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Category: Security & Privacy Guides
Author: jmarket
Tags: VPN, Security, WireGuard, IKEv2, Privacy, Encryption
Introduction
A VPN alone doesn’t guarantee total privacy — it’s just one layer in your overall security stack.
To stay truly safe, you need to combine your VPN usage with good digital hygiene, smart configuration, and consistent maintenance.
This guide covers **essential best practices** for getting the most security and reliability out of your VPN setup, whether you’re using a self-hosted WireGuard/IKEv2 server or a trusted commercial provider.
🔐 1. Keep Your VPN Software and OS Updated
Outdated systems and packages are one of the biggest security risks.
- Always keep your WireGuard or strongSwan packages up-to-date:
Code:sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
- If using a commercial VPN app, enable automatic updates.
- Regularly patch your operating system — both client and server sides.
💡 Tip: Update monthly at minimum, or immediately if a critical vulnerability is announced.
🧱 2. Use Strong Encryption and Keys
Encryption is only as strong as your configuration.
- For WireGuard, use the built-in key generation (it defaults to modern, secure curves).
- For IKEv2 (strongSwan), use:
Code:ike=aes256-sha256-modp2048! esp=aes256-sha256!
- Rotate your VPN keys and credentials every 6–12 months.
- Use 4096-bit RSA or modern elliptic-curve keys when possible.
💡 Tip: Avoid reusing the same keys across multiple servers or clients.
🧩 3. Protect Against DNS and IP Leaks
Even with a VPN, DNS leaks can expose what sites you visit.
- Always specify trusted DNS servers in your configuration:
Code:DNS = 1.1.1.1 DNS = 9.9.9.9
- Test for leaks:
ipleak.net | dnsleaktest.com - Enable “Kill Switch” or “Block connections without VPN” (if available in your client).
- If self-hosting, consider running AdGuard DNS or NextDNS for encrypted DNS filtering.
🧭 4. Choose Trusted Hosting and Jurisdiction
Where your VPN server lives matters.
- If using a VPS, choose a reputable host like Hetzner, Linode, or DigitalOcean.
- Avoid hosting VPNs in countries with aggressive surveillance or mandatory data retention.
- Check your provider’s data policies — privacy laws vary by region.
💡 Tip: If privacy is critical, consider servers in countries like Germany, Finland, or Iceland with stronger privacy protections.
🔄 5. Monitor Logs Responsibly (or Disable Them)
Logging can be both a friend and a foe.
- For testing, enable minimal logs (errors and connection status only).
- Once stable, reduce verbosity or disable logs altogether.
- If using a VPS, avoid storing logs longer than necessary.
- For strongSwan:
Code:charondebug="ike 0, knl 0, cfg 0"
💡 Tip: Never log IP addresses or credentials in production environments.
📶 6. Secure Access to the VPN Server
Your VPN is only as safe as its host system.
- Use SSH key authentication — disable password logins entirely.
- Keep your firewall tight:
Code:sudo ufw allow 51820/udp # WireGuard sudo ufw allow 500,4500/udp # IKEv2 sudo ufw enable
- Use Fail2Ban or CrowdSec to block brute-force attempts.
- Avoid exposing other unnecessary ports or services.
🧠 7. Combine with Other Privacy Tools
A VPN should be part of your larger privacy toolkit.
- Use a privacy-respecting browser (Firefox, Brave, Librewolf).
- Enable browser-based tracking protection.
- Consider Tor Browser for sensitive research or whistleblowing.
- Use encrypted email (Proton Mail, Tutanota) when handling sensitive data.
✅ Final Thoughts
A VPN can dramatically improve your online security — but only when configured and maintained properly.
Keep your software updated, your keys secure, and your DNS leak-free.
Used alongside strong passwords, 2FA, and good browsing habits, your VPN becomes a cornerstone of a robust personal security setup.
🔗 Resources