OSMC, formerly known as Raspbmc is the leading-edge video entertainment center for Raspberry Pi. Based on Kodi/XBMC, the platform offers sleek interface & massive media library that takes Raspberrians’ entertainment experience to new heights.
But, the geo-restrictions may spoil your fun when you try to watch mainstream channels. In this guide, we will help you how to bypass geo-restrictions and access leading-edge channels with OSMC VPN from anywhere.
Installing VPN on OSMC for Raspberry Pi
You can follow these simple steps to configure VPN on OSMC for Raspberry Pi that include:
- First add a PPTP client by using following command:
sudo apt-get install pptp-linux
- Now, you need to create a new file in /etc/ppp/peers and give it a name of your choice. Afterwards follow these configurations:
- pty “pptp $VPNHOSTNAME –nolaunchpppd –debug”
- name $USERNAME
- password $PASSWORD
- remotename PPTP
- require-mppe-128
- require-mschap-v2
- refuse-eap
- refuse-pap
- refuse-chap
- refuse-mschap
- noauth
- debug
- persist
- maxfail 0
- defaultroute
- replacedefaultroute
- usepeerdns
- Finally, run this command:
- sudo pon $FILENAME
Now, you can use PPTP VPN on OSMC for Raspberry Pi without any hassle.
Note: We have selected PureVPN as OSMC VPN for PPTP installation. The service offers exceptional privacy features along with a multitude of servers spread around the world
Setup OpenVPN on Raspberry Pi
Setting up OpenVPN on Raspberry Pi is an easy 5 step procedure. However, it is relatively extensive process as compared to PPTP VPN setup. To begin installing OpenVPN on Raspberry Pi, you need to follow these steps:
Disclaimer: We have selected PureVPN as a Raspberry Pi OSMC VPN in our setup guide. Currently, PureVPN stands as a leading Raspberry Pi VPN, due to a range of servers, strong encryption protocols, multi logins and wallet friendly plans.
Here’s how Setup OpenVPN on Raspberry Pi:
Step 1: Setup DNS forwarder on Raspberry Pi
First, you need to install DNS forwarder on your device. A DNS forwarder will protect you against DNS leaks at all times. We will use “dnsmasq“ as a DNS forwarder in following setup process.
How to install dnsmasq on Raspberry Pi:
- Sudo apt-get install -y dnsmasq
- Edit/etc/dnsmasq.conf:
- Sudonano/etc/dnsmasq.conf
Now, uncomment the settings of “domain-needed” and “bogus-priv”, as shown below:
- # Never forward plain names (don’t use dot or domain part) domain-needed# Never forward addresses in the non-routed address spaces.bogus-priv
Next, uncomment settings of “interface” and set it to eth0:
- # If you want dnsmasq to listen for DHCP and DNS requests only on# specified interfaces (and the loopback) give the name of the# interface (eg eth0) here.# Repeat the line for more than one interface.interface=eht0
Finally, Save the file with applied changes and proceed by restarting dnsmasq service:
- sudo service dnsmasq restart
Step 2: Setup OpenVPN on Raspberry Pi
- sudo apt-get install -y openvpn
Now, you need to download OpenVPN configuration files from here. Upon download completion, extract the files to pi users’ home folder /home/pi/openvpn
Next, continue by copying the Certificate and WDC.key to /etc/openvpn:
- sudocpopenvpn/WDC.keyopenvpn/ca.crt/etc/openvpn
Afterwards, create a file /etc/openvpn/auth.txt. This file will be used to store PureVPN login credentials.
- sudo nano /etc/openvpn/auth.txt
Store your credentials as shown below:
PureVPN0s123456
Password
Now, make this file read/writable only by root:
- sudo chmod 600 /etc/openvpn/auth.txt
Create a file /etc/openvpn/server.conf:
- Sudo nano /etc/openvpn/server.conf
Next, set file contents as shown below:
- client
- dev tun
- remote ukm1-ovpn.purevpn.net 53
- proto udp
- nobind
- persist-key
- pesist-tun
- tls-auth Wdc.key 1
- ca ca.crt
- cipher AES-256-CBC
- comp-lzo
- verb 1
- mute 20
- float
- route-method exe
- route-delay 2
- auth-user-pass auth.txt
- auth-retry interact
- explicit-exit-notify 2
- ifconfig-nowarm
- auth-nocache
Now, you will require to change the ownership of OpenVPN configuration file:
- sudo chown www-data:www-data /etc/openvpn/server.conf
Finally, restart openvpn service and continue:
- sudo service openvpn restart
In case you want to follow connection process in the logs, launch another ssh session and execute following command:
- sudo tail -f /var/log/syslog
If an error occurs, it will be displayed in the above log
Step 3: Configure log rotate on Raspberry Pi
Surprisingly, log files occupy excess space on a disk effecting overall system performance. To overcome this issue, we will show you how to configure logrotate, save disk space and enhance your system performance.
