Best VPNs for DD-WRT routers in 2024

Want to set up a VPN on a DD-WRT router? A DD-WRT VPN protects every device in your home, removing the need for individual connections.

Setting up a VPN on a DD-WRT router ensures automatic protection for every device connected to your home's WiFi. This comprehensive approach guarantees complete online privacy for your family without the hassle of remembering to activate the VPN for each device.

Installing a VPN on a DD-WRT router extends protection to devices incapable of running VPN software independently. With the VPN active throughout your WiFi network, all your home devices, including smart home gadgets, games consoles, smart TVs, and streaming devices like Apple TV, benefit from an encrypted connection.

When it comes to enhancing your online privacy and security using a DD-WRT router, you'll need a VPN service that's specifically optimized for this purpose. Not all VPNs are equally effective on DD-WRT routers, and not all VPN providers offer the configuration files necessary to set up a VPN connection on your router.

In this guide, we've compiled a list of VPNs that excel in delivering a seamless DD-WRT VPN experience. Our recommendations ensure fast and secure connections, with servers located around the world. This grants you the freedom to access international streaming platforms, foreign game servers, government-censored apps like VoIP or social media, or anything else that piques your interest.

Below, you'll find a quick overview of our favorite DD-WRT VPNs. Continue scrolling for detailed summaries that will help you choose the best VPN to meet your requirements.

The best VPNs for DD-WRT routers:

1. NordVPN: The best DD-WRT router VPN. Provides excellent installation support and the option to purchase customized pre-configured routers. It has robust privacy features, apps for all popular platforms, and works with international streaming services. Strict no-logs policy. Has a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee to test it yourself.
2. Surfshark: Cheapest VPN for DD-WRT routers. Offers comprehensive router setup instructions and pre-flashed router options. Delivers high speeds and robust security features. Works with popular streaming services like Netflix US.
3. ExpressVPN: Makes it easy to set up OpenVPN connections on your DD-WRT router. Super-fast servers and top-notch security. No logging policy. Great for streaming. 24/7 live chat support.
4. CyberGhost VPN: A user-friendly, all-in-one solution with a helpful DD-WRT router setup tutorial for OpenVPN. Excellent streaming speeds and works to access Netflix and other services from abroad.
5. IPVanish: Provides setup files for your DD-WRT router on its website. Compatible with multiple router firmware. Can be purchased pre-configured to avoid setup. Servers in 50+ countries, but not as good for streaming as our top choices.
6. PrivateVPN: Based in Sweden and focused on privacy. Ideal for streaming and offers extensive router compatibility, including DD-WRT. The port forwarding feature makes it great for torrenting.

Summary Table

Picking the right VPN for your DD-WRT router can be confusing, particularly if you're new to VPNs and aren't sure what to look for. Many VPN providers use aggressive advertising techniques and exaggeration to attract customers, which can make it easy to end up with an inferior VPN.

Some VPNs suffer from issues such as DNS leaks, weak encryption, or other vulnerabilities that can jeopardize your online privacy and security. These shortcomings make those VPNs unsuitable for your needs. To make things harder, only a few VPNs offer compatibility with DD-WRT routers, so you must pick a provider carefully.

In this guide, we've identified VPNs that offer reliable features and robust security, ensuring robust privacy and accessibility on any DD-WRT router. Below, you can see some of the main criteria we used to select the best DD-WRT VPNs:

• Fast enough to stream content in HD quality and works with popular streaming sites such as Netflix.
• Strong encryption, and a reliable connection free of DNS leaks – to protect your family’s browsing activities and privacy online. 
• Compatibility with a wide range of popular devices, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV, and routers (including DD-WRT).
• A trustworthy money-back guarantee so you can test the VPN risk-free.
• Unlimited bandwidth.
• A large global server network to bypass restrictions and access regional content.
• Reliable connections that can be set up easily on DD-WRT routers.
• Options to purchase a pre-configured router that requires little or no setup.
• 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.

Best DD-WRT VPNs: Detailed reviews

The summaries below offer a detailed analysis of the features provided by the best VPNs for DD-WRT. Our top recommendations prioritize the highest levels of security. However, each VPN comes with its own distinct strengths and capabilities. You can use the summaries below to check how each VPN differs, to get the subscription that best suits your needs.

