Installing the OpenVPN Client on Android

For devices running Android 4.0 or a newer release, there is a free OpenVPN app in the Google Play store that works excellently without needing root access. It is called OpenVPN for Android by Arne Schwabe.

OpenVPN Client Export Package on pfSense® can export an Android type Inline Configuration, and the resulting .ovpn file can be transferred to the target device. It can be copied directly, e-mailed to the device, etc.

  • Open the OpenVPN for Android app

  • Tap Import (File folder icon at upper right)

  • Find the .ovpn file saved above and tap it

  • Tap Import (Disk icon at upper right)

The imported VPN is now shown in the list. Edit the entry to change the name and other details. Tap the VPN to connect. If the profile is configured for user authentication, the app will prompt for credentials when connecting.

Note

The Android OpenVPN Connect client also works on Android 4.x and does not require root. It works identically to the iOS client by the same name. It lacks the ability to fully configure the VPN in the GUI, so it is not recommended. Use the OpenVPN Connect type Inline Configuration export for use with that client on both Android and iOS.