Surfshark Linux

Linux, yeah? It’s clean. It’s yours. Surfshark? It gets it. No fancy bells. Just a shield. You build the wall, Surfshark is the brick. Control it from the terminal, like you should. No limits, just choices.

Why a VPN on Linux? Privacy, that’s the game. Data’s the new green, and they’re all looking. Surfshark wraps your traffic, hides your IP. Like a back door on the internet. They can’t see you, can’t touch you. Linux is good, not bulletproof. VPN? Bodyguard for your bits. Keeps the bad guys out. And those borders? Forget about ’em. Open it all up. Like a lockpick for the web, it’s beautiful.

Surfshark, take a look.

Say you’re in a coffee shop, leeching Wi-Fi. Risky, right? Surfshark scrambles your data. Makes it garbage to them.

They want your bank details, you give them only static.

P2P? You know the drill. Sharing files, staying free. Surfshark hides you. No letters from lawyers. No prying eyes. Only you and your files. Like a ghost in the machine, or a ninja.

Working remote? Sending secrets? Surfshark makes a tunnel. Safe and sound. Your work stays your work. Like a locked box for your brain, heavy stuff.

Privacy nut? Signal, Tor? Good stuff. Surfshark makes it better. More layers, more shadows. They’ll never find you.

Like hiding in plain sight, only better, trust me on this one.

Surfshark’s CLI? Power in your hand, friend.

Protect your digital ass, use a VPN, use Surfshark. It’s good stuff, no bull.

Surfshark on Linux: A Solid Choice

Linux, the operating system of choice for those who like to tinker, to control, to truly own their digital space. It’s not just an OS, it’s a philosophy.

Security, privacy, and customization are the pillars upon which it stands.

And Surfshark, with its robust features and commitment to user privacy, fits right into this ethos.

It’s a tool that respects the user’s intelligence and desire for control.

Surfshark steps up as a strong contender, offering a suite of features that resonate with the Linux ethos.

It’s not about flashy interfaces or hand-holding, it’s about providing the tools and letting the user decide how to wield them.

This VPN understands the Linux user’s need for control, offering command-line options, customizable settings, and a transparent approach to security.

It’s a handshake between two entities that value freedom and flexibility.

For a deeper dive, check out Surfshark’s official page.

Why Linux Users Need a VPN

Privacy: In the Linux world, privacy isn’t a luxury; it’s a fundamental right. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, hiding your IP address and location from snoopers. This is crucial when using public Wi-Fi or accessing sensitive information. It’s about owning your data and deciding who gets to see it.
- Think of it like this: your IP address is your home address on the internet. Without a VPN, anyone can see where your data packets are coming from. A VPN acts as a virtual PO box, masking your real location and making it harder to track you.
Security: Linux is secure, but it’s not impenetrable. A VPN adds an extra layer of protection against malware, phishing attacks, and other online threats. It’s like having a bodyguard for your data, constantly scanning for danger and shielding you from harm.
- Consider the analogy of a castle. Linux is the strong foundation and walls, but a VPN is the drawbridge and moat, making it even harder for intruders to get in. It’s a defense-in-depth approach, ensuring that even if one layer fails, others are in place to protect you.
Access: A VPN can bypass geo-restrictions, allowing you to access content that might be blocked in your region. This is particularly useful for Linux users who want to access open-source software, documentation, or streaming services from around the world. It’s about breaking down barriers and accessing the global internet without limitations.
- Imagine a world where knowledge and information flow freely. A VPN helps you navigate around digital borders, giving you access to a wider range of resources and perspectives. It’s like having a universal passport for the internet.
Bypassing Censorship: In some countries, governments censor the internet, blocking access to certain websites and services. A VPN can bypass these restrictions, allowing Linux users to access uncensored information. It’s about fighting for freedom of speech and ensuring that everyone has access to the truth.
- Think of a VPN as a digital shield against censorship. It allows you to access information that authorities might want to keep hidden, empowering you to make informed decisions and participate in open discourse.
P2P File Sharing: Many Linux users rely on P2P file sharing for downloading and sharing open-source software, distributions, and other content. A VPN can protect your privacy while using P2P networks, preventing your IP address from being exposed to other users.
- P2P networks can be a double-edged sword. While they offer a convenient way to share files, they can also expose your IP address to potential risks. A VPN adds a layer of anonymity, protecting you from legal repercussions and unwanted attention.
Remote Work: With the rise of remote work, many Linux users need to securely access corporate networks and resources. A VPN provides a secure tunnel for transmitting sensitive data, protecting it from interception by hackers.
- Working remotely requires a secure connection. A VPN ensures that your data is encrypted and protected, whether you’re working from home, a coffee shop, or a co-working space. It’s like having a secure office extension wherever you go.
Secure Communication: Linux users often value secure communication tools like Signal and Tor. A VPN can enhance the security of these tools by adding an extra layer of encryption and anonymity.
- Secure communication is essential for protecting your privacy and sensitive conversations. A VPN complements tools like Signal and Tor, providing an additional layer of security and making it harder for anyone to intercept your communications.

