Installing a VPN on your router protects every device in your home at once, including ones that cannot run a VPN app themselves, like smart TVs and games consoles. This guide explains how it works, what you need, and how to set it up without getting stuck.
Why put a VPN on your router?
A normal VPN app protects one device at a time. A router-level VPN protects everything connected to your network in a single step. The main benefits are:
- Whole-home coverage: phones, laptops, TVs and consoles are all protected automatically.
- No per-device setup: any device that joins your Wi-Fi is covered without installing anything.
- Devices that cannot run VPN apps: smart TVs, consoles and IoT gadgets get protection they otherwise could not.
- Always on: the connection is active whenever the router is powered, with nothing to remember.
What you will need
Before you begin, make sure you have:
- A VPN subscription from a provider that supports router setups.
- A compatible router, ideally one that supports OpenVPN or WireGuard.
- Your router’s admin login details, usually on a sticker on the device.
- The VPN configuration details from your provider’s website.
Not every router supports VPNs out of the box. Many providers publish a list of compatible models, and some sell pre-configured routers if yours is not supported.
How to set up a VPN on your router
The exact screens differ by router brand, but the overall process is the same everywhere.
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1
Log in to your router
Type your router’s IP address (often 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1) into a browser and sign in.
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2
Find the VPN section
Look under Advanced, Security or VPN Client in the settings menu.
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3
Get your VPN config
In your VPN account dashboard, download the configuration file or copy the server credentials.
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4
Enter the details
Paste the server address, your VPN username and password into the router’s VPN client.
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5
Connect and test
Save, enable the connection, then check your IP on a connected device to confirm it changed.
Once the router shows a connected status and a device on your network reports the VPN server’s location, you are done. Every device on that network is now routed through the VPN.
Check firmware first
If your router has no VPN client option, you may be able to install custom firmware such as DD-WRT or OpenWRT to add one. This is more advanced and can void warranties, so only attempt it if you are comfortable and have checked your model is supported.
Things to watch out for
A router VPN is powerful, but there are a few trade-offs to keep in mind:
- Speed: routers have less processing power than computers, so encryption can reduce speeds. A WireGuard-capable router helps.
- Switching countries: changing the server location means logging back into the router, not just tapping an app.
- Selective use: if you want some devices off the VPN, set up a second non-VPN network rather than toggling constantly.
Recommended VPNs for routers
For ease of setup, ExpressVPN’s dedicated router support is hard to beat, while Proton VPN remains our top all-round pick thanks to its strong privacy and WireGuard speeds. Any of the options below works well on a compatible router.
Will a router VPN slow my whole network?
It can, because the router handles all the encryption. A modern router with WireGuard minimises the impact.
Can I still pick different countries?
Yes, but you change the server in the router settings rather than in an app, so it is less convenient.
What if my router does not support VPNs?
Consider custom firmware if your model supports it, or buy a pre-configured VPN router.
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