OpenVPN 2.6.17 is a free, open-source virtual private network (VPN) solution that provides robust SSL/TLS-based encryption for secure online communications across multiple platforms. The Windows 64-bit installer is 4.8 MB and supports Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7 (both 32-bit and 64-bit versions). Released in November 2025, this update includes critical security patches and performance improvements for encrypted tunnel connections.
In This Article
Key Features of OpenVPN
- Military-grade encryption: Uses industry-standard SSL/TLS authentication mechanisms with AES-256 encryption to create secure tunnels for all data transmission, protecting against eavesdropping and man-in-the-middle attacks
- Cross-platform compatibility: Works seamlessly across Windows, Linux, Unix, macOS, Android, and iOS platforms with consistent security protocols and configuration files
- Flexible deployment modes: Supports both client and server configurations, allowing users to set up their own VPN servers or connect to existing infrastructure with customizable authentication methods
- Network traversal capabilities: Operates efficiently through firewalls and NAT (Network Address Translation) by using a single TCP or UDP port, making it accessible from restrictive network environments
- Advanced routing options: Enables split-tunneling and full-tunnel VPN configurations with granular control over which traffic routes through the encrypted tunnel versus local network
- Certificate-based authentication: Implements X.509 PKI (Public Key Infrastructure) for strong two-factor authentication using digital certificates and optional username/password combinations
- Comprehensive logging: Provides detailed connection logs and diagnostic information for troubleshooting network issues and monitoring VPN activity
- Open-source transparency: Fully auditable codebase under GPL license ensures no backdoors or hidden vulnerabilities, similar to security-focused tools like Tor Browser
Technical Details
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Software | OpenVPN – Official Site |
| Version | 2.6.17 |
| License | Free (Open Source – GPL) |
| File Size | 4.8 MB (64-bit), 4.2 MB (32-bit) |
| Supported OS | Windows 11, 10, 8, 7 / Linux / macOS / Android / iOS |
| Developer | OpenVPN Inc. |
| Release Date | November 2025 |
| Last Updated | November 29, 2025 |
What’s New in Version 2.6.17
- Security enhancements: Updated OpenSSL libraries to address recent CVE vulnerabilities and strengthen encryption protocols against emerging threats
- Connection stability improvements: Fixed network switching issues where VPN connections would drop when moving between WiFi and ethernet or changing access points
- Proxy support refinements: Enhanced compatibility with HTTP and SOCKS5 proxy servers including basic authentication for corporate network environments
- Certificate validation: Added stricter checks to prevent connection attempts with expired or invalid SSL certificates, improving security posture
- Driver updates: Included latest TAP-Windows adapter (version 9.26.1) and DCO (Data Channel Offload) driver for improved performance on Windows 11
- IPv6 compatibility: Resolved dual-stack IPv4/IPv6 routing conflicts that could cause connection failures on modern networks
Download OpenVPN 2.6.17
Windows:
- Download OpenVPN 2.6.17 for Windows 64-bit (4.8 MB) (Recommended)
- 32-bit Version for Windows (4.2 MB)
- ARM64 Version for Windows (4.6 MB)
Linux:
- Check download guide for Linux
- Available for: Debian, Fedora, Red Hat Enterprise, Ubuntu
macOS:
- Download OpenVPN for macOS (5.2 MB)
- Compatible with macOS 11 (Big Sur) and later
Mobile:
- OpenVPN Connect for Android (Free)
- OpenVPN Connect for iOS (Free)
System Requirements
Minimum:
- OS: Windows 7 SP1 or later / Ubuntu 20.04 / macOS 11
- RAM: 512 MB
- Disk Space: 50 MB free
- Additional: Network adapter, administrative privileges for installation
Recommended:
- OS: Windows 11 or Windows 10 / Ubuntu 24.04 LTS / macOS 14
- RAM: 1 GB or higher
- Disk Space: 100 MB free
- Additional: Stable internet connection (1 Mbps or higher), firewall configured to allow UDP port 1194
Frequently Asked Questions
Is OpenVPN free to download and use?
OpenVPN is completely free and open-source software released under the GPL license. The Windows 64-bit installer is 4.8 MB. There are no subscription fees, connection limits, or hidden costs for personal or commercial use.
What are the system requirements for OpenVPN?
Minimum requirements include Windows 7 or later, 512 MB RAM, and 50 MB disk space. For optimal performance, Windows 10 or 11 with 1 GB RAM and 100 MB free disk space is recommended. Administrative privileges are required for installation.
How do I download OpenVPN for Windows 11?
Download the 64-bit installer (4.8 MB) from the official OpenVPN community downloads page, run the .msi file with administrator rights, and follow the installation wizard. Setup takes approximately 2-3 minutes and includes the TAP-Windows network adapter driver.
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