Stay Secure with Always-on VPN Support in OpenVPN Connect for Android

At OpenVPN, we’re always working to enhance security and ease of use for our customers. That’s why we’re excited to announce that OpenVPN Connect now supports Always-on VPN in Android. With this update, Android users can now ensure that their devices automatically connect to their VPN after boot-up and remain securely connected at all times.

Why Always-on VPN matters 

Accidental data leaks and security breaches often stem from human error — such as forgetting to connect to a VPN before accessing the internet. Always-on VPN eliminates this risk by ensuring that your connection is secured the moment your device starts up. Once Always-on VPN is enabled, OpenVPN Connect will automatically establish a VPN connection, giving IT teams peace of mind that their users are always protected from hackers and other cyber threats.

For even stronger security, block connections without VPN can be enabled from Android’s Settings app. This setting prevents any network traffic from bypassing the VPN, ensuring that all data remains encrypted and secure at all times. Businesses handling sensitive information, such as those needing to comply with GDPR, HIPAA, or other security regulations, can rely on this feature to maintain compliance effortlessly.

Key benefits of Always-on VPN support:

Perhaps the most compelling point of Always on-VPN is that VPN protection is always active — even if users forget or are unaware of the need for it. Here are some of the benefits you can expect for your business:

• Automatic VPN connection on boot-up – No more worrying about users forgetting to connect; security is enforced automatically.
• Prevent data leaks and cyber threats – By blocking internet access when the VPN is disconnected, you ensure that all traffic is encrypted at all times.
• Compliance with security standards – Organizations can maintain regulatory compliance with ease, ensuring that every connection follows strict security policies.
• Limit access to unsafe websites – By routing all traffic through your VPN, you can enforce restrictions on suspicious and known malicious sites and prevent exposure to cyber threats.

With this feature, businesses and individual users can eliminate human error, enforce security policies, and stay protected against cyber threats — all without any extra effort.

How to enable Always-on VPN in OpenVPN Connect

Getting started with Always-on VPN is simple:

1. Open the Settings app on your Android device.
2. Navigate to Network & internet > VPN and click the + icon to configure OpenVPN Connect.
3. Tap the settings cogwheel icon next to OpenVPN Connect and toggle ON the setting for Always-on VPN.
4. For enhanced security, enable Android’s Block connections without VPN to ensure all traffic goes through OpenVPN.

Note: The exact steps can vary by device, so check your device’s user guide for specific instructions. 

Upgrade your security today

Always-on VPN support is now available in OpenVPN Connect for Android. Update your app today and take advantage of seamless, always-on security.

For more details on OpenVPN Connect and its features, visit our documentation.

New here? Ready to take your business to the next level with OpenVPN? Work from anywhere and from any device with confidence. Create an account today for three free connections with CloudConnexa or two free connections with Access Server to get started.