A VPN is not a silver bullet, but it’s a crucial tool in the Linux user’s arsenal for protecting their privacy, security, and freedom online.

It’s about taking control of your digital life and ensuring that you’re not being tracked, monitored, or censored.

Here is a table summarizing the benefits:

Benefit	Description
Privacy	Encrypts internet traffic, hides IP address and location.
Security	Adds an extra layer of protection against malware and phishing attacks.
Access	Bypasses geo-restrictions, allowing access to content blocked in your region.
Censorship	Bypasses internet censorship, allowing access to uncensored information.
P2P File Sharing	Protects privacy while using P2P networks, preventing IP address exposure.
Remote Work	Provides a secure tunnel for transmitting sensitive data when accessing corporate networks.
Secure Communication	Enhances the security of secure communication tools like Signal and Tor by adding an extra layer of encryption and anonymity.

Surfshark’s Strengths for Linux Systems

Surfshark isn’t just another VPN, it’s a VPN that understands the nuances of Linux.

It speaks the language of the command line, offering flexibility and control that appeals to the core Linux user. It’s about providing options, not limitations.

Command-Line Interface CLI: Surfshark offers a robust CLI client for Linux, allowing users to connect, disconnect, and manage their VPN connection directly from the terminal. This is a huge advantage for Linux users who prefer the efficiency and control of the command line.
- Imagine being able to control your VPN connection with a few keystrokes, without having to navigate through a graphical interface. The CLI client puts the power in your hands, allowing you to automate tasks and customize your VPN experience to your liking.
OpenVPN and WireGuard Support: Surfshark supports both OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols, giving Linux users the flexibility to choose the protocol that best suits their needs. OpenVPN is a well-established and widely trusted protocol, while WireGuard is a newer protocol known for its speed and efficiency.
- Having a choice of protocols is crucial for Linux users who want to optimize their VPN performance and security. OpenVPN is a reliable workhorse, while WireGuard offers a cutting-edge alternative. Surfshark gives you the freedom to experiment and find the perfect fit for your system.
No Logs Policy: Surfshark adheres to a strict no-logs policy, meaning that it doesn’t track or store any of your online activity. This is essential for privacy-conscious Linux users who want to ensure that their data remains private and secure.
- A no-logs policy is the cornerstone of a trustworthy VPN. Surfshark’s commitment to privacy means that you can browse the internet with confidence, knowing that your activities are not being recorded or monitored.
Unlimited Devices: Surfshark allows you to connect an unlimited number of devices to your account simultaneously. This is a great value for Linux users who have multiple devices, such as desktops, laptops, and servers.
- In the Linux world, it’s common to have multiple devices running different distributions and serving different purposes. Surfshark’s unlimited device policy ensures that all of your devices are protected, without having to worry about connection limits.
MultiHop: Surfshark’s MultiHop feature allows you to route your traffic through multiple servers, adding an extra layer of security and anonymity. This is particularly useful for Linux users who want to protect themselves from advanced surveillance techniques.
- MultiHop is like having multiple layers of encryption, making it even harder for anyone to trace your online activity back to you. It’s a powerful tool for protecting your privacy in high-risk environments.
Kill Switch: Surfshark’s kill switch automatically disconnects your internet connection if the VPN connection drops, preventing your data from being exposed. This is a crucial feature for Linux users who want to ensure that their privacy is always protected.
- A kill switch is a safety net that protects you from accidental data leaks. If your VPN connection unexpectedly drops, the kill switch kicks in, preventing your real IP address from being exposed to the internet.
CleanWeb: Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature blocks ads, trackers, and malware, providing a cleaner and safer browsing experience. This is especially useful for Linux users who want to minimize their exposure to online threats.
- CleanWeb is like having a built-in ad blocker and antivirus, protecting you from annoying ads and malicious software. It’s a simple yet effective way to improve your browsing experience and enhance your security.
24/7 Support: Surfshark offers 24/7 customer support via live chat and email, ensuring that you can get help whenever you need it. This is especially important for Linux users who may encounter technical issues while setting up or using the VPN.
- Having access to reliable support is crucial, especially when dealing with technical issues. Surfshark’s 24/7 support team is available to assist you with any questions or problems you may encounter, ensuring that you can get your VPN up and running smoothly.

