How to use the command 'openvpn3' (with examples)

OpenVPN 3 is a robust, cross-platform client that provides secure VPN connections. It allows users to connect to VPN servers, import configurations, and manage sessions effortlessly. The OpenVPN 3 Linux client is an essential tool for anyone who values security and anonymity on the internet. By using this utility, you can protect your private data transmissions from prying eyes, circumvent censorship, and access geographically restricted content.

Use case 1: Start a new VPN session

Code:

openvpn3 session-start --config path/to/config.conf

Motivation:

Starting a new VPN session is essential for users who want to establish a secure connection to the internet. This use case is fundamental for accessing resources remotely, protecting sensitive data, and browsing privately on public networks. By starting a VPN session, the user’s data is encrypted, and its path is hidden from potential intruders.

Explanation:

• openvpn3: This is the command-line tool that invokes the OpenVPN 3 Linux client.
• session-start: This sub-command is used to initiate a new VPN session.
• --config path/to/config.conf: This argument specifies the location of the OpenVPN configuration file required to establish the connection. The configuration file contains the necessary parameters, such as server address, authentication method, and encryption settings.

Example Output:

Session path: /net/openvpn/v3/sessions/abcd1234
  Connection state: CONNECTING
  Configuration: path/to/config.conf
  Connected since: Thu, 12 Oct 2023 10:12:34

Use case 2: List established sessions

Code:

openvpn3 sessions-list

Motivation:

Listing established VPN sessions is useful for users who need to monitor active connections. This use case helps in tracking multiple sessions, managing resources, and ensuring that connections are maintained as intended. If a user has connected to several VPNs, being able to view them helps in easily identifying the sessions and making decisions, such as disconnecting unwanted or idle ones.

Explanation:

• openvpn3: Initiates the OpenVPN 3 client.
• sessions-list: This command lists all currently active VPN sessions, providing details like session paths and connection states.

Example Output:

Session path: /net/openvpn/v3/sessions/abcd5678
  Connection state: CONNECTED
  Configuration: /etc/openvpn/config1.conf

Session path: /net/openvpn/v3/sessions/xyz12345
  Connection state: CONNECTED
  Configuration: /etc/openvpn/config2.conf

Use case 3: Disconnect the currently established session started with a given configuration

Code:

openvpn3 session-manage --config path/to/config.conf --disconnect

Motivation:

Disconnecting from a VPN session is as important as starting one, especially when transitioning to a secure network or completing the tasks for which the VPN was needed. This use case is crucial for releasing resources, terminating unnecessary connections, and enhancing device security by stopping potentially vulnerable sessions.

Explanation:

• openvpn3: Opens the OpenVPN 3 client.
• session-manage: Provides various management options for VPN sessions.
• --config path/to/config.conf: Determines which active session to manage by specifying its configuration file.
• --disconnect: Completes the action of disconnecting the specified session.

Example Output:

Session path: /net/openvpn/v3/sessions/abcd1234
  Connection state: DISCONNECTED

Use case 4: Import VPN configuration

Code:

openvpn3 config-import --config path/to/config.conf

Motivation:

Before connecting to a VPN, users need to import their configurations. This process sets up the required parameters for connecting to VPN servers. Importing a configuration file is versatile as it allows easy switching between different network setups without recreating configurations each time. This step is particularly beneficial for users who frequently use various VPNs.

Explanation:

• openvpn3: The client for connecting to VPN.
• config-import: This command facilitates the importing of a configuration file into the OpenVPN 3 client.
• --config path/to/config.conf: Points to the configuration file that the user wants to import.

Example Output:

Configuration import succeeded.
UUID: {uuid-reference}
Imported configuration path: path/to/config.conf

Use case 5: List imported configurations

Code:

openvpn3 configs-list

Motivation:

Viewing imported configurations is helpful for users managing multiple VPN connections. This command displays each configuration that has been set up, providing an overview to manage and organize them effectively. Knowing which configurations are available mean users can identify and switch to the correct setup when necessary.

Explanation:

• openvpn3: Invokes the OpenVPN 3 application.
• configs-list: This command outputs a list of all the configuration files that have been imported into the OpenVPN client.

Example Output:

Configuration ID: {uuid1}, Description: VPN for Office Access
Configuration ID: {uuid2}, Description: Home Network
Configuration ID: {uuid3}, Description: Public Wi-Fi Protection

Conclusion

Using the ‘openvpn3’ command, Linux users can efficiently manage VPN connections, ensuring privacy and security for their data transmissions. Whether it’s starting a new session, listing active sessions, disconnecting, or managing configurations, OpenVPN 3 provides a comprehensive command-line utility for various VPN requirements. These command examples highlight the practical utility for both casual users and IT professionals who prioritize secure internet use.