Using ExpressVPN on a router: Benefits and setup guide

Want to protect every device in your home with ExpressVPN? This guide explains the advantages of using ExpressVPN on a router and shows you how to get set up. 

An ExpressVPN router setup allows you to effortlessly secure every device in your home. This catch-all setup provides robust VPN protection for any device connected to the router’s WiFi or ethernet, including IoT gadgets, smart TVs, gaming consoles, tablets, and other connected devices.

Installing ExpressVPN installed on your router removes the need to install VPN apps on individual devices. It's a straightforward way to ensure continuous, reliable online privacy for every device in your home without the need to remember to activate the VPN on separate devices.

Having ExpressVPN on your router extends the benefits of a VPN to devices that normally don't support direct VPN installations, such as gaming consoles and set-top boxes. You can get a remote IP address to stream region-restricted services using any device.

Don’t want certain devices to use the VPN? No problem. ExpressVPN’s router firmware lets you pick and choose which devices on your WiFi network connect through the VPN, and which use your normal internet connection.

Our comprehensive guide explains which routers are compatible with ExpressVPN and provides a step-by-step walkthrough to install and connect ExpressVPN on your router.

What routers are compatible with ExpressVPN?

ExpressVPN is the only market-leading VPN that makes custom firmware for routers. Installing and connecting to ExpressVPN on a wide selection of popular routers is much easier than open-source alternatives like DD-WRT and Tomato.

This makes it a better option for less tech-savvy users who need a VPN on their router. ExpressVPN has guides for installing and using its firmware on the following models:

• Asus RT-AC56(U/R/S)
• Asus RT-AC68U (up to v3)
• Asus RT-AC87U
• Linksys EA6200
• Linksys WRT1200AC
• Linksys WRT1900AC(S)
• Linksys WRT3200ACM
• Linksys WRT32X
• Netgear R6300v2
• Netgear R6400v2
• Netgear Nighthawk R6700v3
• Netgear Nighthawk R7000
• Netgear Nighthawk R7000P

In addition to these, ExpressVPN’s router firmware is compatible with some other models by companies like TP-Link and Xiaomi. 

If you can’t use ExpressVPN’s firmware on your router, it also supports routers that have an OpenVPN client. It posts manual setup guides for popular firmware variants such as DD-WRT, Tomato, Merlin, Asus (stock), AsusWRT-Merlin, D-Link, Netduma, and Sabai. You might be able to replace your existing router’s firmware with one of these alternatives, but proceed with caution. Failing to flash the correct firmware could permanently brick your router, rendering it useless.

Alternatively, you could splash out and buy a new VPN-compatible router. The popular VPN router website FlashRouters.com sells pre-flashed, fully configured routers that come ready to connect to a VPN of your choice, including ExpressVPN.

Alternatively, you can purchase a dedicated ExpressVPN router developed by the company itself. The Aircove router was designed from the ground up by ExpressVPN to allow people to connect to its servers right out of the box. Aircove offers VPN speeds of up to 180 Mbps, which makes it a speedy VPN router for home use. 

How to install ExpressVPN firmware on a router

If you have a router that is compatible with ExpressVPN firmware, then ExpressVPN has guides that explain how to install it. This is the best option for most people because it’s easier and comes with various additional features compared to open-source firmware alternatives. According to ExpressVPN, its firmware also provides some performance and stability benefits (on certain router models).

If you want to install the ExpressVPN custom router firmware onto your router, we recommend you refer to the router model-specific guides available on ExpressVPN's website. If you run into any issues or need help, you can contact ExpressVPN's live chat support.

To help you out, we have included the basic method for installing ExpressVPN’s custom firmware below:

1. Check that your router is compatible with ExpressVPN’s custom firmware.
2. Download the ExpressVPN router firmware from its website.
3. Connect your router to your computer using an Ethernet cable.
4. Launch your router’s firmware. Most routers have a default IP address of 192.168.1.1.
5. Open the settings and search for Router update or Firmware update (usually under Advanced).
6. Select the update firmware option and locate the firmware you downloaded earlier.
7. Wait for the new firmware to finish installing.

