
If you're looking to set up a secure home network, NordVPN is a great option, but you'll need to choose a compatible router. Fortunately, NordVPN has a wide range of compatible routers that can help you protect your internet connection.
NordVPN's router compatibility guide lists over 50 supported devices, including popular models from brands like Netgear, Linksys, and TP-Link. With so many options available, you're sure to find a router that fits your needs.
To get started, check the compatibility list to see which routers are supported by NordVPN. You can also filter the list by router type, manufacturer, or firmware version to make it easier to find the perfect device.
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NordVPN Router Compatibility
NordVPN is compatible with a large number of routers, and the good news is that you can check if your router is compatible before installing NordVPN.
Some routers may not be compatible with NordVPN's native firmware, but flashing your router with VPN-compatible firmware like DD-WRT or Tomato can make it work.
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You can find lists of routers that are compatible with DD-WRT online, and some routers come pre-flashed with VPN-friendly firmware.
NordVPN is compatible with popular open-source firmware variants like DD-WRT and Tomato.
Here is a list of routers that are compatible with NordVPN according to its website:
- EdgeRouter and Ubiquiti
- GL.iNet
- NetDUMA
- MikroTik
- Peplink/Pepwave
- ASUS WRT
- AsusWRT Merlin
- DD-WRT
- DrayTek Vigor
- OpenWRT
- OPNsense 19.1
- Padavan
- pfSense 2.4.4
- pfSense 2.4.5
- pfSense 2.5
- Sabai
- Tomato
- Privacy Hero
- Roqos
- DrayTek
- EdgeRouter
- TP-Link
If you have a router that isn't on this list, it's not necessarily a deal-breaker - you can try flashing your router with VPN-compatible firmware.
However, some routers are not compatible with NordVPN, even with flashing, and you can check the list below to see which ones aren't supported.
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Installation and Setup
Installing NordVPN on your router can be a straightforward process, but it's not always easy to find the right instructions for your specific router model. Fortunately, NordVPN has guides for many popular router models, including TP-Link, DD-WRT, and more.
To get started, you'll need to login to your router's admin panel, which can usually be accessed by typing in your router's IP address into a web browser. From there, you can follow the specific instructions for your router model, which can be found on NordVPN's website or through their live chat support.
For DD-WRT routers, you'll need to navigate to Setup > Basic Setup and enter some specific DNS settings, including Static DNS 1, 2, and 3. You'll also need to disable IPv6 and enable DNSMasq for DHCP and DNS.
One thing to keep in mind is that not all routers are created equal, and some may require more advanced setup procedures. For example, setting up NordVPN on a TP-Link router requires navigating to Advanced > VPN Client and filling in some specific fields, including Description, VPN Type, Username, and Password.
Here are some specific steps to follow for different router models:
* TP-Link: Navigate to Advanced > VPN Client and fill in the following fields:
+ Description: NordVPN (or any name you choose)
+ VPN Type: OpenVPN
+ Username: your NordVPN service username
+ Password: your NordVPN service password
* DD-WRT: Navigate to Setup > Basic Setup and enter the following DNS settings:
+ Static DNS 1: 103.86.96.100
+ Static DNS 2: 103.86.99.100
+ Static DNS 3: 0.0.0.0 (default)
+ Use DNSMasq for DHCP: Check the box
+ Use DNSMasq for DNS: Check the box
+ DHCP-Authoritative: Check the box
Remember to save and apply your settings after making any changes, and to test your VPN connection to ensure it's working properly.
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Benefits and Features
NordVPN offers automatic connection to its servers when installed on your router, ensuring your privacy is protected at all times and on every device connected to your WiFi network.
This feature is perfect for protecting IoT devices and smart home appliances that wouldn't be secure without a VPN. It also means you don't have to install the VPN on every device in your home, saving you time and effort.
NordVPN supports 15+ router firmware, including DD-WRT, AsusWRT Merlin, and OpenWRT. This means it's likely to be compatible with your router, making it easy to set up.
You can even buy VPN-ready routers directly from NordVPN's site, which already have the VPN installed and are ready to use with its modern NordLynx protocol.
NordVPN offers many additional qualities, including bank-grade encryption, Double VPN servers, and built-in obfuscation to help you bypass censorship. It also performs like a speed demon, with 10 Gbps servers in 118 countries.
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Here are some of the key benefits of using a VPN on your router:
- Protects IoT devices and smart home appliances
- Ensures automatic connection to NordVPN servers
- Supports 15+ router firmware
- Includes bank-grade encryption and Double VPN servers
- Has built-in obfuscation to bypass censorship
Gaming with a VPN can be a real game-changer, eliminating ISP throttling and allowing you to enjoy the full speed of your connection. This is especially ideal for multi-player gaming sessions.
