OpenVPN Connect

OpenVPN Connect

OpenVPN Connect is the official OpenVPN client with 10M+ downloads and 4.6/5 rating, offering enterprise-grade security and open-source transparency, though it requires technical setup and a compatible VPN server.

OpenVPN Connect is the official client for the OpenVPN protocol, developed by OpenVPN Inc. With over 10 million downloads and a solid 4.6/5 rating on Android, it's the go-to choice for users who need enterprise-grade VPN security with complete transparency and control. What sets OpenVPN Connect apart is its open-source nature and enterprise focus. Unlike consumer VPN apps like NordVPN or ExpressVPN, this is a client that connects to OpenVPN-compatible servers, offering AES-256 encryption, TLS 1.3 support, and advanced features like split-tunneling and kill switch. The app is trusted by over 20,000 organizations including Salesforce, Target, and Boeing. However, OpenVPN Connect's enterprise focus comes with both benefits and drawbacks. While the app offers unmatched security and transparency, it requires technical knowledge to set up and doesn't include a built-in VPN service. Users need to provide their own OpenVPN server or use compatible services. For users seeking a simpler consumer experience, Proton VPN offers a more user-friendly approach with built-in servers. For users who prioritize security, transparency, and control, OpenVPN Connect is the gold standard. However, those seeking a simple consumer VPN solution might find it overly complex compared to all-in-one VPN services like Surfshark VPN or Windscribe VPN.

Key Features

  • Enterprise-grade security – AES-256 encryption and TLS 1.3 support
  • Open-source transparency – Complete code visibility and community audited
  • Advanced features – Split-tunneling, kill switch, and auto-reconnect
  • Flexible authentication – Certificate, username/password, and MFA support
  • Easy profile import – Simple .ovpn file import and URL-based setup
  • Cross-platform compatibility – Works with all OpenVPN-compatible servers

Pros

  • Completely free and open-source
  • Enterprise-grade security
  • AES-256 encryption and TLS 1.3
  • Advanced features like split-tunneling
  • Kill switch protection
  • No data collection or tracking
  • Trusted by major corporations
  • Regular security updates

Cons

  • Requires technical setup
  • No built-in VPN service
  • Need compatible server
  • Not beginner-friendly
  • Complex configuration options
  • Requires server infrastructure
  • No customer support for setup
  • Steep learning curve

Pricing

OpenVPN Connect is completely free to download and use, but requires a compatible VPN server to function.

Free Client:

  • No cost for the app itself
  • Full feature access
  • No subscription required
  • Open-source and transparent

Server Requirements:

  • Requires OpenVPN-compatible server
  • Can use with OpenVPN Access Server (self-hosted)
  • Compatible with CloudConnexa (cloud service)
  • Works with third-party OpenVPN servers
  • Supports .ovpn profile imports

Business Solutions:

  • Access Server: Self-hosted solution with web administration
  • CloudConnexa: Cloud-delivered service from 30+ locations
  • Enterprise Features: Zero-trust controls, device posture checks
  • Advanced Authentication: SAML SSO, MFA support

Key Features Included:

  • AES-256 encryption
  • TLS 1.3 support
  • Split-tunneling
  • Kill switch
  • IPv6 and DNS leak protection
  • Auto-reconnect
  • Always-on VPN support

Additional Costs:

  • Server hosting (if self-hosting)
  • Business service subscriptions (if using CloudConnexa)
  • Third-party VPN service (if using external provider)
OpenVPN Connect's pricing model reflects its enterprise positioning, with the client being free but requiring infrastructure investment for the server component. For users seeking a complete solution without server setup, NordVPN or ExpressVPN offer all-in-one services with built-in servers.

Review

8.3

In our review of OpenVPN Connect, we considered the categories Features, Design, Ease of Use, Security & Privacy, Value for Money and Performance. Each category was given equal importance and we'll dive into the details of each in the following section.

Features
9.0

OpenVPN Connect offers an exceptional set of enterprise-grade features that justify its reputation as the gold standard for VPN clients. The app includes AES-256 encryption, TLS 1.3 support, split-tunneling, kill switch, and auto-reconnect capabilities. The service also includes advanced features like device posture checks and SAML SSO support, making it more than just a basic VPN client.

What sets OpenVPN Connect apart is its open-source nature and enterprise focus. The app also includes advanced features like IPv6 and DNS leak protection, HTTP proxy configuration, and support for multiple authentication methods including certificates and MFA.

However, the service lacks some consumer-friendly features found in all-in-one VPN services, such as built-in server access and simplified setup. The service also doesn't offer some advanced features like specialized streaming servers or geo-blocking bypass that some consumer VPNs provide.

Compared to other VPN solutions like Proton VPN or NordVPN, OpenVPN Connect offers superior features for enterprise use, but the lack of built-in service makes it less suitable for casual users. The service provides excellent value for users who need enterprise-grade VPN functionality.