Thats it! You are now ready to configure the settings you require inside the ExpressVPN router firmware:

1. Login to your ExpressVPN account.
2. Choose whether to share data with ExpressVPN or not (choose no thanks for added privacy).
3. Set a name and password for your WiFi network.
4. Create a password for accessing your router’s admin page.

How to set up OpenVPN on a router with ExpressVPN

Alternatively, you can set the VPN up manually using the OpenVPN protocol, if your router already has a VPN client.

To help you out, we have included a basic outline of all the necessary steps to set up an  ExpressVPN connection manually onto a router using the OpenVPN protocol: 

1. Access your router's Admin Panel: Log into your router's administration interface. This is usually done through a web browser.

2. Locate VPN client settings: Find the section labeled as 'VPN client' in the router's interface.

3. Server setup: Click on 'Add' under the server list section. This will allow you to add a new VPN connection.

4. Configuration details: Enter the following information:

• Description: Name the connection (ExpressVPN).
• VPN Type: Select 'OpenVPN'.
• Username: Your ExpressVPN account username.
• Password: Your ExpressVPN account password.
• Encryption settings as recommended by ExpressVPN.

5. DNS and IPv6 settings: Enter ExpressVPN’s DNS nameserver addresses for enhanced security. Also, disable IPv6 to prevent potential DNS and IPv6 leaks.

6. Download configuration: From ExpressVPN’s website, download the OpenVPN (.ovpn) configuration file for the server location you want to connect to.

7. Import configuration file: Back in the router's admin panel, locate the option to import the .ovpn file (usually next to 'Configuration file'). Upload the file you downloaded.

8. Additional configuration: Input any extra configuration commands as specified by ExpressVPN.

9. Activate VPN connection: Save your settings and enable the VPN connection.

10. Device selection (if necessary): Some routers may require you to specify which devices should use the VPN. This can usually be done from a 'Device list' section.

Remember, the exact steps can vary depending on your router model and firmware. Refer to ExpressVPN's specific guidelines and your router's manual for exact instructions.

That's all! After completing these steps, you can exit your router's admin panel and begin using the VPN with all the devices in your home. Ensure the VPN is operational by confirming it provides an IP address in the intended location. To verify a leak-free connection, use this IP-checking tool. If you don't spot your home IP address details in any of the sections (IP, DNS, and WebRTC), you've configured the VPN correctly.

How to set up ExpressVPN on DD-WRT

Setting up ExpressVPN on your DD-WRT router involves a series of steps. Before you begin, ensure that your router is VPN-compatible. If it's not listed as compatible on the VPN provider's website, you might need to contact the manufacturer for confirmation. Some routers, like the ExpressVPN Aircove, come with built-in VPN functionality, simplifying the process.

Here's a guide on how to set up ExpressVPN on your DD-WRT router:

1. Get your ExpressVPN account credentials and files: Visit the ExpressVPN setup page and sign in with your credentials. Make a note of your username and password, and download the OpenVPN configuration files (.ovpn) from the setup page.

2. Configure your router: Log into your router's admin panel (typically at 192.168.0.1). Go to the 'Services' tab and select the 'VPN' sub-tab. Enable the 'Start OpenVPN Client' to reveal the OpenVPN configuration panel.

3. Enter the following OpenVPN Client Details:

• Server IP/Name: Found in the .ovpn file (the server address is found between the word “remote” and the port number).
• Port: Typically 1194 (found in the .ovpn file).
• Tunnel Device: Select TUN.
• Tunnel Protocol: Choose UDP.
• Encryption Cipher: Select AES-256 GCM.
• Hash Algorithm: Select SHA512.
• User Pass Authentication: Enable this option.
• Username and Password: Use the details obtained from your ExpressVPN account.
• Advanced Options: Enable this.
• TLS Cipher: Select None.
• LZO Compression: Select Adaptive.
• NAT: Enable this.