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Choosing the Right Device
To choose the right device for your NordVPN setup, consider the compatibility of your router. NordVPN recommends using pre-flashed routers from FlashRouters.com or opting for ASUS routers, specifically the RT-AX86U, RT-AX68U, and RT-AX88U (AX6000) models.
If you prefer a more DIY approach, you can look for routers that have a built-in OpenVPN client or can be flashed with DD-WRT, OpenWRT, Tomato, and Merlin firmware. However, be aware that flashing a router yourself can be a complex process and may result in bricking the device.
To ensure compatibility, check your router's firmware and look for one that supports NordVPN's OpenVPN protocol. With the right device, you'll be able to set up your NordVPN connection and start enjoying secure and private browsing.
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What to Buy

When shopping for a router that's compatible with NordVPN, you can check out FlashRouters.com, which provides pre-flashed routers that work with a long list of VPN providers.
If you prefer to buy the router elsewhere, NordVPN recommends ASUS options due to their ease of use and compatibility.
You can also opt for any router with a built-in OpenVPN client or one that can be flashed with DD-WRT, OpenWRT, Tomato, and Merlin firmware.
Some viable ASUS options include:
- Asus RT-AX86U
- RT-AX68U
- RT-AX88U (AX6000)
Flashing a router yourself can be a bit technical, so be careful not to brick the router.
Device Selection
Device Selection is a crucial step in setting up your NordVPN connection. You'll need to decide which devices you want to route through the VPN tunnel.
To do this, press the pen icon in the upper-right corner of the "Device" section. This will allow you to select which devices you want to include by ticking the checkmark box and clicking "OK."

If you're setting up your NordVPN connection on a router, you may need to select which network devices you want to provide access to the VPN individually. Open the Device list to do this.
Here are some compatible routers you can consider:
- Asus RT-AX86U
- RT-AX68U
- RT-AX88U (AX6000)
Remember to press "Apply and enable" once you've made your selections to activate the VPN connection.
Can I Use a Netgear?
If you're considering a Netgear router, you'll need to be aware of its limitations when it comes to using a VPN. The native firmware on Netgear routers doesn't support an OpenVPN client, so you'll need to take extra steps to make it work.
Fortunately, you can check if your specific Netgear model is compatible with DD-WRT firmware, which is a viable alternative. This will give you the flexibility to use your Netgear router with a VPN.
For those who are interested in using NordVPN with their Netgear router, it's worth noting that NordVPN is compatible with popular router manufacturers like Netgear. However, you'll still need to flash your router with an alternate firmware variant, such as DD-WRT.
If you're looking for a hassle-free experience, you can consider buying a VPN-ready router directly from NordVPN's site. These routers already have NordVPN installed and are ready to use with the modern NordLynx protocol.
Additional reading: Using Nordvpn Desktop and Browser Together
What to Look for in a VPN
When choosing a VPN, consider the device you're using. Most people need a VPN for their iPhone or Windows computer.
The type of device you're using will determine the type of VPN you need. Very few users will bother to install a VPN on a router.
The VPN should be compatible with your device, such as a router-compatible VPN. Those who do will need to take into account a few important factors.
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VPN Selection and Configuration
NordVPN has guides that explain the entire process for a large number of routers, making it easier to set up.
You can use Nord's live chat support to help you through the process. If you already have a VPN-compatible router, the process will be very similar to the one described below.
To set up NordVPN on your router, you'll need to login to your router's admin panel and fill in the following details: Description, VPN Type, Username, Password, and Encryption parameters as specified by Nord.
You should also enter NordVPN's DNS nameserver addresses and disable IPv6 to prevent DNS and IPv6 leaks that undermine your privacy.
To download the OpenVPN config file, head to the member's area of NordVPN's website and select the server location you want to connect to.
The process may vary depending on your router model, but NordVPN's website has step-by-step instructions with images for at least 10 different firmware versions.
NordVPN exclusively supports OpenVPN connections on routers, no L2TP/IPSec or WireGuard yet.
NordVPN has more than 6,000 servers in 60+ countries, and those servers work to access Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, YouTube TV, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, and countless other streaming services around the world.
Here are the key factors to consider when selecting a router-compatible VPN:
- Extensive router support
- Impressive performance
- No-logging policy
- Diskless servers running exclusively in RAM
- Third-party audit of apps, policies, and network infrastructure
NordVPN checks all these boxes, making it one of the most trustworthy and secure VPNs available.
It's worth noting that NordVPN has more than 6,000 servers in 60+ countries, and those servers work to access popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and HBO Max.
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Bypassing Censorship and Restrictions
Many people struggle with bypassing censorship, especially when blocked websites and lack of freedom of speech are involved.
Blocked websites can be infuriating, but a router VPN can help. NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark are great options for this.
Their ability to hide your IP address and obfuscate your traffic is especially effective against deep-packet inspection.
These VPNs will work flawlessly in China thanks to built-in obfuscation.
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