Swiss VPN provider with open-source apps, a free tier, Secure Core multi-hop, and support for modern VPN protocols.
Best VPNs for routers
Compare VPNs with recorded router support and published OpenVPN or WireGuard compatibility. Confirm support for your exact router model.
Panama-based VPN provider offering NordLynx, multi-hop connections, threat-blocking features, and apps for major platforms.
Netherlands-based VPN provider offering unlimited simultaneous connections, WireGuard support, and apps for major platforms.
Gibraltar-based privacy-focused VPN provider with open-source apps, multi-hop connections, and published third-party audits.
United States-based VPN provider with WireGuard and OpenVPN support, port forwarding, and unlimited simultaneous connections.
Italy-based VPN provider aimed at technical users, with open-source apps, port forwarding, and several payment options.
Canada-based VPN provider with a free tier, flexible paid plans, unlimited connections, and Pro-plan port forwarding.
Romania-based VPN provider with dedicated server categories, apps for major platforms, and a refund window that varies by plan.
United States-based Mozilla-branded provider, white-labeled on Mullvad's WireGuard stack with three audits.
Switzerland-based provider with owned servers, two no-logs audits, and proprietary Chameleon protocol that bypasses restrictive networks in China.
United States-based provider owned by Ziff Davis with two no-logs audits, unlimited device count, and a StrongDNS bonus for Fire TV users.
Sweden-based budget-friendly provider with owned servers, port forwarding, and 10 simultaneous devices, but no published audit.
Expert guide
A router-level VPN can route compatible home-network traffic through one tunnel, including traffic from devices without native VPN apps. Setup and protocol support vary by router model and firmware. This guide compares recorded router and protocol support.
What to check in a router VPN
- Manual config files for OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2 on common router firmware (AsusWRT, DD-WRT, OpenWrt, pfSense).
- Detailed setup guides for at least the three most popular router firmwares.
- Fast enough throughput to handle multiple devices streaming simultaneously.
- Support for split tunneling so you can route only certain devices through the VPN.
- A kill switch on the router level, not just on individual device apps.
Which router firmware should you use?
AsusWRT-Merlin is the easiest entry point for most people, since Asus routers ship with it out of the box and the custom Merlin firmware adds VPN support. DD-WRT and OpenWrt give you more control but require more setup. pfSense and OPNsense are full router operating systems for people who want total control over their network.
for routers - frequently asked questions
Which VPN is the best for routers?
The current top pick for routers is ProtonVPN, based on the documented provider data and guide-specific criteria shown below. Prices and features should be verified with the provider.
How do you score VPNs?
Each VPN is assessed across 18 documented dimensions, including jurisdiction, audits, protocols, pricing, support, and product features. Use-case guides then apply criteria relevant to that guide. See the methodology page for the current rules and data limitations.
Do you accept payment to influence rankings?
No. Sponsored placements are clearly labelled and never affect a score. Affiliate links earn us a commission at no extra cost to you, but they never change where a provider ranks.
