Setup and Use of WireGuard for SheepStation VPN

In order to use the SheepStation Pole and Device Manager you must have an active WireGuard VPN connection to the SheepStation Management Gateway

This secure gateway allows you to contact any of your poles for management and information.

WireGuard is a modern, secure, and efficient VPN solution that’s easy to set up and use across various platforms, including Windows, Android, and iOS. Below are detailed instructions to help you download, set up, and use WireGuard on each of these platforms.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure you have the following:

  1. WireGuard Server Configuration: You need access to a WireGuard server. This could be a server you set up yourself or provided by a VPN service provider. You should have the configuration details, typically in a .conf file or as QR codes (especially for mobile devices).
  2. Internet Connection: Ensure your device is connected to the internet to download the necessary applications and configurations.

Setting Up WireGuard on Windows

Step 1: Download WireGuard for Windows

  1. Visit the Official Website:
  2. Download the Installer:
    • Under the Windows section, click on the download link to get the latest WireGuard installer (WireGuard-installer.exe).

Step 2: Install WireGuard

  1. Run the Installer:
    • Locate the downloaded WireGuard-installer.exe file and double-click to run it.
  2. Follow Installation Prompts:
    • Accept the license agreement.
    • Choose the installation directory or leave it as default.
    • Click Install and wait for the installation to complete.
  3. Launch WireGuard:
    • After installation, you can launch WireGuard from the Start Menu or by clicking Finish in the installer.

Step 3: Configure WireGuard

  1. Obtain Configuration:
    • You need a WireGuard configuration file (.conf)  or QR code from from Reach Beyond. This will be provided to you along with other login information.
  2. Import Configuration:
    • In the WireGuard interface, click on Add Tunnel > Add empty tunnel… to manually create a configuration or Import tunnel(s) from file… to import a .conf file.
    • If importing, browse and select your .conf file.
  3. Review Settings:
    • Ensure all details like [Interface] and [Peer] sections are correctly filled.

Step 4: Connect to the VPN

  1. Activate the Tunnel:
    • In the WireGuard interface, toggle the switch next to your tunnel to Activate.
  2. Verify Connection:
    • Once activated, the status should indicate that the tunnel is up.

Setting Up WireGuard on Android

Step 1: Download WireGuard for Android

  1. Open Google Play Store:
    • On your Android device, open the Google Play Store.
  2. Search and Install:
    • Search for WireGuard.
    • Select the official WireGuard app developed by WireGuard LLC and install it.

Step 2: Configure WireGuard

  1. Obtain Configuration:
    • You need a WireGuard configuration file (.conf) or a QR code from your server or VPN provider.
  2. Import Configuration via QR Code:
    • Open the WireGuard app.
    • Tap the + button.
    • Select Scan from QR code.
    • Use your device’s camera to scan the QR code provided by your VPN service.

Or Import via File:

    • Tap the + button.
    • Select Import from file or archive.
    • Browse and select your .conf file.
  1. Manual Configuration (Optional):
    • You can also choose Create from scratch to manually enter your configuration details.

Step 3: Connect to the VPN

  1. Activate the Tunnel:
    • In the WireGuard app, toggle the switch next to your tunnel to On.
  2. Grant Permissions:
    • The app may request permission to create a VPN connection. Approve it.
  3. Verify Connection:
    • Once connected, the status will show as Active.
    • Confirm by checking your IP address via a service like whatismyip.com.

Setting Up WireGuard on iOS

Step 1: Download WireGuard for iOS

  1. Open App Store:
    • On your iOS device, open the App Store.
  2. Search and Install:
    • Search for WireGuard.
    • Select the official WireGuard app developed by WireGuard LLC and install it.

Step 2: Configure WireGuard

  1. Obtain Configuration:
    • You need a WireGuard configuration file (.conf) or a QR code from your server or VPN provider.
  2. Import Configuration via QR Code:
    • Open the WireGuard app.
    • Tap the + icon.
    • Select Create from QR Code.
    • Scan the QR code provided by your VPN service.

Or Import via File:

    • Tap the + icon.
    • Select Add from file or archive.
    • Locate and select your .conf file from your device or cloud storage.
  1. Manual Configuration (Optional):
    • Choose Create from scratch to manually enter your configuration details.

Step 3: Connect to the VPN

  1. Activate the Tunnel:
    • In the WireGuard app, toggle the switch next to your tunnel to On.
  2. Grant Permissions:
    • The app will request permission to add a VPN configuration. Approve it.
  3. Verify Connection:
    • Once connected, the status will show as Active.
    • Confirm by checking your IP address via a service like whatismyip.com.

Common Usage Tips

  • Keep Software Updated:
    • Regularly update the WireGuard applications to ensure you have the latest security patches and features.
  • Firewall and Permissions:
    • Ensure that your device’s firewall or security software allows WireGuard VPN traffic.