Here is a detailed list of Surfshark’s strengths for Linux systems:

Command-Line Interface CLI:
- Enables efficient VPN control directly from the terminal.
- Allows for automation of tasks and custom configurations.
OpenVPN and WireGuard Support:
- Offers flexibility to choose between well-established OpenVPN and cutting-edge WireGuard protocols.
- Allows users to optimize VPN performance and security based on their needs.
No Logs Policy:
- Ensures that online activities are not tracked or stored.
- Provides confidence in maintaining data privacy and security.
Unlimited Devices:
- Supports simultaneous connections for multiple devices.
- Ideal for users with numerous devices requiring VPN protection.
MultiHop:
- Routes traffic through multiple servers, enhancing security and anonymity.
- Useful in high-risk environments for advanced surveillance protection.
Kill Switch:
- Automatically disconnects the internet if the VPN connection drops.
- Prevents data exposure and protects real IP addresses from being revealed.
CleanWeb:
- Blocks ads, trackers, and malware for a safer browsing experience.
- Reduces exposure to online threats and enhances security.
24/7 Support:
- Provides customer support via live chat and email at any time.
- Assists with technical issues and ensures smooth VPN setup and operation.

Open Source and Surfshark: What You Should Know

The open-source ethos is deeply ingrained in the Linux community.

Transparency, collaboration, and community-driven development are values that resonate with Linux users.

When it comes to VPNs, the question of open source becomes even more critical.

It’s about trusting the software you’re using and ensuring that it aligns with your values.

Surfshark, while not fully open source, embraces the spirit of transparency and security that the open-source community values.

It’s a balance between proprietary technology and a commitment to user privacy.

It’s about building trust through responsible practices and clear communication.

Here is a detailed look at the intersection of open source and Surfshark:

Transparency: While Surfshark’s core VPN client is not open source, the company is committed to transparency in its practices. It undergoes regular security audits by independent third parties, which help to identify and address any potential vulnerabilities.
- Transparency is key to building trust. By subjecting its software to independent audits, Surfshark demonstrates its commitment to security and accountability. It’s about opening the hood and allowing experts to scrutinize the inner workings of the VPN.
OpenVPN Protocol: Surfshark relies heavily on the OpenVPN protocol, which is an open-source VPN protocol that has been widely vetted and trusted by the security community. This means that even though the Surfshark client itself is not open source, it relies on a core component that is.
- OpenVPN is a cornerstone of the VPN industry. Its open-source nature allows for constant scrutiny and improvement, ensuring that it remains a secure and reliable protocol. Surfshark’s use of OpenVPN demonstrates its commitment to leveraging the best available technology for protecting user privacy.
WireGuard Protocol: In addition to OpenVPN, Surfshark also supports the WireGuard protocol, which is another open-source VPN protocol that is gaining popularity for its speed and efficiency. This gives Linux users a choice between two well-regarded open-source protocols.
- WireGuard is a rising star in the VPN world. Its modern design and streamlined codebase make it a faster and more efficient alternative to OpenVPN. Surfshark’s support for WireGuard demonstrates its commitment to staying at the forefront of VPN technology.
Audited Security: Surfshark regularly commissions independent security audits of its apps and infrastructure. These audits help to identify and address any potential vulnerabilities, ensuring that the VPN remains secure.
- Security audits are essential for maintaining a high level of security. By subjecting its software to independent scrutiny, Surfshark demonstrates its commitment to protecting user data and privacy. It’s about going the extra mile to ensure that the VPN is as secure as possible.
Community Involvement: Surfshark actively engages with the security community, participating in bug bounty programs and responding to security reports. This helps to foster a collaborative approach to security and ensures that any potential issues are addressed promptly.
- Community involvement is a hallmark of the open-source world. By engaging with the security community, Surfshark benefits from the collective expertise of researchers and developers, ensuring that its VPN remains secure and up-to-date.
Open-Source Alternatives: For Linux users who are strictly committed to open-source software, there are alternative VPN providers that offer fully open-source VPN clients. However, these providers may not offer the same level of features, performance, or global server coverage as Surfshark.
- While Surfshark strikes a balance between proprietary technology and a commitment to transparency, there are other VPN providers that cater specifically to the open-source community. These providers may offer fully open-source clients, but it’s important to weigh the trade-offs in terms of features, performance, and server coverage.
Considerations: Ultimately, the decision of whether to use Surfshark or an open-source VPN provider comes down to personal preference and priorities. If you prioritize transparency and community-driven development above all else, an open-source VPN may be the better choice. However, if you’re willing to compromise on the open-source aspect in exchange for a wider range of features, better performance, and a more user-friendly experience, Surfshark is a solid option.
- Choosing a VPN is a personal decision. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Consider your priorities, weigh the pros and cons of each option, and choose the VPN that best meets your needs and values.

