---
title: "Setting up manual OpenVPN connection on Linux"
slug: "setting-up-openvpn-linux-using-terminal"
status: "update"
updated: 2026-09-08T12:45:19Z
published: 2026-09-08T12:45:19Z
canonical: "help.nordlayer.com/setting-up-openvpn-linux-using-terminal"
---

> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://help.nordlayer.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Setting up manual OpenVPN connection on Linux using Terminal

Please note that since Linux has a lot of different distributions, the configuration interfaces may vary. If you or your organization owner has already purchased a server with a dedicated IP, the owner can generate OpenVPN configuration [files from the Members section](https://help.nordlayer.com/docs/setting-up-openvpn). While on the same page, NordLayer service credentials need to be copied as well since they are individual for each member.

1. Open Terminal (keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + Alt + T)
2. Install the OpenVPN client by entering:

```
sudo apt-get install openvpn
```

***You may be asked to enter your user password to confirm your identity.***

1. Enter the directory where you have downloaded the server configurations

```
cd Downloads
```

1. Start OpenVPN with a chosen configuration by entering:

```
sudo openvpn [file name]
```

1. OpenVPN will ask you for your credentials. Enter your NordLayer service credentials
2. You have successfully connected to the VPN. To disconnect, open Terminal and press Ctrl + C on your keyboard

**Note**: In case you have any questions or issues, press '**Chat with support**' at the bottom of the page.