The best VPN routers you can buy
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When you're deciding on a virtual private network (VPN), you can install the VPN software directly on the devices you want to protect, install a VPN on your router, or buy a router with your favorite VPN pre-installed.
Setting up a VPN environment via your router provides blanket security and privacy coverage across home devices, eliminating the need to install VPN software on each gadget. The process is easier than you think if you have a compatible router. Some router manufacturers also provide hardware with VPNs pre-installed. In any case, opting for a VPN-ready router is an excellent way to improve your home security and privacy online.
What is the best VPN router right now?
ZDNET has years of experience testing VPN solutions and hardware. Not only do we closely monitor and test standalone VPN software, but we also take an interest in any VPN-ready routers that reduce the potential complexities of installing VPN software. Our pick for the best overall VPN router is the Privacy Hero 2. This $180 router has our top VPN preinstalled, saving you the job of setting up and configuring the software. It also offers impressive speeds, coverage, and server selection.
Read on to discover our other favorite VPN routers that offer excellent VPN compatibility, speed, coverage, and additional privacy features.
The best VPN routers of 2025
The Privacy Hero 2, available from FlashRouters, is our top pick for VPN-ready routers in 2025.
After reviewing this model, what stood out the most is how easy it is to set up and use. The idea of spending time diving into the technical area of a router to configure a VPN won't appeal to most. With the Privacy Hero 2, this job is done for you.
The Privacy Hero 2 is lightweight, and the VPN itself can be managed through an online dashboard. You can select from VPNs, including NordVPN, Surfshark, and Private Internet Access, or opt for WireGuard. In addition, you can quickly swap between streaming servers and the country you would like to appear from.
I also liked just how easy it was to switch server locations and countries from my web browser -- a handy feature if you are checking out different streaming and content libraries.
Review: Is a VPN-ready router the ultimate Wi-Fi upgrade? I tested one to find out
This model is suitable for medium-sized homes and offers speeds of up to 3,000Mbps. An ad-blocker is also included by default.
The Privacy Hero 2's typical recommended retail price (RRP) is $250. However, this model has been available for a sale price of $180 for some time. It comes with a year of free NordVPN access.
Privacy Hero 2 features: Dual-band | Wi-Fi 6 - Wireless AX | 1.3GHz CPU | Up to 3,000Mbps | WireGuard compatible | Medium home support | One year of NordVPN free | Currently on sale
The ExpressVPN Aircove is another one of our top picks thanks to its speed, ease of setup, and security. It offers dual-band connectivity for homes and offices, providing coverage of up to 1,600 square feet.
When you pick a VPN-ready router, you need to consider stability and speed. The $189 Aircove manages speeds of up to 1,200Mbps (600Mbps/2.4GHz) when the VPN is not in use, although, as you should expect, speeds will drop when you are connected to VPN servers.
ExpressVPN is one of our favorite VPNs of 2025, largely due to consistently minimal speed loss during our speed tests, as well as its suitability for beginners, streaming, and traveling. If you plan to use a VPN on your router 24/7, it is an excellent choice -- either via Aircove or another VPN-ready router.
There's also a feature to diversify the servers used by devices connected to the router. For example, you might not want to connect your gaming PC to the VPN and have an office laptop run through a U.S. or U.K. server. Parents and guardians can also take advantage of parental control settings.
Also: ExpressVPN vs Surfshark
Customer feedback indicates that users enjoy its excellent speed and performance, but there are some reports of instability.
You will also need an ExpressVPN subscription, but a free trial is included with the router. Plans begin at $5 per month on a two-year contract. Four months of free access are included.
ExpressVPN Aircove features: Wi-Fi 6 | Built-in VPN | 802.11ax, 802.11ac | Diverse server locations | Ad-blocking | Threat manager | Parental controls | Includes free trial
The Asus RT-AX1800S is an affordable VPN solution. The Wi-Fi 6 model operates on the 2.4GHz frequency and offers up to 1,000Mbps speeds. It also offers free Internet of Things (IoT) device security via Asus AiProtection. The router has a built-in VPN, Asus Instant Guard, which you can activate with the press of a button.
This router is compatible with AiMesh and includes five Ethernet ports -- one Gigabit WAN (wide area network) and four Gigabit LAN (local area network). You can also purchase Wi-Fi extenders if you need to increase its range in larger homes.
Customers say this router is great value for the money, and many are impressed with the parental controls and security functions. The free VPN is designed to be user-friendly, but some customers report occasional disconnection issues.
This is one of the most affordable VPN-ready routers on the market. Over at Amazon, you will only pay $70.
Asus RT-AX1800S features: Dual-band | 2.4GHz | Up to 1,000Mbps speeds | Parental controls | AiMesh compatible | One Gigabit WAN port and four Gigabit LAN ports | Currently on sale
This VPN-ready router is future-proof. Since it's optimized for gamers, they will appreciate its gaming accelerator, 2.5G/10G LAN and WAN ports, and quad-core processing power. This option also includes Asus' VPN Fusion feature.
