Best VPN For Routers:
For online security and privacy, virtual private networks (VPNs) have become an essential tool. Meanwhile, using a VPN on your home router can protect all of your devices, including smart TVs, gaming consoles, and smart home devices, even though many people use VPNs only on their computers and mobile devices.
What’s even better is that setting up a VPN on the router can not only keep you safe but also unblock popular streaming services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video as well as other media portals!
Strong encryption, fast connections, and compatibility with a wide range of router models are essential features of the best VPNs for routers. In addition, they ought to offer excellent customer support and a user-friendly interface.
It can be hard to pick the best VPN for routers because there are so many options, each with its own set of features and drawbacks!
However, we have relieved this problem for you!
In this article, we will discuss some of the best VPNs for routers available in the market, their features, and how to choose the best one for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a VPN for streaming, gaming, or just for everyday use, we’ve got you covered!
Stay on this page to figure out the best VPN for your router!
What is a VPN router?
A router with VPN software already installed on it is known as a VPN router. A Virtual Confidential Organization (VPN) adds security and secrecy to clients when they interface with online administrations and destinations. The actual public IP address of the user is hidden by a VPN, which also “tunnels” traffic between the user’s device and the remote server.
The majority of users subscribe to a VPN service to maintain their online anonymity and frequently use public Wi-Fi, where increased risks threaten the security of their data. However, a router VPN rarely differs from VPN software that you’ve been successfully using on your laptop or mobile device. In other words, it will secure your network traffic, conceal your true IP address from sly snoops, and give you a stress-free browsing.
Should you use a router VPN?
Definitely! Each of your Wi-Fi-connected devices will be protected by a router VPN. As a result, you will be able to safeguard even those devices, such Smart TVs and game consoles, which at first cannot have a VPN setup.
Features you should consider to find the best VPN for your router:
If you want the best VPN for your router, look for the following key features:
Fast connectivity- It is common knowledge that VPNs have some effect on your network’s speed. In any case, there are those that do it almost vaguely. In this way, ensure the supplier you select is one of the quickest VPNs available.
Unblocks streaming sites- The possibility of unblocking streaming sites is essential because router VPN works well with Firesticks, Smart TVs, and other devices. In this way, search for a VPN that permits you to unblock all significant streaming stages and appreciate geo-confined Programs and motion pictures.
Vast server fleet- Server fleets that are geographically diverse not only help you avoid overcrowding, but they also let you play a variety of geo-restricted content. One of your top priorities should be selecting a VPN with a large number of servers spread out across the globe.
Ability to work with a router- The majority of router VPN services support OpenVPN, IKEv2, and additional router-specific tunneling protocols. Therefore, check to see if the router you’ve chosen supports these tunneling protocols.
Guide for configuring a VPN router- Setting up your router VPN can be adequately moving to need to have some assistance. As a result, you should choose a VPN provider that provides comprehensive setup guides and 24/7 customer support.
The top VPNs for routers, according to this thorough list:
Choosing the best VPN for the router may take some time, expertise, and nerves because the VPN business is expanding so quickly. In light of this, they have assembled a listing of the most reliable VPN services designed exclusively for routers. These services were evaluated based on their feature set, usability, security, and other factors.
Best VPN for Routers 2023:
Here is the list of 20+Best VPNs for Routers in 2023 and 2024:
- ExpressVPN
- NordVPN
- CyberGhost
- IPVanish
- Surfshark
- VyprVPN
- Pure VPN
- PrivateVPN
- PIA
- Buffered VPN
- Windscribe
- Proton VPN
- Tunnel Bear
- Mullvad
- Hotspot Shield
1- ExpressVPN:
The top VPN for routers is without a doubt ExpressVPN! Each level of tech knowledge can find a variety of solutions. FlashRouter offers pre-configured routers, but ExpressVPN also creates its own proprietary firmware that is user-friendly and can be loaded on compatible routers. Have you already got a VPN-capable router? There is no issue because ExpressVPN works with different firmware including OpenWrt, Tomato, and DD-WRT. Customer service is available via live chat around-the-clock if you need assistance.
