Overview of Ubuntu Budgie and VPN Considerations

Ubuntu Budgie (formerly Budgie-Remix) is a sleek, performance-focused spin of Ubuntu that combines the modern Budgie desktop environment with Ubuntu’s robust underpinnings. It leverages the APT package management system (dpkg, apt-get, apt), supports snaps and Flatpak, and integrates the Raven sidebar, Raven notifications and Budgie’s Raven settings. Typical users range from enthusiasts who appreciate a clean GTK3/GTK4 desktop to developers seeking a lightweight, yet full-featured, environment. When choosing a VPN for Ubuntu Budgie, look for native .deb packages or repositories, GTK-based GUIs where available, reliable CLI tools, and strong integration with NetworkManager.

Why These VPNs Suit Ubuntu Budgie

• Native .deb Support: Easy installation via apt or direct .deb download, ensuring compatibility with dpkg.
• NetworkManager Integration: GUI applets or plugin files for seamless connect/disconnect through the Budgie panel.
• CLI and GUI Options: Budgie users often switch between terminal and Raven-based GUIs both interfaces must be robust.
• Kill Switch Auto-Connect: Protects privacy if the VPN tunnel drops Budgie’s session manager can handle systemd-based scripts.
• Lightweight Footprint: Budgie prides itself on minimal resource use VPN clients should not bloat the system.

Comparison of Top VPNs for Ubuntu Budgie

Installing and Configuring the Top VPNs

1. NordVPN

NordVPN provides an official APT repository, a user-friendly Qt GUI, and a powerful CLI. Here’s how to set it up:

# 1. Add NordVPN APT repository and key
sudo apt update
sudo apt install -y curl gnupg
curl -s https://downloads.nordcdn.com/apps/linux/gpg  sudo apt-key add -
echo deb https://repo.nordvpn.com/deb/nordvpn stable main  sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/nordvpn.list

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

# 3. Login and connect
nordvpn login
nordvpn set killswitch on
nordvpn connect

For the Budgie panel, the official GUI integrates with NetworkManager. Launch via your application menu or run nordvpn app.

2. Mullvad

Mullvad offers a straightforward .deb package and a Budgie-compatible GTK GUI. Follow these steps:

# 1. Download latest Mullvad .deb (replace X.Y.Z with current version)
wget https://mullvad.net/download/app/deb/latest -O mullvad.deb

# 2. Install the package
sudo apt update
sudo apt install -y ./mullvad.deb

# 3. Launch and authenticate
mullvad login
mullvad status # check connection

To enable the kill switch:

mullvad relay set killswitch on
mullvad connect

3. ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN’s Linux client is available via an APT repository and provides both CLI and GTK front-end:

# 1. Add ProtonVPN repository
sudo apt update
sudo apt install -y gnupg2 wget
wget -q -O - 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 client
sudo apt update
sudo apt install -y protonvpn

# 3. Initialize and login
protonvpn init
protonvpn c --fastest

Use protonvpn connect --cc to specify a region. The GTK GUI is accessible via your application menu as “ProtonVPN”.

Conclusion

Ubuntu Budgie’s combination of APT, Budgie’s panel, and Raven sidebar makes these VPNs—NordVPN, Mullvad and ProtonVPN—particularly well-suited. Each offers native .deb packages, solid GUI/CLI options, kill-switch protection, and seamless NetworkManager integration for a reliable, privacy-focused experience on your Budgie desktop.