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OpenVPN Access Server Reviews

Vendor: OpenVPN
4.2 out of 5
Badge Leader
470 followers
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What is OpenVPN Access Server?

OpenVPN Access Server is a comprehensive VPN solution that enables secure remote access and site-to-site connectivity. It uses the open-source OpenVPN protocol with added encryption and authentication for robust security. The web-based admin interface simplifies setup and centralized management of users, devices, and access controls.

Get the OpenVPN Access Server Buyer's Guide and find out what your peers are saying about OpenVPN Access Server, Prisma Access by Palo Alto Networks, Fortinet FortiClient and more!
OpenVPN Access Server is the #2 ranked solution in top Enterprise Infrastructure VPN solutions. PeerSpot users give OpenVPN Access Server an average rating of 8.4 out of 10. OpenVPN Access Server is most commonly compared to Prisma Access by Palo Alto Networks: OpenVPN Access Server vs Prisma Access by Palo Alto Networks. OpenVPN Access Server is popular among the large enterprise segment, accounting for 50% of users researching this solution on PeerSpot. The top industry researching this solution are professionals from a computer software company, accounting for 17% of all views.
Buyer's Guide
OpenVPN Access Server
May 2025
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OpenVPN Access Server mindshare

As of May 2025, the mindshare of OpenVPN Access Server in the Enterprise Infrastructure VPN category stands at 13.6%, down from 15.6% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.
Enterprise Infrastructure VPN

PeerResearch reports based on OpenVPN Access Server reviews

TypeTitleDate
CategoryEnterprise Infrastructure VPNMay 30, 2025Download
ProductReviews, tips, and advice from real usersMay 30, 2025Download
ComparisonOpenVPN Access Server vs Fortinet FortiClientMay 30, 2025Download
ComparisonOpenVPN Access Server vs Microsoft Azure VPN GatewayMay 30, 2025Download
ComparisonOpenVPN Access Server vs Cisco Secure Client (including AnyConnect)May 30, 2025Download
Suggested products
TitleRatingMindshareRecommending
Prisma Access by Palo Alto Networks4.26.5%92%63 interviewsAdd to research
Fortinet FortiClient4.013.7%92%99 interviewsAdd to research
 
 
Key learnings from peers

Valuable Features

OpenVPN Access Server offers valuable features like ease of setup, management, and multi-platform integration. Users appreciate its open-source nature, affordability, user-friendly interface, security, and scalability. It supports encryption, customizable client installers, and allows remote network access. Compatibility with various operating systems enhances its adaptability. It facilitates secure remote connections and offers two-factor authentication. Its stability and reliable performance make it a preferred choice for many organizations.
  • "What I appreciate the most about OpenVPN Access Server is that it's very easy to set up."
  • "The most valuable features of OpenVPN are its ease of use, client familiarity, end-user familiarity, operating system integration, and price points."
  • "It is easy to use."

Room for Improvement

OpenVPN Access Server requires a more user-friendly graphical interface and improved connectivity. Users report challenges with stability, speed, and scalability, along with complications in configuration and management. Security can be enhanced by incorporating additional features such as firewall functionalities. Notifications for connectivity issues and a simpler licensing structure are desired. Frequent updates, interface revisions, and better compatibility with operating systems are also suggested. Integration with Active Directory and improved high-availability deployment are needed.
  • "There are tasks that require logging onto the server to run commands, which is not intuitive through the UI."
  • "OpenVPN could improve in centralized management and enhance the GUI configuration steps."
  • "It should automate our processes."

ROI

Users experience high ROI from OpenVPN Access Server. Initial investment may seem costly, with a learning curve. Over time, intellectual benefits outweigh financial costs. Return is evident in minimized errors and damage. Efficiency improves by making server connection seamless for remote employees. Such connectivity is vital for operations, though some mention limited return beyond standard VPN service.

