How to Install a VPN on Your Router

Want to protect every device on your home network — including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and game consoles — with a VPN? Installing a VPN directly on your router is a smart way to do just that.

While individual devices can run VPN apps, not all of them support VPN connections natively. Plus, most VPN services limit the number of devices you can connect. By setting up a VPN on your router, you route all your internet traffic through a secure tunnel automatically — no extra installs needed for each device.

That said, installing a VPN on a router isn’t always simple — especially if it involves custom firmware like DD-WRT or Tomato. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Step 1: Check if Your Router Supports VPN

Not all routers are VPN-compatible out of the box. Check your router’s manual or the packaging to see if it supports VPN connections. You can also search your router model online or visit your manufacturer’s website.

Be cautious: flashing third-party firmware (like DD-WRT or Tomato) can void warranties or damage your device. In many cases, it’s best to use a router that natively supports VPN.

Here’s a quick overview of router brands and their VPN support:

Popular VPN-compatible routers include:

• Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000

• Asus RT-AX1800S

• TP-Link AX6600 Wi-Fi 6

• Privacy Hero 2

• ExpressVPN Aircove

• Note: Make sure your router and VPN provider support the same VPN protocol (e.g., OpenVPN, WireGuard, PPTP). Mismatched protocols will prevent setup.

Step 2: Install the VPN on Your Router

The exact steps vary by router and VPN provider, but here’s a general process:

1. Download VPN Configuration Files

Log in to your VPN provider’s website and download the necessary config files (usually .ovpn files if you're using OpenVPN). Look for a “Router Setup” section for step-by-step help.

2. Access Your Router’s Admin Panel

Open a browser and type your router’s IP address into the address bar (often 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1). You’ll need to enter the default username and password, often found on the back of the router.

If you're unsure of your router's IP address:

• Open Command Prompt

• Type: ipconfig

• Look for Default Gateway — that’s your router’s IP.

3. Upload VPN Config & Set Credentials

Once logged in, look for a VPN or VPN Client section in your router’s settings. Upload your configuration files and enter your VPN username and password.

Your VPN provider’s site should provide detailed instructions based on your specific router model.

4. Enable the VPN

After uploading the files, save your settings and activate the VPN connection. Once connected, all devices on your network will be protected.

Step 3: Test Your VPN Connection

Before you start browsing, make sure the VPN is working correctly.

Look out for:

• DNS leaks

• WebRTC leaks

• IP address leaks

You can use online tools like dnsleaktest.com or follow security provider guides (e.g., Norton) to confirm that your real IP address is hidden.

Example 1: Set Up NordVPN on an Asus Router

✔️ Requirements:

• Asus router with OpenVPN 2.4.x support

Steps:

1. Log in to your Asus router: 192.168.1.1 or router.asus.com

2. Navigate to: VPN > VPN Client > Add Profile

3. Choose OpenVPN and enter your NordVPN account info

4. Upload the .ovpn file downloaded from NordVPN

5. Click OK, then toggle Activate

Your Asus router is now routing all internet traffic through NordVPN.

Example 2: Set Up ExpressVPN on ExpressVPN Aircove or Other Supported Routers

If you're using the ExpressVPN Aircove router, setup is fast and user-friendly. Here’s how:

✔️ Requirements:

• ExpressVPN subscription

• ExpressVPN Aircove or compatible router model

Steps:

1. Connect the Aircove router and visit expressvpnrouter.com

2. Log in using your ExpressVPN account

3. Choose your VPN location

4. Apply settings — no file uploads needed

If you’re using a third-party router (e.g., Asus, Netgear), follow these steps:

1. Log in to ExpressVPN website

2. Navigate to Set up ExpressVPN > Manual Configuration

3. Download the .ovpn config files

4. Log in to your router’s admin panel

5. Upload the config files under the VPN settings section

6. Save and activate the VPN connection

Final Thoughts

Setting up a VPN on your router may take some time, but the benefits are worth it. You get full privacy and security on all devices, without worrying about individual app installations or device limits.

To recap:

• ✅ Check router-VPN compatibility

• ✅ Download the right configuration files

• ✅ Log in to your router and upload files

• ✅ Activate and test the VPN

• ✅ Follow a provider-specific guide like NordVPN or ExpressVPN

With a VPN-enabled router, your entire network is protected — 24/7.