VPN Fusion lets you connect to multiple VPN servers simultaneously. You can assign your devices to different VPN tunnels, such as selecting a server for your PC, another for your smart TV, and so on.
Customer reviews suggest the VPN is an excellent option for gamers, and the VPN Fusion feature is popular with those who do not mind getting technical. Still, some customers consider the price point to be high.
Also: Best Mini PCs of 2025
This router is currently on sale for $270, saving you $60 on the 10G port model. Alternatively, opt for the Wi-Fi 6E 10G port model, the GT-AXE16000, for a $136 discount, bringing the cost down to $464.
Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 features: Wi-Fi 6E | Tri-band | 6GHz band | VPN Fusion | 2.5G, 10G LAN/WAN ports | Quad-core processor | Gaming accelerator | Range booster | Currently on sale
The GL.iNET Beryl-AX is an excellent option if you want flexibility in your VPN choice, and you want to take your router with you when you travel.
This pocket-sized powerful router has a 1.3GHz processor and can reach speeds of up to 3000Mbps. It also includes a Gigabit Ethernet port and a USB port.
The router offers implementation options with all the major VPN providers, including NordVPN, ExpressVPN, IPVanish, and Private Internet Access as it supports the OpenVPN, Wireguard, and OpenWRT protocols.
As a bonus, you can have your router preconfigured with your preferred VPN upon purchase.
Customers say this router is portable, works extremely well, and is easy to configure. At $150, many users also consider this router to provide value for their money. Service plans are also available, but they are expensive.
For further protection when you're traveling, check out ZDNET's extensive research on the best travel VPNs.
GL.iNET Beryl-AX features: Multi VPN-compatibility | Travel-friendly | 1.3GHz processor | Gigabit Ethernet port | OpenVPN, Wireguard, and OpenWRT compatibility
If you want speed and power first and a VPN second, consider the TP-Link AX6600 Wi-Fi 6 gaming router (Archer GX90).
The tri-band $350 Archer offers speeds of up to 4,804Mbps (5GHz) / 1,201Mbps (5GHz) / 574Mbps (2.4GHz) and has been designed with gamers in mind -- hence the 4.8Gbps Game Band. It also combines wide area network (WAN) and local area network (LAN) ports with a 1.5GHz processor.
Orthogonal frequency-division multiple access (OFDMA) and multi-user, multiple input, multiple output (MU-MIMO) support is included, alongside a gaming accelerator, to reduce latency and lag.
Review: Best gaming VPNs of 2025
You can also add a OneMesh extender if you want to use mesh networking to increase coverage in your home and eradicate connectivity blind spots.
To set up this router with a VPN service, you must configure either OpenVPN or a point-to-point tunneling protocol (PPTP) VPN, so be prepared to spend some time tuning the router to your needs. Many customers consider the Archer GX90 a solid, fast router, but its design doesn't suit everyone. If you're concerned about the antennas, they are detachable.
However, it is important to note that TP-Link is currently the subject of a probe by U.S. authorities. According to the Wall Street Journal, TP-Link devices are being investigated for potential links to cyberattacks that could pose a national security threat.
TP-Link has denied claims of wrongdoing, stands by its security practices, and recently has become a CVE Numbering Authority (CNA).
A ban is also possible, so keep this in mind if you are considering a TP-Link model for your home.
TP-Link Archer GX90 features: Tri-band | High speeds | 1.5GHz Quad-Core CPU | Beamforming | Game Accelerator | Parental controls | Large home support | TP-Link HomeShield
Our favorite VPN routers, compared
VPN router | Price | Built-in VPN? | Speed |
Privacy Hero 2 | $180 | ✓ | Up to 3,000Mbps |
ExpressVPN Aircove | $170 | ✓ | Up to 1,200Mbps (disconnected) | 180Mbps |
ASUS RT-AX1800S | $70 | ✓ | Up to 1,000Mbps |
ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 | $270 | x | Up to 11,000Mbps |
GL.iNET Beryl-AX | $150 | x | Up to 3,000Mbps |
TP-Link Archer GX90 | $205 | x | 4,804Mbps/1,201Mbps/574Mbps |
*MSRP at the time of writing. Please note that actual prices may vary depending on available sales, deals, discounts, and coupons.
VPN router vs VPN app: How do you decide?
There are advantages and disadvantages to using a VPN-enabled router or a standalone VPN app, the most important of which are below.
