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Asked: 2024-09-27T14:07:51+05:30

What steps should I follow to configure and use an OVPN file with Network Manager on my system?

I’ve been trying to get my head around how to use an OVPN file with Network Manager on my Linux system, but honestly, it’s been a bit of a struggle. It feels like I’m wading through a sea of confusing tutorials and tech jargon, and I could really use some straightforward guidance from someone who actually knows what they’re doing.

So here’s where I’m at: I’ve already downloaded an OVPN file from my VPN provider, and now I need to do something with it. I’ve got Network Manager installed, but every time I try to import the OVPN file, it seems like I’m missing a step or two. I can’t tell if I’m supposed to do something special with the certificates or keys that came with it, or if I just plug everything in and hope for the best.

If I could narrow it down, I really want to know:

1. **How exactly do I import the OVPN file into Network Manager?** I’ve seen options in the settings menu, but I’m not sure if I’m in the right place.

2. **Are there any specific configurations I need to tweak after importing?** Like, should I be looking for anything in the authentication settings? I just want to make sure it’s secure without over-complicating things.

3. **What do I do once it’s all set up?** How do I actually connect to the VPN? I’m a bit hesitant because I’ve read that sometimes connections can drop, and I want to figure out how to manage that too.

Any tips or a step-by-step guide would be super helpful. I mean, I really just need someone to break it down for me like I’m five because the tech speak just isn’t clicking for me right now. If you’ve done this and can offer some insight, I’d greatly appreciate it! Seriously, thanks in advance for any help you can give.

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    2 Answers


    1. To import your OVPN file into Network Manager, start by opening the Network Manager GUI, which can typically be accessed through the system tray or the settings menu. In the Network Manager, click on the “Add” or “Import” button, and select “Import from file…” or specifically find the option for OpenVPN in the list. Navigate to the location where your OVPN file is saved, select it, and click “Open.” During this process, you may also be prompted to provide the path to any additional certificates or keys your VPN provider supplied. Be sure to check the configurations associated with those files to ensure they are linked correctly. If you did not find instances of necessary keys or certificates in the OVPN file itself, normally you can just link to them by utilizing the same import dialog if they are in the same directory.

      Once you have imported the OVPN file, go through the settings for your new VPN connection to ensure your authentication methods are set correctly. For instance, check if the correct username and password are entered under the “Authentication” section, and set the proper encryption settings recommended by your VPN provider. After everything is set, you can connect to your VPN by selecting the connection from the Network Manager’s connection list and clicking “Connect.” Beware that some connections may occasionally drop; to mitigate this, look for a “Reconnect automatically” or “Keep Alive” option in the settings to maintain connection stability. Finally, after connecting, you can verify your VPN status and IP address via relevant command-line tools or websites to confirm you are securely connected.




    2. Guide to Using OVPN with Network Manager


      Setting Up OVPN with Network Manager

      1. Importing the OVPN File

      To import your OVPN file into Network Manager, do the following:

      1. Open the terminal and type nm-connection-editor or search for “Network Connections” in your system settings.
      2. Click on the + button to add a new connection.
      3. Select Import a saved VPN configuration…. You might need to look for it under the VPN section.
      4. Navigate to the folder where your OVPN file is saved, select it, and click Open.

      2. Configuring Your VPN Settings

      After importing, you’ll want to ensure everything is set correctly:

      • Look for the Authentication settings—make sure you have any necessary certificates or keys. Sometimes your VPN provider includes these, so check their documentation.
      • In the security tab, ensure that Use L2TP or any required protocols are checked based on what your VPN provider suggests.
      • Don’t forget to check the option for Enable IPsec if that’s required by your setup.

      3. Connecting to the VPN

      Once you’ve got everything set up, connecting is pretty straightforward:

      1. Go back to your system’s network settings (click on the network icon in the system tray).
      2. Find your VPN in the list (it should show up with the name you gave it) and click it to connect.
      3. If it doesn’t connect right away, check for any errors or prompts that might need your attention.

      To manage connection stability:

      • Consider adjusting your connect and disconnect settings, especially if you’re using a public Wi-Fi.
      • You might want to enable a “kill switch” if your VPN provider has this option, which stops internet traffic if the VPN connection drops.

      That should cover the basics! Just take your time, and don’t hesitate to refer to your VPN provider’s specific guides if something doesn’t seem right. Good luck!