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How to Install Cloudflare WARP (1.1.1.1) on Linux

A step-by-step guide on how to install and configure Cloudflare WARP on various Linux distributions for enhanced security and privacy.

salman hossain saif
By Salman Hossain Saif Last Updated:
March 4, 2025 | 05:45 AM
How to Install Cloudflare WARP (1.1.1.1) on Linux

Cloudflare WARP is a free service that enhances your internet security and privacy by encrypting your connection and routing it through Cloudflare’s network. This guide will walk you through the process of installing and configuring Cloudflare WARP on various Linux distributions.

Prerequisites

  • A Linux-based operating system (e.g., Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, Arch Linux).
  • Root or sudo privileges.
  • An active internet connection.

Step 1: Open the Terminal

This is where you type commands. Don’t worry – we’ll guide you!

  • Press Ctrl + Alt + T on your keyboard.
  • A black/white window will pop up – that’s your terminal!


Step 2: Install WARP

Follow the steps below for your Linux type:

For Ubuntu or Debian (e.g., Linux Mint, Pop!_OS):

  1. Add the Security Key (like a password for safe software):
    Copy-paste this into the terminal:

    curl -fsSL https://pkg.cloudflareclient.com/pubkey.gpg | sudo gpg --yes --dearmor --output /usr/share/keyrings/cloudflare-warp-archive-keyring.gpg

    Press Enter. Type your computer password if asked. Note: on most linux terminal you won’t see anything while typing password. That’s normal behavior.

  2. Add Cloudflare’s Software Library:

    echo "deb [signed-by=/usr/share/keyrings/cloudflare-warp-archive-keyring.gpg] https://pkg.cloudflareclient.com/ $(lsb_release -cs) main" | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/cloudflare-client.list

    Press Enter.

  3. Install WARP:

    sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get install cloudflare-warp

    Press Enter. Type Y if asked to confirm.


For Fedora/CentOS/Red Hat:

  1. Install WARP Directly:
    sudo yum install cloudflare-warp
    Press Enter. Type Y if asked.

Step 3: Turn On WARP

Unlike Windows and MacOS, Warp doesn’t have an official GUI (or graphical user interface) on Linux, so you’ll have to run it from the command line.

  1. Start the Protection:

    warp-cli registration new

    Press Enter. This sets up your account.

  2. Connect to WARP:

    warp-cli connect

    Press Enter. You’re now protected!

  3. Every time you want to connect you need to run warp-cli connect in the terminal. And if you want to disconnect run warp-cli disconnect


Step 4: Check if It’s Working

Let’s make sure WARP is active:

curl https://www.cloudflare.com/cdn-cgi/trace/

Press Enter. Look for warp=on in the text. If you see it – success! 🎉


Extra Options

Change Protection Modes

  • Basic Mode (just safer internet):

    warp-cli mode doh
  • Full Protection (safer internet + privacy tunnel):

    warp-cli mode warp+doh

Block Bad Websites (Like for Kids)

  • Block Viruses/Malware:

    warp-cli dns families malware
  • Block Adult Content:

    warp-cli dns families full

Troubleshooting

  • Stuck? Close the terminal and reopen it.
  • Still not working? Restart your computer.
  • Visit Cloudflare’s Help Page for more help.

You’re Done!
Now your internet connection is safer and faster. No need to do anything else – WARP works quietly in the background. 🌟

What WARP Is Not

WARP is like a seatbelt for your internet – it adds basic safety but isn’t a magic invisibility cloak. Here’s what it doesn’t do:

🚫 Hide your location – Websites you visit can still see your general location (like your city).
🚫 Unblock Netflix/geo-restricted content – It won’t let you watch shows only available in other countries.
🚫 Replace advanced privacy tools – It’s not for spies or hackers (use Tor or a VPN for that).

WARP is designed for everyday safety, like stopping hackers at coffee shops or keeping your ISP from selling your browsing habits. Think of it as a “good enough” shield for most people, not a superhero cape!


WARP vs. Traditional VPN: What’s the Difference?

FeatureWARP 🛡️Traditional VPN 🕵️♂️
PurposeSecures your connectionHides your location/IP address
IP AddressWebsites see your real IPWebsites see a fake IP (e.g., UK/US)
Server ChoiceNo options – automatic routingPick servers in specific countries
For…Casual users (like parents)Techies, travelers, privacy buffs
Blocks Ads/TrackersNo (unless using Family modes)Some VPNs include ad-blocking
SetupOne-click ON/OFFComplicated settings/apps

When to use WARP:

  • You want basic protection on public Wi-Fi.
  • You don’t care about hiding your location.

When to use a VPN:

  • You need to access country-specific websites (e.g., Netflix libraries).
  • You want to hide your IP address completely.
salman hossain saif

About Author:
🎉 Salman Hossain Saif (internet username: Saif71).
Lead UX Engineer @ManagingLife LLC. Specialized in design systems, user flow, UX writing, and a certified accessibility specialist. Loves travel and creating meaningful content. Say hi!

🎉 Have a nice day!