Introduction

OpenConnect is an open-source VPN client that supports various VPN protocols, including Cisco's AnyConnect. Installing OpenConnect VPN Server on Ubuntu 22.04 provides secure remote access for users. This guide will walk you through the installation process, which can be effectively utilized on a Windows VPS UK to ensure a reliable VPN service.

Prerequisites

• An Ubuntu 22.04 server with root access
• Basic knowledge of Linux commands
• Internet connection for downloading packages

Step 1: Update Your System

Start by updating your package list and upgrading existing packages:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

Step 2: Install OpenConnect and Required Packages

Install OpenConnect along with the necessary dependencies:

sudo apt install openconnect ocserv -y

Step 3: Configure OpenConnect VPN Server

Next, configure the VPN server settings. Edit the ocserv configuration file:

sudo nano /etc/ocserv/ocserv.conf

Some important settings to configure include:

• Set the udp-port and tcp-port for the server.
• Adjust the auth settings to specify how users will authenticate.
• Set the max-clients and max-same-clients as needed.
• Enable the enable-logging option for logging connection attempts.

Step 4: Set Up User Authentication

You can manage users directly in the ocserv configuration or use PAM for authentication. To add a new user, use:

sudo ocpasswd -c /etc/ocserv/ocpasswd username

Replace username with the desired username, and follow the prompts to set a password.

Step 5: Start and Enable the OpenConnect Server

Start the OpenConnect VPN server and enable it to run on boot:

sudo systemctl start ocserv
sudo systemctl enable ocserv

Step 6: Configure Firewall

Make sure the firewall allows traffic on the necessary ports:

sudo ufw allow 443/tcp
sudo ufw allow 443/udp

Enable the firewall if it is not already enabled:

sudo ufw enable

Step 7: Connect to the VPN

Now that the server is running, you can connect to the VPN using OpenConnect on a client machine:

openconnect https://your_server_ip

Replace your_server_ip with the actual IP address of your OpenConnect server. Enter your username and password when prompted.

Step 8: Conclusion

You have successfully installed the OpenConnect VPN server on Ubuntu 22.04, enabling secure remote access for users. This configuration is particularly effective when deployed on a Windows VPS. For further options, explore various VPS UK Windows solutions, including Windows Virtual Private Server Hosting and Windows VPS Hosting UK for enhanced security and performance.