The best VPNs for routers

Set up a VPN on a WiFi router to protect every device on your home network. Here are some of the best VPNs for routers, plus a guide for setting up a VPN with various models.

The number of smart devices continues to increase with each passing year, and it can be tough to protect everything that connects to the internet within your home. For example, consider smart TVs, games consoles, doorbells, refrigerators, and more. These devices transmit a lot of user data, but many don’t support native VPN apps. 

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are generally seen as software designed for laptops, computers, and mobile devices, whether it’s Linux, macOS, Windows, iOS, or Android. But you can secure all smart devices within a home network by setting up a VPN with your router. VPNs encrypt all traffic sent to and from your devices, so they are a great way to improve online privacy. 

If you select a VPN server located in a different country, some providers allow access to geo-restricted content from abroad. We’ll take you through each of the best VPNs for routers in detail below. We’ve also included a quick rundown detailing what you can expect from each provider.

The best VPNs for routers:

1. NordVPN: The best VPN for routers. Great support for a range of router models, unique features, fast speeds, and over 6,000 servers to pick from. Capable of accessing lots of popular streaming services and offers 24/7 customer support. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee. 
2. Surfshark: Our top budget VPN for routers. Compatible with models and firmware including Asus, DD-WRT, and OpenWRT. Decent speeds, and streaming support in regions like the US and the UK. Servers in 100+ countries and unlimited device connections. 
3. ExpressVPN: Custom router firmware and servers in 105+ countries make this another viable solution. Excellent customer service and great for accessing geo-restricted streaming platforms while active. 
4. Proton VPN: Fast speeds and Invizbox 2 is custom-made to work with the provider. Lots of streaming support and offers advanced privacy features. 
5. Mullvad: Excellent speeds and router support, albeit with no streaming access. Zero-logs policy. 
6. CyberGhost: Labeled servers that work with multiple streaming platforms from 22+ countries, fast speeds, and compatible with Tomato and DD-WRT models.
7. IVPN: Transparent provider with strong router support and speedy WireGuard connections. No streaming access.  

Summary Table

If you’re in need of a VPN for your router, there’s a long list of services that will be able to get the job done. We've been able to narrow the field with our inclusion criteria. Here are some of the non-negotiable characteristics we looked for when picking out the best providers for routers:

• Router support for a selection of models and firmware, as well as servers in a wide range of locations to ensure that there’s always a local option to choose from. 
• Connection speeds will dictate how efficiently the user is able to perform any online task, and will be especially important if you’ve connected to multiple devices via your router. 
• Privacy and security, including everything from notable features to available protocols.
• In order to qualify for one of the top three positions, the VPN must operate a 100% diskless server network and have had its infrastructure audited by a reputable third party.

For more information about the specific criteria we used for picking the best VPNs for routers, check out the testing methodology section found later in this article.

Best VPNs for routers in 2023

Here’s a roundup with detailed information about each of the VPNs that have made it onto this list.

NordVPN is our top recommendation if you need a VPN for routers. You’ll find detailed setup guides for Asus WRT, Asus Merlin, DD-WRT, Gl.iNET, Mikrotik, NetDUMA, OPNsense, OpenWRT, Padavan, Sabai, Tomato, pfSense, DrayTek, EdgeRouter, TP-Link, Privacy Hero, and Roqos models and firmware. 

If you’d prefer, you'll find a selection of apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV, and Linux. It works with six simultaneous devices, with a router only counting as one connection. 

24/7 customer support is available if you run into any issues along the way. It has 6,000+ RAM-only servers to pick from in 60+ countries, with average speeds of just under 200 Mbps. Some servers are optimized for tasks like P2P and accessing the Tor network. 

Nord works with lots of streaming platforms, such as Amazon Prime Video, Peacock, HBO Max, ESPN, NBC, ABC, CBS, Hulu, and Netflix US. The same goes for platforms in the UK, along with 23+ Netflix catalogs.   

Advanced features include MultiHop (Double VPN), obfuscation, and Meshnet, which allows the user to create private networks between trusted devices without a subscription. Apps and infrastructure have been independently audited by respected firms like Deloitte and Cure53. 

