How to choose, use and configure a VPN in Greenie Linux (Tutorial)

Choosing the Right VPN for Greenie Linux

Greenie Linux, a lightweight Ubuntu-based distribution popular among hobbyists and privacy-conscious users, relies on the apt package manager and typically runs XFCE or LXDE. Its users often favour simplicity and speed on older hardware, while still demanding solid privacy tools. When selecting a VPN for Greenie, it’s vital to pick services offering native .deb packages or an APT repository, seamless NetworkManager integration, and minimal dependencies.

Based on those criteria, the most suitable VPNs for Greenie Linux are:

Mullvad VPN ndash Offers a dedicated APT repository, .deb package, and a GTK-based client that integrates with NetworkManager.
ProtonVPN ndash Maintains a Debian repository, provides a CLI client and GUI for XFCE, plus strong security audits.
Private Internet Access (PIA) ndash Delivers an all-in-one .deb installer, supports NetworkManager OpenVPN plugin, and includes a system tray applet.
ExpressVPN ndash Although proprietary, it supplies a .deb and works smoothly with Greenie’s network stack.

Comparison of Top VPN Providers

Provider	Encryption	Protocols	Package Format	Integration	Link
Mullvad VPN	256-bit AES	OpenVPN, WireGuard	APT repo amp .deb	NetworkManager, GUI	Mullvad VPN
ProtonVPN	256-bit AES	OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard	APT repo amp .deb	CLI, GUI for XFCE	ProtonVPN
Private Internet Access	128- to 256-bit AES	OpenVPN, WireGuard	.deb installer	Tray app, NM plugin	PIA
ExpressVPN	256-bit AES	OpenVPN, L2TP, Lightway	.deb package	CLI, GUI	ExpressVPN

Installation Configuration

Below are detailed steps for the top three VPNs best suited to Greenie Linux. Each uses apt or a native installer, ensuring minimal fuss on an XFCE/LXDE desktop.

Mullvad VPN

Mullvad provides its own Debian repository and a GTK application that hooks into NetworkManager.

curl -sSL https://repo.mullvad.net/gpg  sudo apt-key add -
echo deb https://repo.mullvad.net/deb stable main  sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/mullvad.list
sudo apt update
sudo apt install mullvad-vpn network-manager-openvpn-gnome

Once installed, launch “Mullvad VPN” from your menu, log in with your account number, and pick a server. To use the NM plugin instead, open Network Settings in XFCE, add a new OpenVPN connection and import a Mullvad config file from /etc/mullvad-vpn/configs/.

ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN’s official CLI and GUI packages make setup straightforward on any Debian derivative.

sudo apt update
sudo apt install -y wget gnupg2
wget -qO - https://repo.protonvpn.com/debian/public_key.asc  sudo apt-key add -
sudo add-apt-repository deb https://repo.protonvpn.com/debian stable main
sudo apt update
sudo apt install protonvpn-cli

After installation, authenticate and connect with:

protonvpn-cli login your_email@example.com
protonvpn-cli c --fastest

For a GUI, install protonvpn-gui via sudo apt install protonvpn-gui and launch from your XFCE menu.

Private Internet Access (PIA)

PIA’s Linux client bundles everything into a single .deb. The tray icon provides quick connect options, while NetworkManager support is built-in.

wget -O pia.deb https://install.privateinternetaccess.com/download/pia-linux-3.0.0-05769.deb
sudo dpkg -i pia.deb
sudo apt -f install

Start the app from your menu or run pia-client in a terminal. Enter your PIA credentials, choose OpenVPN or WireGuard, and hit “Connect.” The system tray icon will reflect your VPN status.

Final Thoughts

On Greenie Linux, native Debian packages and tight NetworkManager integration are key. Mullvad, ProtonVPN and PIA all excel in these areas, offering secure protocols, easy installation, and friendly GUIs or CLIs. Whether you’re on a vintage laptop or a modern rig, these VPNs will keep your traffic private and your setup headache-free.

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