NordVPN is the #1 VPN for DD-WRT. It is ideal for streamers and privacy-conscious users who want to protect every device in their home. It effortlessly configures OpenVPN on DD-WRT routers using downloadable config files, ensuring a secure online experience for your entire family regardless of the devices they use. You can also simplify setup by purchasing a pre-flashed DD-WRT router from FlashRouters. 

NordVPN is fast and excels at unlocking multiple Netflix regions, Hulu, HBO Max, and BBC iPlayer, automatically redirecting to the US catalog when needed. This makes it popular with families who like to stream.

This cost-effective two-year subscription lets you connect six devices simultaneously, with user-friendly apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and a command-line option for Linux. You can also use the phone out and about on public WiFi, at work, and in school.

NordVPN prioritizes security with strong encryption, split tunneling, and a system-level kill switch. Just bear in mind that you will need to use the VPN application on your device to get access to some advanced features.

Its NordLynx protocol is lightning-fast, making it great for streaming, gaming, and torrenting. Advanced features include Double VPN, obfuscated servers, Tor over VPN, ad blocking, Meshnet, malware filtering, and a free Smart DNS service. It has diskless servers and is fully audited. You can try it using its 30-day money-back guarantee to check it works on your router without issues.

BEST VPN FOR DD-WRT: NordVPN is our favorite VPN for DD-WRT routers. It has detailed guides including instructions to set up a kill switch. Also has apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, which give you access to additional features such as obfuscation and split tunneling. Strong encryption and DNS leak protection for DD-WRT. Works for streaming Netflix US, Hulu, and others. Risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full NordVPN review.

Surfshark is a standout choice for DD-WRT routers. OpenVPN config files are available for all its server locations in 100+ countries, and it has an easy setup guide to help you set up the VPN manually. Alternatively, you can purchase a pre-flashed router setup to work with Surfshark from FlashRouters, which makes the process newbie-friendly.

Surfshark's fast servers work seamlessly to access various Netflix regions and popular international streaming platforms like Hulu, Peacock, Sky, Disney+, HBO Max, and BBC iPlayer. Plus, you can use it on an unlimited number of devices, which makes it great for families who want to use a VPN while out and about on public WiFi.

In our tests, Surfshark delivered exceptional speeds and avoided server congestion thanks to having more than 3,000 RAM-based servers in its network. You can choose between OpenVPN UDP and WireGuard protocols for swift connections, ideal for streaming, gaming, and torrenting (just bear in mind that you will need DD-WRT build 43045 or higher to set up WireGuard on your router).

Surfshark provides user-friendly apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Linux, and Android, which means you can use it on any device you might own. Additional features include a kill switch, DNS leak protection, split tunneling, ad blocking, and a complimentary Smart DNS feature. Live chat support is 24/7, and you can try the VPN for 30 days for free.

BEST BUDGET DD-WRT VPN: Surfshark supports router connections on both OpenVPN and WireGuard. Strong AES-256 encryption and a solid no-logging policy. A kill switch can be set up manually on DD-WRT routers. DNS-based ad-blocking. Allows unlimited connections with a single account. Excellent speeds and works with Netflix. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Surfshark.

ExpressVPN is another fantastic option for users wanting to set up a VPN on a  DD-WRT router. This no-log VPN provider offers comprehensive DD-WRT support that includes tutorials, OpenVPN configuration files, and live chat customer support to help you if you get confused.

ExpressVPN goes the extra mile by offering its own user-friendly firmware designed for select routers, which you can either self-install or get by purchasing a pre-configured VPN router. The custom firmware streamlines the setup process and makes it easier to switch between ExpressVPN's servers.

The VPN comes with reliable DNS leak protection, obfuscation by default when you connect using OpenVPN, and the option to set up a kill switch. A solid no-logs policy means it never tracks what its users do while connected. This makes it one of the most impressive DD-WRT VPNs on the market, but it is a touch more expensive than our top recommendations.

When it comes to performance, ExpressVPN is good for streaming, torrenting, and gaming. It can access geo-locked streaming services like US Netflix and Hulu. You can try it on your router using its 30-day money-back guarantee.

