OpenVPN as a Linux alternative to CyberGhost VPN
Updated
Our verdict
OpenVPN can replace CyberGhost for users who are comfortable configuring VPN connections manually and don’t need a polished graphical interface. It provides strong encryption, split‑tunneling and works on all major Linux distributions, but you’ll have to supply your own server credentials, set up a kill‑switch yourself and manage DNS leak protection. If you are looking for a ready‑made commercial service with a simple UI, server selection and built‑in kill‑switch, OpenVPN alone won’t match that convenience.
- License
- OpenVPN Open Source License
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 2.7.8
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Both create encrypted tunnels using OpenVPN protocol
- Support split tunneling for selective routing
- Can be configured to start automatically on network changes
- Provide DNS leak protection when properly set up
What is different
- CyberGhost includes a proprietary server network; OpenVPN requires you to provide your own server or subscribe to a third‑party service
- CyberGhost offers a GUI with server location picker and kill‑switch; OpenVPN is primarily command‑line or uses third‑party GUIs
- CyberGhost handles WireGuard natively; OpenVPN does not support WireGuard
- Automatic server selection for geo‑unblocking is built into CyberGhost, missing in plain OpenVPN
Opening your CyberGhost VPN files
OpenVPN uses .ovpn configuration files. CyberGhost does not export its connection settings in a standard OpenVPN format, so direct import is not possible. You would need to obtain OpenVPN‑compatible credentials from the VPN provider or set up your own server.
Switching from CyberGhost VPN to OpenVPN, step by step
- Obtain OpenVPN configuration files or credentials from your VPN provider.
- Install the OpenVPN package (e.g., sudo apt install openvpn).
- Place the .ovpn files in /etc/openvpn/client/ and adjust permissions.
- Test the connection with sudo openvpn --config <file>.ovpn.
- Create a systemd service to start the VPN at boot.
- Configure a firewall rule (iptables or nftables) as a kill‑switch to block traffic when the tunnel is down.
Key features of OpenVPN
- Supports multiple encryption algorithms and protocols (UDP/TCP)
- Can act as both a client and a server
- Compatible with most major Linux distributions
- Supports split tunneling for selective routing
- Highly configurable via .ovpn files
- No built-in telemetry or data collection
How to install OpenVPN on Linux
sudo apt install openvpnsudo apt install openvpnsudo dnf install openvpnsudo pacman -S openvpnsudo zypper install openvpnFrequently asked questions
Can I use OpenVPN with CyberGhost's subscription?
Only if CyberGhost provides OpenVPN configuration files; otherwise you need a different provider that offers OpenVPN access.
How do I set up a kill‑switch with OpenVPN on Linux?
Use firewall rules that allow traffic only through the tun0 interface, or employ NetworkManager's 'vpn-kill-switch' plugin.
Is split tunneling supported out of the box?
Yes, by adding route statements to the .ovpn file or using ip rule/ip route to exclude specific applications or subnets.
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