Pricing

OpenVPN Access Server is praised for its cost-effectiveness and open-source nature, offering a free community version with options for paid support. Users find its licensing straightforward and less complex than competitors like Cisco. The Pro Edition is reasonably priced per user, and discounts are available for long-term commitments. While setup requires time and hardware, its overall price point and flexibility make it a valuable option for enterprises seeking both free and licensed features.
  • "OpenVPN Access Server is a cheap corporate solution."
  • "The licensing has a fixed pricing."
  • "The product offers yearly as well as monthly subscription plans. It has moderate pricing."

Popular Use Cases

OpenVPN Access Server is primarily used for secure remote access, connecting desktops, laptops, and mobile devices to networks. It facilitates secure communication for businesses between offices, supports remote workers with secure connections, and enables encrypted data exchange. Organizations use it to connect multiple sites, secure AWS access, and protect local network access by expanding VPN coverage. Users also employ it to access internal servers and networks from insecure environments.

Service and Support

OpenVPN Access Server's customer support is highly rated, with users frequently finding needed documentation online. Technical support is often not required due to comprehensive web resources and responsive community forums. Users report that technical assistance is knowledgeable and responsive when contacted, though many handle issues themselves or find answers through online searches. Documentation and community support provide substantial assistance, contributing to effective management without frequent need for direct technical support.

Deployment

Users found OpenVPN Access Server's initial setup mostly straightforward, especially for those with Linux experience. Some found it complex without technical knowledge. Installation time varied, with reports ranging from minutes to a few weeks. Many users noted that scripting and following instructions simplified the process. Deployments required variable effort depending on team size and expertise. Overall, the setup was manageable with adequate preparation and understanding of networking and OS configurations.

Scalability

OpenVPN Access Server is generally scalable, with many noting its capacity to handle increased users effectively. Some encountered issues due to initial configurations, while others saw limitations based on hardware. Horizontal scaling appears challenging, requiring downtime for server adjustments. Various users reported successful scaling for a range of user sizes, emphasizing its capacity for growth. Ratings and feedback indicate a mix of perspectives, highlighting adaptability but requiring consideration for specific environments.

Stability

OpenVPN Access Server demonstrates strong stability with minimal issues reported. Users indicate it as reliable, stable, and resilient, even under demanding conditions. Improvements in performance and faster operations could enhance the experience. Occasionally, updates and hardware adjustments are necessary, but they do not significantly affect stability. Various users have independently rated its stability highly, typically around seven to nine out of ten. Minor concerns arise mainly with long-term connection or unique configurations.
These insights are based on the in-depth reviews provided by peers to help you make a better buying decision.
Download our OpenVPN Access Server Buyer's Guide for additional reliable information.

Review data by company size

By reviewers
By visitors reading reviews

Top industries

By visitors reading reviews
Computer Software Company
17%
Comms Service Provider
9%
Educational Organization
8%
University
7%
Financial Services Firm
6%
Manufacturing Company
6%
Government
5%
Retailer
5%
Healthcare Company
4%
Real Estate/Law Firm
4%
Media Company
4%
Energy/Utilities Company
3%
Hospitality Company
2%
Outsourcing Company
2%
Construction Company
2%
Wholesaler/Distributor
2%
Consumer Goods Company
2%
Non Profit
1%
Legal Firm
1%
Performing Arts
1%
Transportation Company
1%
Insurance Company
1%
Recreational Facilities/Services Company
1%
Aerospace/Defense Firm
1%
Wellness & Fitness Company
1%
Logistics Company
1%

Compare OpenVPN Access Server with alternative products

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Learn more about OpenVPN Access Server

OpenVPN Access Server's ease of setup, comprehensive security features, and professional support make it a viable option for businesses looking to facilitate secure remote access and inter-office connectivity. However, potential users should be mindful of the technical requirements for setup and the possibility of network performance issues in specific scenarios.

Based on over 30 independent peer reviews, OpenVPN garners consistently positive feedback for its stability, security, and free open-source licensing. The most common complaints relate to initial setup complexity and occasional connection drops. Despite these drawbacks, most reviewers highly recommend OpenVPN Access Server due to its robust encryption standards, flexible access options, and scalability across organization sizes.

