "Create New Server".
3. Choose the OpenVPN template from the list.
4. Pick a spec. The minimum is enough here: 1 CPU, 2GB RAM and 30GB storage.

When the server is ready you get the OpenVPN login details straight away and can start using it.

• Fast, simple setup with no prior technical knowledge.
• A stable, secure VPN environment with all the recommended settings.
• Saves time and effort compared with a manual install.

How do you install OpenVPN manually?

For those who want full control over the installation:

Step 1: Prepare the server

Connect to the server over SSH and update the operating system:

ssh username@server-ip-address
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

Step 2: Install OpenVPN

Use the popular angristan/openvpn-install script:

curl -O https://raw.githubusercontent.com/angristan/openvpn-install/master/openvpn-install.sh
chmod +x openvpn-install.sh
sudo ./openvpn-install.sh

The script walks you through the setup:

• Choose the server's IP address.
• Choose UDP (recommended), or TCP if needed.
• Choose a port. The standard one is 1194.
• Choose the encryption. AES-256-GCM is recommended.
• Create a user for your connection.

The installation takes a minute or two.

Step 3: Connect to your VPN

The install creates a configuration file called username.ovpn. Copy it to your computer:

scp username@server-ip-address:/home/username/username.ovpn ~/Desktop/

Install an OpenVPN client, load the .ovpn file into it and connect:

• Windows: OpenVPN Connect
• macOS: Tunnelblick
• Linux: NetworkManager-OpenVPN

How do you check that the VPN works?

1. Once connected, check your public IP address in a browser or terminal.
2. Make sure it has changed to your cloud server's address.
3. If it has, you are connected securely.

Frequently asked questions

What spec does a VPN server need?

Very little: 1 CPU, 2GB RAM and 30GB storage are enough for most uses.

OpenVPN or WireGuard?

Both are secure. OpenVPN is widely used and supported almost everywhere; WireGuard is faster and lighter. The ready-made template on OMC is OpenVPN.

Which port and protocol should I use?

UDP on port 1194 by default. Use TCP only if the network you connect from blocks UDP.

How do I add another user?

With the manual install, run the script again and choose to add a user. Each user gets their own .ovpn file.

Conclusion

A VPN is one of the most important tools for securing access to a cloud server. On OMC you can choose between a template VPN server that is ready in a minute and a manual install with full control. Need help with the setup or advice? OMC's support experts are available for any question.