You can access a number of well-liked streaming services with the help of ExpressVPN, which is renowned for its unblocking abilities. Your information is not logged, and to secure your communication, it employs leak protection, military-grade encryption, and a kill button. ExpressVPN includes apps for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Linux, Android, and Amazon Fire TV in addition to working with routers.
ExpressVPN is a great all-arounder that makes router configuration simple for every skill level and financial situation. It works well for streaming and is quick, dependable, and secure.
Pros:
- Have numerous router setup options
- Numerous other devices’ apps
- Gives quick and dependable connections
- Offers alternatives for servers in 94 nations
- Utilizes netflix, hulu, bbc iplayer, as well as other services
- 24/7 customer service
Cons:
- Bit more expensive than some rivals
2- NordVPN:
Another excellent option for routers is NordVPN! It runs a sizable network of more than 5,000 servers, many of which are tailored for specific functions including double VPN, streaming, and anti-DDoS. Both pre-configured routers and self-installation instructions from NordVPN’s huge library are options. Even more unusually among service providers, there is a tutorial regarding setup using the more recent but rapidly gaining popularity OpenWrt firmware. There is always an online chat support crew on hand.
In order to securely access streaming services like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, and others, NordVPN is an excellent option. All popular operating systems, including Linux, Android, Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Amazon Fire TV, have apps available for them. Under one plan, six devices can connect at once, with a router counted as only one. Strong encryption, DNS a kill button, leak protection, and automated wifi protection ensure top-notch security.
Popular streaming services are easily unblocked by NordVPN, which is safe, quick, and dependable. Even some servers have streaming functionality built in.
Pros:
- Provides router setup instructions and pre-configured routers
- Offers a huge array of servers
- Works with netflix, hulu, and amazon prime video
- Allows you to simultaneously connect six devices
- 24/7 customer service
Cons:
- Server connections can occasionally be slow.
3- CyberGhost:
A rising VPN service, CyberGhost provides outstanding security, fast speeds, and access to a wide range of banned content! The company offers pre-configured routers and enables setting them up with a variety of firmware, such as Tomato and DD-WRT. If assistance is required, a live chat representative is always on hand.
256-bit encryption, a kill button, leak protection, and automated Wi-Fi protection on well-known networks are among the security features. Windows, iOS, MacOS, and Android users can download apps, and Linux users can manually configure their systems. There can be seven devices connected at once, therefore there are six other devices in adding to the router.
CyberGhost is an excellent option for browsing, torrenting, streaming, and pretty much any other online activity because to its fast speeds. The OpenVPN or IKEv2 protocols are also options, or you can let CyberGhost make the decision for you. For smart phones that regularly switch between Wi-Fi or mobile data or have a tendency to briefly lose connectivity, IKEv2 creates connections the fastest.
Pros:
- Router configuration is simple
- Offers a quick, dependable connection
- Includes a 45-day money-back warranty
- Up to seven simultaneous connections
Cons:
- Finds it difficult to unblock some streaming services
4- IPVanish:
Given its longevity and popularity among VPN users who enjoy a technical and in-depth approach, IPVanish is a well-known name. Almost everything can be configured on the desktop programmes, which are black and lime greens with floating graphs and data everywhere.
The only other professional partner listed here for FlashRouters is IPVanish, which is in addition to NordVPN. This entails that you will have complete control over the app which is extremely helpful.
But what makes IPVanish stand out is its in-depth setup instructions for virtually every suitable router on the marketplace. If you don’t feel like spending the money on a preset one, there are instructions that are lengthy, and informative, and provide helpful screenshots to guide you through the entire process.
IPVanish is a great option for manually configuring a VPN on a router, but it’s important to note that it has fallen in overall rankings since, while IPVanish has remained dependable; others have developed and now only surpass the veteran. It’s also important to note that during the past year or two, it hasn’t been particularly helpful for streaming and cannot now unlock Amazon Prime Video.
Pros:
- Complete setup instructions.
