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how-to-turn-your-Raspberry-Pi-into-a-VPN-server-in-Japan

You can use Raspberry Pi to set up a VPN in the most practical way. This “Raspberry Pi VPN hack” is cost-effective and allows you to be online without consuming much power. It’s compact and powerful for home use, handling a handful of connections with ease.

To begin, what is Raspberry Pi VPN, anyway? As technology rapidly advances, affordable and compact gadgets like the Raspberry Pi are becoming more widely available. It’s a popular small-single board computer used by programmers and students. You can use Raspberry Pi for general-purpose computing development and is well-suited for IoT deployments. Following the many use case of RPi, people are looking into ways how to maximize its functionality.

One of the suggestions is the developments in the field of network security utilizing Raspberry Pi. With one of the projects, you may connect your home network to the internet securely and privately by using a Raspberry Pi as a VPN server.

A reliable VPN is a revolutionary digital tool that provides optimal security wherever you are in the globe, and whatever it is you do online.

Creating a Raspberry Pi VPN server is the topic of today’s blog. What, exactly, is a virtual private network? Why go through all the hurdles to make RPi into a VPN server?

In this article, we’ll go over those points for your clarity. We will also walk you through the steps of setting up a VPN server on a Raspberry Pi. Finally, we’ll recommend alternative VPNs for the best online freedom.


Quick Installation Guide: How to turn Raspberry Pi into a VPN server

To turn and get a Raspberry Pi VPN server, follow these steps:

  1. Get VPN up and running.
  2. Specify whether PiVPN will use a dynamic or static IP address (DHCP reservation).
  3. Select between OpenVPN and WireGuard as your VPN protocol.
  4. Choose a communication protocol. UDP is the most recommended for VPN protocols such as OpenVPN.
  5. Configure your VPN port. The OpenVPN service uses port 1194 by default. The standard port for WireGuard is 51820.
  6. Set your DNS server settings. If you configure a dynamic DNS, enter it here. Or else, you will be required to select a DNS server. A search on the Internet for “secure DNS providers” will generate multiple results.
  7. Allow OpenVPN 2.5 option while using OpenVPN, unless the Apps you are using do not support them.
  8. Follow the instructions for obtaining a security certificate and configuration file if PiVPN gives them.
  9. Forward the VPN port to the IP address of the Raspberry Pi VPN server using the router’s instructions. Remember that this is OpenVPN port 1194 and WireGuard port 51820.

Disclaimer: The high-level steps above may not be the most accurate. We are not experts on these compact devices. However, we collated the steps based on our tests. We let you (or the Raspberry Pi experts) figure out how to implement them on this Pi, run this Linux, etc.


Why would you want to turn a Raspberry Pi into a VPN server?

You can use Raspberry Pi to set up a VPN in Japan and experience its functionalities without consuming large power. Although completing this project may take some time, the tutorial is straightforward, and once everything is set up, you shouldn’t have to do anything further.

As said, turning a Raspberry Pi into a VPN server enables multiple uses. First off, privacy is the primary factor in network security. A virtual private network (VPN) encrypts data in transit to protect users’ anonymity and security.

To prevent information from leaking or being intercepted by unauthorized parties, virtual private networks (VPNs) construct an encrypted tunnel between the source device and the VPN server.

The data sent over any network is encrypted by these services and is very hard to decrypt. Someone spying on the connection would only receive hashed data, which would take an enormous amount of time to decrypt. VPN services are expensive yet trustworthy.

Specifically, open-source VPNs are fantastic because they are flexible and can be adapted to meet the needs of individual users, and they have the backing of a large user base.

OpenVPN is a free and open-source program that enables virtual private network (VPN) connectivity between any two Internet-enabled computers or other devices. OpenVPN also supports installation and use in a wide variety of operating systems due to its cross-platform nature (OS). Its versatility and configurability stem from the fact that it works with both Windows and Linux.

That’s why most people use Openvpn server Raspberry Pi.


Raspberry Pi VPN server prerequisites

Raspberry Pi VPN servers need the Pi itself, power, and an SD card.

To maximize its potential, there are upgrades you should think about making to your Raspberry Pi VPN server. Add these:

  1. DHCP reservation

If your network allows for DHCP reservations, you may want to create one for your Raspberry Pi.

