Install Private Internet Access (PIA) on Linux

Complete step-by-step guide to setting up PIA VPN on your Linux system

Why Use Private Internet Access on Linux?

Private Internet Access (PIA) is one of the most trusted VPN services available, offering robust security and privacy features for Linux users. This guide will walk you through how to install PIA Linux on various distributions, troubleshoot common issues, and access PIA customer support when needed.

Benefits of PIA VPN on Linux

System Requirements

Before you begin the Private Internet Access Linux install process, ensure your system meets these requirements:

Hardware

  • 1GHz or faster processor
  • 512MB RAM minimum (1GB recommended)
  • 100MB free disk space
  • Active internet connection

Supported Distros

  • Ubuntu 18.04+
  • Debian 10+
  • Fedora 32+
  • CentOS/RHEL 8+
  • Arch Linux

Dependencies

  • OpenVPN or WireGuard
  • systemd or init.d
  • NetworkManager (recommended)
  • Python 3.6+
"As a long-time Linux user, I was pleasantly surprised by how smoothly PIA installed on my Arch system. The CLI interface is powerful yet simple, and the connection speeds are excellent."
Sarah K. Sarah K., Linux System Administrator

How to Install PIA on Linux

Download the PIA Linux Client

Begin your install PIA Linux process by downloading the official client:

wget https://installers.privateinternetaccess.com/download/pia-linux-3.3.1-06924.run

Or download the appropriate package for your distribution from the pia login account .

Make the Installer Executable

Before running the installer, change its permissions:

chmod +x pia-linux-3.3.1-06924.run

Run the Installation

Execute the installer with root privileges:

sudo ./pia-linux-3.3.1-06924.run

Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

Launch and Configure PIA

After installation completes, start the PIA application:

pia

Log in with your PIA credentials and configure your preferred settings.

Alternative Installation Methods

For users who prefer package managers:

Debian/Ubuntu:

sudo apt install ./pia-*.deb

Fedora/RHEL:

sudo dnf install pia-*.rpm

Arch Linux (AUR):

yay -S private-internet-access

Connecting to PIA VPN

Once you've completed the Private Internet Access Linux install, follow these steps to connect:

  1. Launch the PIA application from your application menu or terminal
  2. Log in with your PIA username and password
  3. Select your preferred VPN protocol (WireGuard recommended)
  4. Choose a server location from the list
  5. Click "Connect" to establish the VPN connection

Verifying Your Connection

To confirm your VPN is active:

curl ifconfig.me

This should return an IP address different from your normal connection.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Connection Failures

If you're unable to connect after install PIA Linux:

Authentication Problems

If you're having login issues:

Need Help With Your PIA Installation?

Our experts are ready to assist you with installation, configuration, and troubleshooting.

PIA Customer Support Options

Private Internet Access offers several PIA customer service channels:

Knowledge Base

  • Comprehensive installation guides
  • Troubleshooting articles
  • Configuration tutorials
  • FAQ section

Email Support

  • 24/7 ticket system
  • Average response time <24 hours
  • Technical specialists

Live Chat

  • Real-time assistance
  • Available 24/7
  • Quick resolution for common issues

Advanced Configuration

Using PIA with NetworkManager

For manual OpenVPN configuration:

sudo cp /usr/share/pia/ovpn_configs/*.ovpn /etc/NetworkManager/vpn/
sudo systemctl restart NetworkManager

Command Line Interface

PIA offers powerful CLI options:

pia --help
pia connect --region us_california
pia settings --protocol wireguard

Maintenance Tips

Conclusion

Installing Private Internet Access on Linux provides a secure, private browsing experience with excellent performance. By following this guide to install PIA Linux, you've taken an important step toward protecting your online privacy. Remember that PIA customer support is available if you encounter any issues or have questions about advanced configuration options.