4. Additional Config: Enter the following commands:

• persist-key
• persist-tun
• fragment 1300
• mssfix 1450
• keysize 256

5. Configure keys and certificates: Open the .ovpn file with a text editor.

• In the TLS Auth Key field, copy and paste the text between <tls-auth> and </tls-auth> from the .ovpn file.

• In the CA Cert field, copy and paste the text between <ca> and </ca> from the .ovpn file.
• In the Public Client Cert field, copy and paste the text between <cert> and </cert> from the .ovpn file.
• In the Private Client Key field, copy and paste the text between <key> and </key> from the .ovpn file.

6. Save and apply the settings: Click 'Save', then 'Apply Settings' to start the VPN connection.

7. Check the connection status: Go to 'Status' > 'OpenVPN'. If the connection is successful, it should indicate “CONNECTED SUCCESS”.

8. Additional Steps for Routers without User Pass Authentication: If your DD-WRT does not have User Pass Authentication, you'll need to use the auth-user-pass /tmp/auth.txt command in the 'Additional Config' text box.

Why should I install ExpressVPN on my router?

Installing ExpressVPN on a router offers a convenient solution for users to connect multiple devices in their home. This method uses only one of the available connections from ExpressVPN's allowance of eight simultaneous connections. This leaves additional connections available for use with devices outside the home network (at work, on public WiFi, etc).

By setting up ExpressVPN on a router, every device connected to the home WiFi automatically receives VPN protection. This setup eliminates the need to install VPN software on each individual device. As a result, you will get consistent privacy and security across all connected devices, from computers and smartphones to IoT gadgets and smart home appliances.

This router-based VPN connection is especially beneficial for devices where direct VPN installation isn't possible or is more complicated, such as smart TVs, gaming consoles, and various streaming devices. 

By using ExpressVPN on your router, these devices gain the advantage of using a remote IP address and enhanced security features without the need for individual VPN installations. This way, the VPN seamlessly protects the entire network, offering both convenience and comprehensive coverage.

What router should I buy for ExpressVPN?

If you want a router that is easily compatible with ExpressVPN, consider its custom router, the Aircove. This router is designed to provide excellent speeds and native connections to all of ExpressVPN’s servers. 

If you prefer another model, you can shop on FlashRouters.com to get a VPN that is set up to work with ExpressVPN. Below, we have included some of the most popular VPN-compatible routers that are sold by FlashRouters (and elsewhere):

• Asus RT-AX86U
• RT-AX68U
• RT-AX88U (AX6000)

Alternatively, you can use any router that already has an integrated OpenVPN client or one that is compatible with custom firmware like DD-WRT, OpenWRT, Tomato, or Merlin. Just be aware that manually flashing a router with custom firmware can be a complex task. Incorrectly performing this procedure might result in bricking the router, which would render it no longer usable. If you aren't confident in your technical abilities, we recommend seeking professional assistance or opting for a router that is pre-installed.

Can I use a Netgear router with ExpressVPN?

Netgear routers have their own firmware that doesn’t include an OpenVPN client. To set up this router to be VPN compatible, you will need to install an alternative firmware. If you are considering updating your Netgear router with DD-WRT firmware to enable VPN functionalities, you must first verify the compatibility of your specific model with this firmware.

Is ExpressVPN the best VPN for a router?

ExpressVPN stands out in the VPN market for user-friendly router applications and a custom-designed router for seamless service connection. 

Its website offers specific guides for setting up various router firmware, making the process more straightforward than many competitors. It currently only supports OpenVPN for routers, with no WireGuard support for manual configurations. It has also discontinued L2TP/IPSec support due to upgrading its server security.

ExpressVPN's commitment to privacy is maintained with a solid no-logging policy and RAM-only servers. It has also completed third-party audits which means you can trust the VPN to provide the privacy and security levels advertised. 

With over 3,000 servers across 100+ countries, Express successfully unblocks major international streaming services and can easily provide access to censored or restricted platforms. Besides routers, ExpressVPN also provides apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Firestick – ensuring you can always use the VPN on any device.

Find out more in our full ExpressVPN review.