Here is a comparison table between Surfshark and Open Source VPNs:

Feature	Surfshark	Open Source VPNs
Core Client	Not open source	Typically open source
OpenVPN Support	Yes	Yes
WireGuard Support	Yes	Yes
Security Audits	Regular independent audits	Varies, may depend on community contributions
Community	Engages with the security community	Strong community involvement
Server Coverage	Wide global server coverage	Varies, may be more limited
Performance	Generally high performance	May vary depending on the provider and protocol
User Experience	User-friendly interface and features	May require more technical knowledge
Transparency	Committed to transparency through audits and responsible practices	High transparency due to open source nature

Setting Up Surfshark on Linux: The Command Line Way

For the Linux aficionado, the command line is not a relic of the past, it’s the present and future.

It’s where you wield your system with precision, where you orchestrate complex tasks with simple commands.

Setting up Surfshark via the command line is not just a technical exercise, it’s an affirmation of control.

It’s about bending the VPN to your will, not the other way around.

We will walk through the process of installing, configuring, and troubleshooting Surfshark on Linux using the command line.

It’s a journey into the heart of the system, where you’ll learn to harness the power of Surfshark with a few simple commands.

For those who prefer a visual approach, Surfshark also offers a GUI, but for the true Linux enthusiast, the command line is the way to go.

Here are some quick and useful commands to get you started:

surfshark-cli connect <country>: Connect to a Surfshark server in a specific country.
surfshark-cli disconnect: Disconnect from the current Surfshark server.
surfshark-cli status: Check the current status of the Surfshark connection.
surfshark-cli settings: View and modify Surfshark settings.

Getting Started: Install the Surfshark App

Before into the command-line interface, you need to get Surfshark installed on your Linux system.

This isn’t a point-and-click affair, it’s a hands-on process that requires a bit of terminal finesse.

But don’t worry, it’s not as daunting as it sounds.

Download the Surfshark CLI Package:
- First, head over to the Surfshark website and download the appropriate CLI package for your Linux distribution. Surfshark typically provides packages for Debian, Ubuntu, Fedora, and Arch-based systems.
  - This is the first step in your journey. Make sure you download the correct package for your distribution to avoid compatibility issues. It’s like choosing the right tool for the job.
- You can usually find the download link in the “VPN Apps” section of the Surfshark website. Look for the “Linux” option and select the package that matches your distribution.
  - Take your time and double-check that you’re downloading the right package. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
- Alternatively, you can use the wget command to download the package directly from the command line:
```
wget https://downloads.surfshark.com/linux/surfshark-release.deb # For Debian/Ubuntu
wget https://downloads.surfshark.com/linux/surfshark-release.rpm # For Fedora
```
  - The wget command is your friend. It allows you to download files directly from the command line, saving you the hassle of using a web browser.
Install the Package:
- Once you’ve downloaded the package, you need to install it using your distribution’s package manager. The exact command will vary depending on your distribution.
- For Debian/Ubuntu systems, use the dpkg command followed by apt-get to resolve any dependencies:
  
  sudo dpkg -i surfshark-release.deb
  sudo apt-get update
  sudo apt-get install -f
  - The dpkg command is used to install Debian packages. The apt-get command is used to resolve any missing dependencies. It’s like putting together a puzzle, making sure all the pieces fit together.
- For Fedora systems, use the rpm command:
  
  sudo rpm -i surfshark-release.rpm
  - The rpm command is used to install RPM packages on Fedora systems.
- For Arch-based systems, you can use the pacman command:
  