Versatile Installation and Client Support:

  • OpenVPN Access Server can be installed on various Linux OS platforms, offering flexibility to adapt to different network environments. This includes popular distributions like Ubuntu, Debian, CentOS, and Red Hat Enterprise Linux.
  • OpenVPN Access Server supports a comprehensive range of VPN clients, ensuring broad compatibility and user accessibility. This includes clients for Microsoft Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux, enabling users to connect securely from various devices.

User Authentication and Security:

  • OpenVPN Access Server incorporates a built-in user authentication system, which can be managed via a web-based interface. This allows administrators to manage user accounts, passwords, and access permissions easily.
  • For enhanced security, OpenVPN Access Server supports integration with external authentication systems like PAM, LDAP, RADIUS, and SAML. This allows you to leverage your existing authentication infrastructure for VPN access.
  • The solution provides the flexibility to implement custom Python programming for advanced authentication methods, catering to specific security requirements.
  • OpenVPN Access Server utilizes the OpenVPN protocol, renowned for its robust encryption and security. VPN tunnels are secured with TLS authentication, credentials, certificates, and optional MAC address lock, ensuring a high level of protection for data transmission.

Flexible Access Control and Tunneling Options:

  • OpenVPN Access Server provides comprehensive access control rules, allowing administrators to specify user or group access to IP addresses and subnets. This enables granular control over network access and resource utilization.
  • OpenVPN Access Server supports both full-tunnel and split-tunnel redirection. Full-tunnel mode routes all VPN client internet traffic through the VPN tunnel, while split-tunnel mode allows selective routing of specific traffic.

OpenVPN offers professional support for Access Server, with a global team of experts available through an online ticket system. This ensures that users have timely access to assistance when needed.

OpenVPN Access Server was previously known as OpenVPN.

OpenVPN Access Server customers

Verizon, Amazon, Disney, HP, Microsoft, IBM, Samsung

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Product Categories

Product Categories
Enterprise Infrastructure VPN

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OpenVPN Access Server reviews

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PeerSpot user
Chief Cloud Architect at a tech vendor with 10,001+ employees
Verified user of OpenVPN Access Server
May 28, 2025
Setup and cross-platform integration simplify secure network access

Pros

"What I appreciate the most about OpenVPN Access Server is that it's very easy to set up."

Cons

"There are tasks that require logging onto the server to run commands, which is not intuitive through the UI."

What is our primary use case?

My main use case for OpenVPN Access Server is access to private subnets.

What is most valuable?

What I appreciate the most about OpenVPN Access Server is that it's very easy to set up.

OpenVPN Access Server has helped in meeting my organization's security requirements. I get to keep everything in the cloud private. People on the outside cannot see it, and this I use to connect.

*Disclosure: I am a real user, and this review is based on my own experience and opinions.
Read full review (530 words)
PeerSpot user
Service Delivery Manager at CasCom
Verified user of OpenVPN Access Server
Feb 3, 2025
Remote connectivity solution with client familiarity and OS integration for winter road access

Pros

"The most valuable features of OpenVPN are its ease of use, client familiarity, end-user familiarity, operating system integration, and price points."

Cons

"OpenVPN could improve in centralized management and enhance the GUI configuration steps."

What is our primary use case?

Our primary use case for OpenVPN is remote connectivity for clients in the mining exploration industry, specifically for winter road and ice road access.

What is most valuable?

The most valuable features of OpenVPN are its ease of use, client familiarity, end-user familiarity, operating system integration, and price points. The scalability is a bonus since it allows running on any hardware. It's part of our client stack for all of our clients' VPNs and is a de facto standard for an endpoint VPN solution.

*Disclosure: My company has a business relationship with this vendor other than being a customer: Partner
Read full review (433 words)
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Find out what your peers are saying about OpenVPN Access Server. Updated May 2025
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Bertrand Moutault - PeerSpot user
Owner at La Poste
Verified user of OpenVPN Access Server
Jul 28, 2023
An easy-to-use tool with which its users can access networks from home or external locations

Pros

"The initial setup phase of OpenVPN Access Server was fine, and it was easy."

Cons

"There are certain shortcomings in the product's stability that need improvement."

What is our primary use case?