- Endless connections
- Excellent timing
Cons:
- Unblocking amazon prime video is impossible
- Apps are rarely updated
5- Surfshark:
Surfshark can be a decent choice if you want to pay the least amount of money as possible while getting a high-quality VPN!
Like Nord, Surfshark doesn’t offer a router VPN app of its own, but for some, the trade-off between its affordable price and superior performance can be worthwhile. It’s a premium service they truly appreciate, with terrific speeds, great apps for various devices, and unlimited connections.
Now take note of Surfshark’s limitless connection options. To eliminate simultaneous device restrictions, which are one of the main reasons why many individuals install router VPNs in the first place, it might make more sense for you to just obtain a VPN with no limitations and leave the router alone.
Otherwise, Surfshark can be manually configured on routers like all of the VPNs on just this list, and you can just use the FlashRouter app alongside it to make it simpler to change your VPN’s settings. Surfshark is therefore an excellent deal and may provide a complete substitute for a router VPN even though it lacks specific router functionality.
Pros:
- Exceptionally good value
- Countless connections
- Excellent support for streaming
Cons:
- No specific VPN router app
6- VyprVPN:
In the VPN industry, despite being a minor supplier, VyprVPN wields some influence. Your data is likely to be kept secret because VyprVPN is a verified no-logging service, but one of the benefits we discuss in our review of the service is that it’s the only VPN on this list with a dedicated router VPN app.
The programme itself is clean, effective, and requires only a few easy steps to set up, which are well-described on Vypr’s website. VyprVPN isn’t higher on this list, though, because the program only works with Tomato routers, despite the fact that there are some restrictions.
Despite the app’s drawbacks, users still delighted it exists; however, if you don’t have a Tomato router, you still can install the VPN by flashing and configuring a VPN connection. VyprVPN is still functional only with FlashRouter Privacy application, despite not being a premium partner, so that can help.
However, VyprVPN can disappoint you if you’re a serious streamer. It cannot access Netflix in any zone and has occasionally failed to work with other websites.
Pros:
- App specific to router VPN
- Numerous additional devices’ apps
- Rather easy to use
Cons:
- No access to Netflix
- Long time since no new features
- Poor OpenVPN speeds
7- Pure VPN:
PureVPN is the initial VPN service that is always on audit, you will have no concerns about whether the router VPN is always on fleek. You’ll be happy to know the PureVPN has a collaboration with FlashRouters that allows you to purchase a router with PureVPN already installed if you’re a user who values consistency!
However, you may always choose to manually set up your router VPN, and PureVPN will support you well in this endeavor as it provides a wide choice of guides for different routers. It’s also fantastic that PureVPN offers an applet for DD-WRT, eliminating the need for additional installations of its software on other devices.
You may therefore use this single applet to benefit from PureVPN’s features across all of your devices connected. However, if you prefer using another type of router, no worries; PureVPN is compatible with Tomato, Asus, TP-Link, and many other well-known models.
It’s crucial to acknowledge that PureVPN uses AES-256 encryption, which is the hardest for hackers to break. This is in addition to the fact that the service is always under audit.
Pros:
- Always-on VPN audit
- Has a DD-WRT applet
- Works with flash routers,
- Unblocks BBC iplayer, DAZN, and Netflix US
- 24/7 customer service
Cons:
- There is no free version
- Connection problems
8- PrivateVPN:
In terms of the size of its server network, PrivateVPN is a modest service but still has a lot to offer. There are pre-configured routers available, but if you prefer to manually configure your router, there are several setup manuals accessible. Live chat is not available, however, emails are swiftly answered. With lightning-fast bandwidth and the option to securely access a tonne of services, such as Hulu, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video, this service is excellent for streaming.
Six simultaneous connections are supported by the private VPN software, which is accessible for Android, MacOS, Windows, iOS, and Amazon Fire TV. With a no-logs policy, a number of security mechanisms, and other safeguards, this service keeps your information private and secure.
It’s amazing for streaming; numerous streaming websites are compatible with private VPN, which also offers fast connections.
