VPN

The Vegas Open Network (VONet) VPN is a free, optional service for users connected to VONet. It offers secure, encrypted tunnels for your traffic while it travels across the public network. This protects against eavesdropping and adds privacy.

Purpose

On a shared network, your data can be visible to others without encryption. A VPN prevents this by creating an encrypted "tunnel" between your device and a trusted VPN server. The VONet VPN is designed for users who:

• Want privacy without buying a commercial VPN.
• Need encrypted access while connected to VONet.
• Prefer a VPN run by the same community that operates the network.

Availability

• Only accessible to devices connected to VONet.
• Not offered to the general public or as a global VPN service.
• No monthly fees or contracts.
• Completely optional to use.

Technology

The VPN currently runs on a **single SoftEther VPN server**. This is a stable and reliable setup, but in the future we plan to expand to a **clustered SoftEther VPN deployment** for improved redundancy, load balancing, and uptime.

Supported protocols:

• **L2TP/IPsec (PSK)** – Works on most operating systems without extra software.
• **SoftEther SSL-VPN** – Good for bypassing restrictive networks; requires the SoftEther client.

Traffic is encrypted end-to-end between your device and the VONet VPN server. Once it exits the VPN, it follows standard internet routing.

Security Notes

• A VPN encrypts data in transit, but once it reaches the internet, the destination site still sees your traffic unless you also use HTTPS.
• We do not log browsing history or inspect user traffic.
• The VPN protects against local snooping but does not make you "anonymous" online.

Using Your Own VPN

You may use any external VPN service instead of the VONet VPN. This may be a better choice if:

• You already have a trusted VPN provider.
• You need a specific exit location outside Las Vegas.
• You want different features like WireGuard or multi-hop routing.

If using your own VPN:

• Connect your device to VONet as normal.
• Start your VPN client before browsing or using apps.
• Avoid double VPN connections unless you understand the performance trade-offs.

Setup

• You can configure your device using our step-by-step guides.
• Supported devices: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS.
• You can also request help from a VONet volunteer.

Recommendation

We recommend that **all** users on VONet use a VPN — either ours or their own — for privacy and security.