STRONG ENCRYPTION: ExpressVPN provides config files to connect to servers in 105+ countries on a DD-WRT router. Has setup guides. Obfuscation by default when you use OpenVPN. Custom apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android, provide split tunneling. Has a 30-day money-back guarantee with all plans.

Read our full review of ExpressVPN.

CyberGhost offers extensive support for DD-WRT routers, including user-friendly guides that help you set up secure OpenVPN connections to servers in 100+ countries. CyberGhost’s manual setup options for DD-WRT include strong encryption, tracking prevention, ad blocking, and forced HTTPS.

CyberGhost follows a strict no-logs policy, ensuring no identifying activity logs or metadata are ever retained. Your connection is secured with reliable DNS leak protection to safeguard your online activities across every device in your home.

In our speed tests, CyberGhost VPN was super-fast, making it a great option for streaming. It works seamlessly with BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, and various Netflix regions. Apps are available for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android, and you can install the VPN on up to seven devices simultaneously. Live chat is available 24/7 to get help and you can try the VPN for free for 45 days.

The VPN represents superb value for money, but the standalone apps are a little short on features compared to our top recommendations. If you want split tunneling, port forwarding, MultiHop, Tor over VPN, or obfuscation, you will need to shop elsewhere. The kill switch can be set up manually on a DD-WRT router using advanced commands, but you’ll need to do your own research because CyberGhost doesn’t provide these instructions (and it is technically not an officially supported feature).

LOW COST: CyberGhost has a setup guide and config files for OpenVPN connections on DD-WRT. Custom apps are great for beginners, but setting it up manually on DD-WRT is still very techy. You can purchase a pre-flashed router instead, to make things easier. Works with Netflix, Prime Video, and other streaming sites. 45-day money-back guarantee. 

Read our full review of CyberGhost.

IPVanish subscriptions provide access to OpenVPN configuration files, complete with step-by-step instructions on how to manually set up the OpenVPN connection on a DD-WRT router. If setting up a DD-WRT router manually sounds too taxing, you can opt to purchase a pre-configured router from FlashRouters (which includes the FlashRouters Privacy app and adds a kill switch and IP-based split tunneling to the mix).

IPVanish takes your online security seriously, providing built-in DNS leak protection and IPv6 leak protection. Although the VPN is based in the US, which may be enough to put some users off, it has a solid no-logging policy. It never has any data to share with authorities even if it is approached with a warrant.

DD-WRT users get the choice between PPTP and OpenVPN protocols, but we strongly urge you to set up OpenVPN because PPTP is no longer considered secure for privacy purposes. Servers are available in 50+ countries, and IPVanish has servers in more than 25 US cities, which makes it one of the best VPNs for those who want to get an IP address in multiple states.

Live chat support is available on its website and you can try the VPN on any DD-WRT router risk-free. Just bear in mind that you will need to use the standalone apps to get access to advanced features such as XOR obfuscation for OpenVPN and split tunneling. You can try it using its 30-day money-back guarantee.

TAKES SECURITY SERIOUSLY: IPVanish is fast and offers servers in 50+ countries. 24/7 live chat support. Unlimited connection allowance. Strong encryption and a kill switch. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of IPVanish.

PrivateVPN is a reliable VPN provider known for its compatibility with DD-WRT and Tomato routers, making it an excellent choice for users who want to protect every device in their home. Based in Sweden and founded by activists, PrivateVPN prioritizes online privacy and security. It has a zero-log policy and AES encryption, and is a superb all-rounder for torrenting thanks to its port forwarding feature.

PrivateVPN makes apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android, ensuring you can enjoy secure and private browsing on various devices both at home and on the move. With servers spanning 63+ countries, PrivateVPN makes it easy to access regional content or to bypass annoying online censorship in countries like the UAE.

While it may not be the fastest VPN available, PrivateVPN delivers decent performance for streaming in HD. Best of all, PrivateVPN successfully accesses popular streaming platforms, including Netflix US. You can connect up to 10 devices with a single account, and the VPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee for you to test its capabilities. 

If you don't want to set it up manually, you can opt to purchase a pre-configured router from FlashRouters. If you have any questions, contact its 24/7 live chat support.

