Many small business owners and individuals who like to improve their networking experience want to know what is a VPN router. While operating with a standard wireless router is fine, some people want to add an extra layer of security or be able to access geo-restricted websites.
That can all be done with the help of a trustworthy service that can install a VPN on your devices. Once you get your VPN router and the connection working, you can connect multiple home or office devices like smart TVs, computers, smartphones, etc. So, let’s get started and discover more about a VPN router and its benefits.
What Is a VPN Router?
As we all know, the digital world is a scary place that can sometimes be frightening. Privacy and security of our data have to be a priority. The Internet holds a lot of information from online shopping, banking, and meaningful conversations with our friends.
A Virtual Private Network or VPN router is a standard Wi-Fi router that operates with VPN software installed. This device encrypts the Internet traffic received or sent over your wireless network. This means that the VPN router can protect every device at once and does not require an installation of the VPN app on every individual device.
However, using a VPN on your smartphone or computer protects the traffic only on that single device. On the other hand, a router offers encrypted web trafficking across the entire wireless network.
A VPN-enabled router secures every device connected to your Wi-Fi, such as smartphones, gaming consoles, computers, tablets, and more. Plus, it can simultaneously connect to the Virtual Private Network servers.
How does it work
This type of router can be purchased with the VPN software already installed, or you can do the installation yourself and set up the VPN software as your own project. Something worth mentioning is that not all routers support Virtual Private Network software.
In fact, not all VPN services are available on a router. You can learn more about this in the instruction manual or if you find a closely related article about how to set up the router.
A VPN router with the software installed can secure and encrypt a connection over a public network. With Virtual Private Network, you can safely send and receive data between your device and the world wide web.
The VPN ensures that your data is safe before sending it to the website and that nobody can find out about your location or identity. The information proceeds through a secure VPN tunnel that can successfully protect it from hackers or unauthorized personnel.
Apart from online security, VPN routers offer many other benefits, which we will explain shortly.
Read more: How to Set up a VPN Server
Benefits of a VPN Router
If you think investing in a VPN router for your business or home is a big and expensive step, wait until you hear some of the benefits of this device.
No limits for multiple devices
The services that offer Virtual Private networks often put a limit on the number of devices that can be connected at the same time. However, using a router-level VPN counts as only one connection. You can successfully cover each of your Wi-Fi devices with only one link.
This feature benefits gaming consoles, media players, and IoT devices. These devices do not support VPN client software; therefore, you can enjoy them with a protected wireless connection.
Indefinite VPN protection
If you use a VPN service on your browser, you need to activate your connection every time you start a new session. On the other hand, with a VPN router, you don’t ever have to worry about turning it on or off again.
Once the router is all set, your VPN protection will run indefinitely regardless of which device you use. This minimizes the risk of any data exposure online.
In recent years, multiple countries have passed new ISPs legislation that forces internet service providers to keep a close eye on and save your browsing history. The best way that you can fight against this obligation is by purchasing a VPN router. Every traffic between the VPN server and the router is encrypted and secure, leaving no room for error.
Overall security improvement
Going from a standard to a VPN router is a great option from a security perspective. Around the world, several cases have been reported where hackers and criminals have taken advantage of the router’s vulnerabilities to collect private data or spy on them. Using a VPN router for your home benefits each device that is connected to the Wi-Fi.
Layered VPN services
Using a VPN router makes the process of running two VPN services simultaneously much easier. For example, you can install one service on your desktop and the other on the router.
Something worth mentioning is that this process will definitely reduce your connection speed but will ultimately maximize your protection and keep you safe from any compromising crashes or leaks.
How Much Does a VPN Router Cost
Now that you know the benefits of a VPN router, let’s talk a little about the price and whether or not it is worth it.
It can depend on the model that fits your needs, just like any other internet gadget. There are great options for professionals and advanced customers, but we recommend that you stick to a router that matches the demands of your network and its size.
Remember that these routers are naturally more expensive than traditional Wi-FI routers and are more technologically advanced equipment. The cheapest router will cost around 130$, and the premium-quality ones can even be 500$.
Also read: How to Check Browsing History on a WiFi Router
Conclusion
What is a VPN router, its benefits, and whether or not you can afford it – everything is explained above.
Overall, a VPN router is a standard Wi-Fi router with VPN software installed. A VPN connection is the best solution for your household if your chosen internet provider enforces device limits. The device is powered by firmware that allows managing VPN connections.
Plus, you can connect all of your home devices and give them an extra layer of security. The best routers come with RAM and can successfully carry their workloads. It can be easily set up and offers an extra layer of security. Find a model that you like and begin the encryption even today.