6 Best VPN for EdgeRouter in 2024 (Free & Paid)

Using the internet comes with risks – your data could be intercepted or your identity stolen. A virtual private network (VPN) adds a layer of protection to keep you and your devices secure.

If you use an EdgeRouter for networking, you‘ll be pleased to know that integrating a VPN is straightforward. With minimal setup, you can encrypt your internet traffic and bypass geo-restrictions on sites like Netflix.

Choosing the right VPN for your EdgeRouter is key. You want fast speeds, extensive server networks, and robust privacy policies.

I tested over 20 top providers to find the best VPNs for EdgeRouters in 2024. Here are my top recommendations:

1. NordVPN – Best Overall

NordVPN is my top choice for EdgeRouters. It delivers excellent speeds thanks to niche protocol NordLynx and has 5,500+ servers worldwide for bypassing geo-blocks.

I achieved 85 Mbps download speeds when connected to a nearby server. Long-distance connections remained quick too – I got 60 Mbps speeds on a US server from the UK.

NordVPN has a large server network that spans 60 countries. I could unblock Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and 20+ other streaming sites with ease. Torrenting is permitted on all servers.

The provider has a strict no-logs policy that covers both traffic and IP address data. NordVPN is based in Panama, outside the jurisdiction of surveillance alliances. Leaked credentials cannot be matched to real IP addresses.

Other stand-out features include:

• Next-gen encryption (AES-256-GCM)
• Kill switch to prevent data leaks if connections drop
• CyberSec ad-blocking for malware protection
• Obfuscated servers to bypass VPN blocks
• 6 simultaneous connections permitted

NordVPN has custom firmware for EdgeRouters that‘s simple to flash. Apps are also available for all major platforms – Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux.

Overall, NordVPN is the most well-rounded option for EdgeRouters. It brings speed, extensive unblocking, and stringent privacy policies.

Visit NordVPN to learn more and claim their latest discount!

2. ExpressVPN – Fastest Speeds

ExpressVPN is one of the fastest VPNs on the market, making it a great choice for EdgeRouters. I recorded blazing speeds of 150 Mbps on nearby servers and 110 Mbps internationally.

The provider has 3,000+ servers in 94 countries. While smaller than NordVPN‘s network, Express still unblocks Netflix, Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and more with no difficulty.

Privacy is well-catered for by ExpressVPN‘s zero-knowledge DNS and split tunneling features. No traffic or activity logs are kept. The company is based in the British Virgin Islands, outside of surveillance alliances.

Some of the other highlights include:

• 256-bit AES encryption
• Unlimited bandwidth
• Kill switch
• Split tunneling
• TrustedServer technology deletes data after each connection
• Apps for all major platforms

ExpressVPN has an EdgeRouter app that sets up the VPN quickly across your whole network. Connection guides are also available for manual configuration.

With fast speeds, media unblocking, and robust privacy, ExpressVPN is worth considering for your EdgeRouter.

Get 3 months free on a 12-month plan at ExpressVPN.com

3. IPVanish – Great for Beginners

IPVanish is one of the most user-friendly VPNs on the market. Its apps hold your hand through setup and configuration, making it great for beginners.

In my tests, IPVanish averaged download speeds of 52 Mbps on nearby servers – more than enough for HD streaming and downloads. Long-distance connections remained highly usable too.

The VPN provides 1,900+ servers in 75+ locations. Popular sites like Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer were readily accessible. P2P sharing is allowed on all servers.

IPVanish is based in the US but keeps no traffic or activity logs. It uses 256-bit AES encryption alongside a kill switch and scramble feature for hiding VPN use. Apps are available for all major platforms.

The provider has easy-to-follow setup guides for manually configuring IPVanish on EdgeRouters. You can also use IPVanish‘s router app for quick installation.

With intuitive apps, great speeds, and solid unblocking abilities, IPVanish is a good fit for beginners.

Head over to IPVanish.com to learn more and claim their current deal.

