VPN for Raspberry Pi: Fast, private, and easy
Get reliable protection for your Raspberry Pi with a lightweight VPN app that’s easy to set up and built for Linux
- Works on Raspberry Pi OS with both CLI and GUI options
- Our Lightway protocol supports fast and stable connections
- Audited no-logs servers backed by TrustedServer technology
Get ExpressVPN for Raspberry Pi View Compatibility
30-day money-back guarantee*
*for first-time users
Why use a VPN on Raspberry Pi
Keep every Raspberry Pi project safe, private, and fully under your control
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![Strengthen security for Raspberry Pi connections A VPN encrypts your internet traffic so your data and real IP address are hidden. It’s a strong ...]()
Strengthen security for Raspberry Pi connections
A VPN encrypts your internet traffic so your data and real IP address are hidden. It’s a strong layer of protection for all your Raspberry Pi projects.
Whether it’s running a media server, automation scripts, or a headless setup, your connection stays secure from unwanted access.
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![Manage your network traffic on your terms As all traffic is encrypted, your ISP can’t monitor your Pi activity and apply content-based throttling...]()
Manage your network traffic on your terms
As all traffic is encrypted, your ISP can’t monitor your Pi activity and apply content-based throttling. It gives you control while protecting you.
You can also route everything through the VPN for full privacy or use split tunneling to choose which apps or services bypass the VPN connection.
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![Extend protection to other devices You can use your Raspberry Pi as a VPN gateway to protect other devices on your network without configuring each...]()
Extend protection to other devices
You can use your Raspberry Pi as a VPN gateway to protect other devices on your network without configuring each one individually.
Once set up to share its internet connection, any device that connects through the Pi benefits from the same encrypted tunnel.
How to set up ExpressVPN on Raspberry Pi
You have the flexibility to set up ExpressVPN as a VPN client or VPN router
Option 1: Install ExpressVPN as a VPN Client
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![Download Laptop]()
Step 1
Install OpenVPN and get the ExpressVPN config files
From the ExpressVPN setup page, select Linux followed by Raspberry Pi OS from the dropdown menu. Click Download VPN and scroll down to copy your activation code.
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![Linux Install]()
Step 2
Apply configuration via terminal or script
Open Terminal and run: cd ~/Downloads/ Then: sudo dpkg -i [installer filename]. Once the installation is complete, enter: expressvpn activate. Enter your activation code.
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![Get A Private Ip Address@2x 4]()
Step 3
Connect to a server and confirm VPN is active
To connect to a VPN server location, run this command in the Terminal window: expressvpn connect. To disconnect, run this command: expressvpn disconnect.
Option 2: Share ExpressVPN from Raspberry Pi as a VPN router
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![Raspberry Pi]()
Step 1
Set up Raspberry Pi with compatible OS
Install a supported version of Raspberry Pi OS and make sure your Pi is connected to your home network.
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![Get A Private Ip Address@2x 5]()
Step 2
Connect Raspberry Pi to ExpressVPN
Install ExpressVPN through the terminal and connect to your chosen Raspberry Pi VPN server to secure your connection.
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![Activate Vpn@2x 1]()
Step 3
Share the VPN connection with other devices
Enable connection sharing so that connected devices use Raspberry Pi as VPN router and automatically pass through the same encrypted tunnel.
What to consider when using a VPN on Raspberry Pi
Know what impacts speed, compatibility, and connection stability on Raspberry Pi
How ExpressVPN uses OpenVPN on Raspberry Pi
OpenVPN is one of the protocols ExpressVPN offers on Raspberry Pi to create a secure and authenticated connection to the VPN server. It manages the encryption and routing that keep your traffic private. OpenVPN is widely supported across Linux systems, which makes it a dependable choice for Raspberry Pis.
Your protocol is set to Automatic by default, where the protocol most appropriate for your network is picked automatically. But you can also switch to OpenVPN or Lightway.
Performance considerations on Raspberry Pi hardware
Raspberry Pi devices have limited CPU power and memory, so protocol efficiency matters. While OpenVPN provides strong protection, it can be heavier on system resources.
ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol is designed to connect quickly and use fewer resources on low-power hardware, which helps your Raspberry Pi stay responsive when running services, scripts, or headless tasks.
Command-line setup vs. graphical options
You can choose how you want to run ExpressVPN on Raspberry Pi. The command-line interface is ideal for headless or remote setups and has very little overhead.
If you prefer a visual interface, ExpressVPN also offers a graphical app on supported configurations. Both options give you full control of your VPN connection in the way that suits your setup.
ExpressVPN features for Raspberry Pi users
Security and performance features that fit naturally into Raspberry Pi setups
Strong encryption and secure protocols
ExpressVPN protects your Raspberry Pi with AES-256 encryption and a wide range of secure VPN protocols. You can choose from Lightway TCP, Lightway UDP, OpenVPN TCP, OpenVPN UDP, or the Automatic option, which selects the best protocol for your connection.
TCP prioritizes reliability on unstable networks, and UDP provides faster performance on stable ones. These options give you the flexibility to match your Raspberry Pi setup with the protocol that works best with your network.
Works across multiple OS environments
ExpressVPN supports Raspberry Pi OS and you can download the VPN for Linux. You can also install the app on Android, Windows, macOS, iOS, Apple TV, and more. You can connect up to 14 devices simultaneously with 1 subscription.
This means you can keep your Pi secured while using the same account to protect your other devices, or switch between systems without changing how you manage your connection. It gives you one consistent experience across your entire setup.
Protection on resource-limited devices
ExpressVPN is designed for Raspberry Pi boards, even those with limited CPU power or memory. The lightweight CLI app keeps resource usage low, which is ideal for headless or always-on setups. It also has a Network Lock kill switch to block all internet traffic if the connection drops, preventing unwanted leaks.
With auto-connect on boot, your Raspberry Pi reconnects to ExpressVPN automatically after every restart. This creates a reliable, hands-off experience that always keeps your Pi protected without impacting performance.
24/7 live chat support
If you ever need help setting up ExpressVPN on your Raspberry Pi, you can reach our support team at any time. Raspberry Pi users often work with custom scripts or different Linux builds, and our team can guide you through installation steps, connection issues, or configuration questions in real time.
It’s a direct way to get accurate answers without digging through forums or troubleshooting on your own. You can also try ExpressVPN risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee* if it’s your first time subscribing.
*Contact support to request a refund. Refunds via the App Store are at the discretion of Apple.
Raspberry Pi compatibility and OS support
Full support details for Raspberry Pi models and Linux-based operating systems
Supported Raspberry Pi models
ExpressVPN works with the following Raspberry Pi models:
- Raspberry Pi 2 (2015)
- Raspberry Pi 3 (2016)
- Raspberry Pi Zero WH (2018)
- Raspberry Pi 3 B+ (2018)
- Raspberry Pi 3 A+ (2018)
- Raspberry Pi 4B (2019)
- Raspberry Pi 4B 8GB (2020)
- Raspberry Pi 400 (2020)
Recommended Linux distros for ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is compatible with these 64-bit Linux operating systems:
- Ubuntu: 24.04 and above
- Debian: 10 and above
- Fedora: 30 and above
- Arch: Latest rolling release
- Raspberry Pi: Pi OS (64-bit)
- Mint: Linux Mint 20 and above
Why choose ExpressVPN for Raspberry Pi
Discover the key advantages ExpressVPN brings to Raspberry Pi users
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![Simple setup process for tech-savvy users ExpressVPN provides a clean, predictable installation flow for Raspberry Pi. Install the app through the ...]()
Simple setup process for tech-savvy users
ExpressVPN provides a clean, predictable installation flow for Raspberry Pi. Install the app through the terminal with a single package, activate it with 1 command, and manage your connection using clear, purpose-built CLI controls.
No manual key generation, certificate handling, or complex scripts are required.
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![Reliable performance even on lightweight devices ExpressVPN delivers consistent speeds through the Lightway protocol, which connects quickly and ru...]()
Reliable performance even on lightweight devices
ExpressVPN delivers consistent speeds through the Lightway protocol, which connects quickly and runs efficiently.