VPN router | VPN app |
A VPN router provides blanket coverage for all of your devices at home. | A VPN app's coverage is limited by the number of simultaneous connections you are allowed under one account. |
A VPN router can be complicated to set up, and most routers do not come with a built-in VPN. You could also risk your router's warranty when installing a VPN. | VPN apps are typically easy to install and use. |
Install once, and protect everything. | You must install VPN apps individually. |
VPN coverage and security is on permanently. | VPN apps have to be opened and services have to be enabled. |
You need a VPN subscription and, in most cases, a paid one. | Free, limited plans and paid options are available. |
You need a compatible router. | You need a compatible PC or mobile device. |
A VPN router can protect devices that don't have native support, such as TVs. | VPN usage is limited to the available apps and operating system (OS) compatibility. |
What is a VPN router service and why should you use one?
A VPN router service is a VPN that can either be installed directly on a compatible router or has already been enabled on a specific router.
Today's routers are often compatible with VPNs but installing them isn't always the same process. You may have to be comfortable with a deep dive into technical settings and have a basic understanding of networking to do so.
Some VPN providers offer routers with preinstalled VPN software, but you must sign up for a subscription. Consider using a VPN-ready router if you do not want to have to go through the process of installing VPN software manually on all of your devices or if you want to ensure that every device connected to your Wi-Fi network is protected. Just keep in mind that you may be locked to a particular VPN and it may be difficult to switch providers in the future.
How to set up your VPN router: Configuration and encryption made simple
Installing a VPN on your router allows all your devices to access the same VPN network and connection. This creates blanket protection and IP masking, but it can be challenging to set up.
Remember that your router will act as a VPN client rather than a server and share the VPN with devices connected to it. Here are some general steps to take, although they may change depending on your router and existing setup:
- Check your router's compatibility. Not every router will run a VPN natively -- although many modern routers do have the capacity.
- Sign up for a VPN service. Unless your router comes with a built-in VPN, you will likely need a subscription.
- Access your VPN's firmware. You will need to do so through your router's IP address.
- Under settings, you should find a VPN tab, and you will need to enable VPN services and choose between a static or dynamic IP address.
- The VPN client can now be installed, although you may need to tweak your network settings.
For an extensive installation guide, check out:How to set up a VPN on your router
Choosing the right VPN router
Choosing the best VPN router involves many factors. If you want to purchase a VPN-ready router, you will find the best use cases for each of our recommendations below.
Choose this VPN router... | If you want... |
Privacy Hero 2 | The best VPN-ready router overall. The Privacy Hero 2 is one of the most user-friendly options on the market with good coverage and speed. It's compatible with NordVPN -- one of our favorite VPNs. |
ExpressVPN Aircove | A user-friendly VPN router with solid coverage and speed. While the router is exclusive to ExpressVPN usage, it is one of our favorites due to its price, reliability, and easy setup. |
Asus RT-AX1800S | An affordable VPN solution. This model has highly positive customer reviews and, for the price point, is a steal -- especially when you consider its built-in VPN and additional security controls. |
ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 | VPN versatility at home. You can use the Asus VPN Fusion feature to customize your VPN experience and operate multiple server connections simultaneously. |
GL.iNET Beryl-AX | To take your VPN router with you on your travels. This router is one of the best travel-friendly, portable routers that is compatible with major VPN providers. |
TP-Link Archer GX90 | A heavy-duty, powerful router. This gaming router offers tri-band connectivity and while it does require configuration, the Archer is a future-proof router with excellent speeds. |
Factors to consider when choosing a VPN router
When you are researching a new VPN router, consider these points before making a purchase:
- Do it yourself? If you want a VPN for your home network, consider installing one directly on your router. DIY options often require some technical knowledge, and you will need to be comfortable changing your router settings.
- Preinstalled options: If you don't want to tamper with router settings yourself to install a VPN, consider a router model that comes with a VPN preinstalled. Pre-installed VPNs may be custom VPNs provided by the router manufacturers or they will be the result of partnerships with third-party VPN providers.
- Affordability: VPN routers are available for a variety of budgets. If you can, consider a future-proof VPN router that can support next-generation Wi-Fi and provide good coverage and speeds. Larger homes will need more square footage of coverage.
- VPN: You also need to take into account the VPN service you want to use. If you have a preferred VPN, ensure that the router you want supports it.
- Subscriptions: You will likely need to purchase a subscription, as free VPNs will usually limit your device connections. While there are a handful of free VPN plans offered by trustworthy vendors, most of them come with limitations. These may not be suitable for use on a router, as you may quickly run out of bandwidth. As a result, you should factor in the cost of a VPN subscription, even if it is just a basic plan.
- Other purposes: The VPN might be the most important aspect, but you should also consider whether other features are important to you, such as tri-band functionality, gaming optimization, or additional security features.
How did we choose these VPN routers?
While compiling our recommendations for the best VPN routers of 2025, we considered a number of important factors, including:
- Speed: There's no point investing in a new router capable of handling VPN environments unless it serves its core purpose: providing fast, solid, and stable connections to the internet.