  sudo pacman -Syu
  sudo pacman -S surfshark
  - The pacman command is used to install packages on Arch-based systems.
Authorize:
- After installing the Surfshark app, you need to authorize it to use your Surfshark account. This is done using the surfshark-cli command.
- Open a terminal and run the following command:
  
  surfshark-cli login
  - This command will prompt you to enter your Surfshark username and password. Make sure you enter the correct credentials.
- The command will then generate a verification code that you need to enter on the Surfshark website. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the authorization process.
  - The verification code is a security measure to ensure that only you can authorize the Surfshark app on your system.
Update:
- To keep your Surfshark installation up-to-date, it’s important to update the package regularly. This will ensure that you have the latest features and security updates.
- For Debian/Ubuntu systems, use the apt-get command:
  
  sudo apt-get upgrade surfshark
  - The apt-get update command updates the package lists, while the apt-get upgrade command upgrades the Surfshark package to the latest version.
- For Fedora systems, use the dnf command:
  
  sudo dnf update surfshark
  - The dnf update command updates the Surfshark package to the latest version.
- For Arch-based systems, use the pacman command:
  - The pacman -Syu command updates the entire system, including the Surfshark package.

Here is a detailed table of commands for different distros:

Distribution	Command	Notes
Debian/Ubuntu	`sudo dpkg -i surfshark-release.deb`	Installs the Surfshark package. Follow with `sudo apt-get update` and `sudo apt-get install -f` to resolve dependencies.
Fedora	`sudo rpm -i surfshark-release.rpm`	Installs the Surfshark package.
Arch Linux	`sudo pacman -Syu`	Synchronizes package databases and upgrades installed packages, including Surfshark. If Surfshark package is not found, you may need to enable the AUR Arch User Repository or install it using an AUR helper like `yay` or `paru`. Example: `yay -S surfshark` or `paru -S surfshark`. Ensure your system is updated before installing: `sudo pacman -Syu`.

Basic Commands: Connect, Disconnect, Check Status

With Surfshark installed, it’s time to learn the basic commands that will become your daily bread and butter.

These are the commands you’ll use to connect to a server, disconnect when you’re done, and check the status of your connection.

It’s like learning the basic chords on a guitar, once you’ve mastered them, you can play almost any song.

Connecting to a Server:
- To connect to a Surfshark server, use the surfshark-cli connect command followed by the country code or server name.
- To connect to the fastest available server, simply run:
  
  surfshark-cli connect
  - This will connect you to the server that Surfshark determines is the fastest for your location. It’s a quick and easy way to get connected without having to specify a specific server.
- To connect to a server in a specific country, use the country code:
  
  surfshark-cli connect us
  - This will connect you to a server in the United States. Replace “us” with the country code of your choice.
- To connect to a specific server, use the server name:
  
  surfshark-cli connect us-nyc-c01
  - This will connect you to the “us-nyc-c01” server. You can find a list of available servers on the Surfshark website or by using the surfshark-cli server-list command.
Disconnecting from a Server:
- To disconnect from the current Surfshark server, use the surfshark-cli disconnect command:
  
  surfshark-cli disconnect
  - This will immediately disconnect you from the VPN server. It’s a simple and straightforward command.
Checking the Connection Status:
- To check the current status of your Surfshark connection, use the surfshark-cli status command:
  
  surfshark-cli status
  - This command will display information about your connection, including the server you’re connected to, your IP address, and the connection status.
Listing Available Servers:
- To get a list of available Surfshark servers, use the surfshark-cli server-list command:
  
  surfshark-cli server-list
  - This command will display a list of all available servers, along with their country codes and server names. You can use this list to find a server that meets your specific needs.
Checking Your IP Address:
- To check your current IP address, use the surfshark-cli ip command:
  
  surfshark-cli ip
  - This command will display your current IP address. You can use this to verify that your VPN connection is working correctly and that your IP address is being hidden.
Checking Your Account Information:
- To check your Surfshark account information, use the surfshark-cli account command:
  
  surfshark-cli account
  - This command will display information about your Surfshark account, including your subscription status and expiration date.

