Mullvad VPN as a Linux alternative to CyberGhost VPN
Updated
Our verdict
Mullvad VPN is a solid Linux replacement for CyberGhost for users who need a reliable, privacy‑focused VPN with a native client. It offers WireGuard and OpenVPN, a kill switch, DNS/IPv6 leak protection and can be auto‑started, covering the core requirements. It shines for users comfortable with a minimalist interface and who value anonymity over the extra streaming‑optimised servers and built‑in ad‑blocking that CyberGhost markets. If you prefer a straightforward, open‑source client and don’t need the extra UI polish or dedicated streaming profiles, Mullvad works well on Linux.
- License
- GPL-3.0
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 2026.5
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Both support WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols
- Both provide a kill switch to block traffic on disconnect
- Both offer DNS leak protection and IPv6 leak protection
- Both allow automatic connection on startup or network change
- Both have cross‑platform clients (Windows, macOS, Linux, mobile)
What is different
- Mullvad uses anonymous account numbers; CyberGhost requires email‑based accounts
- CyberGhost includes built‑in streaming and torrent servers; Mullvad does not have specialised server categories
- CyberGhost offers a graphical Linux client via third‑party wrappers; Mullvad’s Linux client is native but minimalistic
- Mullvad’s split tunneling is configured via command line; CyberGhost provides a GUI for it on supported platforms
- CyberGhost bundles ad‑blocking and malware protection; Mullvad focuses solely on VPN tunnelling
Opening your CyberGhost VPN files
Both services use standard OpenVPN/WireGuard configuration files, so existing .ovpn or .conf files from CyberGhost can be imported into Mullvad’s client or used with the command‑line tools. There is no proprietary file format to convert, but you will need to recreate any custom server selections manually.
Switching from CyberGhost VPN to Mullvad VPN, step by step
- Install Mullvad from the Arch repository (or your distro’s package manager).
- Create a Mullvad account number and note it down.
- Export any existing OpenVPN/WireGuard configs from CyberGhost, if you have them.
- Import or copy those configs into Mullvad’s configuration directory or add them via the GUI.
- Enable the kill switch and DNS leak protection in Mullvad’s settings.
- Set Mullvad to start automatically on login or network change.
Key features of Mullvad VPN
- WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols
- Kill switch that blocks traffic on disconnect
- No account details required; uses account numbers
- Automatic server selection or manual choice
- Split tunneling via command line
- Integration with NetworkManager
- IPv6 leak protection
- Cross‑platform clients (Linux, macOS, Windows, iOS, Android)
How to install Mullvad VPN on Linux
sudo pacman -S mullvad-vpnFrequently asked questions
Does Mullvad support split tunneling on Linux?
Yes, but it is configured via the command line or NetworkManager rules, not through a dedicated GUI.
Can I use Mullvad to unblock streaming services?
Mullvad provides fast servers but does not label them for specific streaming platforms; you may need to test manually.
Is there a data cap or bandwidth limit?
Mullvad offers unlimited bandwidth, unlike some tiered plans from other VPNs.
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