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

Best VPNs for Pisi Linux: Overview

Pisi Linux is a community-driven distro built around the PiSi package manager, offering a rolling-release cycle and a strong emphasis on lightness and simplicity. You’ll most often find it running desktop environments like Xfce, KDE Plasma or MATE, appealing to users who appreciate control under the hood without sacrificing a polished desktop experience. PiSi’s straightforward commands (pisi install, pisi update) and the presence of rpm2pisi for converting RPM packages make it possible to adapt mainstream VPN clients easily.

Ideal VPN choices for Pisi Linux should therefore:

Support installation via rpm2pisi or offer generic Linux binaries.
Provide a robust CLI and/or NetworkManager integration.
Include WireGuard or OpenVPN configs for manual setup.
Offer dependencies that live happily within PiSi’s rolling base.

Top VPN Providers for Pisi Linux

VPN	Protocol Support	Installation Method	CLI / GUI
ExpressVPN official site	OpenVPN, Lightway	rpm2pisi → pisi install	GUI CLI
NordVPN official site	OpenVPN, WireGuard	rpm2pisi → pisi install	CLI
ProtonVPN official site	WireGuard, OpenVPN	pip install protonvpn-cli	CLI
Mullvad official site	WireGuard, OpenVPN	rpm2pisi → pisi install	GUI CLI
Private Internet Access official site	OpenVPN, WireGuard	rpm2pisi → pisi install	GUI CLI

Why These VPNs Shine on Pisi Linux

ExpressVPN: Offers Lightway protocol for speed, plus an easy RPM that you can convert and install.
NordVPN: Mature CLI with official WireGuard support, perfect for terminal-savvy Pisi users.
ProtonVPN: Pure Python CLI—no RPM conversion needed. Ideal if you prefer pip-based tools.
Mullvad: Sturdy client, open-source, plus .rpm support for quick PiSi packaging.
Private Internet Access: Large network and a reliable Linux client convertible via rpm2pisi.

Installation Configuration Guides

1. ProtonVPN (CLI via pip)

This is the most straightforward: no rpm2pisi required. You’ll need Python 3 and pip installed.

Install steps:

sudo pisi install python3 python3-pip
pip3 install protonvpn-cli

Initial setup and login:

protonvpn-cli login your_protonvpn_username
protonvpn-cli c --fastest

Notes:

The command protonvpn-cli c --fastest connects you to the best server automatically.
Use protonvpn-cli --help to explore more options like disconnect and status.

2. NordVPN (CLI via rpm2pisi)

NordVPN’s official client comes as an RPM. Pisi Linux includes rpm2pisi, so you can convert and install it smoothly.

Convert and install:

wget https://repo.nordvpn.com/deb/nordvpn/debian/pool/main/n/nordvpn-release/nordvpn-release_1.0.0_all.deb
rpm2pisi nordvpn-release_1.0.0_all.deb
sudo pisi install nordvpn-release
sudo pisi update
sudo pisi install nordvpn

nordvpn login
nordvpn connect
nordvpn set technology nordlynx   # uses WireGuard

Quick commands:

nordvpn status
nordvpn disconnect
nordvpn countries to list available locations.

3. Mullvad (Graphical CLI via rpm2pisi)

Mullvad offers a DEB and RPM package. We’ll convert the RPM for a Pisi installation.

Convert, install and run GUI:

wget https://mullvad.net/download/app/deb/latest -O mullvad-latest.rpm
rpm2pisi mullvad-latest.rpm
sudo pisi install mullvad
mullvad login              # follow prompts to enter your Mullvad account number
mullvad connect            # defaults to fastest server

CLI usage:

mullvad status
mullvad relay set wireguard
mullvad disconnect

Wrapping Up

For Pisi Linux enthusiasts, these VPN services strike the right balance between native-style package management and robust security. Whether you prefer the purity of a pip-based client like ProtonVPN, or the polished RGBA GUI of Mullvad and ExpressVPN via rpm2pisi, you’ll find seamless integration with PiSi’s toolkit and your preferred desktop environment. Stay secure, stay private—enjoy your Pisi Linux experience with confidence.

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