THE BEST VPN FOR ROUTERS: NordVPN is compatible with a long list of router models, and it’s our top pick overall. Fast speeds, unique features like Meshnet, and ideal for streaming. Comes with a simple risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of NordVPN.

Surfshark is our top budget pick, with support for various router models and firmware including Asus, DD-WRT, OpenWRT, Portal, Tomato, Sabai, Freebox, pfSense, and more. 

It has 3,200+ RAM-only servers in 100+ countries, so you won’t have to look far to find a nearby location. The provider works with an unlimited number of devices, so you might be able to skip using a router entirely due to capable apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. 

In spite of the low asking price, Surfshark is still reasonably performant, with average speeds of 188 Mbps. It’s capable of accessing a wide variety of geo-blocked streaming services from abroad, including 20+ Netflix catalogs. 

Features include a built-in kill switch, split tunneling, MultiHop, and obfuscation. NoBorders allows the user to access Surfshark in restrictive regions, while CleanWeb blocks malicious ads and websites. 

A private search engine is hidden behind an additional paywall (Surfshark One), but you won’t be missing out on much if you stick with the VPN rather than opting for a packaged deal with extra products like antivirus software.  

Surfshark comes with an audited no-logs policy, and it has watertight encryption. 

THE BEST BUDGET VPN FOR ROUTERS: Surfshark is hard to beat if you’re looking for a low-cost option for many router models. Unlimited device connections and strong streaming abilities, with RAM-only servers in 100+ countries worldwide. Fast speeds and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. 

Read our full review of Surfshark.

ExpressVPN is another viable solution if you’d like to use a VPN with your router. The provider is a step above much of the competition thanks to its custom router firmware that comes with a kill switch. 

The provider works with a selection of models including Netgear, Asus, and Linksys. A pre-flashed router is also an option, which is compatible with the VPN and removes the hassle of installing it yourself. 

ExpressVPN is one of the best picks for streaming, accessing multiple geo-restricted platforms in a wide selection of locations worldwide. These include BT Sport, BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, Channel 4, and Channel 5 in the UK. 

Reliable connections and average speeds of 175 Mbps are good enough to avoid the prospect of lag or buffering while connected, and you’ll find servers in 105+ countries. As with the providers seen above, it comes with 24/7 customer support and includes live chat functionality. 

Features include obfuscation, Smart DNS, and split tunneling. As well as router support, there are apps for Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android, and Amazon Fire TV. 

Express is slightly more expensive than the likes of NordVPN and Surfshark, but it does offer an especially beginner-friendly experience. 

THE BEST VPN FOR ROUTERS: ExpressVPN is perfect for connecting to a router. Custom firmware, reliable server speeds in 105+ countries, apps for all devices, industry-leading 24/7 customer support, perfect for streaming, and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of ExpressVPN.

Proton VPN is another solid provider if you’re hoping for router access. Proton works with InvizBox 2, AsusWRT, DD-WRT, OpenWRT, pfSense, Tomato, FreshTomato, and Vilfo models and firmware. InvizBox 2 was custom-made to work with Proton VPN, so there are various suitable pre-flashed options to pick from. 

It allows for port forwarding. Average speeds of 320 Mbps are great for tasks like P2P or streaming. Proton worked with multiple Netflix libraries during testing, and it could access Hulu, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime with its US servers. 

A trio of free locations is a notable addition, with servers in the United States, Japan, and the Netherlands. You can even use a free server with your router, and it only counts as one connection. However, Proton VPN notes:

‘If you use a Proton VPN Free plan on your router, you will only be able to connect to our Free plan servers, which are typically slower than our Plus servers as they have more load.’

As well as slower speeds, Proton’s free locations can’t be used for streaming, Tor, or various other premium features such as Secure Core. 

FREE ROUTER VPN: Proton VPN is ideal if you’re on the market for a pre-flashed router. Support for lots of models, fast connection speeds, free servers available, and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of ProtonVPN.