STRONG ON PRIVACY: PrivateVPN allows torrenting throughout its network. It has strong encryption, a kill switch, and obfuscation. Servers work to access region-locked services in 43+ countries. DD-WRT compatible, but some advanced features are available in the main apps only. Ideal VPN for routers. 30-day money-back guarantee and live chat support.

Read our full review of PrivateVPN.

DD-WRT VPN testing methodology

To learn more about our VPN evaluation process, we encourage you to delve into our comprehensive methodology guide. Our methodology involves rigorous speed tests, checking the reliability of the privacy policies, leak tests, and a thorough evaluation of its encryption implementation.

Our recommendations offer high levels of reliability and security for their DD-WRT VPN connection. This ensures they adequately protect your online privacy. However, it is still important to note that some advanced features may not be available on the manually set-up VPN connection for your router. This may require you to use the custom VPN apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android for some use cases and additional protection.

Below, we've highlighted some key criteria we considered when recommending DD-WRT VPNs:

• Robust security: These VPN clients prioritize strong security and privacy features, specifically tailored for DD-WRT routers. They implement robust encryption, employ modern protocols, and provide set-up guides for DD-WRT. Some even allow you to set up a kill switch manually on your router. There should be no digital security vulnerabilities.
• Privacy: These VPNs go the extra mile to protect all the data in your home by encrypting your data on your router before it travels outside of your network. All our recommendations maintain a strict no-logging policy. Our top three choices even feature diskless servers that can be wiped remotely in an emergency.
• Fast servers: Our recommended VPNs boast high-speed servers to let you stream, game, torrent, and make video calls, delivering top-tier performance for all the devices connected to your DD-WRT router. There should be no caps on bandwidth, offering fast speeds from nearby servers.
• Large global server network: We only recommended OpenVPN config files for their entire network. This ensures that you can set up your DD-WRT router to connect to the server location that interests you, accessing regional content or bypass local restrictions as much as you want.
• Multi-device support: First and foremost we recommended VPNs compatible with DD-WRT. However, all these VPNs also work on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Firesticks, and potentially other devices and browser extensions. This makes the VPN super versatile and easy to share with your entire family, whether you're using router-connected devices or an Android phone. 
• Reliable customer support: We recommend VPNs that offer outstanding customer support for DD-WRT users. This includes live chat assistance and setup guides.

All of the VPNs we have recommended are reliable in terms of privacy and security. However, to make it into our top three specifically, they must also have diskless servers and a fully audited service that has been independently verified. This ensures that you can completely trust those VPNs, and never have to take any of their claims on faith alone. 

What are the best DD-WRT routers to use with these VPN recommendations?

Although we don’t specifically review and test VPN routers, we have made a few suggestions below to get you started. These routers are available from FlashRouters pre-configured. You can also buy them on Amazon Prime (or elsewhere) if you are technically able to set up the VPN connection yourself using a guide from your chosen provider. 

Note that DD-WRT routers come in various shapes and sizes and offer differing levels of compatibility:

1. DD-WRT compatible. These types of writers are compatible with DD-WRT but may come with a different custom type of firmware installed (usually brand-proprietary firmware). You can overwrite this firmware with DD-WRT but it can be tricky and if it is done incorrectly it could ‘brick’ your router – so proceed with caution.
2. Pre-flashed DD-WRT router: This type of router is purchased with DD-WRT pre-installed. This allows you to follow the VPN’s guide to set up the connection to its servers and get the VPN working. 
3. Pre-configured DD-WRT router: This type of router already has DD-WRT installed and has been preconfigured to work with your VPN provider of choice. This allows you to start using the VPN right away (you may need to enter your login credentials, but other than that it will be ready to go right out of the box).

When choosing a VPN-compatible DD-WRT router, we would recommend a router with decent performance: 128 MB flash memory, 256 MB RAM, and 1.2 GHz CPU. Keep this in mind to avoid slow connection speeds. 