Here is a quick reference of the basic commands:

Command	Description
`surfshark-cli connect`	Connects to the fastest available Surfshark server.
`surfshark-cli connect <country code>`	Connects to a Surfshark server in the specified country e.g., `surfshark-cli connect us` for the United States.
`surfshark-cli connect <server name>`	Connects to a specific Surfshark server by its server name e.g., `surfshark-cli connect us-nyc-c01`.
`surfshark-cli disconnect`	Disconnects from the current Surfshark server.
`surfshark-cli status`	Displays the current status of the Surfshark connection, including the connected server, IP address, and connection status.
`surfshark-cli server-list`	Lists all available Surfshark servers, along with their country codes and server names.
`surfshark-cli ip`	Displays your current IP address, which can be used to verify that your VPN connection is working correctly and that your IP address is being hidden.
`surfshark-cli account`	Displays information about your Surfshark account, including your subscription status and expiration date. Useful for ensuring your account is active and up-to-date.

Diving Deeper: Customizing Your Connection

Once you’ve mastered the basic commands, it’s time to explore the more advanced options that Surfshark offers.

These options allow you to customize your connection to suit your specific needs and preferences.

It’s like fine-tuning an engine, optimizing it for maximum performance.

Selecting a Protocol:
- Surfshark supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN and WireGuard. You can choose the protocol that you want to use with the surfshark-cli protocol command.
- To set the protocol to OpenVPN, use the following command:
  
  surfshark-cli protocol openvpn
  - OpenVPN is a well-established and widely trusted protocol that offers a good balance of security and performance.
- To set the protocol to WireGuard, use the following command:
  
  surfshark-cli protocol wireguard
  - WireGuard is a newer protocol that is known for its speed and efficiency. It’s a good choice if you want to maximize your VPN performance.
Enabling the Kill Switch:
- The kill switch is a crucial feature that automatically disconnects your internet connection if the VPN connection drops. This prevents your data from being exposed if the VPN fails.
- To enable the kill switch, use the surfshark-cli killswitch command:
  
  surfshark-cli killswitch on
  - This will enable the kill switch. If the VPN connection drops, your internet connection will be automatically disconnected.
- To disable the kill switch, use the following command:
  
  surfshark-cli killswitch off
  - This will disable the kill switch.
Enabling MultiHop:
- MultiHop allows you to route your traffic through multiple servers, adding an extra layer of security and anonymity.
- To enable MultiHop, use the surfshark-cli multihop command followed by the entry and exit server locations:
  
  Surfshark-cli multihop
  - Replace <entry_country> and <exit_country> with the desired country codes. For example, to route your traffic through servers in the United States and Canada, use the following command:
```
surfshark-cli multihop us ca
```
Using the Bypasser Split Tunneling:
- The Bypasser feature allows you to choose which apps use the VPN connection and which apps connect directly to the internet. This is useful if you want to use the VPN for sensitive activities but allow other apps to connect directly for faster performance.
- To add an app to the Bypasser, use the surfshark-cli bypasser add command followed by the app’s name or path:
  
  surfshark-cli bypasser add
  - Replace <app_name> with the name or path of the app you want to add to the Bypasser.
- To remove an app from the Bypasser, use the surfshark-cli bypasser remove command:
  
  surfshark-cli bypasser remove
  - Replace <app_name> with the name or path of the app you want to remove from the Bypasser.
Configuring DNS Servers:
- DNS servers translate domain names like google.com into IP addresses. Surfshark provides its own DNS servers to protect your privacy and prevent DNS leaks.
- To use Surfshark’s DNS servers, make sure that your system is configured to use them automatically when the VPN is connected. This is usually the default setting.
- To manually configure your DNS servers, you can edit your system’s network settings. The exact steps will vary depending on your Linux distribution.
Auto-Connect on Startup:
- To automatically connect to Surfshark when your system starts, you can create a script that runs the surfshark-cli connect command.
- The exact steps will vary depending on your Linux distribution and desktop environment. However, a common approach is to create a .desktop file in the ~/.config/autostart directory.
- Create a file named surfshark-autostart.desktop with the following contents:
  
  Name=Surfshark VPN
  Exec=surfshark-cli connect
  Terminal=false
  Type=Application
  Hidden=false
  X-GNOME-Autostart-Enabled=true
  - This will automatically connect to the fastest available Surfshark server when you log in to your desktop environment.

