This guide explains how to connect to HackTheBox (HTB) servers using OpenVPN and WSL2, with specific considerations for users in Egypt.
- OpenVPN Community Edition: Download and install the latest version (e.g., Version 2.6.13).
- HTB Configuration File: Download your
.ovpnconfiguration file from the HTB platform. Ensure you select the TCP version, not UDP.
Before importing the .ovpn file into OpenVPN, add the following line to the file:
windows-driver wintun
This ensures compatibility with WSL2.
- Open the OpenVPN application.
- Import the modified
.ovpnfile. - Connect to the HTB server using the imported configuration.
Once the VPN connection is established, start your WSL2 terminal. You should now be able to access HTB servers directly from WSL2.
If you prefer to use the UDP configuration file instead of TCP, follow these additional steps:
- Run a Secondary VPN: Before connecting to HTB via OpenVPN, start another VPN service (e.g., Kaspersky VPN, Cloudflare Warp, or Windscribe). This creates a "tunnel inside a tunnel" and bypasses restrictions.
- Connect to HTB: Once the secondary VPN is active, connect to HTB using the UDP configuration file in OpenVPN.
In Egypt, certain VPN protocols may be restricted. Using TCP or a secondary VPN (as described above) can help bypass these restrictions and ensure a stable connection to HTB servers.
By following these steps, you should be able to seamlessly connect to HackTheBox servers using OpenVPN and WSL2. Happy hacking!