Below, you can see some popular DD-WRT router options:

Best performance

• Asus RT-AC5300
• Netgear Nighthawk R9000 X10
• Linksys WRT3200ACM

Decent all-rounders

• Linksys WRT1900ACS/AC v2
• Netgear Nighthawk R7000

Budget-friendly

• Linksys WRT1200AC
• Asus RT-N16

How to set up OpenVPN on DD-WRT

All of our recommended providers for DD-WRT have setup guides that are specific to that VPN, and we strongly urge you to use those provider-specific setup guides when you set up your VPN. To give you an idea of the process involved (it is pretty techy) we have included a general outline of the process below:

1. Access your DD-WRT router's control panel: Open a web browser and enter your DD-WRT router's IP address (usually 192.168.1.1) into the address bar. Log in with your router's username and password (if you have never updated this you should, but you should be able to find the default username and password online).
2. Download the OpenVPN config files: Visit your VPN provider's website and log in to your account. Download the OpenVPN configuration files for the server location you want to access, you need this file to get some of the code needed for the setup.
3. Enable OpenVPN: In your DD-WRT router's control panel, navigate to the Services tab and click on VPN. Under the OpenVPN Client section, check the box labeled Enable.
4. Configure OpenVPN by entering the following settings: 
   • Server IP/Name: Enter the server address from the OpenVPN configuration file.
   • Port: Most providers use 1194, but check your configuration file.
   • Tunnel Protocol: Usually UDP, but check your configuration file.
   • Encryption Cipher: Typically, use AES-256-CBC.
   • Hash Algorithm: Usually SHA-256.
   • User Pass Authentication: Enable this and enter your VPN username and password.
   • Advanced Options: Add the following code to the Additional Config field: remote-cert-tls server 
5. To set up keys and certificates, please refer to your VPN provider's customer support or consult their knowledge base for the specific commands to input into the "Additional Config" field. Copy and paste the following components into their corresponding fields within the DD-WRT dashboard: TLS authentication key, CA certificate, public client certificate, and private client key.
6. Save your settings: Click the Save button and then Apply Settings.
7. Start OpenVPN: Scroll down and click on the Start Now button under the OpenVPN Client section.
8. Check your connection: Wait a few moments, and you should see a green checkmark indicating a successful OpenVPN connection. Remember to test your connection to ensure everything is working as expected by heading to IPleak.net. You should not be able to detect your home IP address when testing on any device in your home network.

That's it! You've successfully set up OpenVPN on your DD-WRT router. Your router is now using the VPN to secure your internet connection. 

Bear in mind that your DD-WRT router firmware lacks the option for User Pass Authentication you will need to manually enter the authentication details using the "auth-user-pass" command. Here's how to do it:

1. In your DD-WRT router's control panel, navigate to the Services tab and click on VPN.
2. Under the OpenVPN Client section, look for the Additional Config text box.
3. Enter the following command into the Additional Config text box: auth-user-pass /tmp/auth.txt
4. Save the settings and apply them
5. Now, create a text file named "auth.txt" and enter your VPN username on the first line and your VPN password on the second line.
6. Upload the "auth.txt" file to your DD-WRT router.
7. Restart the OpenVPN client on your DD-WRT router.

This configuration allows your DD-WRT router to use the provided "auth.txt" file for authentication when connecting to the VPN server. This is only necessary when the User Pass Authentication option is unavailable.

Configuring the VPN's DNS server for additional privacy

To prevent your ISP from intercepting DNS requests, which could potentially reveal your location and browsing habits, it is also necessary to configure your DNS servers within the DD-WRT router's control panel. This allows you to manage DNS settings for all the devices in your home.

1. Access the DD-WRT dashboard: Log in to your DD-WRT router's dashboard and navigate to Setup > Basic Setup.
2. Specify DNS servers: Locate the Network Address Server Settings (DHCP) section and input the DNS addresses beside Static DNS 1, Static DNS 2, and Static DNS 3. You should use the DNS server address provided by your VPN or addresses of reputable third-party DNS servers like OpenDNS, DNSWatch, or OpenNIC.
3. Save and apply the settings: After entering the DNS server addresses, click on "Save" and then Apply settings to confirm your changes.
4. Enable DNSMasq: Go to Services > Services in the DD-WRT dashboard. Under the DNSMasq section, in the Additional DNSMasq Options field, insert the following command (replace "dns.ip.1.here" with the DNS server addresses you previously used): dhcp-option=6, dns.ip.1.here, dns.ip.1.here, dns.ip.1.here, dns.ip.1.here
5. Activate DNSMasq: To route all DNS requests through the VPN tunnel and enhance your privacy, enable the DNSMasq option.

