Why These VPNs Shine on Runtu

Runtu, a Debian/Ubuntu-based distribution beloved by both beginners and seasoned desktop users, relies on the APT package manager (apt and dpkg under the hood) and typically ships with Cinnamon, MATE or Xfce environments. Its primary audience values stability, simplicity and Russian localisation, so any VPN solution must integrate smoothly with apt, play nicely with NetworkManager and offer clear GUI or CLI tooling.

• APT-friendly: VPNs that provide a .deb repo or PPA.
• NetworkManager integration: Ease of toggling on/off directly in your panel applet.
• CLI tooling: For headless use or servers running Runtu without a full desktop.
• Protocol support: OpenVPN, WireGuard and strong encryption.

Top VPN Picks for Runtu

Deep Dive: Installation Configuration

1. Mullvad VPN

Mullvad’s straightforward token-based authentication and WireGuard support make it ideal for Runtu. You can choose between a traditional APT setup or Flatpak if you prefer sandboxing.

• Add Mullvad’s official repository
• Install the CLI app and NetworkManager plugin
• Log in with your Mullvad account number
• Connect via CLI or the panel applet

# 1. Add key and repo
sudo apt update
sudo apt install -y apt-transport-https curl
curl -fsSL https://mullvad.net/media/mullvad-code-signing.asc  sudo gpg --dearmor -o /usr/share/keyrings/mullvad-archive-keyring.gpg
echo deb [signed-by=/usr/share/keyrings/mullvad-archive-keyring.gpg] https://repo.mullvad.net/deb/ runtu main 
   sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/mullvad.list

# 2. Install Mullvad CLI and NM plugin
sudo apt update
sudo apt install -y mullvad-daemon mullvad-client-networkmanager

# 3. Start daemon and login
sudo systemctl enable --now mullvad-daemon
mullvad account login YOUR_MULLVAD_ACCOUNT_NUMBER

# 4. Connect with WireGuard
mullvad connect wireguard
# or via NetworkManager applet: select Mullvad > WireGuard

2. ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN offers a Debian repo for the CLI tool, plus a Flatpak GUI that integrates perfectly with Cinnamon or MATE. For desktop users who prefer GUI, Flatpak is the way for servers or minimal installs, the CLI is sufficient.

# 1. Install dependencies and add repo
sudo apt update
sudo apt install -y gnupg wget
wget -qO - https://repo.protonvpn.com/debian/public_key.asc  sudo apt-key add -
echo deb https://repo.protonvpn.com/debian unstable main 
   sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/protonvpn.list

# 2. Install ProtonVPN CLI
sudo apt update
sudo apt install -y protonvpn-cli

# 3. Initialize and log in
sudo protonvpn init
# follow prompts to enter your ProtonVPN username  password

# 4. Connect to a server
protonvpn c
# to disconnect:
protonvpn d

If you prefer a GUI in Cinnamon/MATE:

# Install Flatpak if not present
sudo apt install -y flatpak

# Add Flathub and install ProtonVPN GUI
flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepo
flatpak install -y flathub ch.protonvpn.protonvpn

3. NordVPN

NordVPN’s Debian package and CLI integration are rock solid. The setup is almost turnkey on Runtu, and NordLynx offers a speedy WireGuard variant.

# 1. Add the NordVPN repository
curl -sSL https://repo.nordvpn.com/gpg/nordvpn_public.asc  sudo apt-key add -
echo deb https://repo.nordvpn.com/deb/nordvpn/debian stable main 
   sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/nordvpn.list

# 2. Install the client
sudo apt update
sudo apt install -y nordvpn

# 3. Log in and connect
nordvpn login
# follow the browser prompt for authentication
nordvpn set technology NordLynx
nordvpn connect

# 4. Disconnect when done
nordvpn disconnect

Wrapping Up

On Runtu, you’ll find that Mullvad, ProtonVPN and NordVPN each tick the essential boxes: seamless apt integration, NetworkManager compatibility, and robust protocol support. Choose your preferred workflow—CLI for servers or GUI for desktop—and you’ll be surfing securely in no time.