Note: The recommended way to use Shellfire VPN on Windows is by downloading the Shellfire VPN App. The app provides a simple, user-friendly interface for connecting to and switching between our secure VPN servers with just one click. You can download the Shellfire VPN app here.

However, if you prefer a manual setup or need more advanced control over your VPN connection, you can configure OpenVPN manually. This guide will walk you through the process of setting up Shellfire OpenVPN on Windows step by step.

You may want to create/use a separate Sub VPN for your manual VPN connection. To learn more about Sub VPNs, visit this guide.

OpenVPN offers the highest possible connection security by using proven encryption mechanisms. If you are looking for the maximum connection speed and the best ping, have a look at our Wireguard guide. While both protocols are open-source and have been audited, Wireguard's more modern encryption has undergone less extensive real-world testing compared to the more established OpenVPN.

Required Data and Files

To set up an OpenVPN connection to Shellfire VPN on Windows 10 or later, follow these steps:

Prerequisites:

• The latest OpenVPN client app. Select Download OpenVPN Connect App, launch the installer, Accept the terms and hit "Install".
• A paid Premium Plus Shellfire VPN subscription. We currently do not offer config downloads for manual setups with Shellfire VPN Free. If you are a Free user, please stick to the Shellfire VPN App or consider upgrading.
  
  

Setup Process

Next, you will need to download the .ovpn configuration file from your Shellfire customer center. To do that, log in, then navigate to Products -> Shellfire VPN, then select "Details". Activate the advanced settings as shown in the screenshots to enable the download option.

Note: The config file needs to be updated or downloaded again every time you change the VPN server, so make sure to set your preferred VPN server before you start.

The configuration package includes all necessary certificates and keys for a secure connection. It also contains all necessary connection parameters (server address etc.).

Next, launch the OpenVPN Connect App. Go to UPLOAD FILE and drag and drop your downloaded .ovpn config file here. You can also select "Browse" and find the file using the file explorer. Uploading the file will automatically create a new OpenVPN profile.

Hit Connect!

That's it, your connection is up and running!

Use the green slider to disconnect/reconnect the VPN any time.

Using your VPN connection

From now on, you can use your newly set up OpenVPN connection at any time. Just launch OpenVPN Connect, either directly from your desktop shortcut or from the Windows Start menu. Use the slider to connect/disconnect.

Checking your VPN conection

Trust is good, control is better. Make sure you check if everything is really working fine by visiting the Shellfire VPN Status page. You should see a protected status there.

Troubleshooting

• There is an error during connection: Double check all your settings. Make sure you have administrative rights on your PC. If you changed the VPN server, you will need to download and import the config file again. Try disabling any Firewall software you are running.
• If you are located in a country or network with a restrictive firewall: Try switching the OpenVPN protocol to TCP in the customer center (just above the config download. Download the config file again, repeat the import process and try connecting again. 
• The Shellfire VPN status page does not show a protected status: Double check your settings. Contact the Shellfire VPN support if the problem persists. Please include the log file of your  OpenVPN Connect App (clink on the symbol in the top right corner of the app). 
  

If problems persist, contact Shellfire VPN Support.