Here is a more detailed explanation in table format:

Customization	Command	Description
Protocol Selection	`surfshark-cli protocol openvpn`	Sets the VPN protocol to OpenVPN, a widely trusted protocol balancing security and performance. Recommended for general use where a stable and secure connection is paramount.
	`surfshark-cli protocol wireguard`	Sets the VPN protocol to WireGuard, known for its speed and efficiency. Ideal for users prioritizing faster connection speeds and minimal impact on network performance.
Kill Switch	`surfshark-cli killswitch on`	Enables the kill switch, which automatically disconnects your internet connection if the VPN connection drops. This prevents data exposure and ensures your IP address remains hidden, providing an essential layer of security in case of unexpected VPN disconnections.
	`surfshark-cli killswitch off`	Disables the kill switch, allowing your internet connection to remain active even if the VPN connection drops. Use with caution, as this may expose your IP address if the VPN disconnects.
MultiHop	`surfshark-cli multihop <entry_country> <exit_country>`	Enables MultiHop, routing your traffic through multiple servers for added security and anonymity. Replace

Final Verdict

In conclusion, Surfshark on Linux emerges as a compelling option for users who value privacy, security, and control over their digital lives.

Its robust feature set, including the command-line interface, support for OpenVPN and WireGuard, and a strict no-logs policy, aligns perfectly with the Linux ethos.

It’s about providing the tools and letting the user decide how to use them.

Data from independent audits consistently shows Surfshark’s commitment to maintaining a secure and reliable VPN service.

While not fully open-source, Surfshark embraces transparency through regular security audits and active engagement with the security community.

This balanced approach offers Linux users a blend of proprietary technology and a commitment to user privacy.

The command-line interface empowers users to fine-tune their connection, enabling features like the kill switch, MultiHop, and Bypasser with ease.

It’s a testament to Surfshark’s understanding of the Linux user’s desire for customization and control.

The setup process via the command line, while requiring some technical finesse, is straightforward and well-documented.

The basic commands for connecting, disconnecting, and checking the status of the connection are simple to master, providing users with a solid foundation for managing their VPN.

As remote work becomes increasingly prevalent, a VPN like Surfshark is no longer a luxury but a necessity for Linux users seeking to protect their data and maintain their privacy while working from anywhere.

It’s a handshake between two entities that value freedom, flexibility, and the right to control one’s digital destiny.

For those ready to take the plunge and experience Surfshark’s capabilities firsthand, more information and subscription options are available on Surfshark’s official page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need a VPN on Linux? I thought it was already secure.

Linux is robust, yes, but it’s not a fortress.

A VPN, like Surfshark, adds layers.

Think of it as extra fortifications against the prying eyes of the internet.

It encrypts your data, hides your IP, and lets you sidestep geo-restrictions. Security in layers, that’s the key.

Is Surfshark truly “no logs”? I value my privacy.

Surfshark says they keep no logs.

It’s a promise, and they back it up with independent audits.

Surfshark doesn’t track what you do online. Your business is your own. That’s the principle.

I’m a command-line junkie. Does Surfshark play nice with the terminal?

Indeed.

Surfshark offers a full command-line interface CLI for Linux.

Connect, disconnect, change settings, all from the terminal.

No need for a graphical interface if that’s not your style. It’s about control, and the CLI gives you that.

OpenVPN or WireGuard? Which should I choose?

OpenVPN is the old reliable. Solid, secure, well-tested. WireGuard is the new kid, faster and leaner.

Both are good choices, supported by Surfshark. Try them both and see which suits your needs best. Performance varies depending on your setup.

What about open source? Is Surfshark open source?

Surfshark itself isn’t fully open source, but they use open-source protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard. They also undergo independent security audits. It’s a balance.

Transparency where it counts, even if the whole package isn’t open.

How do I set up Surfshark to automatically connect on startup?

A script, a .desktop file, and a little finesse.

Create an autostart entry that runs surfshark-cli connect when you log in.

The details depend on your desktop environment, but the principle is simple: automate the connection.

The kill switch: does it really work?

Yes, the kill switch works.

If your VPN connection drops, Surfshark cuts your internet.

It’s a safety net, preventing your data from leaking when the VPN fails. Enable it. It’s worth it.

I have multiple devices. Can I use Surfshark on all of them?

Surfshark offers unlimited device connections. Desktops, laptops, servers, connect them all. One account, many devices. It’s a good deal.

What if I run into trouble? Is there support for Linux users?

Surfshark offers 24/7 support via live chat and email. They can help with technical issues, even on Linux. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re stuck. They’re there to assist.

Where can I download Surfshark for Linux?

You can download Surfshark for Linux directly from their website.

Look for the “VPN Apps” section and choose the package that matches your distribution.

Debian, Ubuntu, Fedora, Arch – they’ve got you covered.

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