ExpressVPN - Why Firmware update?

Hello

I like what I read about ExpressVPN vers Nord, but I don't understand why they want to update my router's firmware. I have the latest image installed. I was asking the support person via chat (if this is a full replacement or just patching), but the applet timed out because they took too long getting back with a response. I just got concerned because I seen a lot of posts on line with people who changed their mind and had issues restoring their firmware in their routers.

According to their website, the firmware increases security by patching holes and what ever else it does. I think flashing the firmware to use a 3rd party VPN service seems a little over reaching. The fact that most of these services have no phone support if there's an issue with something, that was another turn off. I have not done anything at this point.

Am I not understanding correct about the firmware? Is this replacing my firmware? There's no way I'm flashing to put their image on. I have IP reservations setup and would be a pain to have to do that all over again. Although I do have them backed up. I can't believe that a company which did not manufacture routers is asking people to replace their firmware. Crazy

Asus RT-AX55 router.

Edited by Pc-mac-guy, 11 November 2023 - 07:26 PM.

Hi, you if something wants to change your Routers Firmware when it is up to date it is to run propitiatory software/changes to "your" router. 

I would def not permit such a thing.

Unless your not running the Firmware released 3 days go for your Asus RT-AX55  : https://www.asus.com/ca-en/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/all-series/rt-ax55/helpdesk_download?model2Name=RT-AX55

While there check your drivers as no OS mentioned.

EDIT : to post accidentally deleted part of URL, fixed.

Edited by Pkshadow, 11 November 2023 - 09:45 PM.

Not sure what you're saying as far as checking the site. I'm still wondering if  ExpressVPN's firmware is a complete replacement for their customers stock firmware. If so, it is ludicrous and reckless for a company to ask their customers to flash and overwrite their stock firmware. I'm seeing a lot of posts of people saying that they had trouble removing the express firmware. One guy said, he had to install an old copy of ExpressVPNs firmware from 2018 in order to clear his router because the new software would not let me remove and roll back to the stock firmware. Sounds like a nightmare I don't want to get into.

They are crazy at ExpressVPN.

https://www.expressvpn.com/support/troubleshooting/upgrade-expressvpn-router-firmware/#find

Edited by Pc-mac-guy, 12 November 2023 - 03:03 AM.

Are you running this Firmware released 3 days go for your Asus RT-AX55  : https://www.asus.com/ca-en/networking-iot-servers/wifi-routers/all-series/rt-ax55/helpdesk_download?model2Name=RT-AX55

????

Was it this firmware above identified by the VPN ???

Hello BC

No, I'm running Version 3.0.0.4.386_51598.

So if I install Version Version 3.0.0.4.386_52294, then I don't need the ExpressVPN software?

EDIT,

I just updated to Version 3.0.0.4.386_52294

But according to their site, it sounds like they recommend the app software rather then a manual setup of your router, Or they offer to sell you a VPN router. I don't really need the VPN on all my devices, so I think my original post really is not relevant. I could probably just download the software and use it on one your two computers.

https://www.expressvpn.com/support/vpn-setup/manual-config-for-asus-router-with-openvpn/

Edited by Pc-mac-guy, 13 November 2023 - 01:33 AM.

Hi, I would not know what that or Nord wants to do.  Just know get asked for help.

I run Norton 360 it comes with VPN.   Do not use it much but have it and never causes issues.

If you log into the RT-AX55 and manage the settings in there as per the manual (download) you should be safe and secure as well I am sure there is a ASUS Forum page for it.

Keep it updated from your Support Page as per all the fixes that were done since your last version to this version.

My suggestion is harden your browser as that is they way most get in.  Malwarebytes Browser Guard (turn off block trackers) , Ublock Origin in Advanced Mode and train it for all your major sites, Privacy Possum, in Firefox and use only Private Mode set with do not accept 3rd party cookies.

If you can not view something it probably was not important or somewhere else has it up if not then in the future.  Turn off you instant gratification for security :=}

After looking at Expresses website again, I guess these software flashes were only for specific routers, mine is not on the list. And they do sell their own VPN routers. But I did talk to a support guy in the chat app and he said, you pretty much just download and run the software and it tunnels your connection to the top layer of the routing table. So anything you run on the computer will go though the VPN.

Anyway, I think I got this solved. I appreciate the responces