- Home coverage: We considered traditional router models and options that provide scalable mesh networking for larger homes needing a wider internet coverage net.
- VPN support: We included a range of models with built-in VPNs, standalone VPN support, and mobile products for VPN protection on the go. We know that what might suit one user won't always suit another, so the VPN options must be flexible.
- Budgets: We covered different budgets. Although our priorities are security, speed, and reliability, we wanted to ensure that we included affordable products alongside future-proofed routers.
- Customer reviews: We also examined customer reviews in depth, including positive and negative experiences, and factored this feedback into our recommendations.
- Vendor reputation: We considered the reputation of router manufacturers, including their popularity, variety, and product accessibility.
Support: As with any subscription software, you may encounter problems installing apps, using the service, renewing, or canceling. We listed VPNs with an available support team, although support can vary. Support channels include ticket systems, live chat, telephone numbers, and email.
For a more extensive breakdown, check out our comprehensive VPN testing methodology page.
The bottom line: Is a VPN router worth it?
If you want to install a VPN directly onto a router, the process can be more of a hassle than just signing up for an app. It can also save you time in the long run as any device that connects to your router will use the VPN and be protected. This can be particularly useful if you have internet-connected devices, including TVs and IoT products, that cannot support a VPN on their own hardware.
You might want to consider setting up a VPN on your router if you work from home with numerous devices needing protection. If you are a remote worker, some organizations may require you to use their own VPN to access corporate resources.
Some online platforms, such as streaming services, will detect when you are using a VPN and may block you. If this is the case, you may have to temporarily disable your VPN service to resume watching.
FAQs on VPN routers
What VPN should I use for my router?
Here's a list of ZDNET's favorite VPNs:
- NordVPN: A solid combination of speed, security, and servers
- ExpressVPN: Incredibly fast
- Surfshark: Suitable for any budget
- Private Internet Access: An open-source option
- Proton VPN: A VPN with security at its core
Also: The best VPNs of 2024
Can any router be a VPN router?
Many routers are now intelligent devices capable of far more than providing an internet connection. Today, you can install VPN software on many different routers, and VPN support is often promoted as a major feature.
A word of caution: Installing third-party software on your router might void its warranty, just as jailbreaking mobile devices invalidate a warranty.
Why would anyone use a VPN?
A VPN can be a great tool for protecting your privacy. At the very least, VPNs should be used when you are taking advantage of public Wi-Fi hotspots, but using them while you're online as a default is the better option to protect yourself and your information. VPNs are also beneficial in circumventing geolocation blocks and censorship.
Some countries either ban VPN usage entirely or heavily discourage it. If using a VPN is illegal, you may be fined or prosecuted. According to NordVPN's country guide, Belarus and Iraq ban VPNs, whereas governments in China and Russia only permit specific VPNs.
Does a work VPN expose my home network to my employer?
It's possible, but it depends on several factors. VPNs handle traffic in different ways, but overall, it is highly unlikely that company IT administrators will be able to access your home network via your VPN connection. If you are on a work-issued laptop with software that allows such connections, however, IT administrators will most likely be able to monitor your activities and tap into resources on the device.
Additionally, while VPN tunnels encrypt your traffic and mask your online activities, you can be monitored if you use a VPN designed, licensed, or owned by your employer. VPNs can protect corporate resources, and you should keep work and private online activities separate.
Does a VPN slow down your internet connection?
Yes, but a high-quality VPN shouldn't make a noticeable difference. There are caveats; for example, you should expect a slowdown when connecting to servers across a long distance, such as from the U.K. to Australia. If, however, you experience severe speed loss when you are connecting to servers closer to you, such as from New York to Washington, this may indicate a problem with either the VPN or your ISP connection.
Do I need to pay for a VPN when I buy a VPN router?
Sometimes. Some router manufacturers, like Asus, will include a VPN or VPN support, but if you want a high level of control over your VPN, you will likely need to factor in the cost of a VPN subscription.
Typically, VPN providers market their pricing on monthly equivalent models. However, you often pay for your chosen subscription upfront. For example, a VPN marketed with a $1 monthly cost on a yearly contract will likely require you to pay $12 upfront, plus tax. However, some VPN router providers will give you the first year of a VPN subscription for free.
You enjoy the best discounts when signing up for longer terms. Two years is usually the longest term you can sign up for, although some VPN providers offer five-year subscriptions.
Can I use a free third-party VPN on a router?
Free VPNs, unless they are provided by the router manufacturer, aren't typically suitable for use with routers. This is due to the limitations imposed on free plans, which include capped bandwidth or limited servers, which can impact speed. If you want blanket coverage in your home, you won't want to deal with bandwidth and speed limits, and so we recommend you opt for a paid plan.