Setup VPN on OSMC Raspberry Pi – Super Easy Guide

OSMC, formerly known as Raspbmc is the leading-edge video entertainment center for Raspberry Pi. Based on Kodi/XBMC, the platform offers a sleek interface & a 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 the 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 a relatively extensive process as compared to the 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 a 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 the 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

Afterward, 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:

ExpressVPN0s123456

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 the 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 the 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 includes:

• 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 the 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 subscriptions like ESPN, NBA On-demand, and BBC iPlayer.

Best VPN for OSMC in 2021 [In-Depth Analysis]

Selecting a VPN that allows you to 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 favourite channels from anywhere.

Here is an in-depth analysis of the 5 best VPNs for OSMC in 2021:

1. ExpressVPN – Best VPN for OSMC

ExpressVPN is the best VPN for OSMC. It is compatible with Raspberry Pis using ARMv7 CPUs and running Raspberry Pi OS versions that Debian’s Long Term Support Window supports.

Currently, the service provides 3000+ servers in 94 countries globally. It also works with all major streaming platforms such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Channel4, Hotstar, Dazn, ITV, Sony Liv, Amazon Prime Video, and more.

ExpressVPN hails from a user-friendly jurisdiction i.e. British Virgin Islands (BVI). Apart from the safe jurisdiction, ExpressVPN also offers AES-256-bit encryption, TrustedServer network, internet kill switch, and DNS/IPv6 leak protection, to ensure that your online activities are completely hidden from everyone.

ExpressVPN works on Raspberry Pi 2, 3, Zero WH, 4B, and 400. You can also connect 5 devices simultaneously on a single account. It also supports other devices such as Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, router, PS4, Xbox, Firestick, and Android TV box.

You can get ExpressVPN at the cost of $6.67/mo with a 30-day money-back guarantee. There is also 24/7 live chat support in case you need assistance.

You can learn more about this VPN in our ExpressVPN review.

2. Surfshark – Best Budget VPN for OSMC

Surfshark is the best budget VPN for OSMC offering 3200+ servers in 65 countries. It works with Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Channel4, Hotstar, NBC Live, Spotify, ESPN+, and more.

Furthermore, Surfshark has the ability to support unlimited simultaneous connections on a single account. Apart from Raspberry Pi, you can also use it on Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Roku, PS4, Xbox, Linux, router, and many other devices.

You can get its cheapest subscription at the cost of $2.49/mo and it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee as well. To know about this service in detail, explore our Surfshark review.

3. NordVPN – Secure VPN for OSMC

NordVPN is a Panama-based VPN service that provides 5200+ servers in 60 countries. You can use the service to enjoy fast and smooth online streaming while travelling from anywhere.

NordVPN can unblock various streaming services such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Channel4, HBO Max, Sling TV, Vudu, and more. You can connect up to 6 devices simultaneously on a single account. It can also be configured on Windows, iOS, Android, Mac, Linux, router, Roku, Chromebook, Xbox, PS4, and more.

NordVPN offers the best security features including AES-256-bit encryption, internet kill switch, secure DNS, double VPN, onion over VPN, and obfuscated servers to guarantee ultimate online security and privacy.

The obfuscated servers disguise your VPN traffic as normal internet traffic to help you bypass VPN blocks and geo-restrictions. The Double VPN feature encrypts your traffic twice passing it over 2 servers for maximum data protection.

NordVPN only costs $3.30/mo (VPN Awareness Month - 2 year plan at 72% off + 3 months FREE), and it also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

To learn more about this provider, check out our NordVPN review.

4. CyberGhost – User-friendly OSMC VPN

CyberGhost is the most user-friendly VPN for OSMC. CyberGhost has optimized servers for various purposes such as streaming, torrenting, and online gaming. It holds an impressive network of 7000+servers in 90 countries.

You can connect up to 7 devices on a single CyberGhost subscription. It also comes with user-friendly apps for Mac, Windows, Android, and iOS devices. It is capable of unblocking popular streaming sites such as Disney+, Hulu, ITV, HBO, Netflix, Voot, Foxtel, Nine, and more.

With this VPN you don’t have to worry about your online security and privacy as CyberGhost comes with a complete zero-log policy, AES-256-Bit encryption, and DNS/IPv6 leak protection.

It is available for only $2.25/mo and comes with an impressive 45-day money-back guarantee.

5. Private Internet Access – Popular VPN for OSMC

PIA is one of the most popular VPNs for OSMC owing to its massive server network consisting of 35500+ servers in 78 countries. With this many servers, Raspberry Pi users will never face any problem accessing geo-restricted content.

PIA VPN works with popular streaming services, including Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, BFI Player, Crave TV, Peacock TV, HBO Max, and more.

It allows 10 multi-logins and it can be easily set up on iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, Roku, Firestick, ChromeBook, router, Linux, PS4, and more.

As for security, PIA offers AES-256-bit encryption, ads, malware, and tracker blocker, multiple VPNs gateway, and zero-log VPN to ensure that your actual identity, location, and internet traffic is secure.

PIA VPN costs only $2.08/mo and comes with an extensive 30-day money-back guarantee.

To learn more about this provider, check out our PIA VPN 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:

1. From the home screen of OSMC, click on Settings>File Manager

2. Click on Add Source

3. You will be asked to enter the path or browse to media location, enter http://kodi.metalkettle.co in the box

4. Next, enter any name for the specified media source as shown below

5. Now go back to home screen, click on Settings

6. Go to Add-ons

7. Choose Install from zip file

8. From the list of zip files, select MK REPO

9. Now select Recommended Repositories

10. Choose lambada-1.1.0.zip to install

11. After installing zip file, you will be notified with an Add-on enabled notification as shown below

12. Now, click on Get Add-ons

13. Next, select lambda Add-on repository

14. Click on Video Add-ons

15. From the list of Video Add-ons, install Genesis

16. Now, go back to home screen and click on Videos>Video Add-ons

17. 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 – Best VPN for OSMC

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.