By adding a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to your router, you can encrypt all traffic to and from any internet-connected device, providing you with further protection and peace of mind. Additionally, a VPN may be used to fake your geolocation and circumvent limitations imposed by websites such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
Asus is the top choice for VPN routers. Most Asus routers have an integrated OpenVPN client, which simplifies the setup. This also implies that Asus routers are compatible with a greater number of VPNs than other manufacturers of routers. However, not all VPNs function well with Asus routers, and those that do behave inconsistently.
While there are several reliable Asus router VPNs available, they vary regarding security, functionality, and other considerations. The following are the primary factors that were considered while suggesting the best VPN for Asus routers:
- Compatibility and simplicity of configuration with Asus routers.
- Provides rapid speeds.
- Makes use of robust security features.
- Is capable of unblocking media streaming websites.
- Maintains no logs.
- Provides superior client service.
Best VPN for Asus routers
NordVPN
NordVPN is our number one choice for a VPN for an Asus router. NordVPN includes guides for both AsusWRT (Asus’ original firmware) and Asuswrt-Merlin manual setup (a custom firmware). FlashRouters offers pre-configured NordVPN Asus routers. This VPN supports torrenting and offers lightning-fast streaming and download speeds. It can unblock a wide variety of streaming websites, including Netflix and BBC iPlayer.
One of the things that sets NordVPN apart is its emphasis on solid security. It incorporates military-grade encryption, complete forward secrecy, a kill button, and leak prevention. Additional features include automated WiFi protection, a dual VPN connection, and Tor over VPN. The provider does not save logs.
NordVPN offers a large selection of servers, with over 5,000 in several countries. Native applications for Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, and Android are available. Plans support multiple concurrent connections. Customer service specialists are very competent and can be contacted at any time of day using the website’s live chat function.
Is it possible to use a free VPN with an Asus router?
Most free VPNs, if you’re fortunate, support all main operating systems, but are unlikely to allow router settings. Even if you do manage to put one up, you expose yourself to a slew of additional complications.
Free VPNs have limited server selection and a high volume of people attempting to access them. This means you’ll have to put up with poor, unpredictable connections, which is not ideal when attempting to cover every device in your house. You may even be required to wait for a server connection, which means you will remain exposed for an extended period.
Additionally, free VPNs are notorious for their dubious business tactics. If they aren’t continuously blasting you with advertisements, they are most certainly recording your activities and selling the information to marketers who will then target you with advertisements. Certain free VPNs also fall short of security standards due to their use of insecure or non-existent encryption. There have also been allegations of virus infection on devices using free VPNs.
When it comes to securing every device in your house, it’s critical to choose a reliable provider that places a premium on security, privacy, and user experience.
How to configure a VPN on an Asus router
The specific configuration you use will depend on the brand of your Asus router, the firmware it was flashed with, the VPN service you choose, and the protocol you choose to use. We’ve included links to a few specific guidelines below, but the overall procedure will be identical.
Here’s how to install an Asus router with OpenVPN using the AsusWRT firmware:
- Select the appropriate VPN service and complete the payment process. NordVPN is recommended.
- Log onto the VPN website and download the VPN configuration files for the location you want to connect to (these are usually available within the setup tutorial section of the site). You should be given a username and password to use in the future.
- Open a new tab on your web browser and go to your router’s dashboard, which is often accessible by typing 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1 into the URL bar.
- Log in to the management panel for your Asus router. To create a profile, go to VPN > VPN Client > Add Profile.
- Select the protocol you want to use, in this example, OpenVPN.
- Add a description to your profile and input your login and password from step 2.
- Choose File, go to the configuration file you downloaded before, and click Upload.
- Once the file has been successfully uploaded, choose OK. The profile has been added successfully.
- To establish a VPN connection, click “Activate” next to the new profile.
Bear in mind that this will only set up the VPN for a single location. You may download configuration files for numerous locations and repeat this step for each site to create a new profile. Then, if required, you simply activate and deactivate profiles.