How to Create a VPN on a VPS Server and Get a Dedicated/Static IP Address for Free

In a world where online privacy and security have become paramount, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have gained immense popularity. However, what most people don’t realize is that they can actually set up their very own VPN using a VPS server. This powerful yet often overlooked solution allows you to take full control of your online anonymity, all while enjoying the benefits of a dedicated IP address. This article will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to set up a VPN on a VPS server and obtain a free dedicated IP address.

Section 1: Understanding VPNs and VPS Servers

VPN

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) create an encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet, ensuring that your online activities remain private and secure. They offer several benefits, including:

1. Enhanced Security: VPNs protect your data by encrypting it, making it difficult for hackers and third parties to intercept or decipher.
2. Anonymity and Privacy: VPNs mask your IP address and replace it with one from a different location, making it challenging to trace your online activities back to you.
3. Bypassing Restrictions: VPNs allow you to access geo-restricted content and overcome censorship by routing your connection through servers in different locations.

VPS

VPS (Virtual Private Server) is a virtualized server that operates independently within a physical server. It offers advantages such as:

1. Scalability: VPS servers provide flexibility in terms of resource allocation, allowing you to adjust computing power, storage, and bandwidth based on your needs.
2. Cost efficiency: Compared to dedicated servers, VPS servers are more affordable, making them an attractive option for individuals and small businesses.
3. Control and customization: With a VPS server, you have full control over the operating system, software installations, and configurations.

Section 2: Choosing the right VPS server provider

When selecting a VPS provider, consider the following factors:

1. Performance: Look for providers that offer reliable uptime, fast network speeds, and solid infrastructure to ensure optimal VPN performance.
2.  Pricing and plans: Compare pricing structures, including monthly fees, contract terms, and any additional costs for extra resources.
3.  Reliability and support: Check for customer reviews and support options to ensure prompt assistance in case of technical issues.

Recommended VPS server providers for VPN deployment include:

IONOS VPS Servers: Ionos offers cheap VPS hosting for as little as 1$ per month. This includes a CPU with 1 core, 1GB RAM and 10GB SSD, which should be enough to run a VPN server.

Oracle Cloud free tier: Oracle offers a free tier with 24GB RAM, 4 ARM cores and 200GB storage. For more cheap VPS options, check out this Reddit thread.

Section 3: Setting Up the VPS Server

To set up the VPS server for VPN usage, follow these steps:

1. Registering for a VPS Server Plan:

• Choose a suitable plan based on your requirements and budget.
• Complete the registration process, providing the necessary details and making the payment.

2. Selecting the Appropriate Server Configuration:

• Determine the desired server location and operating system (e.g., Linux).
• Select the appropriate server size, considering factors like CPU, RAM, and storage capacity.

3. Configuring the VPS Server for VPN Usage:

• Install necessary dependencies and security updates.
• Configure firewall settings to allow VPN traffic.
• Install and configure necessary network services, such as OpenVPN or WireGuard.

Section 4: Installing and Configuring the VPN Software

Choose the VPN software that suits your requirements. Popular options include OpenVPN and WireGuard. Follow these steps for installation and configuration:

1. Choosing the Right VPN Software:

Evaluate features, security protocols, ease of use, and community support to determine the best VPN software for your needs.

2. OpenVPN and WireGuard VPN Installation Guide:

• To install OpenVPN on a Linux server, click the link for a step-by-step tutorial. If, you’d like to try WireGuard, click this link.
• Update the server’s package repositories.
• Install the VPN software using the appropriate package manager 
• Configure the VPN software by setting up encryption, authentication, and other parameters.

3. Configuring the VPN Software on the VPS Server:

• Generate encryption keys and certificates for secure communication.
• Customize VPN settings, such as server location, protocol selection, and DNS configuration.
• Set up user authentication and access control to ensure authorized VPN usage.

Section 5: Testing and Troubleshooting

After setting up your VPN on the VPS server, it’s essential to test its functionality and address any potential issues. Follow these steps:

1. Verifying VPN functionality

• Connect to the VPN server from a client device using the provided configuration files.
• Visit websites or services to confirm that your traffic is routed through the VPN and the dedicated IP address.

2. Performing necessary tests for privacy and security

• Check your IP address using online tools to ensure it matches the dedicated IP address.
• Test DNS leakage to ensure your DNS requests are properly encrypted.
• Verify that your connection remains stable and secure during extended usage.

3. Troubleshooting common issues and their solutions

• Identify and troubleshoot common VPN connection errors, such as authentication failures or connection drops.
• Refer to the documentation and support resources of your chosen VPN software for troubleshooting assistance.
• Engage with online communities or forums for further guidance and solutions to specific problems.

Section 6: Downsides to using a VPS server for VPN configuration

While setting up a VPN on a VPS server offers numerous benefits, it’s important to be aware of the potential downsides:

Technical Complexity

Configuring and managing a VPN on a VPS server requires technical knowledge and expertise. It may involve working with command-line interfaces, configuring network settings, and troubleshooting potential issues. Beginners or those unfamiliar with server administration may find the process challenging.

Resource limitations

VPS servers have finite resources, including CPU, RAM, and bandwidth. Running a VPN on a VPS server may consume a significant portion of these resources, potentially affecting the server’s performance. It’s crucial to choose a VPS plan that can handle the anticipated VPN traffic and accommodate the needs of other applications or services.