Mullvad is compatible with various VPN routers and firmware including DD-WRT, ASUS Merlin, OpenWRT, and pfSense. Average connection speeds exceed 660 Mbps. 

The provider might not have as many servers (650+) as some competitors, but there are still locations found in 43+ countries altogether. You’ll find detailed setup guides for a selection of router models via its website. 

Mullvad is great for torrenting, as well as for secure browsing and accessing the Tor network. However, it can’t be used with streaming services, so you’ll have to look elsewhere if you’re hoping to access content from abroad. 

Features include a strict zero-logs policy, obfuscation, split tunneling, and the ability to block ads, trackers, and malware. 

Mullvad has a simple pricing plan, although a flat fee does mean there aren’t any deals if you sign up for longer periods. 

SECURE ROUTER VPN: Mullvad is a powerful provider with some of the fastest speeds on the market. Router support, strict zero-logs policy, advanced features, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Mullvad.

CyberGhost is compatible with Tomato and DD-WRT firmware, complimenting a selection of beginner-friendly apps for all devices. You’ll be able to use CyberGhost with pre-configured routers, and it has a massive network with 10,000+ servers in 105+ countries. 

Streaming access is a major selling point, with labeled servers that work with multiple platforms in 22+ nations. As well as regions like the US and the UK, this includes the likes of Norway, Romania, Singapore, Spain, and Turkey. It's ideal for streaming with a variety of routers, and it can be used for P2P file sharing. 

Speeds averaged 320 Mbps in our tests. It comes with 24/7 live chat support. You’ll find a sturdy kill switch, split tunneling, and Smart DNS. A Content Blocker stops ads, trackers, and malware, helping to boost online security.

CyberGhost is missing out on a few features seen elsewhere such as obfuscation, but it’s nothing that will impede the user while connected to a compatible router. Speeds are perfect for streaming.

STREAMING ROUTER VPN: CyberGhost is capable of accessing the biggest and most popular streaming services, and it’s a beginner-friendly VPN whether you’re using a router or another device. Extended 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of CyberGhost VPN.

IVPN is an effective open-source solution for routers. It works with DD-WRT, OpenWRT, pfsense, Tomato, AsusWRT, and OPNsense models and firmware. As with the others, you’ll also be able to buy a pre-configured router (Vilfo) with IVPN already installed. 

The provider has a smaller network, but it benefits from open-source apps and annual independent audits of its software and infrastructure. It logs no user data, and you can sign up anonymously. 

IVPN is a solid option for various router models. It offers speedy WireGuard connections and comes with advanced features like MultiHop, IP address rotation, and an ad, tracker, and malware blocker.

Unfortunately, it can’t be used to access streaming services, no matter which app or server you select. As with Mullvad, IVPN is primarily focused on privacy rather than entertainment.  

TRANSPARENT ROUTER VPN: IVPN is a trustworthy provider with a lot to offer if you value privacy above all else. Features like port forwarding, support for various router models, WireGuard, and yearly independent audits of its software and infrastructure. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Methodology: How we chose the best VPNs for routers 

Rather than picking out providers at random, we’ve compiled a comprehensive VPN testing methodology. We test and compare the best VPNs in the business. 

Our strict criteria means that only providers dedicated to digital privacy, with excellent usability and optimal performance, can make it onto our list. Below, you can see the criteria we used to pick the best VPNs for routers:

• Router support: The VPN software must offer support for various router models, including pre-flashed options that make it easy to get started. 
• Server locations: We’ve factored in the number of server locations on offer, ensuring coverage in multiple popular locations.
• Speeds and performance: Fast connection speeds will ensure no lag, even if you’re connecting to servers located halfway around the world. The VPN connection needs to be reliable, especially if you’re planning to access content from abroad. This is especially true if you’re connecting to multiple devices with your router VPN, which can effect download speeds. 
• Privacy and security: How does the VPN perform in terms of security and privacy? We look at features, their implementation, and everything from leak protection to encryption and protocols. 
• Third-party audits: Trust is the foundation of the value that VPNs provide. You are essentially placing more faith in your VPN service than you are in your ISP. Almost every provider says they are a ‘no-logs' VPN. The only ways to test this claim are either through the courts or through audits. We will only consider providers for our top three positions if they have undergone infrastructure audits from a reputable third party. While this isn't foolproof, it's the closest the industry has to a verification process for logging policies.
• Diskless infrastructure: Again, this is a prerequisite to be considered for one of the top three positions on BleepingComputer. While the data stored on a VPN server should be minimal, it could, theoretically, be accessed if the servers were seized or hacked. Moving processes to RAM means that no information can be physically taken from servers and it is wiped on shutdown. It can also easily be wiped as a part of regular security procedures.

