TL;DR: As remote work becomes the norm, leveraging a self-hosted VPN allows digital nomads to maintain privacy and productivity from anywhere in the world. By setting up a personal VPN using tools like Tailscale, you can work seamlessly from new locations without compromising security or performance.
Embrace the Digital Nomad Lifestyle with a Self-Hosted VPN
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, remote work has dramatically reshaped the traditional office dynamic, giving rise to the "digital nomad." Many have realized that commuting to an office daily isn't necessary and can sometimes hinder productivity. For those who thrive in diverse environments, the standard 12 to 30 days of annual leave is limiting. Why not take your work on the road, whether to a nearby city or a foreign country?
Why Opt for a Self-Hosted VPN?
In most companies, IT departments monitor IP addresses and locations to protect against unauthorized access. However, where you work from shouldn't be anyone's concern, as long as your tasks are completed efficiently. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can mask your location, but using a commercial VPN like NordVPN or SurfShark can be detected by sophisticated IT systems. Thus, hosting your own VPN is crucial for privacy.
A self-hosted VPN allows you to appear as if you're working from home. For instance, you can host the server at a family member's home for faster internet speeds.
Setting Up Your VPN
We'll use a travel router with built-in VPN capabilities, such as Tailscale, which provides an overlay network routing your internet traffic through your home IP address.
Here's how the connection flows:
- Work PC ←→ Travel Router with VPN ←→ Internet Overseas ←→ Home Server VPN ←→ Internet from Home
While Tailscale isn't technically a VPN, it offers features akin to one, enhanced by Wireguard technology. This setup is user-friendly for those less familiar with networking.
Note: If your work laptop uses security software like Zscaler or Cisco Umbrella, expect some reduction in internet speed and increased latency.
Equipment Needed
- Home Server: Raspberry Pi 4B or 5, or even an Apple TV (Cost: under $100 USD)
- Travel Router: GL.iNet Beryl AX
- Miscellaneous: Thunderbolt/USB-C Ethernet adapters, 2–3 Ethernet cables, and optionally, a portable battery for your travel router
A travel router is essential because installing third-party software, like a VPN client, on a work machine is often not allowed. By connecting your laptop to the travel router, the router acts as a bridge to your VPN server, ensuring secure connectivity.
Stay tuned for my next blog post, where I'll dive into the detailed setup procedure, ensuring you can work remotely with confidence and flexibility.