Pros:
- Keeps your data private and secure
- Extremely quick speeds
- Utilizes Netflix, Hulu, and other services
Cons:
- Does not provide live chat that is available nonstop
- Has a limited selection of servers
9- PIA:
With its VPN on a router, Private Internet Access offers a tonne of support to get you up and running. Once set up, users can also access FlashRouter Privacy application on phones to manage privacy settings and take advantage of online freedom.
PIA seems to have a lot of things going for it, aside from the ease with which their VPN router can be set up. You can choose which actions are routed through a secure VPN connection while the majority of the traffic is sent regularly thanks to split tunneling. Watching material on streaming services such as Netflix and Hulu is a pleasant and dependable experience thanks to PIA’s usage of a WireGuard protocol and more than 5,000 facilities in 80+ countries.
The 30-day money-back guarantee offered by Private Internet Access is excellent for people who wish to test it out before purchasing. In the first month, you are entitled to a full refund if you decide you don’t like the services or change your mind.
Pros:
- Unblocks a wide variety of streaming media for a reasonable price
- Runs over 3,200 servers
- Dependable encryption for private and secure connections
Cons:
- Unable to access several well-known streaming websites
- Doesn’t function properly in China
10- Buffered VPN:
This VPN provider had a consistently quick response on both long and short hops with little latency in the test, making it a good choice for reactive browsing as well as online gaming. There is definitely no “buffering” when it refers to streaming! You may either purchase specific Buffered VPN routers the business sells or flash your router yourself using the accessible DIY instructions.
The security features of Buffered VPN include 256-bit Blowfish encryption and the OpenVPN protocol. The privacy notice is a standard declaration that guarantees no recording of the user’s online actions.
There isn’t a free trial available here, but a comprehensive 30-day refund policy that is good for up to ten hours, 100 sessions, or 10GB of bandwidth utilization (whichever comes first) makes up for this in a nice way. The annual plan is the least expensive option for Buffered, which is slightly more expensive than certain competitors.
Pros:
- Low latency
- Quickly performing
Cons:
- No trial offer
- A little pricey
11- Windscribe:
With Windscribe’s Pro plan’s unlimited connections, you can connect as many devices as you like to your VPN router, which is without a doubt the biggest draw in this case. In their tests, performance was inconsistent; although short-range hops were brisk, longer-range connections showed some peaks and valleys.
With 256-bit encryption for all user activity and OpenVPN just like its default security protocol, this Canadian provider is strong on the security front. There is absolutely no tracking of any type, despite the privacy policy’s extensive depth.
There exists a free plan with such a 10GB monthly monthly plan that offers significant bandwidth that is hard to find elsewhere. This is fantastic for testing out on one device, however if you want to use a DD-WRT router, you’ll need to upgrade to the Pro subscription since only this offers OpenVPN settings (and indeed limitless devices – you’re only allowed one gadget with the free offering).
Pros:
- Free plan featuring 10GB of data each month
- Endless connections to devices
Cons:
- The monthly package is somewhat pricey.
- Inconsistent performance over a long distance
12- Proton VPN:
Another excellent VPN for routers that takes advantage of FlashRouters’ partnership is ProtonVPN. Given that you can immediately purchase a router with ProtonVPN already installed, to use a protected data connection requires only a small amount of effort.
It goes without saying that this VPN performs admirably with other popular router model brands that support OpenVPN and IKEv2. AsusWRT, pfSense, Invizbox 2, DD-WRT, and more routers are available for selection.
But while we’re on the subject of Invizbox 2, they might mention that ProtonVPN and InvizBox worked together to design a router exclusively for ProtonVPN. As a result, the router is freely available (much like the ProtonVPN software as a whole) and set up to connect to your ProtonVPN accounts quickly.
ProtonVPN offers military-grade encryption, which is something they love to see as a move toward security. It maintains no activity logs and has a flawless security history. So, people, all things considered, ProtonVPN is a fantastic company to rely on.
But to top it off, ProtonVPN excels at unblocking all of the main streaming services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, and the list goes on.