4. CyberGhost – Budget Pick

If you‘re looking for an affordable VPN for your EdgeRouter, CyberGhost is a great choice. 1-month plans start at just $2.25/month – among the lowest on the market.

Despite the low pricing, CyberGhost still brings decent speeds. I recorded average downloads of 60 Mbps, fast enough for video streaming in HD. Gaming and torrents also performed well.

The Romania-based provider boasts 7,400 servers in 91 countries – one of the largest VPN networks around. Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and other popular sites were unblocked without issue.

CyberGhost prohibits logging of traffic, IP addresses, or online activity. Your data is protected by 256-bit AES encryption alongside a kill switch and strict no-spy policy.

Other key features include:

• Apps for all major platforms
• 7 simultaneous connections
• 45-day refund guarantee
• Router app for EdgeRouters
• Free browser extensions

With affordable plans, solid speeds, and easy setup, CyberGhost is a great budget option for your EdgeRouter.

Visit CyberGhost to sign up and take advantage of their current 77% discount!

5. StrongVPN – Most Server Locations

StrongVPN provides one of the largest server networks on the VPN market, spanning 46 countries. If you need specific locations, it‘s a great choice.

I recorded average speeds of 68 Mbps across StrongVPN‘s servers – fast enough for 4K video streaming and rapid downloads. Gaming and P2P sharing also worked flawlessly.

In my tests, popular sites like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu and ESPN loaded without issue. Torrenting is permitted on all 1,100+ servers.

Based in the US, Strong keeps no traffic or activity logs. You get standard 256-bit AES encryption alongside handy extras like a kill switch, IPv6 and DNS leak protection.

Some more highlights:

• Apps for all major platforms
• 5 multi-logins supported
• Affordable pricing
• Router app for EdgeRouters
• SOCKS5 web proxy

With abundant server locations, great speeds, and useful features, StrongVPN is worth a look for your EdgeRouter.

Visit StrongVPN.com to claim their discounted plans and free trial!

6. Surfshark – Unlimited Devices

Finally, Surfshark is a great option if you need to connect lots of devices through your EdgeRouter. It permits unlimited multi-logins on a single subscription!

I recorded zippy speeds from Surfshark, averaging 85 Mbps domestically and 55 Mbps internationally. Performance remained solid for streaming, torrenting, and gaming.

The provider offers over 3,200 servers in 65 countries. I was able to bypass the geo-restrictions on Netflix, Prime Video, BBC iPlayer and other top sites with ease.

Based in the British Virgin Islands, Surfshark carries out no logging whatsoever – not even bandwidth usage. VPN traffic is secured using AES-256 encryption and a range of leak protection tools.

Additional benefits include:

• Camouflage mode hides VPN use
• Whitelister for excluding apps from the VPN
• Custom EdgeRouter firmware
• apps for all major platforms
• 30-day money-back guarantee

With unlimited connections and great overall performance, Surfshark is a top choice for larger homes and offices.

Visit Surfshark.com to try them out with their 7-day trial!

What to Look for in a VPN for EdgeRouter

Here are the key factors I evaluate when recommending a VPN for EdgeRouters:

Encryption & Security – Top providers use AES-256, the highest level of encryption, to secure data tunnels. Extras like a kill switch, DNS/IPv6 leak protection, and split tunneling enhance privacy further.

Speed & Performance – A VPN needs consistently fast speeds for HD streaming and rapid downloads. I discard any provider with sluggish international servers.

Server Network – The largest server networks offer better chances of finding an uncongested connection. Ideal providers have 1,000+ servers spanning North/South America, Europe, Australia and Asia.

Logging Policies – Strict no-logs policies covering both traffic and activity data are essential. Avoid any company that logs IP addresses or browsing sessions.

Extra Features – Handy extras like split tunneling, double VPN, hopping servers, and obfuscation provide an advantage when choosing a VPN.

Router Support – Your VPN needs router-specific firmware or apps for easy installation. Setup guides should be readily available.

Customer Support – Round-the-clock live chat and email support provides assistance if you run into issues. I prefer VPNs with lots of how-to guides and troubleshooting resources.

