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How to Install and Set Up OpenVPN Connect v3 on Windows & Mac

OpenVPN Connect v3 is a secure, reliable VPN client that allows users to connect to a private network securely from anywhere. Whether you’re working remotely or need to access corporate resources, OpenVPN Connect ensures encrypted and private internet access.

🚀 Brought to you by Axio Networks, an award-winning managed IT provider in Scottsdale, Arizona. We help businesses implement and manage secure VPN solutions to keep data safe and accessible.


📌 Step 1: Download OpenVPN Connect v3

Windows Users:

  1. Visit the OpenVPN official website.
  2. Click “Download OpenVPN Connect for Windows”.
  3. Save the file to your computer.

Mac Users:

  1. Visit the OpenVPN official website.
  2. Click “Download OpenVPN Connect for macOS”.
  3. Save the file to your Downloads folder.

Make sure you download OpenVPN Connect v3 (not the older OpenVPN GUI version).


📌 Step 2: Install OpenVPN Connect

Windows Installation:

  1. Open the downloaded .exe file.
  2. Click “Yes” if prompted by User Account Control (UAC).
  3. Follow the on-screen installation steps and click “Install”.
  4. Once complete, click “Finish”.

Mac Installation:

  1. Open the downloaded .dmg file.
  2. Drag and drop the OpenVPN Connect app into the Applications folder.
  3. Open Applications and double-click OpenVPN Connect to launch it.

You’ve successfully installed OpenVPN Connect v3! Now, let’s set it up.


📌 Step 3: Import Your VPN Configuration File

Your IT team or VPN administrator should provide a VPN configuration file (.ovpn file) to connect to your network.

To import your .ovpn file:

  1. Open OpenVPN Connect.
  2. Click “Import Profile”.
  3. Select “FILE” and click “Browse” to upload your .ovpn file.
  4. Click “Open” and then “Import” to load the configuration.

If your company provides a VPN URL instead of a file, select “URL” and enter the server address.


📌 Step 4: Connect to Your VPN

After importing the profile:

  1. Click the “Connect” button.
  2. Enter your VPN username and password (if required).
  3. Click “OK” or “Allow” when prompted.
  4. Once connected, you will see a green checkmark or notification confirming your VPN is active.

Your internet traffic is now encrypted, and you are securely connected to your private network!


📌 Step 5: Test Your VPN Connection

✔ Visit WhatIsMyIP to verify your IP address has changed.
✔ Try accessing company resources or internal websites that require VPN access.
✔ If you experience connection issues, restart OpenVPN Connect and try again.

A successful VPN connection means you’re securely accessing the network!


📌 Troubleshooting OpenVPN Connect Issues

🔹 Can’t connect? – Ensure you entered the correct username, password, or VPN URL.
🔹 Slow connection? – Try switching between Wi-Fi and Ethernet or restarting your router.
🔹 Stuck on “Connecting”? – Close and reopen OpenVPN Connect, then retry.
🔹 Permission issues on Mac? – Go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Allow OpenVPN.

If issues persist, contact your IT support team for help.


💡 Axio Networks Pro Tip

For business users, implementing secure VPN policies, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and split tunneling helps enhance security and optimize network performance. Need expert VPN solutions? Axio Networks provides managed VPN setup and IT security services—contact us today! 🚀