Many internet users are continuously exposed to dangers concerning online privacy and security. Even Companies and hackers are trying to collect personal information for their uses, and there are not many many users can do. An excellent way to stay protected and secure is to browse the internet using a (VPN) Virtual Private Network.
Using a VPN will make sure a private, encrypted connection to the internet, which has many benefits to the usual user. Although, connecting your device to a VPN is a pain, and what happens when you have different methods that need protection, like if you are in an office setting or using your gaming console?
Avoid the pain of connecting different devices individually, and you can install a VPN directly to your router, Make sure safe browsing to all connected devices.
Router VPN Installation and Benefits
A VPN is an affordable solution to a many problem, and everyone should consider using one. To make sure it is always running on different devices, you want to install a VPN directly to your router. So, your devices, co-workers, or friends that connect to your WiFi will also have the required protection.
Another benefit of installing a VPN directly to your router is that you avoid the irritation of loading up the VPN time and time again.
So, with a VPN service on your router, it runs all the time, and you can connect different devices with ease. Now, with a VPN already installed in your router, all you have to do is turn on the internet connection, and you are good to go. The installation process is very simple, but you need to make sure that you have the right router and a good provider. So You will need:
- A router that supports VPN
- VPN provider must supports router connection
- Some minutes to set it all up.
Router Settings And Setup :
The 1st step is to make sure you have a router that can run VPN software. Because Not all routers support VPN, so you need to check the router’s manual and only Google it. The Easiest way to go about this is to google your [Router ID] + [VPN], and that should do the tricks.
So If your router does not support direct VPN installation, don’t worry — you still have some options left.
1st to resolve this issue, install a new firmware to your router, which is a process known as flashing. It is the default option to take if you want to keep your current router and avoid the hassle of buying a new one.
2nd the most popular Firmware upgraded options are in DD-WRT and Tomato, and both support VPN. Not all routers support those firmware updates, so then you need to check the compatibility lists first:
- List of DD-WRT supported routers.
- List of Tomato supported routers.
Once you ensure your router supports new Firmware, the installation process is relatively simple, and all you have to do is follow the instructions. So The exact installation steps differ based on your firmware choice and the router model, but you can always refer to the official installation guides for each of the options:
- DD-WRT Installation
- Tomato Installation Guide
Again, you must ensure your router is supported; otherwise, the installation may break your router entirely. The other option you need is to buy a new, pre-installed router that comes with a VPN installation, or to get a VPN-compatible router which allows you to choose your desired provider.
However, the process seems complicated, and it is simple once you give it a go.
Selecting Your VPN Provider :
So When you are 100% certain your router supports VPN, it is time to choose your VPN provider. It’s worth noting that most providers will meet the compatibility requirements no matter what router options you selected. Premiums like NordVPN and ExpressVPN can easily install to Tomato or DD-WRT routers, so there is no need to worry about compatibility.
When choosing a provider, you should rather look for performance metrics and best online support. Things like Server Locations, Speed Reports, and security standards are what matters when choosing a VPN.
Once you got your desired router and provider handled, it is time to set it up for usage.
Setting up VPN to Your Router :
The setup process varies based on which provider you choose to go. You Have to do is the following installation instructions found on their site.
If your router is directly VPN-compatible, login, and set up the configuration to connect with your provider’s servers. Each provider should have a detailed setup guide for this.
If your router is not compatible out of the box, it should be compatible with either DD-WRT or Tomato. In this case, you will have to install new Firmware before configuring your VPN. But This process is slightly longer, So it’s not as difficult as you may think.
To manually setup to your VPN to a router, you have to do the following steps:
- Download the Firmware
- Collect your router
- Patch the router
- Connect to the VPN client
Download Router Firmware :
1st step is to choose which Firmware to use while making sure it is compatible with your router. The popular options are either DD-WRT or Tomato, and you have to check the fully detailed review here. So Take your pick and double-check the compatibility by googling Router ID + Firmware. This should give you much information to download the file.
Assemble Your Router
The recommended network for the VPN setup is to use two routers and an internet connection. Although this is not the case always, and some routers can do the job on their own. Additionally, you want to have a basic router connected to both the PC and the secondary router used for client software. Now You will need two ethernet cables to connect the basic router to your PC using the LAN ports and to your 2nd router using the WAN ports. Such these configuration will allow your secondary router (powered by the VPN) to connect to your basic router internet connection.
Now that your VPN connection to your router, and it is time to install the Firmware.
Flash the Router
Every router works undoubtedly when it comes to upgrading new Firmware, Now check the user’s manual or look for instructions online. So The process is simple once you get your hands on the instructions. Following the instructions and flash your router.
Connect the VPN Client
Once your router upgraded with new Firmware such as Tomato or DD-WRT, you can connect it to your VPN client. This instructions for the process will depend on the provider, now look up the tutorials on their site. For example, Nord vpn makes this process very easy using their FlashRouters app. When you are connected & logged in, you should have access to features such as a server, location, and more. And Again, the process is very dependent on the provider, so ensure you check your provider’s site for exact instructions.
That’s it — you are manually set up a VPN to your router.
Conclusion :
There are various benefits to setting up a VPN on your router, which is an excellent way to stay protected while browsing. Though the process may seem difficult, it is simple once you get your hands on the instructions. This process is different for each router model and provider, so you will have to do some online research. So This guide should give you enough necessary information to proceed, and it is up to you to decide how to move forward.
