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Virtual private networks / Re: Guide for deploying OpenVPN Access Server + OPNsense
« on: August 10, 2024, 07:17:55 am »
If you are a n00bie like me, and are coming across this article... I figured it out. Below are the steps:
Personally, for VPN I think it is safer to limit the number of times end-users need to enter their username/password. Instead, each time they access they should complete a push/biometric challenge. Since re-authentication is so much faster, you can make your VPN disconnect after a few minutes of inactivity. And, end-users can't really complain since reconnecting is so simple. OpenVPN AS as a FREE license that allows 2 concurrent connections. After that you have to purchase a subscription, which is reasonable, all things considered.
- Install OpenVPN Access Server (OpenVPN AS) on a Virtual Appliance or Dedicated Device.
- On your firewall, "Pinhole" the OpenVPN port through the firewall (usually UDP Port 1194).
- Update the hostname to OpenVPN AS to a DNS entry that is accessible locally (e.g. 192.168.x.x) and globally (123.456.x.x).
- Get an SSL certificate from LetsEncrypt, and configure automatic renewals (guide).
- In OpenVPN Access Server, configure SAML Authentication with your Identity Provider (IdP) of choice (e.g. Entra, Google, IBM Verify, etc.)
- With OpenVPN Access Server, configure your Access Control policy via User Permissions or Group Permissions
- Use your phone to test the if your SAML authentication and OpenVPN Access Control policies are working.
Personally, for VPN I think it is safer to limit the number of times end-users need to enter their username/password. Instead, each time they access they should complete a push/biometric challenge. Since re-authentication is so much faster, you can make your VPN disconnect after a few minutes of inactivity. And, end-users can't really complain since reconnecting is so simple. OpenVPN AS as a FREE license that allows 2 concurrent connections. After that you have to purchase a subscription, which is reasonable, all things considered.