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

Best VPNs Tailored for ArchLabs Linux

ArchLabs Linux, with its rolling-release base and minimalist approach, appeals to seasoned Linux enthusiasts. It uses pacman as its package manager and taps into the Arch User Repository (AUR) via helpers like yay or paru. Common window managers include Openbox, Bspwm and i3, so lightweight or terminal-first VPN clients fit best. Below are three VPN providers that integrate smoothly with ArchLabs’ ethos:

Mullvad VPN – open-source, offers both CLI and Qt-based GUI, available in AUR
ProtonVPN – official Linux CLI tool, available in AUR, full support for systemd
NordVPN – official CLI client, available in AUR, robust systemd integration

Comparison Table

VPN Provider	ArchLabs Packaging	Protocol Support	Desktop Integration	Privacy Logging
Mullvad VPN	AUR (`mullvad-app`)	WireGuard, OpenVPN	Qt GUI CLI	No logs, anonymous accounts
ProtonVPN	AUR (`protonvpn-cli-ng`)	OpenVPN, WireGuard (Beta)	Terminal-based UI	No logs, Swiss jurisdiction
NordVPN	AUR (`nordvpn-bin`)	NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN	CLI with systemd service	No logs, audited infrastructure

Installation Configuration

The following sections walk through setup on ArchLabs for the top three picks. Adjust user names and service commands if you prefer a non-root workflow.

Mullvad VPN

Mullvad’s official app bundles both a Qt interface and a CLI. You’ll need an AUR helper (yay or paru).

1. Update your system and install the Mullvad app:

sudo pacman -Syu
yay -S mullvad-app

2. Enable and start the Mullvad daemon:

sudo systemctl enable --now mullvad-daemon.service

3. Authenticate and connect:

mullvad status             # Check connection status
mullvad connect            # Automatically connects to best server
mullvad connect us          # Connect to a US server
mullvad disconnect         # Tear down the VPN

4. (Optional) Launch the Qt GUI:

mullvad-app

ProtonVPN

The official ProtonVPN CLI client offers a text-based menu and integrates cleanly with systemd.

1. Install the CLI tool from AUR:

sudo pacman -Syu
yay -S protonvpn-cli-ng

2. Initialize and login:

protonvpn init            # Follow prompts to enter your Proton credentials

3. Connect to a server:

protonvpn c --fast        # Connect to the fastest available server
protonvpn c --sc           # Connect to Secure Core server
protonvpn status           # View connection details
protonvpn d                # Disconnect

4. Optional systemd service (for auto-connect at boot):

sudo systemctl enable --now protonvpn.service

NordVPN

NordVPN’s CLI client delivers advanced features—kill switch, auto-connect profiles and a custom WireGuard implementation (NordLynx).

1. Pull the binary from AUR:

sudo pacman -Syu
yay -S nordvpn-bin

2. Enable the NordVPN daemon:

sudo systemctl enable --now nordvpnd.service

3. Log in and connect:

nordvpn login             # Browser opens for authentication
nordvpn connect            # Connects to the recommended server
nordvpn connect United_Kingdom  # Connect to a specific country
nordvpn status             # Check current status
nordvpn disconnect         # Disconnect when done

4. Tweak your setup with:

nordvpn set killswitch on  # Enable the kill switch
nordvpn set autoconnect on # Auto-connect on reboot

With these VPN clients at your disposal, ArchLabs Linux remains as nimble and secure as you expect—whether you prefer a full GUI, a TUI or pure CLI. Pick the one that best fits your workflow and enjoy private, encrypted connections.

LINUXMIND.DEV