Outline - Plan & organize tasks

Outline offers a user-friendly method for setting up your personal virtual private network (VPN) server to securely access the internet and safeguard your conversations. If you have obtained an access key, simply download the Outline app to commence. For those without an access key, the first step is to establish your server. Begin by downloading the Outline Manager from getoutline.org. Crafting your server is fast and straightforward, with detailed instructions in the Manager guiding you through each stage.

How to Configure Outline?

- Outline comprises two interconnected components: the Outline Manager and Outline.

- The Outline Manager allows you to generate and manage your VPN, permitting you to share access with selected individuals by sending them direct invitations via the Manager. Upon installing the Manager, setting up a VPN server on a cloud platform takes less than five minutes.

- Once configuration is done, you can install the Outline application on your mobile device and computer.

- Share web access with colleagues or friends by inviting them from the Manager.

- If someone shared an access code from their Outline Manager, you are all set! Proceed by downloading the app and commencing.

Why Opt for Outline?

- Swift, trustworthy internet access utilizing the Shadowsocks protocol

- Empowers you to form and supervise your own VPN server and grant access to trusted acquaintances

- Robust encryption safeguards your communications

- Fully open-source and vetted by a nonprofit security organization

FAQs:

- Is Outline a VPN?

No, Outline is not a VPN. It allows anyone to set up and manage their own private VPN server.

- Why is Outline more difficult to block than a traditional VPN?

Outline uses a handshake-less, look-like-nothing protocol that is hard to identify, unlike standard VPN protocols that are easy to identify and block.

Private distribution of access. Unlike public VPNs, where a censor can easily access and list the servers it needs to block.

With Outline it’s easy to recreate a server if it gets blocked.

I downloaded the Outline App but don’t have an access key. Where can I find an access key?

Access keys can only be generated from the Outline Manager. Reach out to someone you know who has set up a server using the Outline Manager, or set up your own server and send yourself an access key.

- Is Outline secure?

Outline has been audited by two independent security firms. Read their reports here: Radically Open Security (March 2018, December 2022), Cure53 (December 2018).

- How do I choose a cloud provider?

Choose your cloud provider based on your specific needs and budget. Google and Amazon Web Services are both trusted names. Digital Ocean offers some of the least expensive plans per month, and many users report it is the easiest to set up.