Costs beyond the free dedicated IP Address

While you can acquire a free dedicated IP address, there may be additional costs associated with the VPS server itself. Depending on your requirements, you may need to upgrade to a higher-tier VPS plan, which could incur monthly fees. Additionally, if you require advanced features or premium VPN software, there might be associated costs.

Reliability and uptime

The reliability and uptime of your VPN are dependent on the VPS server provider. Some providers may experience occasional downtime or network issues, which can disrupt your VPN connection. It’s essential to choose a reputable and reliable VPS provider with a robust infrastructure and good customer support to minimize such occurrences.

Legal and jurisdiction considerations

Different countries have varying laws and regulations concerning VPN usage. While VPNs are generally legal, certain activities or the use of VPNs for illegal purposes may be prohibited. It’s important to understand the legal implications and comply with the laws of your jurisdiction when setting up and using a VPN on a VPS server.

Maintenance and updates

Operating a self-hosted VPN on a VPS server requires regular maintenance and updates to ensure optimal performance and security. This includes keeping the VPS server’s operating system, VPN software, and security patches up to date. Failure to maintain and update your VPN infrastructure may result in vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious actors.

Section 7: Downsides of a Dedicated/Static IP Address

While acquiring a dedicated IP address for your VPN may offer certain advantages, it’s important to be aware of the potential downsides associated with using a dedicated IP address:

Reduced anonymity

One of the primary benefits of using a VPN is the ability to mask your real IP address and maintain anonymity online. However, with a dedicated IP address, your online activities can be more easily traced back to you. This reduces the level of anonymity typically provided by dynamic IP addresses used in shared VPN environments.

Increased Targeting

With a dedicated IP address, you become a more specific target for potential attacks. Malicious actors may focus their efforts on identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities associated with your dedicated IP address. This can include targeted attacks, such as DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks, aimed directly at your IP address.

Limited Geo-Spoofing Capability

Dedicated IP addresses are tied to a specific location. While this may be advantageous in some cases, it limits your ability to spoof your location effectively. If you rely on a VPN to bypass geo-restrictions and access content from different regions, a dedicated IP address may restrict your ability to do so.

Difficulty in Changing IP Address

Unlike dynamic IP addresses typically used in shared VPN environments, dedicated IP addresses are fixed and not easily changed. If you wish to switch to a different IP address for privacy or security reasons, it may require additional administrative processes or even acquiring a new dedicated IP address.

Higher Costs

Acquiring a dedicated IP address for your VPN often incurs additional costs compared to using shared IP addresses. Some VPN providers may charge extra fees for a dedicated IP address, increasing the overall expense of maintaining your VPN service.

Limited Availability

Depending on the VPN provider and their infrastructure, the availability of dedicated IP addresses may be limited. It can be challenging to obtain a dedicated IP address in specific regions or countries, which may restrict your options and flexibility.

Potential for IP Address Blacklisting

If the dedicated IP address you are using for your VPN is associated with any suspicious or malicious activities, it may end up being blacklisted by certain services, websites, or online platforms. This can result in restricted access or additional scrutiny when using those services with your VPN.

Section 8: Benefits of a Dedicated/Static IP Address on a VPN

While there are downsides to consider, using a dedicated IP address on a VPN also offers several advantages that may be valuable to certain users:

Enhanced access to restricted networks

Some networks, such as corporate or government systems, may have strict access controls that only allow connections from specific IP addresses. By using a dedicated IP address, you can ensure reliable and uninterrupted access to these restricted networks, which can be beneficial for remote workers or businesses requiring secure access to specific resources.

Improved online banking and financial transactions

Financial institutions and online services often have stringent security measures in place. With a dedicated IP address, you can establish a consistent and trusted connection with these platforms, reducing the chances of encountering security checks or being flagged for suspicious activity, which can occasionally happen with shared IP addresses.

Uninterrupted online services

Some online services or websites may impose restrictions or limitations on shared IP addresses due to abuse concerns or to prevent fraudulent activities. With a dedicated IP address, you can avoid such limitations and ensure uninterrupted access to online services that may require a consistent and verified IP address.

Reputation management

Dedicated IP addresses can be advantageous for businesses or individuals engaged in online reputation management. By using a dedicated IP address, you can maintain a consistent online presence and control your digital reputation more effectively, as shared IP addresses may carry a risk of association with undesirable or malicious activities.

Reliable remote access

If you need to access your home or office network remotely, a dedicated IP address can provide a stable and secure connection. With a dedicated IP, you can establish remote access to devices, servers, or files within your network, allowing for seamless connectivity and efficient remote management.

Reduced risk of IP blacklisting

Shared IP addresses used by VPN services may sometimes be associated with abusive or malicious activities, leading to IP blacklisting by certain websites or services. By using a dedicated IP address, you minimize the risk of being impacted by such blacklisting, ensuring smoother browsing experiences and fewer access restrictions.

Compatibility with IP-based authentication

Some online services or applications rely on IP-based authentication for secure access. By using a dedicated IP address, you can ensure compatibility with these authentication methods, providing seamless access to IP-restricted services without the need for additional verification steps.

When evaluating the use of a dedicated IP address on a VPN, consider these advantages and assess whether they align with your specific needs and objectives. Depending on your requirements, the benefits of a dedicated IP address may outweigh the potential drawbacks, providing you with a tailored and reliable VPN experience.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully set up your own VPN on a VPS server and obtained a free dedicated IP address. 

Remember to regularly update and maintain your VPN to ensure optimal performance. With your self-hosted VPN, you can now browse the internet with confidence and peace of mind, knowing that your data is protected and your online activities are private. Stay safe!