Using Raspberry Pi as a VPN server: A secure and cost-effective solution

In today’s digital world, privacy and security are more important than ever. Whether you’re working remotely, accessing sensitive data, or simply browsing the web, a VPN (Virtual Private Network) is essential for encrypting your internet traffic and protecting your online identity. Instead of paying for third-party VPN services that store your data on external servers, you can take full control by using a Raspberry Pi as a VPN server.

Setting up a Raspberry Pi VPN server provides a private, secure, and cost-effective solution that allows you to safely connect to your home network from anywhere in the world.

Why is it a good idea to use Raspberry Pi as a VPN server?

Privacy & Security – Encrypts your internet connection, protecting your data from hackers, ISPs, and government surveillance.
Access Your Home Network Anywhere – Securely connect to your local devices (PCs, smart home systems, NAS) from any location.
Bypass Geo-Restrictions – Use your home IP address to access region-locked content when traveling abroad.
No Monthly Fees – Unlike paid VPN services, your Raspberry Pi VPN server runs at no additional cost.
Low Power Consumption – Raspberry Pi runs 24/7 without significantly increasing your electricity bill.

Which Raspberry Pi model should you use?

• Raspberry Pi 4 (4GB or 8GB RAM) – Best for high-speed VPN connections and handling multiple devices.
• Raspberry Pi 5 – Offers even better performance with improved networking and processing power.
• Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W – Ideal for lightweight VPN usage, such as remote file access and web browsing.

Even an older Raspberry Pi 3B+ can efficiently run a VPN server if you’re connecting only a few devices.

How to set up Raspberry Pi as a VPN server

1. Choose a VPN protocol

There are two popular choices when setting up a VPN on Raspberry Pi:

• WireGuard – Faster, more modern, and lightweight. Recommended for better performance.
• OpenVPN – More widely supported, but slightly slower compared to WireGuard.

2. Install VPN software

To set up Raspberry Pi as a VPN server, you can use the PiVPN script, which simplifies installation:

• Open a terminal and run the following command:

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

• Follow the on-screen setup instructions to configure your WireGuard or OpenVPN server.

3. Configure port forwarding on your router

To allow external devices to connect, log into your router’s settings and forward the necessary ports (typically 51820 for WireGuard or 1194 for OpenVPN).

4. Connect devices to your Raspberry Pi VPN

• Generate VPN configuration files for each device.
• Import the configuration into a VPN client on your smartphone, laptop, or tablet.
• Connect securely to your home network from anywhere!

Benefits of a Raspberry Pi VPN server

1. Secure remote access to your home network

If you frequently travel, a Raspberry Pi VPN server allows you to securely connect to your home network and access local files, smart home devices, or NAS storage from anywhere in the world.

2. Encrypt public Wi-Fi connections

When using public Wi-Fi at cafes, hotels, or airports, your internet traffic is vulnerable to hacking and data interception. By routing your connection through your Raspberry Pi VPN, you ensure end-to-end encryption, protecting your data from cyber threats.

3. Bypass geo-restrictions and ISP throttling

Streaming platforms, news websites, and online services often impose geo-restrictions on content. With a Raspberry Pi VPN server, you can access content from your home country while abroad. Additionally, some ISPs throttle video streaming speeds—using your own VPN helps bypass these restrictions.

4. Avoid third-party VPN data logging

Many commercial VPN services log user data or sell it to advertisers. By hosting your own ad-free and private VPN on Raspberry Pi, you have complete control over your internet traffic without relying on external companies.

Take control of your online privacy

Using a Raspberry Pi as a VPN server is an affordable, secure, and customizable way to protect your online privacy. Whether you’re securing your internet traffic, accessing home devices remotely, or bypassing geo-blocks, a Raspberry Pi VPN server provides a fast and reliable solution—without the monthly costs of paid VPNs. (See more Raspberry Pi projects)