I use OpenVPN Access Server to access certain networks from home or external locations.

What is most valuable?

The most valuable features of the solution are that it is easy to use and quick overall.

*Disclosure: I am a real user, and this review is based on my own experience and opinions.
Read full review (367 words)
PeerSpot user
CEO at a consultancy with 1-10 employees
Verified user of OpenVPN Access Server
Oct 9, 2023
A scalable and easy-to-use solution with a responsive support team

Pros

"The product’s adaptability is valuable."

Cons

"The logs should be made easier to read."

What is our primary use case?

We have a virtual machine set up on Google Cloud. The virtual machine is connected to all our clients. It is connected to OpenVPN, which is connected to Google Cloud. It connects our clients throughout the country. We also have clients in other countries.

What is most valuable?

The product’s adaptability is valuable. We can connect to clients through different methods. We could set up a site-to-site connection, or we could set it up as a tunnel. There are a lot of different ways of setting up the connection. We can try a different method if something doesn't work for a client's security configuration or firewall. The product is fairly easy to use.

*Disclosure: I am a real user, and this review is based on my own experience and opinions.
Read full review (373 words)
LAWAL YUSUF - PeerSpot user
IT auditor at SHEFFIELD HALLAM UNIVERSITY
Verified user of OpenVPN Access Server
Sep 24, 2023
Has robust features for encryption and stability

Pros

"The product has strong encryption and scalability features. It provides security for private network connections. "

Cons

"The product’s connectivity is very slow. It could be faster. "

What is our primary use case?

We use the product for secure remote access, including WiFi and IoT device security.

What is most valuable?

The product has strong encryption and scalability features. It provides security for private network connections.

*Disclosure: I am a real user, and this review is based on my own experience and opinions.
Read full review (296 words)
PeerSpot user
Project Manager at a photography company with 51-200 employees
Verified user of OpenVPN Access Server
Aug 11, 2024
Provides better latency and connects remotely

Pros

"It is easy to use."

Cons

"It should automate our processes."

What is our primary use case?

We connect to the OpenVPN using a VPN for any computer not directly connected to our local server. This is necessary because multiple offices need to use the software developed on the local server.

How has it helped my organization?

We use OpenVPN Access Server on every device that needs to connect to the server. It's the best way to achieve better latency and connect remotely.

*Disclosure: I am a real user, and this review is based on my own experience and opinions.
Read full review (394 words)
An-Pham - PeerSpot user
Deputy General Manager at Viettel Group
Verified user of OpenVPN Access Server
Feb 11, 2023
Provides secure connections, and is scalable, but the stability can use improvement

Pros

"OpenVPN Access Server allows us to establish a secure connection to an IP address that would otherwise be inaccessible without using a VPN."

Cons

"The stability of the OpenVPN Access Server has room for improvement."

What is our primary use case?

It can create an environmentally friendly setting, such as a park or green space, where I can interact with other people and use various tools and resources.

What is most valuable?

OpenVPN Access Server allows us to establish a secure connection to an IP address that would otherwise be inaccessible without using a VPN.

*Disclosure: I am a real user, and this review is based on my own experience and opinions.
Read full review (195 words)
Alex Clerici - PeerSpot user
System Integrator IT Manager at Tecnimex S.r.l.
Verified user of OpenVPN Access Server
Dec 8, 2023
Reliable and versatile, offers a user-friendly interface for easy configuration

Pros

"The most valuable thing about OpenVPN Access Server is its ease of use. "

Cons

"One improvement I would like to see in OpenVPN is better adaptability in certain geographical areas. "

What is our primary use case?

I use OpenVPN Access Server for remote maintenance, enabling secure access to systems. It is also my choice for smart working, providing a reliable and encrypted connection for remote employees. Additionally, I deploy it for site-to-site VPNs, ensuring secure communication between our headquarters and branch offices.

What is most valuable?

The most valuable thing about OpenVPN Access Server is its ease of use. The user-friendly interface simplifies configuration, and features like reversibility and scalability enhance its flexibility.

*Disclosure: I am a real user, and this review is based on my own experience and opinions.
Read full review (426 words)