Logrotate comes as a pre-installed app in Raspbian build. Here’s how to edit logrotate configuration file:
- sudo nano /etc/logrotate.conf
Set the rotate frequency to daily and backlogs to 4, as shown below:
- # see “man logrotate” for details# rotate log files dailydaily# keep 4 days worth of backlogsrotate 4
Step 4: Configure IPTables for Raspbian Firewall
A VPN on Raspberry Pi will work next level if IPTables are configured properly. The IPTables are responsible for allowing or blocking a connection as per defined rules. For this, we have allowed forwarding of HTTP and DNS connections.
First download VPN Client Gateway project file with following command:
- wget here
Extract the downloaded files using this command:
- unzip master.zip
Execute firewall script and load iptables’ rules. (Find script in folder vpn_client_gateway-master/fw):
- sudo ./vpn_client_gw_script.fw
Next, save the rules to make them load automatically at boot time. Use IPtables persistent utility.
Install iptables-persistent:
- sudo apt-get install -y iptables-persistent
When installation is running, you will be asked to store current iptables rules (ipV4 and ipV6). Proceed by acknowledging prompts and iptables’ rules.
Step 5: Disable IPV4 & Enable IP Forwarding
- sudo nano /etc/sysctl.conf
Next, uncomment below-mentioned settings:
- net.ipv4.ip_forward = 1
Now, add following code:
- net.ipv6.conf.all.disable_ipv6=1
Finally, run this command to activate the chances:
- sudo sysctl -p /etc/sysctl.conf
Adios! You’ve successfully installed OpenVPN for Raspberry Pi.
How to Install KODI 17 on Raspberry PI through OSMC?
You should follow these following steps to install Kodi 17 on Raspberry PI via OSMC that includes:
- Insert an SD card on your Windows or Mac SD card reader
- Download the OSMC installer through its official site
- Select the operating system for your computer
- Now install and run the OSMC installer
- It’s time to install OSMC on your SD card
- Open the OSMC installer and choose your language
- Select the device type you want to set up
- You will see”where would you like to install OSMC. Choose the SD card
- Take out the SD card after completing the setup process
- Plug the SD card on your Raspberry device
- Once you launch the Pi, OSMC will be installed by default
- Enjoy Kodi on Raspberry Pi straightaway
How to Setup Zomboided VPN Manager for OpenVPN on OSMC?
You can setup Zomboided VPN manager for OpenVPN on OSMC through repository or add-on. You should follow these steps to install Zomboided VPN manager with repository that include:
- Connect to Raspberry Pi with SSH as OSMC user
- ssh [email protected]<IP ADDRESS>
- Download the latest repository
- wget https://github.com/Zomboided/repository.zomboided.plugins/releases/download/1.0.0/repository.zomboided.plugoins-1.0.0.zip
- Through the OSMC homescreen, go to:
- Settings>Add-on browser>Install from Zip
- Choose the repository.zip file to install:
- Home folder>repository.zomboided.plugins-x.x.x.zip
- Once you have installed the repository, go to the repository’s menu:
- Install from repository>Zomboided Add-on repository> Services
- Install the add-on by choosing:
- VPN Manager for OpenVPN
Similarly, you can install Zomboided VPN Manager by the help of add-on. Here is how you should do:
- Connect to Raspberry Pi via SSH as OSMC user
- Download the latest release of the add-on
- wget https://github.com/Zomboided/service. vpn.manager/releases/download/6.0.2/service.vpn.manager-6.0.2.zip
- Through the OSMC homscreen go to
- Settings>Add-on browser>Install from zip
- Select the add-on.zip file to setup:
- Home folder> service.vpn.manager-x.x.x.zip
Why should I use a VPN for OSMC?
A VPN spoofs your location with the country where a desired channel is available. Hence, you can unblock various geo-blocked channels from anywhere. While there are various freemium channels (Genesis, Extreme Sports & Football today) available, many traditional channels require paid subscription like ESPN, NBA On-demand and BBC iPlayer.
