How to Install WireGuard VPN on a Linux VPS
WireGuard is a modern VPN protocol known for its simplicity and performance. Follow this guide to install WireGuard VPN on your Linux VPS using an installer script.
Prerequisites
- A Linux VPS (Ubuntu 20.04 or later recommended). Why not try our £2 VPS club offer in the Germany or the UK
- Root or sudo access.
Step 1: Update Your System
First, ensure your system is up to date:
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -yStep 2: Install WireGuard Using a Script
You can use the wireguard-install script, a popular installer for setting up WireGuard VPN easily.
curl -O https://raw.githubusercontent.com/angristan/wireguard-install/master/wireguard-install.sh
chmod +x wireguard-install.sh
sudo ./wireguard-install.shStep 3: Configure WireGuard
The script will prompt you to configure various settings:
- Choose IPv4 or IPv6: Select the appropriate IP version for your VPN.
- Set Server Interface: Enter the interface (e.g.,
eth0) if not auto-detected. - Set Server IP: The script will propose a default internal IP address for your VPN.
- Set Server Port: Default is
51820, but you can change it if needed. - Select DNS Provider: Choose a DNS provider for your VPN clients.
Step 4: Generate Client Configuration
The script will also generate a configuration file for a client:
- Client Name: Enter a name for the client configuration.
- Generate Client Configuration: The script will create a configuration file in the
/etc/wireguard/clientsdirectory.
Step 5: Start WireGuard
After installation and configuration, start the WireGuard service:
sudo systemctl start wg-quick@wg0
sudo systemctl enable wg-quick@wg0Step 6: Set Up the Client
Transfer the generated client configuration file to your client device securely. On the client device, install WireGuard and use the configuration file.
For Linux Clients:
- Install WireGuard:
sudo apt install wireguard -y - Copy Configuration File:
sudo cp /path/to/client.conf /etc/wireguard/wg0.conf - Start WireGuard:
sudo wg-quick up wg0 sudo systemctl enable wg-quick@wg0
For Other Platforms:
Install WireGuard from the respective app store or official website. Import the configuration file using the WireGuard application.
Step 7: Verify the Connection
To check the status of your WireGuard connection, run:
sudo wg showAdditional Tips
- Firewall Configuration: Ensure that your firewall allows traffic on the WireGuard UDP port (default 51820).
- Security: Regularly update your WireGuard and system to the latest versions.
Resources
Why Would I Want to Use WireGuard?
- Faster than OpenVPN: WireGuard is designed to be lightweight and efficient, offering superior performance and lower latency compared to OpenVPN. This means quicker connection speeds and a better overall user experience.
- Cheaper than Big VPN Providers: Setting up your own WireGuard VPN on a VPS is often more cost-effective than subscribing to commercial VPN services. This allows for significant savings, especially if you need multiple VPN connections.
- Enhanced Privacy and Control: Running your own VPN ensures complete control over your data and network. It prevents tracking by commercial VPN providers, giving you peace of mind regarding your online privacy.
- DDoS Protection for Your Home Network: By routing your traffic through a WireGuard VPN on a VPS from a provider like us, you can protect your home network from DDoS attacks. This is especially useful for gamers and those running home servers, as it helps maintain stable and secure connections.
- Improved Security: WireGuard uses state-of-the-art cryptographic techniques, ensuring robust security for your data. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to secure their online activities.
Using WireGuard provides several benefits, making it an ideal choice for personal and professional use. Whether you seek better performance, cost savings, enhanced privacy, or improved security, WireGuard offers a reliable solution.
