Introduction
Greetings, fellow internet users! As online privacy and security concerns become more prevalent in our daily lives, virtual private networks (VPNs) are becoming an essential tool for anyone who wants to protect their online data. While there are a variety of VPN services available, using a VPN on your router offers several advantages over using individual VPN software on each device. In this article, we’ll explore the top routers with VPN capabilities to help you find the best one for your needs.
The Importance of a VPN Router
Before diving into the best routers with VPN capabilities, it’s important to understand why a VPN router is beneficial. First and foremost, using a VPN on your router ensures that every device connected to your network is protected by the VPN, without having to install the VPN software on each individual device. This is particularly useful for Internet of Things (IoT) devices that may not support VPN software or devices that you can’t install a VPN on, such as smart TVs or gaming consoles.
In addition to providing VPN protection to all devices on your network, a VPN router also allows you to bypass geographic restrictions on streaming services or websites. By connecting to a VPN server in a different location, you can access content that may be blocked in your region. VPN routers also typically offer faster speeds than VPN software on individual devices, since the VPN encryption is handled by the router rather than each device.
Now that we’ve covered the benefits of a VPN router, let’s take a look at some of the best options available.
Best Router with VPN: Our Top Picks
1. Asus RT-AC86U
The Asus RT-AC86U is a powerful wireless router that offers excellent VPN performance. It supports both OpenVPN and PPTP VPN protocols and has a built-in VPN client that allows you to easily connect to a VPN server. The router also has advanced security features, including AiProtection Pro that provides commercial-grade security for all devices on your network.
2. Netgear Nighthawk X10 AD7200
If you’re looking for a high-end router with VPN capabilities, the Netgear Nighthawk X10 AD7200 is a great option. This router supports both OpenVPN and PPTP VPN protocols and has a powerful 1.7GHz quad-core processor that allows for fast VPN speeds. The Nighthawk X10 also has a built-in Plex media server, making it an ideal choice for media enthusiasts.
3. Linksys WRT3200ACM
The Linksys WRT3200ACM is a popular choice for VPN users, thanks to its support for multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, PPTP, and L2TP/IPSec. This router is also highly customizable, with support for third-party firmware like DD-WRT and Tomato. The WRT3200ACM also comes with Linksys Smart Wi-Fi software, which allows you to easily manage your network from your smartphone or tablet.
4. Asus RT-AC5300
The Asus RT-AC5300 is a tri-band router that offers excellent VPN performance. This router supports both OpenVPN and PPTP VPN protocols and has a built-in VPN client that allows you to easily connect to a VPN server. The router also has advanced security features, including AiProtection that provides commercial-grade security for all devices on your network.
5. Synology RT2600ac
The Synology RT2600ac is a powerful wireless router that offers great VPN performance. It supports both OpenVPN and PPTP VPN protocols and has a built-in VPN client that allows you to easily connect to a VPN server. The router also has advanced security features, including Threat Prevention that protects your network from malicious attacks.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using a VPN Router
Advantages
1. Protection for all devices: A VPN router protects all devices on your network, including IoT devices that may not support VPN software.
2. Bypass geographic restrictions: By connecting to a VPN server in a different location, you can bypass geographic restrictions on streaming services or websites.
3. Faster speeds: VPN routers typically offer faster speeds than VPN software on individual devices, since the VPN encryption is handled by the router rather than each device.
4. Easy to use: VPN routers are easy to use and require minimal setup.
Disadvantages
1. Cost: VPN routers can be more expensive than non-VPN routers.
2. Limited server selection: VPN routers may have limited server selection compared to using a VPN software on an individual device.
Best Router with VPN: Comparison Table
Router |
VPN Protocols |
Processor |
Security Features |
Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Asus RT-AC86U |
OpenVPN, PPTP |
Dual-core 1.8GHz |
AiProtection Pro |
$199.99 |
Netgear Nighthawk X10 AD7200 |
OpenVPN, PPTP |
Quad-core 1.7GHz |
Advanced security features |
$499.99 |
Linksys WRT3200ACM |
OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP/IPSec |
Dual-core 1.8GHz |
Linksys Smart Wi-Fi |
$249.99 |
Asus RT-AC5300 |
OpenVPN, PPTP |
Quad-core 1.8GHz |
AiProtection |
$299.99 |
Synology RT2600ac |
OpenVPN, PPTP |
Dual-core 1.7GHz |
Threat Prevention |
$199.99 |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is a VPN router necessary?
While using a VPN on each individual device is an option, using a VPN router provides several advantages, including protecting all devices on your network and bypassing geographic restrictions.
2. Can I set up a VPN on my existing router?
If your router doesn’t have built-in VPN capabilities, you can set up a VPN on your existing router using third-party firmware like DD-WRT or Tomato.
3. Can I use any VPN service with a VPN router?
Most VPN routers support a variety of VPN protocols, but it’s important to make sure that your VPN service is compatible with the router you choose.
4. Can I turn off the VPN on my router?
Yes, you can turn off the VPN on your router if you choose to do so.
5. Are VPN routers more expensive than non-VPN routers?
Yes, VPN routers can be more expensive than non-VPN routers.
6. Can I use a VPN with a smart TV?
While some smart TVs have built-in VPN capabilities, using a VPN router is a more secure option for protecting your smart TV.
7. Can I set up a VPN on my gaming console?
Some gaming consoles may not support VPN software, making a VPN router a more convenient option for protecting your gaming console.
8. What is the best VPN protocol to use with a VPN router?
OpenVPN and PPTP are the most common VPN protocols supported by VPN routers.
9. Can I use a free VPN with my VPN router?
While some free VPN services may work with VPN routers, it’s important to be cautious and research the service thoroughly before using it on your network.
10. Can I use a VPN router with my current internet service provider?
Yes, VPN routers are compatible with most internet service providers.
11. Can I add more VPN servers to my VPN router?
Most VPN routers allow you to add custom VPN servers to the router’s configuration.
12. Can I use a VPN router while traveling?
Yes, you can use a VPN router while traveling, but you’ll need to connect the router to a local network to use it.
13. Will a VPN router slow down my internet speed?
While using a VPN will typically slow down your internet speed somewhat, using a VPN router can actually improve your internet speed since the encryption is handled by the router rather than each individual device.
Conclusion
Now that you’re armed with the knowledge of the best routers with VPN capabilities, you can make an informed decision on which one is right for you. Remember, using a VPN router offers several benefits over using individual VPN software on each device, including protecting all devices on your network and bypassing geographic restrictions. Whether you’re looking for a mid-range router with VPN capabilities or a high-end router with advanced security features, there’s a VPN router out there for you.
So what are you waiting for? Protect your online privacy and security by investing in a VPN router today!
Closing Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. The use of a VPN may be subject to legal restrictions in some jurisdictions. It is the responsibility of the reader to research and comply with all applicable laws and regulations regarding the use of a VPN.