Each device on your network probably has a dynamic IP address, meaning it changes frequently. This isn’t a big deal under normal circumstances. But it is for this task.

To connect to your VPN server, you will need to know your Raspberry Pi IP address each time you connect from home. Now, a DHCP reservation is key to this. Setting your router to permanently assign your Pi the same IP address will save you the trouble of constantly having to look it up.

It s a router configuration, and the specifics may change depending on the brand. Nonetheless, it shouldn’t take long at all assuming you follow your router’s setup instructions.

  1. Dynamic DNS service

So, you’ve got your Raspberry Pi set up on your home network and you’d like to access it from outside the house.

An easily-remembered domain name that adapts to new IP addresses is provided by a Dynamic DNS service. After configuration, you can always access the same website regardless of your device’s IP address.

  1. OpenVPN or WireGuard

There are several VPN protocols available for your VPN use. However, the best and most stable protocols for Raspberry Pi VPN are OpenVPN and WireGuard.

A virtual private network (VPN) protocol is, in layman’s words, a collection of rules for transporting data and standards for the kinds of encryption to make the data safe during transmission.

OpenVPN is the VPN protocol of choice for most businesses. It’s safe, encrypted, and rather quick. With its lines of code, it is extremely robust. This makes it difficult to keep up with maintenance and provides numerous entry points for intruders to try to break the code.

WireGuard, on the other side, is a novel virtual private network (VPN) protocol. It uses cutting-edge encryption technology and is far faster than OpenVPN. It’s also considerably easier to use than OpenVPN.

It’s meant to be easier for developers to keep up with and more difficult for hackers to crack than OpenVPN. Also, WireGuard has the highest uptime for mobile devices and can switch between many network interfaces without losing contact with the server.

WireGuard’s potential downside may be that it saves users’ IP addresses on the server. When supporting WireGuard, commercial VPNs that do not monitor user behavior must take measures to address this issue.

However, we do not think this is a problem for turning Raspberry Pi into a VPN server.


Choosing a VPN provider in Japan

Choosing a VPN service ahead of time is crucial, so think carefully about it before you get started. You should think about privacy, speed, and security before making your decision.

It is crucial that you have confidence that your VPN does not record your activity. Moreover, you should note its bandwidth allowance and data limits.

Your online experience will be negatively impacted if you go with a service whose network has high lag times or insufficient bandwidth.

Based on our tests, IPVanish is the best VPN for the Raspberry Pi VPN server in Japan. We tried numerous different providers, and IPVanish consistently had the lowest lag times and highest bandwidth.

IPVanish’s huge network of open servers allows for lightning-fast connections. You also achieve high levels of confidentiality and protection with IPVanish.

This VPN is great for homes with several users, as it can support up to 10 simultaneous connections. Get a full refund if you’re not satisfied through its money-back guarantee. Terms and conditions may apply.

Get IPVanish today! Best packages at $10.99 with a 30-day money-back guarantee.


Getting ready for Pi VPN

We already know the requirements and uses of this procedure. It’s about time to proceed to the steps for a Pi VPN. Follow these steps:

1. Connecting to Raspberry Pi

  1. Connect your Raspberry Pi and router with an Ethernet cable.
  2. Connect your RPi with a power source.
  3. Download a PC with an SSH client.
  4. Access the router’s gateway through your browser.
  5. Save Raspberry Pi’s local IP address.
  6. Initiate the SSH protocol on your computer.
  7. Make a new SSH connection from the client
  8. Enter the IP address  (or raspberry/raspberry.local if you’re using a Raspberry Pi) in the appropriate field.
  9. Use the login ID and password pi and raspberry, respectively.
  10.  To begin, launch it.

2. Make sure everything is up-to-date

Note that the Raspberry Pi operating system is more vulnerable to changes. The Raspberry Pi should have its software regularly updated. It improves your device’s overall security and helps it perform more smoothly.

Before turning it into a VPN server, you need to ensure that your Raspberry Pi is in a suitable environment to ensure 100% compatibility.

So, here’s what you do:

  1. In the SSH terminal, while the session is open, type Sudo apt-get update.
  2. Stay patient while the update completes.
  3. In the same terminal window, run Sudo apt-get upgrade.
  4. When prompted, press Enter after typing “Y” to confirm.
  5. Wait till the upgrade is finished.