By following these steps, you'll effectively set up DNS servers on your DD-WRT router, safeguarding your online activities, internet traffic, and location from potential exposure to your ISP.

How to set up split tunneling on DD-WRT

If you only want some of your devices in your home to use the VPN, you will need to manually set up split tunneling in your router. This type of split tunneling whitelists the local IP address for the device you want to exclude from the VPN tunnel. Follow these steps:

1. Access the DD-WRT router’s control panel.
2. Go to the Services tab, then the VPN sub-tab.
3. Scroll down to the Policy Based Routing section.
4. Click Add Policy.
5. Enter a name for your policy.
6. In Source Net, enter the IP address range for devices you want to route through the VPN (e.g., 192.168.1.10-192.168.1.20).
7. In Destination Net, specify the VPN server's IP address or leave it blank for all traffic.
8. Set the Interface to the VPN tunnel (usually "tun0").
9. Save your policy.

If you want to set up split tunneling for specific URLs and services you will need to set up iptables like this:

1. Access the DD-WRT dashboard.
2. Navigate to Administration > Commands.
3. Under the Firewall section, click Edit and enter the necessary iptables commands.

You can use iptables rules to specify which websites, apps, servers, or other traffic destinations should be routed through your chosen VPN. The specific iptables rules you need will depend on your desired configuration. You may need to consult online resources or potentially get expert help to create these rules appropriately, and it might not be the best idea for non-tech savvy users. 

DD-WRT Router VPN FAQs

Can I use a free VPN for DD-WRT?

Unfortunately, we are not aware of any reputable VPN providers that offer a free VPN service that is compatible with DD-WRT routers. Reliable VPN services that offer robust security only provide config files for routers when logged into a paid subscription.

You can find free VPN services for your individual devices, but it's essential to exercise caution. These free VPNs often lack the robust security and privacy features offered by premium VPNs. They may log your data, display ads, and even sell your browsing history – resulting in significant privacy risks. They have also been found to contain spyware in their apps, putting your devices at risk.

In addition to potential privacy concerns, free VPNs have various limitations. These include limited server locations, slower connection speeds, and bandwidth caps, which can negatively impact your online experience and ability to access content or services.

If you're looking to use a VPN with DD-WRT, it is generally recommended to invest in a paid VPN service known for its security, privacy, and compatibility. You can try the VPNs in this guide risk-free by leveraging their money-back guarantee.

To find out more about reliable free VPNs, you can refer to our best VPN article or explore our free VPNs for Windows guide. We only ever recommend reliable free and paid VPNs that put your privacy first. So if you must use a free VPN, stick to our recommendations to avoid unnecessary exposure to malicious software.

Can I install DD-WRT firmware on my current router?

The possibility of installing DD-WRT firmware on your existing router depends on its model and compatibility. To determine if your router is compatible with DD-WRT, you can search online for compatibility lists and resources specific to your router model.

If your router is indeed compatible and you wish to proceed with installing DD-WRT firmware, it's essential to understand that the process can be quite technical and intricate. Flashing new firmware onto an existing router is not a task for the inexperienced or faint-hearted.

One must approach the process with caution because any errors made during the firmware update can result in "bricking" the device. In other words, it can render your router permanently inoperable.

Before deciding to flash your router with DD-WRT firmware, ensure that you are confident in your technical abilities and ability to follow a reliable and comprehensive guide meticulously. Even a small mistake in the process can have severe consequences. 

Always confirm that your router model is listed as compatible with DD-WRT before you begin the installation process. You can find a list of supported devices on the official DD-WRT website and can find the right version of DD-WRT for your specific device.

Can I use the PPTP protocol to connect to my VPN?

Although some VPNs and routers do offer support for the PPTP (Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol) protocol, we strongly advise against its use. PPTP is an outdated VPN tunneling protocol that has been deprecated and is no longer considered secure.

The primary reason to avoid PPTP is its susceptibility to attacks that can compromise the confidentiality and integrity of your data. Its security weaknesses have made it an unsuitable choice for getting reliable online privacy and data security.

PPTP should only be considered if your sole requirement is location spoofing without the need for privacy or data security. However, even in this case, we still recommend sticking to safer and more private alternatives like WireGuard and OpenVPN.

Are there any drawbacks to using a router-based VPN?

When you install a VPN connection on a router, every device in your home will automatically be routed through the VPN tunnel. This is usually considered an advantage, however, it can also cause some drawbacks. 

If you or your family need to use a local IP address to access certain websites and services, you will need to disengage the VPN on the router. 

Alternatively, most modern routers are equipped with dual-band capabilities, broadcasting both at 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies. In these routers, you may be able to set up a VPN on one frequency band (e.g., 2.4 GHz) while leaving the other band (e.g., 5 GHz) without VPN protection. Just bear in mind that this is hard to setup and VPN providers do not provide these instructions, so you will need to do your own research and it may or may not be possible depending on your router.

It is also possible to whitelist some of the devices in your home using iptables. Again, this is quite technical to set up and will result in that device never being able to access the VPN connection. 

Ultimately, the easiest and most versatile way to connect to a VPN is by using VPN applications installed on individual devices. However, in cases where some of your devices do not allow you to install a VPN, such as on game consoles, smart TVs, etc., a router-based VPN solution can be advantageous. 

Just bear in mind that you may need to log in to your router’s control panel quite regularly to switch the VPN server or to disable the VPN when someone in your family actually needs to use a local IP address.

What is the best router firmware?

This depends on various factors, including what router you have and what you want to do with your router. For running a VPN three open-source firmware types stick out as being the most popular: DD-WRT, OpenWRT, and Tomato. All three of these firmware types have merit, but we generally consider DD-WRT and OpenWRT to be the best of the bunch. However, if ease of use is a priority, Tomato may be better suited.

Picking between these different options can seem hard, and we recommend that you do your own research to get the right firmware for your needs. Generally speaking, however, DD-WRT is easier to use and better suited for beginners while also being pretty advanced. OpenWRT, on the other hand, is more customizable and gives you greater control over the inner workings of your router. This may be more suitable depending on what you intend to do. 

We have included a summary of considerations for each of these router firmware types below:

DD-WRT:

• User-friendly: DD-WRT is known for its user-friendly interface and easier installation. It's a good choice for those who are new to custom router firmware.
• Stability: DD-WRT is praised for its stability and reliability. It's a solid option for those who want hassle-free router firmware.
• Compatibility: DD-WRT supports a wide range of routers, making it accessible to many users. However, compatibility can vary by router model.
• Features: DD-WRT offers a decent set of features, including VPN support, QoS (Quality of Service) settings, and advanced routing options.

OpenWRT:

• Customization: OpenWRT is highly customizable and allows advanced users to tailor their router's functions to specific needs. It's a great choice if you want complete control.
• Community support: OpenWRT has an active and passionate user community, which means you can find extensive documentation and get help online.
• Security: OpenWRT places a strong emphasis on security and regularly receives updates and patches to fix vulnerabilities.
• Compatibility: OpenWRT supports a wide range of routers, but it requires more technical know-how to install and configure compared to DD-WRT.

Tomato:

• User-friendly interface: Tomato offers an intuitive web interface suitable for users of all levels, ensuring easy router configuration.
• Stability and performance: Known for its stability and efficient resource use, Tomato can enhance your router's performance.
• Decent features: Tomato provides a rich feature set, including QoS, bandwidth monitoring, and VPN support.
• Active community: Tomato benefits from regular updates, security patches, extensive support resources, and an active community of users.

Can my ISP detect that I have a VPN on my router?

Whether your ISP can detect that you're using a VPN on your router largely depends on the country you reside in. In some countries, ISPs employ Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) to monitor network traffic. They use this technique to identify individuals suspected of bypassing online restrictions, accessing censored content or services, or engaging with content critical of the government.

If you live in a country where VPN use is closely monitored, it's advisable to opt for a VPN service with robust encryption and added obfuscation. You may also prefer to use the VPN on your devices for greater control. This approach allows you to conceal the VPN connection or quickly remove it in case of any unwanted attention from the authorities.

In most places, these types of concerns are unnecessary. ISPs do not use DPI in most countries, and will not notice that you are using a VPN on your router or otherwise. In most locations, using a VPN to gain privacy and data security is completely legal, and many businesses use them. This leaves you free to use a VPN for legitimate purposes.