Best VPNs for OSMC
Selecting a VPN that allows you watch various geo-limited services like BBC iPlayer HBO Now and others on OSMC is a tricky job. For your ease, I have shortlisted some VPNs that offer servers in different countries of the world. This way, you can watch your favorite channels from anywhere.
So the top 6 OSMC VPNs are:
PureVPN – Offers 2000+ servers throughout the world
Surfshark – Delivers 1700+ servers all across the globe
Ivacy – Has 1000+ servers in 50+ countries worldwide
ExpressVPN – Provides 3000+ servers in all the major countries
CyberGhost – Exists in 60+ countries with 5000+ servers
NordVPN – Offers 5000+ servers in all the leading countries of the world
Let’s look at the best OSMC VPNs in detail.
PureVPN– Editor’s Choice for OSMC
PureVPN is a Hong Kong based VPN provider offering its services all across the globe through 2000+ servers. Besides, the service offers some impressive features like built-in streaming mode, dedicated section for popular channels, 5 multi-logins, 31 days money back guarantee and so on.
You can get its most affordable subscription once you pay $3.33/mo . To know more about this service, read our PureVPN review.
Surfshark– Affordable VPN for OSMC
Surfshark is a British Virgin Islands based VPN service that exists in more than 63 countries through 1700+ servers globally. Furthermore, the provider offers some nifty features such as unlimited simultaneous connections, 30 days refund policy, internet kill switch and others that help you watch region-blocked content on OSMC right away.
You can get its cheapest subscription at the cost of $2.49/mo . To know about this service in detail, explore our Surfshark review.
Ivacy– Decent VPN for OSMC
Ivacy is a Singapore based VPN provider delivering its services in 50+ countries with the help of 1000+ servers. Moreover, you can experience its other privacy benefits such as Internet kill switch, 5 multi-logins, 30 days refund policy and smart connect as well. After using smart connect feature, you can connect to the fastest server available instantly.
You can subscribe Ivacy after paying only $1/mo. Similarly, explore our Ivacy review to find out more about this service.
ExpressVPN– Excellent VPN for Streaming on OSMC
ExpressVPN is another VPN like Surfshark that hails from a user-friendly jurisdiction i.e. British Virgin Islands (BVI). Currently, the service provides 3000+ servers in 90+ countries globally. Apart from this, you can use its excellent MediaStreamer feature that helps you unblock geo-restricted content without encrypting your online traffic.
You can get ExpressVPN at the cost of $6.67/mo . You can read ExpressVPN review to know about the service in detail.
CyberGhost– Budget Friendly VPN for OSMC
CyberGhost is a Romania based VPN provider that offers its services through 5600+ servers in 90+ countries. The service provides a comprehensive privacy features like internet kill switch, zero-logs, 7 multi-logins and others. You may use CyberGhost to watch your desired movies, TV shows and videos on OSMC on your preferred devices.
You can attain CyberGhost as low as $2.25/mo . To know about this service in detail, read our CyberGhost VPN review.
NordVPN– Fast VPN for OSMC
NordVPN is a Panama based VPN service that provides 5000+ servers in all the major countries of the world. You can use the service to enjoy fast and smooth online streaming while traveling from anywhere. Likewise, you can avail its SmartPlay feature to access your favorite movies and shows on OSMC securely.
You can subscribe to NordVN after paying $3.71/mo .To find out more about this service, read our NordVPN review.
How to Add Channels on OSMC & Enjoy Limitless Entertainment
OSMC or Open Source Media Center doesn’t come with a pre-stored channel library. Having that said, viewers need to add various channels by following a simple process. Here’s how you can add channels on OSMC:
- From home screen of OSMC, click on Settings>File Manager
- Click on Add Source
- You will be asked to enter the path or browse to media location, enter http://kodi.metalkettle.co in the box
- Next, enter any name for the specified media source as shown below
- Now go back to home screen, click on Settings
- Go to Add-ons
- Choose Install from zip file
- From the list of zip files, select MK REPO
- Now select Recommended Repositories
- Choose lambada-1.1.0.zip to install
- After installing zip file, you will be notified with an Add-on enabled notification as shown below
- Now, click on Get Add-ons
- Next, select lambda Add-on repository
- Click on Video Add-ons
- From the list of Video Add-ons, install Genesis
- Now, go back to home screen and click on Videos>Video Add-ons
- You will find Genesis over there, proceed by clicking on it
In addition, you can setup endless channels on OSMC by following above procedure. Just make sure you’re connected to one of the OSMC VPN to evade the imposed geo-restrictions. Also, with a VPN on OSMC, you achieve top-notch data protection while accessing media from a remote device through OSMC.