Design
7.5

OpenVPN Connect's interface strikes a good balance between functionality and enterprise usability. The main screen provides quick access to connection profiles, server settings, and security options. The interface is clean and professional, with good attention to detail and user experience for enterprise users.

The app's design is functional and well-organized, with clear navigation between different features. The connection status is clearly displayed, and the settings menu is comprehensive. The interface provides good visual feedback about connection status and security features.

The interface is generally user-friendly for technical users and provides good visual feedback about connection status and security features. The design reflects the enterprise positioning of the service, making it suitable for professional use.

Compared to other VPN clients like Proton VPN or NordVPN, OpenVPN Connect's design is functional but not as polished for consumer use. The interface is professional and functional, with good attention to detail for enterprise users.

Ease of Use
6.0

OpenVPN Connect is moderately easy to use for technical users, but requires significant setup knowledge for basic functionality. The app's design is functional, but most users need technical knowledge to configure servers and import profiles. The service works well for enterprise users who understand VPN protocols.

The service offers profile import and URL-based setup, making it accessible to users with technical knowledge. The app doesn't require complex configuration for basic use, and the VPN connection process is straightforward once configured. The service works well for most enterprise use cases and provides good performance when properly set up.

However, the service's ease of use is compromised by the requirement for technical setup and server configuration. Many users report difficulty with initial setup and the need for technical knowledge. The app can be complex to configure, and some users experience issues with profile imports and server compatibility.

Compared to other VPN solutions like Proton VPN or NordVPN, OpenVPN Connect's ease of use is significantly more complex. The technical requirements make it unsuitable for casual users who just want a simple VPN solution.

Security & Privacy
10

OpenVPN Connect takes security and privacy to the highest level, with enterprise-grade encryption and open-source transparency. The service includes AES-256 encryption, TLS 1.3 support, and advanced features like kill switch and DNS leak protection. The service also includes advanced features like device posture checks for enhanced security.

The service's privacy features are exceptional, with complete open-source transparency and no data collection. The service also includes advanced features like IPv6 protection and split-tunneling for enhanced security and privacy protection.

OpenVPN Connect has an impeccable security record, with regular security audits and community oversight. The open-source nature ensures complete transparency, and the enterprise focus means the highest security standards are maintained.

Compared to other VPN solutions like Proton VPN or NordVPN, OpenVPN Connect's security practices are unmatched. The service provides the highest level of protection for users who prioritize security and transparency.

Value for Money
8.5

OpenVPN Connect's value proposition is excellent for enterprise users, with free access to enterprise-grade features and complete transparency. The service offers exceptional value compared to other enterprise VPN solutions, with the ability to get enterprise-grade security for free being a significant advantage.

The service's pricing is exceptional for enterprise use, and the open-source nature makes it particularly attractive for organizations that want complete control and transparency. The comprehensive features and security protection add value beyond basic VPN functionality.

However, the service's value is impacted by the requirement for technical setup and server infrastructure. Many users need to invest in server hosting or compatible services. The technical requirements make it less suitable for casual users who just want a simple VPN solution.

Compared to other VPN solutions like Proton VPN or NordVPN, OpenVPN Connect offers exceptional value for enterprise users but requires significant technical investment. The service provides excellent value for users who need enterprise-grade VPN functionality.

Performance
8.5

OpenVPN Connect's performance is excellent when properly configured, with fast connection speeds and reliable operation. The service offers excellent connection stability and performance, with users reporting consistent speeds and minimal disconnections when using compatible servers.

The service works well for enterprise VPN protection, with users reporting reliable connections and good performance. The connection stability is excellent, and the service handles various network conditions well.

The service's performance is particularly strong for enterprise use cases, with users reporting excellent reliability and speed. The open-source nature and enterprise focus ensure optimal performance for professional use.

Compared to other VPN solutions like Proton VPN or NordVPN, OpenVPN Connect's performance is excellent when properly configured. The service provides reliable performance for users who need enterprise-grade VPN functionality.

Conclusion

OpenVPN Connect is the gold standard for enterprise VPN clients, offering unmatched security, transparency, and control. The app's open-source nature and enterprise-grade features make it the top choice for users who prioritize security and are willing to invest in the technical setup required. For users who need the highest level of VPN security and transparency, OpenVPN Connect is unmatched. However, those seeking a simple consumer VPN solution might find it overly complex compared to all-in-one services that handle both client and server components, such as Proton VPN or NordVPN. Ultimately, OpenVPN Connect's enterprise focus and open-source transparency make it the best choice for security-conscious users and organizations, but the technical requirements and lack of built-in service make it unsuitable for casual users who just want a simple VPN solution. For a more user-friendly approach with built-in servers, consider ExpressVPN or Surfshark VPN.