The best way to prevent incompatibilities and security holes is always to use the most recent versions of software on the Raspberry Pi device.

3. Get a static IP address

A static IP address is crucial. It will let you connect to your own RPi VPN server from just about everywhere, IP address changes notwithstanding.

While some ISPs may provide this service automatically, many others favor a more dynamic method to resolving (or postponing) the problem of an IP address pool reaching capacity.

Nonetheless, DHCP or a cost-free dynamic DNS solution might be utilized if your IP address is dynamic (i.e., it changes on a regular basis).

The DHCP technique requires a few extra moving parts, including the router and the internet service provider.

For this reason, before deciding on a DNS service, you should ensure that your router is capable of handling DDNS requests.

4. Installing PiVPN on Raspberry Pi

To install PiVPN on Raspberry Pi, follow these steps:

  1. Enter curl -L https://install.pivpn.io into the SSH terminal.
  2. Watch for the configuration of the package to develop.
  3. Admit the DHCP configurations on your Raspberry Pi once you’ve turned it into a VPN server.
  4. If you’re using a DHCP server or manually configuring your IP address, select the appropriate option.
  5. Choose a client (pi by default).
  6. Just give the PiVPN setup time to finish.
  7. Use the keyboard spacebar to choose OpenVPN.
  8. Confirm by selecting “Enter”
  9. In the event that you are prompted to make changes, select “No”
  10.  Don’t close the factory-default port (1194)
  11.  Clients of your VPN can pick their own DNS server.
  12.  If your server doesn’t have a fixed IP address, choose DNS. If necessary, give your server a unique DNS name.
  13.  Enable automatic upgrades.
  14.  As suggested, restart the device.

Congratulations, PiVPN installation on your RPi device is complete. It’s not particularly complex, but there are a number of processes involved that may be unfamiliar to first-time users. You did it, anyway!

5. Create VPN profile

To create a VPN profile, follow these steps:

  1. Restart the SSH session.
  2. Just enter pivpn add in the terminal.
  3. Enter the client’s name.
  4. Set a date for the certificate’s expiration.
  5. Input and re-enter the password.

Following the aforementioned procedures, you can generate a VPN profile and you will be ready to use it seamlessly.

Keep in mind that you’ll need to access the RPi’s storage unit to get the profiles. Please remember that you will also need to forward the port you utilized previously. For us, that meant forwarding port 1194.

6. Connect to your private Raspberry Pi VPN

In the final stretch of this procedure, connect to your PiVPN through these:

  1. Get OpenVPN Connect on your Windows device.
  2. Make sure you have it downloaded and installed on your computer.
  3. To use OpenVPN Connect, start it up.
  4. Open the tab labeled “File”
  5. Navigate to the location of the Raspberry Pi’s OVPN file.
  6. Bring it into the program.
  7. Set a name and other settings for the profile.
  8. Add it by clicking the button.
  9. To use a Virtual Private Network, simply flip the switch.
  10. Input the secret key used to set the profile.

You should now be linked to the RPi-based VPN server you set up yourself. The OpenVPN Connect displays helpful data, like the amount of data delivered and received, the length of the connection, and the time of the last packet’s reception.

NOTE: If your VPN connection fails, make sure the port has been forwarded appropriately.


An alternative approach to using your Raspberry Pi with a VPN in Japan

Your objective was to use your Raspberry Pi as a VPN server in Japan, We get it. Now that we’ve covered all you need to accomplish, you may want to try something else.

Instead of converting and achieving a Raspberry Pi OpenVPN server, you may use it as a PC and link it to a commercial VPN provider. This step would free up your RPi for other tasks and give you quicker internet connections, more anonymity, and better security. The Raspberry Pi can run VPN applications from all 3 of our best VPN providers in Japan, providing top-notch online anonymity and protection.

1. ExpressVPN 

ExpressVPN in-Japan

ExpressVPN is the in Japanbest VPN for Raspberry Pi  as it is a consistently top-performing VPN for most cases. It provides programs that are safe to use and easy to navigate. It also has a large network of servers located around the world, complete support for streaming platforms, and top-notch compatibility. ExpressVPN has stood the test of time for us and is an excellent option for a virtual private network (VPN) to use with Raspberry Pi.