FAQs
What is the difference between OSMC and Kodi?
OSMC (Open Source Media Center) is a Linux distribution based on Debian that runs Kodi on number of devices. On the other hand, Kodi is a free and open source media center application.
How do I set up OSMC?
You can setup OSMC after following these simple steps:
- Download the OSMC app installer from the download section available on its official site
- Launch the installer, choose language and select your Raspberry Pi model
- Select the OSMC version, select the SD Card for the installation target
- Choose between wired or wireless network connection
- Choose the target device, agree to end user license agreement and continue the installation process
- Confirm the installation on chosen device
- After completing the installation process, disconnect SD card from your device and insert it on your Raspberry Pi
- Connect all the cables, turn on and go through the system setup process
- Once you complete the setup procedure, choose My OSMC and enter Pi Config
- Choose Hardware support and select your HiFiBerry in the SounCard overlay parameter
- Restart your Raspberry Pi and choose settings
- Select system, choose Audio output device parameter to ALSA: Default (snd_rpi_hifiberry_dac Analog) or something similar that depends on your HiFiBerry
- Enjoy watching your favorite shows and movies after adding content to your library
How do I make a Zomboided repository?
You can create a Zomboided repository after following these steps:
- Download the Zomboided Repository
- Through USB, you should transfer the repository to your device
- Open your Kodi app and click on settings
- Go to system settings> expert mode>addons
- Turn on ‘Unknown Sources’ when the warning box pops up by clicking ‘Yes’
- Go back to Kodi homescreen again, click settings>addons>package installer
- Go to the folder where you have placed the Zomboided repo on your device and choose I
- Wait to get add-on enabled notification, select install from repository
- Select Zomboided add-on repository>services>VPN Manager for OpenVPN>Install
- Select your VPN service>enter your VPN’s account username and password
- The VPN Manager addon will try to establish a connection to your VPN service
- If all goes well, you will be given a list of VPN server locations your VPN service delivers
- Choose your desired VPN service to access geo-blocked Kodi add-on
- You will see a popup message that includes your new IP address and the VPN server your are connected to
Do Kodi add-ons work with OSMC?
Yes Kodi add-ons that support other platforms also work with OSMC.
How do I install IPVanish on LibreELEC?
You can follow these below-mentioned steps to install IPVanish on LibreELEC:
- Download and save the Zomboided repository
- After copying the repository zip file on to your USB stick, insert it to your OpenELEC device and go to Programs>Addons>select ‘Get More’ option
- Through Add-ons>Program>add-ons, choose ‘..’ from the top of the list
- From the add-ons>all repositories list, choose “..” from the first option of the menu again
- You will see the option ‘Install from Zip File’, choose ‘install from Zip File’
- Find USB or network drive, locate repository zip you downloaded and choose it
- Once the Zomboided add-on repository is installed, you may download the VPN manager by choosing ‘Install from repository’ on the add-on page
- Choose Zomboided add-on repository, VPN Manager for OpenVPN and select install install in the add-on information page
- The repository will update automatically and may take few minutes to complete
- It’s time to set up the VPN Manager for OpenVPN
- Go back to Kodi’s home screen>Programs>Open VPN Manager for OpenVPN
- Choose add-ons settings> from setup wizard, select IPVanish from the VPN provider drop down menu and provide your username and password in the required boxes
- Choose the ‘VPN connections’ option in the ‘VPN connections’ window, choose ‘First VPN connection’ to see it starts connecting
- Once the add-on is connected, you will be able to see the list of servers, choose your preferred server
- After connecting, you should verify by checking ‘Display VPN Status’ page in the VPN Manager’ add-on to confirm your IP address has been changed successfully
- You can include more VPN servers by using the VPN connections tab
Wrapping Up
OSMC is the mainstream entertainment platform available on Raspberry Pi. But, with the imposed geo-restrictions on leading broadcasting channels on OSMC, netizens are left with no other option except to watch what is available in their region. However, by using a VPN on OSMC, you can freely access endless channels with zero restrictions or limitations.