Many thinks that setting up a router with a VPN is such a complicated task. But know that as long as you have a great guide on how to install a VPN on your router like this, then you’ll realize that it’s all worth the effort.
Regardless of whether it’s for your home or office, a VPN router allows you to reap the same benefits of a VPN service. Aside from secure encryption and easy-peasy Netflix browsing, a VPN router also improves your internet speed. But what makes VPN routers extra appealing? Why should you spend time setting one up? We have answers below, so stay with us.
Reasons You May Need VPN Routers
The function of a VPN router is exactly the same as any VPN service. There is only one noticeable difference: scale. What does that mean?
If you’re already subscribed to a VPN service, you probably know how easy it is to bypass your connection and browse securely online. However, you know there are limitations, right? Only a few devices can connect to it. That is where VPN routers come in.
There are unique advantages of setting up VPN routers. These are:
- It allows unlimited connection.
- It’s versatile, allowing smart devices such as Apple TV, Smart TV, Chromecast, and Amazon Fire TV to connect to it.
- You only log in once.
- You can connect to it 24/7.
Of course, VPN routers have drawbacks, too. These are:
- They are generally expensive.
- The more devices that connect, the more the performance drops.
- You are limited to using whatever server you used in the configuration.
3 Types of VPN Routers
You technically have two ways to get by a VPN router installation. The first option is to get a device that has built-in VPN support. The second option is to upgrade your current router, if it is compatible. Whatever method you choose, there are generally three VPN router types: manually flashed routers, VPN-compatible routers, and pre-configured routers.
Before we go through the process of installing a VPN router, here’s a quick overview on the different types of VPN routers:
1. VPN-Compatible Routers
If you have finally decided to get a new router but haven’t made a choice on which type of router to get, we suggest you find one that has integrated VPN support. By opting for such router type, you can easily set up VPN connections. You simply need to enter your preferred VPN server and your login credentials, and you’re all set.
Although most VPN-ready routers already have everything you need to set up a VPN connection smoothly, it’s always a good idea to confirm with the manufacturer if the device supports the OpenVPN protocol.
2. Pre-Configured VPN Routers
Also called pre-flashed routers, this type of router is your most expensive option. However, for the price you pay, it’s indeed worth it.
The best thing about this device is that it is very easy to use. You just select a VPN service you want the router to be configured for and that’s it. You virtually don’t need to do anything as far as setting up is concerned.
Then again, aside from the price, there are big drawbacks to choosing pre-configured VPN routers. First, it’s very difficult to find a trusted provider. Another disadvantage is that online is the only way to have a pre-configured VPN router. That means if you reside in a far-flung area, you might have to spend on shipping costs, and you will have problems with returning the device if you find something wrong with it.
3. Manually Flashed VPN Routers
Before you consider having this type of router, know that it can be a challenge to flash your router. But it is not as risky as you think. If you prefer to make your router VPN-ready without spending money, this is your best option.
Yes, we mentioned “flash.” What does that mean? It is basically installing an advanced firmware on a router. The most popular ways are the DD-WRT and the Tomato.
Between the two, the DD-WRT is your more versatile option as it offers support for more than 80 router brands. Tomato, on the other hand, is only compatible with a few routers. So, which is your best choice? Well, it depends on your firmware selection. Whatever you decide upon, we suggest you ensure your router is compatible with the entire flashing process. Otherwise, you’d end up messing up your router.
How to Install a VPN on Your Router
Now, let’s proceed to the most exciting part: the installation of a VPN on your router. For this guide, we will teach you how to install a VPN on your router using Outbyte VPN. Here’s how you do it:
1. Download the Firmware of Your Choice.
Subscribe to Outbyte VPN service. Check if your router model is in the list of devices supported. Take note of the activation code and select your router model. Once you’ve found it, download the firmware.
2. Connect Your Router.
After downloading the firmware, it’s time to assemble the router. Although the setup process varies depending on the router model you have, generally you will need a reliable internet connection and two routers.
To set up your routers, configure the primary router to enable the VPN Passthrough feature. By activating this, you are allowing any device that is connected to it to run the VPN client software. Once you have successfully activated the VPN Passthrough feature, connect your primary router to your secondary router.
Though it is recommended to have two routers, note that not all routers need it. Again, it depends on your router model.
3. Flash Your Router.
After you’ve set up your routers, it’s time to flash them. Again, the process depends on your router model. To be sure, you can search online for the recommended flashing method for your router model. Follow the steps and you should be able to establish a connection.
Other Important Instructions
Sometimes, you will need to change to another server location or alter your default SSID password. But don’t worry because these are fairly easy tasks.
To change your server location, disconnect your VPN from the internet. And then, you can now choose a server location from the list. To change your default SSID password, navigate to the Help & Support section of your router. Scroll to the section where your Wi-Fi name and password are located. From there, you can change your router credentials.
Conclusion
Installing a VPN on your router might seem like a tedious task, especially if you are accustomed to using free VPNs. However, if you’re dead serious about securing your data while browsing, then your efforts will be all worth it. The setup process can also be tricky, but know that the internet is your best resource.
Do you know other ways to install a VPN on your router? What VPN service do you recommend? We’d like to hear your thoughts – comment them down below.