The Private Internet Access (PIA) application supports systemd, sysvinit, and openrc-based operating systems, including distributions such as Linux Mint, Ubuntu, Arch, and Debian.
Steps
-
Download the PIA installer.
If the download does not start automatically, use this link:
https://installers.privateinternetaccess.com/download/pia-linux-3.3.1-06924.runIf you cannot install the app using the download page instructions, use the steps below.
Note: If you use an ARM processor, download a compatible version from the changelog page.
- Save the installer file to your Downloads folder when prompted.
- Open Terminal.
- Change to the Downloads directory:
cd Downloads -
Run the installer:
sh pia-linux-3.3.1-06924.runYou will be prompted to enter your root or sudo password.
Note: Do not run the installer withsudo. - After installation, the app opens to the Quick Tour or login screen.
Select Log In and enter your PIA credentials (for example, p1234567). After logging in, your credentials are saved, and the main dashboard appears. The power button indicates connection status (yellow for disconnected, green for connected). You can also find more info on how the tray icon displays and the meaning of the different colors here.
Use the power button to connect to a VPN server. Connection may take a few moments, which is normal.
- If you cannot connect, refer to the connection troubleshooting guide before continuing.
- Once connected, the power button turns green, and the server IP appears in the app.
- After setup, you can review: