Choosing the Right VPN for ArchBang Linux
ArchBang Linux is a lightweight, rolling-release distro based on Arch Linux. It uses pacman as its package manager, and most users are comfortable working in the terminal, tweaking configs, and using an AUR helper (e.g. yay) for community packages. Typical window managers or desktop environments include Openbox, i3, or XFCE — all minimalist by design.
Given this technical backdrop, the ideal VPN for ArchBang should:
- Provide an Arch-friendly installation path (AUR or official support)
- Offer a CLI client or NetworkManager plugin for easy integration
- Support modern protocols (WireGuard, OpenVPN) with simple config
- Be maintained actively, with clear documentation for Arch/Arch-based systems
With these criteria in mind, the top candidates are ProtonVPN, Mullvad VPN, and NordVPN. Below is a feature comparison tailored to ArchBang users.
Comparison Table
| VPN Service | Protocol Support | Official Linux Support | AUR Package | Client Type | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ProtonVPN | WireGuard, OpenVPN | Yes (CLI) | protonvpn-cli | CLI | Secure Core, Tor over VPN, easy systemd integration |
| Mullvad VPN | WireGuard, OpenVPN | Yes (CLI GUI) | mullvad-vpn | CLI QT GUI | No-logs policy, anonymous account numbers |
| NordVPN | WireGuard (NordLynx), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec | Yes (CLI) | nordvpn-bin | CLI | Double VPN, Onion over VPN, obfuscated servers |
Installing and Configuring ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN offers an official CLI client that integrates with systemd, making it straightforward for ArchBang users.
1. Prerequisites
sudo pacman -Syu base-devel git
# Install an AUR helper (yay) if you dont have one git clone https://aur.archlinux.org/yay.git cd yay makepkg -si
2. Installing the ProtonVPN CLI
yay -S protonvpn-cli
3. Initial Setup and Login
# Log in using your ProtonVPN credentials protonvpn-cli login your.email@example.com
You will be prompted for your password and two-factor code if enabled.
4. Connecting to a Server
# List available servers protonvpn-cli servers # Connect to the fastest server in the US protonvpn-cli c --cc US --fastest
5. systemd Integration (Optional)
# Enable auto-connect at boot sudo systemctl enable protonvpn-cli@default.service
Installing and Configuring Mullvad VPN
Mullvad provides both a CLI and a QT-based GUI. For ArchBangs minimal environments, the CLI is ideal, but you can also use the GUI on XFCE or Openbox with a tray.
1. Prerequisites
sudo pacman -Syu base-devel git git clone https://aur.archlinux.org/yay.git cd yay makepkg -si
2. Installing the Mullvad Client
yay -S mullvad-vpn
3. Logging In
# Use your Mullvad account number mullvad-exec account login YOUR_ACCOUNT_NUMBER
4. Connecting via WireGuard or OpenVPN
# List locations mullvad-exec relay servers # Connect using WireGuard on the nearest location mullvad-exec connect wireguard
5. Auto-connect at Boot
sudo systemctl enable mullvad-daemon sudo systemctl start mullvad-daemon
Installing and Configuring NordVPN
NordVPN’s CLI uses systemd for connection management and provides powerful features like obfuscation and Double VPN.
1. Prerequisites
sudo pacman -Syu base-devel git git clone https://aur.archlinux.org/yay.git cd yay makepkg -si
2. Installing NordVPN CLI
yay -S nordvpn-bin
3. Login and Initial Setup
# Authenticate with your NordVPN account nordvpn login
4. Connecting to a Server
# Connect to the best server automatically nordvpn connect # Or connect to a specific country, e.g. Germany nordvpn connect Germany
5. Enabling Advanced Features
# Enable CyberSec (malware/ad blocker) nordvpn set cybersec on # Enable auto-connect on boot nordvpn set autoconnect on
Conclusion
For the ArchBang user, ProtonVPN and Mullvad VPN strike the right balance between security, protocol support, and ease of installation via AUR. NordVPN remains a solid third choice, especially if you need their advanced server network. All three integrate cleanly with systemd, require minimal GUI components, and leverage the rolling-release nature of Arch Bang for up-to-date clients.
Leave a Reply