How to Setup a VPN on a Router

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) creates a secure, private connection between your laptop, desktop, and/or mobile device and another network or server, such as a corporate network, isolated environment, or the internet. By utilizing a VPN, you can ensure that your personal information, including financial data, is safe from prying eyes and ears. Moreover, you can enjoy all the benefits of a private connection without having to worry about security. Simply connect to the VPN and you’re good to go.

Why Setup a VPN on a Router?

Setting up a VPN on a router is a convenient way to enjoy the benefits of a VPN without having to configure and manage multiple profiles on individual devices. With a VPN on a router, you can connect to the service using a single username and password, and all of your devices, including your laptop, desktop, and/or mobile device, can securely connect to the internet via the VPN. This makes setup a lot simpler and less intimidating. You can read our in-depth review of the Best Router VPN for detailed information on why we recommend the VPNton router.

How to Setup a VPN on a Router

There are a few simple steps you need to follow in order to set up a VPN on a Router.

Step 1.

The first step is to decide which type of VPN you want to set up. You have several options including OpenVPN, L2TP/IPSec, PPTP, SSTP, IKEv2, and others. We’ll cover the basics of OpenVPN, but you can learn more about the other VPN types by clicking on the links. To set up OpenVPN, you’ll need to download and install two software packages from the OpenVPN website,

• OpenVPN GUI: OpenVPN GUI is a graphical user interface (GUI) that makes setting up OpenVPN a lot simpler and less daunting;
• OpenVPN (Advanced): OpenVPN is OpenVPN’s proprietary networking software — consider this your gateway to the wonderful world of VPNs;

After you’ve downloaded and installed OpenVPN, you’ll need to ensure that your router supports PPTP, OpenVPN, and L2TP protocols. For example, the TP-Link TL-WR941ND Wi-Fi router we reviewed earlier this year supports all three protocols and is, therefore, ideal for setting up a VPN.

Step 2.

The second step is to choose a strong password for your VPN. Avoid using your birth date, social security number, favorite movie, or favorite book as a password — try for a sentence that you wouldn’t normally use in regular conversation. For example, if you wanted to use “cat” as your password, you could use the sentence, “I like cats, they’re a great pet.” Your VPN password should be at least six characters long, contain at least one uppercase letter, lowercase letter, number, and symbol. You don’t need to use a symbol, but we recommend you do so. Finally, change your password regularly (at least once a month) and store it somewhere safe — writing down your password on a sticky note and sticking it on your computer’s keyboard is convenient, but not very secure. If you forget your password, you’ll have to wait a few days before you can get back in and reset it.

Step 3.

Once you’ve set up a basic VPN on your laptop, you can connect to the service using a VPN App. There are a number of free and premium VPN apps available for both iOS and Android devices. When selecting a VPN App, make sure that it supports the protocols and technologies you’ve used during setup; otherwise, you’ll have to do some research to find a suitable replacement.

Step 4.

The last step is to connect your other devices to the VPN. For example, you can connect your desktop or mobile phone to the VPN and use it as a wireless hotspot for other devices. While this sounds convenient (and it is), be careful about which devices you connect to the network. If you connect your phone or other personal devices to the VPN, you run the risk of hackers or malware discovering your personal details. So, ensure that your phone is protected by a security app and that you’re using a trusted internet connection on other devices (e.g., laptop, desktop).

Once you’ve followed these four simple steps, you’ll be able to connect to the VPN and enjoy all of its benefits without having to worry about security. If you have any questions or want to learn more, we’ve got you covered. You can read our in-depth review of the Best Router VPN for detailed information on why we recommend the VPNton router.