Setting up a VPN (Virtual Private Network) server might sound tricky at first. But with the right tools, it’s actually pretty doable—even for beginners. One tool that helped me get started was called Streisand.
Streisand is an open-source project that lets you create your own VPN server with just a few commands. It sets up lots of privacy tools for you on a VPS (Virtual Private Server), which is just a rented computer on the internet that you control.
What’s cool about Streisand? It installs more than one VPN system, gives you secure access, and even makes a webpage to help you connect. Sounds pretty nice, right?
In this guide, I’ll show you how I used Streisand to make my own VPN server. I’ll keep it short, simple, and in plain language—no tech talk unless I explain it first. Let’s get to it (and don’t worry—I’ll throw in some jokes to keep it light).
What Is Streisand?
Streisand is a tool that helps you set up a private server with:
- OpenVPN
- WireGuard
- Shadowsocks
- Tor bridge
- And more
It’s like a Swiss Army knife for privacy.
It was named after Barbra Streisand (yes, the singer). Why? Because of something called the Streisand effect—where trying to hide something makes it more popular. Kinda like when your parents tell you not to eat cookies, and suddenly cookies are all you can think about.
Streisand helps people get around censorship and stay private online. That’s the whole point.
What You Need Before You Start
Let’s get your tools ready. Here’s what I used:
- A VPS (I used Ubuntu 18.04, which works best with Streisand)
- At least 1GB RAM (more is better)
- A domain name (optional, but helpful)
- A computer with Linux or macOS (Windows needs extra setup)
- Some basic terminal skills
- Patience—and a snack doesn’t hurt either
I used DigitalOcean for my VPS, but you can use Vultr, Linode, Hetzner, or any other provider.
Step 1: Set Up Your VPS
After you buy your VPS, you’ll get an IP address and a username.
Open your terminal and connect to your VPS using SSH (that’s just a way to send commands remotely):
ssh [email protected]
Replace your.vps.ip.address with your server’s IP.
Once you’re in, update your system:
apt update && apt upgrade -y
Step 2: Install Dependencies on Your Local Machine
This next part happens on your computer, not the VPS.
First, install these tools:
- Ansible – this helps Streisand run setup scripts
- Python 3 – needed for Streisand scripts
- Git – used to download Streisand from the internet
If you’re on Ubuntu or Debian:
sudo apt install git python3 python3-pip -y
pip3 install --user ansible
Make sure everything installs without errors.
Step 3: Clone the Streisand Project
Now let’s get Streisand.
Run this command:
git clone https://github.com/StreisandEffect/streisand.git
Go into the folder:
cd streisand
You’re now inside the Streisand setup.
Step 4: Start the Setup
You’ll now start the Streisand process. It’ll ask you questions as it sets things up.
To begin:
./streisand
You’ll be asked:
- VPS provider (choose yours)
- Server region (pick the one closest to you)
- Domain name (if you have one)
If you don’t have a domain, that’s okay—Streisand will still work with your IP address.
Now sit back. This part takes 10–30 minutes.
You might want to stretch, get a drink, or practice your best “hacker typing” face.
Step 5: Get Your Access Info
When the script finishes, you’ll see something like:
Your Streisand server is ready!
You can find instructions at: ~/streisand/generated-docs/index.html
This file has everything you need:
- VPN login info
- QR codes for mobile apps
- Setup steps for each VPN type
You can open it in your browser or send it to friends.
It’s like getting a user manual—but one that actually makes sense.
Step 6: Connect to Your VPN
Now comes the fun part—using your new VPN.
Here’s how I did it:
- For OpenVPN: I downloaded the config file and used the OpenVPN app
- For Shadowsocks: I scanned the QR code with the Shadowsocks app on my phone
- For WireGuard: I imported the
.conffile into the WireGuard app
Each method is fast, private, and works great for browsing, streaming, or dodging censorship.
Three Lists to Keep You on Track
Tools You Need
- ✅ VPS (Ubuntu 18.04 works best)
- ✅ SSH client
- ✅ Terminal on your PC or Mac
- ✅ Some coffee or tea
Software Streisand Installs for You
- ✅ OpenVPN
- ✅ WireGuard
- ✅ Shadowsocks
- ✅ Tor bridge
- ✅ Stunnel
- ✅ IPsec/L2TP
Why I Like Streisand
- ✅ Gives you lots of VPN choices
- ✅ Good for beginners and pros
- ✅ Makes a help page just for you
Pros and Cons of Streisand
No tool is perfect. Here’s what I noticed:
Pros:
- Easy setup if you follow the steps
- Many VPNs in one server
- Great for sharing with others
- Works well in countries with internet blocks
Cons:
- Development stopped in 2020 (but still works fine)
- Needs an older Ubuntu version
- Doesn’t support Windows for setup without extra tools
If you want a super modern VPN, maybe try Outline or Algo. But for me, Streisand was like a buffet—so many tasty options to pick from.
Funny Moments I Had
One time, I forgot to open port 443 on my firewall and spent 15 minutes wondering why nothing worked. Turns out my server was being more fire-walled than a medieval castle.
Another time, I named my server “invisiblepotato” just to confuse snoopers. Still makes me giggle when I connect.
Extra Tips
- Always update your VPS once in a while.
- Only share access with people you trust (like your cat or best friend).
- Don’t try to install Streisand on Windows unless you enjoy headaches.
Wrapping Up
Setting up my own VPN server with Streisand felt like building my own little internet cave. It gave me privacy, freedom, and a bit of pride.
It might take a little time, but it’s worth it. You learn how things work, you get full control, and best of all—you’re not depending on someone else to protect your data.
If you like doing things your way (and enjoy puns like “encrypt and sip”), this setup is for you.
