In many parts of the world, free access to the internet is not a given. Websites are blocked, messaging apps are restricted, and critical content is censored. This raises the question: How can I stay online – freely and securely?
This article series shows how to set up your own stable and encrypted connection using Tailscale, a modern VPN based on the WireGuard protocol – especially useful in countries with restrictive internet laws.
But government censorship isn’t the only issue. Even in everyday situations – like at a hotel or café – our online communication is often unprotected.
A VPN protects you in public Wi-Fi: the provider can’t see which websites you visit, what apps you use, or who you’re communicating with. Your connection is fully encrypted, allowing you to stay private and secure even on open networks.
Why use a VPN at all?
VPNs are no longer just for IT professionals or anonymous activists. They help in many everyday situations:
1. Bypass Internet Restrictions
In authoritarian states, entire websites are blocked: social networks, news sites, communication services. Anyone traveling in China, Russia, Egypt or Iran, for example, will suddenly find part of their usual Internet blocked.
With a VPN like Tailscale, you can connect to a secure server abroad – and thus access the open Internet freely, just as if you were physically in another country.
From Egypt, for example, I always use a tailscale VPN connection to my server in Germany, which serves as an exit node to the free Internet.
2. Protection in Public Wi-Fi
Whether you’re in a hotel, café, or airport, public Wi-Fi is convenient – but also insecure. Without protection, your data can be intercepted by others on the network.
A VPN ensures end-to-end encryption, keeping your connection secure even on open networks. Perfect for travel or everyday use.
3. Your ISP Gets No Data About You
Your internet provider usually sees which websites you visit, how long you’re online, and what services you use. This data can be stored, analyzed, or even sold.
With a VPN, you browse via an encrypted connection – your provider only sees that you’re online, but nothing more about your activity.
More Benefits
Of course, a VPN has other practical advantages too:
- Access to streaming content from other countries (e.g. Netflix US, media libraries)
- Bypassing bandwidth throttling depending on the service used
- More privacy in daily internet usage…
This upcoming article series will guide you through each step:
- Ordering the server
What to look out for and which providers are suitable. - Installing Ubuntu Server
Setting up the basics – whether you’re a Linux beginner or not. - Configuring the firewall and setting up an SSH connection to Ubuntu Server
To ensure your server is secure and only allows what’s necessary. - Installing Tailscale on Ubuntu Server
Your server becomes part of your private network. - Setting up Tailscale as an Exit Node using a script
Use a ready-made shell script to deploy your own VPN server. - Configuring Tailscale as an Exit Node in detail
Understand what’s happening under the hood – optional, but helpful. - Configuring the Tailscale Exit Node in the Admin Console
You’ll need to activate the exit node in the Admin Console.
Each article stands on its own and can be read individually – but together they form a complete guide on how to bypass internet censorship and set up your own VPN.
Who is this guide for?
- For travelers who don’t want to give up free internet access abroad,
- For people living in countries with restricted internet access,
- For anyone wanting to work securely on public Wi-Fi,
- For tech enthusiasts who want full control over their VPN,
- For you – if you want to take your internet freedom into your own hands.
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