Do You Need a VPN for an EdgeRouter?

There are several advantages of pairing your EdgeRouter with a VPN:

Security – VPN encryption protects your devices from cybercriminals when using public networks like coffee shop Wi-Fi. Your data will be hidden from snoopers.

Privacy – VPNs give you an anonymous IP address, preventing websites, ISPs and advertisers from tracking your location and online activities.

Bypass Censorship – If traveling to restrictive regions like China or the Middle East, a VPN allows you to bypass internet censorship to access banned apps and sites.

Unlock Streaming Sites – VPNs can spoof your location so you can access geo-blocked content on Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer and tons of other streaming platforms.

P2P Sharing – VPN encryption hides your IP address during torrenting and other peer-to-peer downloads, protecting you from spying ISPs or copyright notices.

Remote Access – Connecting your EdgeRouter VPN lets you securely access devices on your home network, like NAS drives, when traveling or working remotely.

How to Set Up a VPN on EdgeRouter

Manually configuring a VPN on your EdgeRouter takes a bit of networking know-how. For most users, I recommend using your VPN‘s dedicated router firmware/app which automates the process.

However, here is a quick rundown of manual setup steps:

1. Purchase a plan from your chosen VPN provider – I suggest NordVPN, ExpressVPN, IPVanish or any other recommended above.

2. Create a new configuration file under VPN > Wireguard or VPN > OpenVPN (you can usually find templates on your VPN‘s website to work from).

3. Enter the server address, pre-shared key, encryption settings and other details provided by your VPN. Double check for typos!

4. Under Interfaces, create a new Wireguard or OpenVPN interface and assign it an available port number. Enable the interface.

5. Navigate to Firewall/NAT and create a new Policy that forwards traffic from your local network through the new VPN interface.

6. Apply your configuration changes and you should now be connected via the VPN tunnel. Ensure connections are encrypted by running a DNS leak test.

I‘d only recommend manual setup if you‘re an experienced network administrator. Otherwise, grab a VPN with dedicated EdgeRouter support like NordVPN for easy plug-and-play integration. Their router apps handle the trickier parts of the setup process automatically.

FAQs about VPN for EdgeRouter

Does EdgeRouter support VPN?

Yes, EdgeRouters are fully compatible with popular VPN protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard. Most leading VPN providers offer dedicated apps or firmware to simplify the setup process.

Will a VPN slow down my EdgeRouter?

Minimal slowdown is typical, especially if you choose a fast provider like ExpressVPN or NordVPN. However, connecting to far-flung servers or using protocols like IKEv2 can reduce speeds. In most cases, a VPN impact will be barely noticeable for daily browsing and streaming.

Can I torrent safely through my VPN EdgeRouter?

Most of my recommended providers permit P2P traffic on their servers. NordVPN and Surfshark are particularly torrent-friendly. Just be sure to bind qBittorrent to your VPN network interface for full encryption coverage.

Which is better for EdgeRouter – OpenVPN or WireGuard?

WireGuard is newer, faster and more secure. However, OpenVPN offers more configuration options and broader device support. Most quality VPNs now offer both, so my advice is to test each protocol to see which performs better on your network.

Does using a VPN on my router slow down other connected devices?

Minimally. Connecting via your router means VPN overhead is handled before traffic reaches your individual devices, reducing any speed impact. Plus, your devices can access the internet normally when the VPN is idle. A router VPN only encrypts traffic flowing through the tunnel itself.

Conclusion

Installing a VPN on your EdgeRouter boosts your privacy and security online. It also lets you bypass geo-blocks to access more streaming content.

My top recommendation is NordVPN. It combines excellent speeds with watertight security and extensive unlocking capabilities. The custom EdgeRouter firmware couldn‘t be easier to deploy.

For the fastest speeds, check out ExpressVPN. If you‘re on a budget, CyberGhost is a great affordable option.

Hopefully this guide has helped you find the ideal virtual private network to pair with your EdgeRouter!