Pros:
- Collaboration with FlashRouters
- Dedicated open-sourced router from ProtonVPN
- Flawless security history
- Unblocks famous streaming websites in the free version
Cons:
- Very pricey
- No router app
13- Tunnel Bear:
In recent years, there has been a lot of excitement about TunnelBear. But as users examined it more closely and contrasted it with other VPN rivals, the excitement started to fade.
The speeds of TunnelBear are acceptable. When you utilized it, their overall internet speed decreased by approximately 63%, which is roughly average for a VPN. However, according to other reviewing and testing websites, TunnelBear’s speeds have been progressively increasing over time, and the speed loss they observed in the US scores was just 54%.
On the plus side, by disclosing the findings of its professional security audits and yearly transparency reports, TunnelBear is competing fairly in the transparency race among VPNs. During our testing, no IP address, DNS, or other possibly user-identifying information leakage was found, however, TunnelBear has previously been suspected of leaking WebRTC data. Standard AES-256 and Perfect Forward Secrecy are supported by TunnelBear’s VPN encryption.
The cheapest TunnelBear package is their $120, three-year plan when broken down by monthly cost. Alternatively, you can pay $10 on a month-to-month basis or $60 in advance for a full year. In either case, you can pay for TunnelBear with a credit card or Bitcoin.
Pros:
- 48 plus countries are included.
- Canadian jurisdiction with a US parent firm
Cons:
- Speed reduction on average: 63%
14- Mullvad:
An independent as well as open source VPN service, Mullvad is committed to safeguarding its users’ security and privacy and is focused on establishing trust via openness. Despite the presence of other VPNs, which are much more popular on the market, Mullvad’s entire product is just as well-designed and user-friendly as many of the more established competitors.
Security is Mullvad’s top priority! Mullvad uses industry standard 256-bit encrypts to safeguard user connections, just like the majority of other leading VPN companies. The kill switch function and DNS leak security of Mullvad are both turned on by default and can’t be turned off. The kill switch performed as predicted during their testing, and they found no leakage of any type.
The signup process for Mullvad is unusual in that it doesn’t ask for any personal information. In contrast to most VPN services, Mullvad produces random 16-digit bank details to activate every new user account. Most VPN providers request users to input their username and email address. Mullvad accepts mail-ordered cash payments, so you don’t even need to supply any payment information.
Pros:
- There are 840 servers.
- Location of servers: 68 sites across 38 countries
Cons:
Not the greatest for content with geographic restrictions.
15- Hotspot shield:
Users might lose faith in Hotspot Shield VPN’s ability to offer more privacy rules than its rivals because of its TLS-based Hydra Catapult procedure, US authority, support for 128-bit AES encryption, and a high proportion of virtual servers, but those are all essential elements to achieving the lightning-fast speeds it achieved during its greatest recent speed tests.
However, users are not very thrilled with Hotspot’s security and privacy. They would like to see Hotspot provide the public with more third-party audits so that it can catch up with routinely tested VPNs like TunnelBear as the service uses the sealed exclusive Catapult Hydra protocol rather than the more accessible open-source OpenVPN protocol.
The DNS leak with Hotspot Shield’s Google Chrome plug-in was found as recent as April 2021 by review website VPNMentor. At the time, Hotspot was aware of the problem and worked to fix it.
Price: $95.88 invoiced annually, or $8 per month. Plan for one month $13
Pros:
- 1,800+ servers spread across 80+ sites
- US-based nation/jurisdiction (Five Eyes member)
- Windows, iOS, MacOS, android, Linux, and Amazon Fire TV are all platforms.
Cons:
- A bit expensive
Final Thoughts:
Deciding the Best VPN for routers is indeed a bit complex that may demand quality time to select the best one.
So we make this easy and approachable for you, So you can easily select the most suitable one without confusing whether you choose the best one.
We made the list of the top most reliable VPNs according to their features, security, and many other aspects. We hope you will be satisfied with the one you choose.
Tell us in the comment section which VPN caught your attention on the above-mentioned list and your experience with it.
Good Luck!