Our 10 Gbps high-speed server network keeps your traffic moving, while split tunneling lets you route only the apps or IPs you choose through the VPN to reduce system load.
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![Trusted by users worldwide Millions of people rely on ExpressVPN to protect their devices, including Linux and Raspberry Pi users. Our no-logs serv...]()
Trusted by users worldwide
Millions of people rely on ExpressVPN to protect their devices, including Linux and Raspberry Pi users.
Our no-logs servers backed by TrustedServer technology has been independently audited, and our apps are constantly updated to meet modern security standards. This strong track record gives our users confidence in our service.
ExpressVPN vs PiVPN
Find the best way to get fast, secure, and low-maintenance VPN protection on Raspberry Pi
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![Why some users build their own VPN Many Raspberry Pi users set up PiVPN or WireGuard on their own device to learn or keep full control of their hom...]()
Why some users build their own VPN
Many Raspberry Pi users set up PiVPN or WireGuard on their own device to learn or keep full control of their home network. A self-hosted VPN can be a fun project if you enjoy managing your own keys, certificates, and server settings. Plus, it’s a secure way to reach your home network while you’re away.
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![When a managed VPN makes more sense ExpressVPN removes the work of maintaining your own server. You get fast, reliable connections across multiple ...]()
When a managed VPN makes more sense
ExpressVPN removes the work of maintaining your own server. You get fast, reliable connections across multiple countries, without the need for port forwarding or manual updates. It is the better choice when you want global coverage, consistent performance, and a connection you don’t need to troubleshoot.
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![You can still combine both Most Raspberry Pi users only need ExpressVPN for fast and private outbound protection. If you also want to access your h...]()
You can still combine both
Most Raspberry Pi users only need ExpressVPN for fast and private outbound protection. If you also want to access your home network remotely, you will need to run your Raspberry Pi as a VPN server with a self-hosted option like PiVPN. Fortunately, you can run both side by side to cover each purpose.
Reviews from happy ExpressVPN users
Read more about the experiences of those who’ve tried our services
I have ExpressVPN on all my devices - phone, laptop, tablet, AppleTV, etc., and absolutely love it.
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Got an account with @expressvpn yesterday. Great decision for traveling out of the country!
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With its consistent performance and reliable security, ExpressVPN is the best VPN out there.
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FAQs: Using ExpressVPN on Raspberry Pi
Find answers to commonly asked questions before you sign up
Can I install ExpressVPN on Raspberry Pi directly?
Yes. You can install ExpressVPN on Raspberry Pi OS using the terminal or the graphical app on supported setups. Download the installer, activate it with your code, and manage your connection through simple CLI commands or the GUI if you prefer a visual interface.
How do I share ExpressVPN from Raspberry Pi with other devices?
Set up your Raspberry Pi as a VPN router by enabling connection sharing after connecting to ExpressVPN. Devices that connect through the Pi will use the same encrypted tunnel without needing their own VPN configuration.
Is OpenVPN or Lightway available on Raspberry Pi?
Both are available. ExpressVPN supports OpenVPN TCP and UDP for broad compatibility and Lightway for faster, more efficient performance on low-power Raspberry Pi hardware.
What’s the best way to run VPN on a headless Raspberry Pi?
Use the ExpressVPN command-line app. It runs with minimal overhead, works over SSH, and reconnects automatically, making it ideal for Pi boards without a monitor or keyboard.
Can I use a free VPN instead of ExpressVPN?
Free VPNs often lack proper security, collect user data, or slow down your connection. Some even show ads or worse, inject malware to your Raspberry Pi. ExpressVPN gives your Pi fast, secure protection with reliable performance and industry-standard encryption—essential for always-on Raspberry Pi setups.
Will a VPN slow down Raspberry Pi performance?
Yes. A VPN creates some overhead because the Raspberry Pi needs to encrypt and route all traffic before sending it out, which uses CPU resources. However, ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol is designed to run efficiently on low-power hardware, which helps keep speeds stable and minimizes the impact on performance.
Experience the Best VPN for Raspberry Pi
- Fast and reliable protection for Raspberry Pi
- Simple setup with powerful privacy features built in
- Try ExpressVPN risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee if it’s your first time
