Pros and Cons of Enabling VPN at the Router Level

While many of us use VPNs directly on our devices, you can also enable VPNs at the router level. This setup eliminates the need to connect each device individually. While this option is more convenient, there are some drawbacks you should consider before setting up a VPN at the router level.

Advantages of setting up VPN at the router level

Here are some of the benefits of configuring VPN at the router level:

1. Protection for all connected devices

Setting up a VPN at the router level will protect all devices connected to your network. You can even protect devices that don't normally support VPN apps, such as game consoles and some smart home devices. This type of protection is especially useful in homes or offices with multiple users and many different devices.

2. Convenience and ease of use

Configuring a VPN on your router eliminates the need to install a VPN app or manually connect/disconnect each device. You can manage VPN settings in one central location instead of on each individual device, making it easier, especially for seniors or children, as they don't need to learn how to use a VPN.

3. No more connection limits

Most VPN providers limit the number of devices that can connect simultaneously, depending on your subscription plan. By setting up your VPN on your router, you bypass this limitation because all your devices are protected through a single VPN connection. This saves you from having to purchase more expensive plans just to increase your device limit.

4. Improved privacy and security

Router-level VPNs provide a secure, persistent connection by encrypting all of your network traffic. This protects your online activities from hackers, trackers, and other threats. Plus, you won't have to worry about losing your VPN connection or accidentally forgetting to enable your VPN while browsing online.

Disadvantages of setting up VPN at the router level

Here are some disadvantages of configuring VPN at the router level:

1. Complicated setup process

Configuring VPN at the router level can be quite complicated. Unlike simply installing a VPN app on your device, you may need to install custom firmware like DD-WRT or Tomato or manually enter server details. For the less tech-savvy, this process can be overwhelming. If done incorrectly, it can render your router inoperable, requiring a complete reset.

2. Internet speed is reduced

One of the biggest downsides to using a VPN is that it adds an extra layer of processing that can slow down your connection. Since all of your traffic is routed through the VPN, this can result in slower internet speeds, even for tasks that don’t normally require a VPN. So unless your router can handle faster encryption, a router-level VPN can disrupt your experience.

3. Limited customization

Using individual VPN apps allows you to customize VPN settings for specific devices. Router-based VPN connections, on the other hand, either don’t have these customization options or are more complicated to deploy. You need to access your router’s control panel to turn the VPN on or off, so you don’t have the same level of granular control that VPN apps offer.

4. Not all routers support VPN

Not all routers can handle VPN connections. If your router’s firmware doesn’t support VPNs, you’ll need to upgrade to a VPN-compatible router, which can be expensive, or install custom firmware, which can be quite complicated and comes with its own set of challenges. So this transition won’t be easy unless your router already supports VPNs.

Should I set up VPN at the router level?

It depends on the situation. If you are using an outdated router that doesn't support VPN by default, is too slow to handle the extra layer, or if your internet connection is already too weak, you should avoid this setup process as it could do more harm than good.

However, if you have a modern router that supports native VPNs and using a VPN won't affect your high-speed connection, then you can enable VPN at the router level.