How to use the command 'mullvad' (with examples)

Mullvad is a command-line client for the Mullvad VPN service, designed to enhance online privacy by masking your IP address and encrypting your internet traffic. Its simplicity and robust privacy features make it a preferred choice for those seeking anonymity on the internet. The Mullvad client can be operated through straightforward commands, each serving specific tasks that enhance the VPN’s utility. Below, we explore various use cases of the Mullvad command, showcasing the practical application of each command with associated examples.

Use case 1: Link your Mullvad account with the specified account number

Code:

mullvad account set account_number

Motivation:

Linking your Mullvad account with the specified account number is crucial for activating and using Mullvad VPN services. This step effectively authorizes the command-line interface (CLI) to interact with your account, permitting further operations like connecting to servers and checking your VPN status. Without this initial setup, other Mullvad commands wouldn’t be functional, making this the foundational step for all subsequent Mullvad VPN activities.

Explanation:

• mullvad: This is the main command used to operate the Mullvad VPN CLI application.
• account: This argument specifies that the operation to be performed is related to the user’s account settings.
• set: This sub-command allows changes to be made to the account configuration.
• account_number: This argument should be replaced by your specific Mullvad account number, which is a unique identifier that links the client to your account.

Example Output:

Account is set to <your_account_number>.

This message confirms that your account number has been successfully set, enabling you to proceed with further actions.

Use case 2: Enable LAN access while VPN is on

Code:

mullvad lan set allow

Motivation:

In certain scenarios, you might want to access devices within your local area network (LAN), such as printers or file shares, while being connected to the Mullvad VPN. By default, VPNs often restrict LAN access for security reasons, which can be limiting for network functionalities. Enabling LAN access ensures that while your internet traffic remains protected, you can still interact with devices on your local network seamlessly.

Explanation:

• mullvad: The fundamental command invoking the Mullvad VPN application.
• lan: This argument indicates that the operation pertains to local area network settings.
• set: This specifies that you are altering a setting.
• allow: By passing this argument, we’re instructing the Mullvad client to enable or permit LAN access even while the VPN is active.

Example Output:

LAN access is allowed.

This output confirms that LAN access has been successfully enabled, allowing you to communicate with local network devices while maintaining a secure VPN connection.

Use case 3: Establish the VPN tunnel

Code:

mullvad connect

Motivation:

Establishing a VPN tunnel is a primary action needed to secure your internet connection. By doing so, your online activities are encrypted and routed through Mullvad’s servers, anonymizing your IP address and protecting your privacy. This command is essential for anyone looking to safeguard their online interaction from prying eyes, whether from hackers on public networks or tracking entities online.

Explanation:

• mullvad: Engages the Mullvad VPN client for operation.
• connect: This argument tells the client to initiate a connection to a Mullvad VPN server, effectively encrypting all your internet traffic.

Example Output:

Connected to Mullvad VPN on server <server_name> at <country>.

This message indicates that your connection to the Mullvad VPN server was successful, highlighting the server’s location to which you’ve been connected.

Use case 4: Check status of VPN tunnel

Code:

mullvad status

Motivation:

Checking the status of your VPN connection is crucial to ensure that your online activities are always routed securely through the VPN tunnel. This command provides a quick overview of whether your connection is active, which server you are connected to, and the overall status of your VPN service. It is especially important to verify connection status after setup or if experiencing connectivity issues.

Explanation:

• mullvad: Invokes the Mullvad VPN CLI application.
• status: This argument queries and reports the current status of your VPN connection, providing vital information about the connection status.

Example Output:

Status: Connected
Server: <server_name> at <country>
IP: <current_ip_address>

The output reveals essential details about your VPN connection, including whether you are currently protected, which server you’re using, and the IP address assigned to you by the VPN.

Conclusion:

The Mullvad command-line interface provides a straightforward and effective means of managing VPN operations for enhanced online privacy and security. Each command serves a unique function, from setting up and linking your account, enabling LAN access, connecting to a VPN server, to checking your connection status. Understanding and utilizing these commands ensures that users can leverage Mullvad VPN’s full capabilities, maintaining anonymity and secure internet usage.