Also: How the top VPNs compare: Plus, should you try a free VPN? There are some requirements and restrictions to setting up a VPN on a router. First, your router will act as a VPN client, not a server. This means that you’ll need to use an existing VPN service for which you have access. Also: The 5 best Wi-Fi routers Second, not all routers support a VPN, so you’ll need to check your make and model to see if it does. For this story, I’m going to set up a VPN access on my home router, which is a Netgear Mesh Orbi. Since the firmware for every router is different, your steps will definitely vary from the ones I describe for my unit. Review: Surfshark VPN: Unlimited connections make it a solid value pick But you should still be able to follow along and get this process working on your end.
How to set up a VPN on your router
Your experience will differ depending on your router’s make and model. Some routers require a program called DD0-WRT, which adds extra features that aren’t available in your router’s built-in firmware. The entry for Default Gateway points to your router, so enter that address in your browser’s address field. You’ll then be prompted to sign in with your router’s username and password. Also: How to convert your home’s old TV cable into powerful Ethernet lines Next, I look for a setting for VPN or VPN service, which is usually under advanced settings. For instance, the setting on my router is in the Advanced Setup section. I select that setting. Also: How to connect a VPN in Windows 10 Both options work in conjunction with a VPN. With a static address, my IP address stays the same. With a DDNS account, my IP address information is automatically updated if and when my ISP assigns me a new dynamic address. In this case, I go with the option for DDNS. Also: The best VPNs for torrenting But there are also packages for the Mac and for mobile devices. For my router, Netgear leads me to OpenVPN, an open source VPN protocol and service. I install the OpenVPN client and then import the VPN configuration file to it. Also: What is VPN split tunneling and should I be using it? And though my Netgear router wanted DDNS to use a VPN, that requirement may not be necessary in all cases. So although your mileage will vary, you’ll still need to follow a similar series of steps to take advantage of a VPN on your router.
