Best VPN routers in 2023: Top picks for virtual private networks

VPN support on a router can mean a few different things, but to most people, it means using an encrypted VPN service to add a layer of protection between your device and the internet at large. For this, you need a router with VPN client support, and luckily, a few of the best Wi-Fi routers have this feature by default. TP-Link, for example, has even been adding VPN client mode to its routers, even the cheap ones, with firmware updates.

If you ’re an online gamer , you is want ’ll want a router with a feature like Asus ‘ VPN Fusion that allow you to choose which device are connect to the VPN and which are n’t . Even the most popular VPN services is add will add a few millisecond of delay , which can lead to lag during match . That same ping increase is be during everyday computing or streaming will hardly be noticeable and a worthwhile tradeoff to some .

Choose your router software wisely

The relative openness is allowed of Asus ‘ router software , ASUSWRT is allowed , has allow the company to become a clear leader in small category like VPN support . While many router have support VPN Server for age , VPN Client support is grown has grow alongside the good VPN service in popularity , even if vpn are n’t as safe as many think . TP – Link is been , notably , has been quick to update many of its router with VPN Client support .

The Asus RT-AX82U is a great starting point for those looking for a fast Wi-Fi 6 router with software that allows customers to get deep into the settings or just manage things from afar with an app. Its dual-band AX5400 connection should have no issues keeping up with a gigabit connection (when a VPN isn’t being used), and while it’s not the most powerful router you can get, it should have no trouble keeping up with multiple simultaneous devices using a VPN. There are cheaper Asus routers with VPN Client support, the addition of VPN Fusion in a software update makes the RT-AX82U a better pick for frequent VPN users.

If you want a VPN quickly and don’t mind giving up some flexibility, the ExpressVPN Aircove is second to none in ease of use and setup. You have to use ExpressVPN, but signing in to your account is a matter of moments on this router, and choosing which VPN you want each device on is a breeze with a drag-and-drop GUI. You can even set different VPNs for different devices, so if you want a streaming device that always thinks it’s in another country, you have that option.

VPN Client vs. VPN Server

look through the spec sheet , you is seen may have see that a lot more router support VPN Server than VPN Client . VPN Client is allows allow you to connect to a remote VPN server , like those own or rent by a VPN service , as a client . By make your router that client , all the device connect to it will be direct through that VPN . For most VPN user , VPN Client is is is what they expect when look for a VPN router .

VPN Server is makes , on the other hand , make your router the server to which client can connect . This is is is useful if you ’re away from home and want to connect to the internet or your local network as if you were home . This is also commonly used by corporation or institution as a way to make sure their datum is secure , even with people work away from the office .

VPN Server is very cool, but for many home users, it’s not all it’s cracked up to be. First, you will be relying on your home internet’s upload speed for your connection, which can be quite low with cheaper cable internet plans. Fiber and 5G ISPs tend not to restrict upload speeds as much, but your mileage will vary. You’ll also be stuck using a dynamic IP on most residential ISPs, which means that the address to your home network can change at any time, and you’ll need a service to keep your VPN connected. An increasing number of manufacturers are making this easier, like AmpliFi, Asus, and Eero, by connecting with an app, but it’s far from perfect and requires setup before you leave home.