In terms of performance, it provides fast speeds on our RAM-only connection. We did not experience slowdowns when using Raspberry Pi with ExpressVPN. From streaming to protecting your privacy and security online, this VPN is your best BET. It has unlimited bandwidth with no data caps perfect for an uninterrupted connection. Based on our ExpressVPN speed tests in Japan, we received a download speed of 89.42 Mbps and an upload speed of 84.64 Mbps on a 100 Mbps internet connection.

Expressvpn-speed-test-on-100-mbps- in-Japan

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2. Surfshark

surfshark in-Japan

Surfshark offers an affordable 2-year plan that’s been praised by its subscribers. It provides unique perks and a premium service with no compromises. It performs well for several tasks like streaming, torrenting, and gaming. You can enjoy your online time anonymously. And the best part? It does not break the bank.

You can use unlimited simultaneous connections with Surfshark. When tested, this VPN works on major OS and devices, too. Based on our tests, Raspberry Pi works smoothly with Surfshark. Moreover, if you place a premium on speed, Surfshark’s WireGuard is the key. It offers stable connections across devices. During our Surfshark speed tests in Japan, we received a download speed of 81.32 Mbps and an upload speed of 76.12 Mbps on our 100 Mbps internet connection.

surfshark-speed-test-in-Japan

This time, the speed drop was only 19% on our 100 Mbps connection.

Privacy and security are also among Surfshark’s priorities. It employs a 256-bit key encryption, NoBorder Mode, Camouflage Mode, breach scanners, and more.

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3. NordVPN

NordVPN-in-Japan

NordVPN is a reliable VPN provider that caters to users across the globe. It has the largest VPN network consisting of 6000 servers that span 61 countries.

NordVPN’s speed test data also resulted in above-average rates. When using NordVPN on Raspberry Pi, we achieved stable speeds with no buffers. What’s more, you can use NordVPN on a wide variety of devices, not just Raspberry Pi. First, NordVPN features native apps for all the major platforms. Smart televisions, routers, and gaming consoles are all supported by NordVPN.

During our NordVPN speed tests in Japan, we received a download speed of 83.82 Mbps and an upload speed of 44.64 Mbps on a 100 Mbps internet connection.

nordvpn-speed-test-in-Japan

With NordVPN, we got a speed drop of 17% on our connection of 100 Mbps.

You can use NordVPN to defeat censorship, torrent safely, and enjoy your online freedom without anxiety. The security and confidentiality features of NordVPN are also the BEST. It uses 256 AES bit encryption, port-forwarding, Double VPN, and CyberSec. It also adheres to a strict no-logs policy.

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FAQs

PiVPN is safe and secure. However, you should consider DNS encryption. DNS requests are not encrypted by default but can be encrypted if you use a secure DNS provider (or do your own DNS lookup).

Keep in mind that the software’s safety is contingent on your updating it regularly. It’s tempting to ignore this, but doing so could lead to poor VPN speeds if you become part of a botnet.

To manage the Pi, you will probably log onto it over SSH. Create a strong password for SSH and link it to a private key.

Yes! With a Raspberry Pi, you can set up a VPN that is always connected and doesn’t use a lot of power. Thus, saving you money. It’s perfect for personal usage at home due to its tiny size and high processing power, which allows it to handle several simultaneous connections.

Tutorial: Converting a Raspberry Pi to a Virtual Private Network Server

  1. Start Pi VPN.
  2. Let PiVPN know if you’re going to use a static IP (a DHCP reservation).
  3. Select between WireGuard or OpenVPN as your preferred VPN protocol.
  4. Choose a method of conversation.
  5. Change the port used by the VPN.
  6. Specify the DNS server.

Yes. As with a typical computer, it comes with everything required to connect a keyboard, monitor, and the Internet. Thus, Raspberry Pi contains everything necessary to construct a home server.


Wrapping Up

You can quickly convert Raspberry Pi into your own VPN server running either the open-source and free Wireguard or OpenVPN.  Raspberry Pi VPN was created to run on a Raspberry Pi to enable a user to have as cost-effective as possible VPN at home. It also allows for a small consumption of power energy while you continue doing the things you love. Your mobile device is also capable of connecting to the VPN server. Keep in mind, too, that you’ll need to make a new VPN account/profile for each client that joins your server.