Need help setting up VPN

[redplanet]

OK, kind of a *ix noob here.  I did google this and found a lot of useless info already, mostly on askubuntu (it IS a bigger community and tends to come up...  and since LL is derived from U) I am a long-time windows user so forgive me if I use the win terms.

Want to start trying out some VPNs, mostly know how it works.  On the network context menu, it has "VPN Connections", with a sub menu "Add a VPN Connection", but it is greyed out.  I ran this CL to install, as per instructions from the provider:

sudo apt-get install openvpn network-manager-openvpn network-manager-openvpn-gnome

(yes, I know xfce)
and

sudo apt-get install network-manager-vpnc network-manager-openvpn pptp-linux

All of which were already installed.  I found the firewall applet, turned off, no effect.  I should note that I fiddle with my config (i.e. firmware router settings) more than seems appropriate, so could be related.  pptp-linux is also installed.  I think I am using LL 4.0 as I just ran apt-get upgrade yesterday.  When I edit the connection, and try to enable the "Automatically connect to VPN", it lets me fill the check-box, but never saves nor does it allow me to use the pull-down options (may have to be set up first?).

Halp.

[bitsnpcs]

Hello redplanet,
until you have the answers you need. If you have access to a 64Bit machine. A very easy way to use VPNs is to use Opera browser as it includes free VPNs already set up, just use a slider in browser to switch it on, it has unlimited use /bandwidth VPN's. No info requested, no sign ups required etc.
You can choose between VPNs from the Opera address bar in browser the choices are between Optimal Location, Americas, Asia, Europe, you do not need to restart the browser if you decide to change VPN region.