A VPN router is easy to install, offers consistent security, and prevents your network from being compromised by insecure devices that log on. However, they can be expensive and require advanced tech knowledge.
Most routers don’t support VPN networking out of the box and must be flashed with special firmware. That process can be complex and may result in a paperweight.
Unblocking Restricted Content
So, what is a VPN router? If you want to access online content unavailable in your country or region, using a VPN router is easy. These routers have been pre-flashed with specific VPN software, and they can be purchased from companies like Flash routers for a small premium.
If a pre-flashed router is outside your budget, upgrading to a regular router yourself is possible. However, doing so will require you to have some technical knowledge and a willingness to risk voiding the router’s warranty. You’ll also need a router compatible with your chosen VPN service. If you need help determining which router to use, many VPN services have detailed router tutorials on their websites.
Another benefit of using a VPN router is that it can simultaneously protect all the devices connected to your network, unlike just computers or smartphones. This is an excellent option for families or businesses that must simultaneously protect several devices. It also circumvents the device limit that some VPN providers maintain, which can save you money.
The disadvantage of using a VPN router is that all the traffic going through it is encrypted, which can result in slower internet speed. Additionally, you will need more time to customize your settings with an app. If you’re comfortable with these limitations, then a VPN router is an excellent choice for your home or business.
Enhanced Privacy
Unlike VPN apps that only protect one device at a time, a VPN router allows you to connect and safeguard all your devices simultaneously. You’ll get protection from hackers, ISP data snooping, and more. This can be especially useful in businesses where employees must work remotely or at home and need a secure connection to keep sensitive information safe.
Many VPN providers offer firmware that can be flashed manually into compatible routers. This can be complicated for novices and requires more technical knowledge, but it’s still an excellent option that gives you the most flexibility.
Another option is to purchase a pre-configured router. These are available from companies like Flash routers and are ready to use with various VPN services. They are pricey but take the hassle out of installing and configuring a VPN.
Using a VPN router can help prevent bandwidth throttling from ISPs. This happens when your ISP slows down your internet speed on overcrowded servers or encourages you to upgrade to a faster plan. A VPN will encrypt your data, making it unreadable to ISPs. This prevents them from throttling your internet speed or snooping on what you’re doing online. You can also use a VPN to avoid DNS hijacking, which happens when your ISP takes control of your DNS requests.
Enhanced Security
A VPN router can be an excellent tool for boosting the security of your network. It takes a blanket approach, providing your entire home or office with an extra layer of protection by encrypting every device that connects to it. It can also mask your location, making it appear you are connecting from a different physical locale, which can be helpful when accessing content and services limited to specific areas.
This level of protection isn’t limited to laptops and computers either; many popular smart devices can connect to a VPN router, including streaming media players like the Amazon Fire TV and Roku, as well as game consoles like the Xbox One. You can even connect Internet of Things devices, such as thermostats and doorbells, to gain a secure connection without installing dedicated apps on each device.
To take your router’s security to the next level, consider getting a model with a built-in VPN server. For example, Ubiquiti’s AmpliFi line of routers includes Teleport, and Asus offers Instant Guard. These routers are configured and ready to use right out of the box, though they typically come with a premium price tag. Alternatively, you can purchase third-party firmware such as OpenWrt to add VPN functionality to any support router. This is a more involved process requiring some technical know-how, but it gives you more features than the router manufacturer typically offers.
Speed
Many VPN services allow you to connect to servers all over the globe, letting you spoof your location to make it appear that you’re surfing from Australia or New York instead of your actual home. You can also use a server closest to you for faster connection speeds. Some routers come with VPN firmware baked in, so you don’t have to flash new software on them to get the perks.
A VPN tethered to your router can also help prevent bandwidth throttling when your Internet Service Provider slows down your connection, encouraging you to upgrade to a faster package. With a VPN on your router, all your devices are protected and won’t be affected by these slowdowns.
One downside of using a VPN router is that you can only change servers slowly with a client-based VPN app on each device. In addition, if you’re using a third-party VPN like DD-WRT or Tomato, you may have to install the firmware on your router at some point, which could void your manufacturer warranty. This isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker, but it’s worth bearing in mind when choosing to go with a VPN router. A router with many ports makes it easy to attach an external hard drive or printer and turn them into shared network storage.
