How to Install Tinc VPN on Ubuntu Server

Tinc is a free and open-source Virtual Private Network (VPN) software that allows you to create a secure network between computers. In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of installing Tinc VPN on Ubuntu Server.

Prerequisites

Before you proceed with this tutorial, you should have a Ubuntu server and a user account with sudo privileges.

Step 1: Update the Ubuntu Server

The first step is to update the Ubuntu server. Open a terminal window and type the following command.

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

This command will update your Ubuntu server to the latest version.

Step 2: Install Tinc

To install Tinc VPN on Ubuntu Server, use the following command.

sudo apt install tinc -y

This command will install Tinc VPN on your Ubuntu server.

Step 3: Configure Tinc

Once Tinc is installed, you need to configure it for your network.

Create a Tinc Configuration Directory

First, you need to create a Tinc configuration directory. Use the following command to create it.

sudo mkdir /etc/tinc

Create a Tinc Network

Next, you need to create a Tinc network. Use the following command to create it.

sudo mkdir /etc/tinc/<network_name>

Replace <network_name> with a name for your Tinc network.

Create the Tinc Configuration File

Now, create a configuration file for your Tinc network. Use the following command to create it.

sudo nano /etc/tinc/<network_name>/tinc.conf

Add the following lines to the configuration file.

Name = <server_name>
AddressFamily = ipv4
Interface = tun0

Replace <server_name> with a name for your server.

Generate the Tinc Keys

Next, you need to generate the Tinc keys. Use the following command to generate them.

sudo tincd -n <network_name> -K4096

Edit the Tinc Host File

Now, edit the Tinc host file. Use the following command to edit it.

sudo nano /etc/tinc/<network_name>/hosts/<server_name>

Add the following lines to the host file.

Address = <server_ip_address>
Subnet = <server_subnet>

Replace <server_ip_address> with your server's IP address and <server_subnet> with your server's subnet.

Start the Tinc Daemon

Finally, start the Tinc daemon. Use the following command to start it.

sudo systemctl start tinc@<network_name>

Replace <network_name> with the name of your Tinc network.

Conclusion

You have successfully installed Tinc VPN on Ubuntu Server and configured it for your network. You can now connect to your Tinc network from other computers using the Tinc VPN client.

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