How to choose, use and configure a VPN in tuxtrans (Guide)

Best VPNs Tailored for Tuxtrans

Tuxtrans is a Debian-based distribution crafted specifically for translators, combining stability with translation-centric tools (OmegaT, Virtaal, Apertium and others) and lightweight desktop environments like Xfce or LXDE. It relies on the APT package manager (apt / apt-get) and generally appeals to users who are comfortable on the command line but appreciate a lean GUI. Technical peculiarities include a stable Debian core (often “buster” or “bullseye”), 32- and 64-bit support, and preconfigured language toolchains. When selecting a VPN here, look for .deb repositories, reliable CLI clients, DNS/IPv6 leak protection, and lightweight GUIs that don’t bloat your translator workstation.

Below are the most suitable VPN providers for Tuxtrans, chosen for their native Debian support and seamless integration with lightweight desktop environments:

ProtonVPN – Official Debian repo, CLI tool, strong privacy.
Mullvad – .deb package, open-source client, anonymous account IDs.
NordVPN – Official repo, nordvpn CLI, kill switch.
Private Internet Access (PIA) – APT repo, GUI and CLI, WireGuard support.

Comparison Table

Feature	ProtonVPN	Mullvad	NordVPN	PIA
APT/.deb Support	Official repo	Official .deb	Official repo	Official repo
CLI Tool	Yes (`protonvpn-cli`)	Yes (`mullvad`)	Yes (`nordvpn`)	Yes (`pia-client`)
GUI	Qt GUI	Qt GUI	GTK GUI	PyQt GUI
WireGuard	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Kill Switch	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
DNS/IPv6 Leak Protection	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Open-Source Client	No (CLI partly open)	Yes	No	Partly
Ideal for Low-RAM DEs	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes

Installation Configuration

1. ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN’s Debian repository works out of the box on Tuxtrans:

# Add ProtonVPN APT repository
sudo apt update  sudo apt install -y wget gnupg
wget -q -O - https://repo.protonvpn.com/debian/public_key.asc  sudo apt-key add -
echo deb https://repo.protonvpn.com/debian stable main  sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/protonvpn.list

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

# Initialize and login
sudo protonvpn-cli login your.protonvpn.username
# Follow the prompts for password and 2FA if enabled

# Quick connect (Fastest server)
sudo protonvpn-cli c -f

# To disconnect
sudo protonvpn-cli d

2. Mullvad

Mullvad offers a straightforward Debian package and an open-source client:

# Download and install Mullvad .deb
wget https://mullvad.net/download/deb/latest -O mullvad.deb
sudo apt install -y ./mullvad.deb

# Start the GUI or use the CLI
mullvad status      # Check installation
mullvad account login YOUR_MULLVAD_ACCOUNT_NUMBER

# To connect (wireguard or openvpn)
mullvad connect

# To disconnect
mullvad disconnect

3. NordVPN

NordVPN’s official Debian repo and CLI tool install easily:

# Add NordVPN repo
wget -qO - 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

# Install and enable
sudo apt update
sudo apt install -y nordvpn

# Login
nordvpn login
# A browser window will open for authentication

# Connect to best server
nordvpn connect

# Disconnect
nordvpn disconnect

# Enable kill switch globally
nordvpn set killswitch on

With these options, translators on Tuxtrans can secure their workflows in APT-friendly, lightweight environments. ProtonVPN, Mullvad and NordVPN each bring easy installation, robust CLI/GUI tools, and tight leak protection—ideal for a Debian core with translation tools at its heart.

LINUXMIND.DEV