OpenVPN Over WebSocket: A Comprehensive Guide

If you are looking for a secure and reliable way to connect to a remote network, OpenVPN is one of the best options available. However, traditional OpenVPN connections are not always possible due to network restrictions and firewalls. This is where OpenVPN over WebSocket comes in. In this article, we will explain what OpenVPN over WebSocket is, how it works, and how you can set it up to connect to a remote network.

What is OpenVPN Over WebSocket?

OpenVPN over WebSocket is a method of connecting to a remote network using the WebSocket protocol. WebSocket is a protocol that enables bi-directional communication between a web browser (or other client application) and a server. It is commonly used for real-time applications such as chat, online gaming, and streaming video.

By using WebSocket, OpenVPN can establish a connection through a standard HTTP(S) port (typically port 443), which is usually not blocked by firewalls or other network restrictions. This makes it possible to establish an OpenVPN connection even when traditional OpenVPN connections are not possible.

How Does OpenVPN Over WebSocket Work?

The process of establishing an OpenVPN connection over WebSocket is similar to a traditional OpenVPN connection. However, instead of using the standard OpenVPN port (typically port 1194), the connection is established through a WebSocket connection on port 443.

Here is a step-by-step overview of how OpenVPN over WebSocket works:

1. A client application sends a WebSocket request to the server on port 443.
2. The server responds with a WebSocket upgrade response, indicating that it is willing to establish a WebSocket connection.
3. The client sends an OpenVPN handshake message over the WebSocket connection.
4. The server responds with an OpenVPN handshake message, establishing the connection.
5. Data can now be transmitted securely over the WebSocket connection using the OpenVPN protocol.

Setting Up OpenVPN Over WebSocket

Setting up OpenVPN over WebSocket requires a few additional steps compared to setting up a traditional OpenVPN connection. Here is an overview of the steps involved:

Step 1: Install OpenVPN

The first step is to install OpenVPN on your client device. This can typically be done using the package manager for your operating system.

Step 2: Install a WebSocket Server

In order to establish a WebSocket connection, you will need to install a WebSocket server on the remote network. There are many different WebSocket server options available, including Node.js, Apache Tomcat, and Jetty.

Step 3: Configure the WebSocket Server

Once the WebSocket server is installed, it will need to be configured to accept WebSocket connections on port 443. This may involve modifying the server configuration files or using a web-based interface to configure the server.

Step 4: Generate OpenVPN Certificates and Keys

Before you can establish an OpenVPN connection, you will need to generate certificates and keys for both the client and server. This can typically be done using the OpenVPN EasyRSA script.

Step 5: Configure OpenVPN

Once the certificates and keys have been generated, you will need to configure OpenVPN to use the WebSocket protocol and connect to the WebSocket server on port 443. This may involve modifying the OpenVPN configuration files or using a graphical user interface to configure the connection.

Step 6: Connect to the Remote Network

Once OpenVPN is configured, you can connect to the remote network using the OpenVPN client. This may involve using a command-line interface or a graphical user interface depending on the client application you are using.

Advantages of OpenVPN Over WebSocket

There are several advantages of using OpenVPN over WebSocket compared to traditional OpenVPN connections.

• Firewall and Network Restrictions: OpenVPN over WebSocket can bypass network restrictions and firewalls that may block traditional OpenVPN connections.
• Secure Communication: OpenVPN over WebSocket provides secure communication using the OpenVPN protocol.
• Easy to Use: Once configured, OpenVPN over WebSocket is easy to use and can be connected to using a variety of client applications.

FAQ

What is WebSocket?

WebSocket is a protocol that enables bi-directional communication between a web browser (or other client application) and a server. It is commonly used for real-time applications such as chat, online gaming, and streaming video.

What is OpenVPN?

OpenVPN is a secure and reliable VPN protocol that can be used to connect to a remote network. It provides secure communication using encryption and authentication.

Why use OpenVPN over WebSocket?

OpenVPN over WebSocket can bypass network restrictions and firewalls that may block traditional OpenVPN connections. It provides secure communication using the OpenVPN protocol and is easy to use once configured.

What are the advantages of OpenVPN over WebSocket?

The advantages of using OpenVPN over WebSocket include bypassing network restrictions and firewalls, secure communication, and ease of use.

What are the disadvantages of OpenVPN over WebSocket?

One potential disadvantage of OpenVPN over WebSocket is that it may introduce additional latency due to the overhead of the WebSocket protocol. Additionally, it may require additional configuration steps compared to traditional OpenVPN connections.

What is the best way to set up OpenVPN over WebSocket?

The best way to set up OpenVPN over WebSocket depends on your specific needs and requirements. However, in general, it is recommended to use a dedicated WebSocket server and to follow best practices for certificate and key management.

Can I use OpenVPN over WebSocket on any device?

OpenVPN over WebSocket can be used on any device that supports the OpenVPN protocol and has a WebSocket client available. This includes most desktop and mobile operating systems.