How to use a VPN with a router 

VPNs might appear to be overly technical, but it’s not tough to get started with a router-compatible service. Here’s a guide with various methods for setting up a VPN with a router. 

1. Using a pre-configured router

A pre-configured router is by far the easiest option. Pre-flashed routers already have the VPN installed, so you won’t have to do it yourself. However, it also works out to be the most expensive solution, as you’ll need to purchase a new router. 

2. Using a VPN-enabled router

Some routers are compatible with firmware such as OpenVPN. If so, you’ll be able to pick a VPN and follow its installation guide to configure it with your router model. The process of flashing a router tends to be the most difficult step, so this should be seen as a user-friendly method in comparison. 

3. Flashing a router with new firmware

Flashing a router with new firmware is another solution. For example, open-source options like DD-WRT, Tomato, and OpenWRT are free, and they are compatible with various VPNs. Since flashing a router can brick your device if you don’t know what you’re doing, it’s inadvisable for inexperienced users. Some modern routers are likely to be compatible, but you may need to purchase a special router to do so. 

Router VPN FAQs

What if my VPN doesn't support routers?

Using your laptop or computer as a WiFi hotspot is a viable alternative if your VPN doesn’t work with routers. If you’re planning to use a specific device, you could check to see if there’s a relevant app instead.

What is a VPN router?

Rather than a normal router provided by your ISP, a VPN router already has a VPN client installed. This makes it easier to get started and will protect all devices within your home network.

Can I access regional streaming services with a router VPN?

Yes, although it will depend on the regional streaming service you’d like to access, as well as the provider you’ve chosen. For example, if a UK VPN server can stream BBC iPlayer, it’ll work with all connected devices if you use your router. The same goes for other popular platforms in regions such as the US, Germany, Japan, and elsewhere. However, some providers can only access a limited range of streaming platforms, while others like IVPN and Mullvad don’t offer any streaming access whatsoever.

What are the limitations with VPN routers?

There are a number of issues to consider with a VPN router. Configuration can be a headache and apps are much easier to set up a VPN with individual devices. Some routers are incompatible with VPNs, while others slow speeds down excessively.

Will a VPN on my router be slower?

Due to the encryption process, router speeds tend to be a little slower while a VPN is connected. It depends on various factors, including how many devices are connected, router hardware, and the VPN server you’ve selected. Some router models are designed to be used with several devices at the same time, mitigating any loss in speed.

Is it tough to install a VPN on a router?

If you don’t have a VPN-enabled router, it can be relatively difficult to install one. Some VPN providers have tutorials to walk you through. If you don’t already have VPN-compatible firmware, that complicates things further. You’ll have to find and flash the correct firmware for your device, which could permanently damage it if not done properly. As such, it’s not recommended to flash your router unless you’re confident in your technical abilities.

Will I get into trouble with my ISP for installing a router VPN?

The majority of ISPs won’t mind if you install a VPN on your router, but there is a chance that it might go against its terms of service. For example, ISPs tend to ask for hardware to be returned at the end of a contract, and they would probably expect a router to have its original firmware installed upon receipt.

Can I use a free VPN with a router?

It’s not a good idea to use a free VPN with a router for a number of reasons. The majority of free providers tend to neglect router support, instead focusing on mobile and desktop apps.

Even if you do manage to find a compatible service, many free VPNs have been known to contain malware, with some even lacking the basic encryption necessary to keep your data protected while in use. Performance generally tends to be an issue, with slow speeds and fewer servers to pick from.