6 Best VPNs for Asus Routers in 2024: Fast & Easy Guide (2024)

Many of us use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to protect our online activities on our favorite desktop and mobile devices.

However, did you know that you can also use your VPN with your Asus router? Doing so will encrypt the internet traffic of every device that is connected to the WiFi network and can also make it look as if any or all of your devices are connecting from a different region of the globe, enabling access to geo-blocked content in that other area of the world.

Are VPNs Compatible With Asus Routers?

There are a number of VPN providers that are compatible with various Asus router models. Many Asus routers come out of the box with an OpenVPN client, which allows for easy VPN setup.

However, not all VPNs work well with Asus routers, and the VPNs that do don’t always offer top-notch performance.

In this article, I’ll tell you about the six best VPN providers for use with your Asus router. I’ll show you how easy it is to set up a VPN on your Asus router and offer some tips on how to best use your VPN/router team.

The Best VPNs for Asus Routers

The following six VPNs proved to work best with Asus routers. Here’s a summary.

My best VPNs for Asus routers:

1. NordVPN: Best Asus router VPN. Users will appreciate this provider’s support for Asus routers. The provider offers fast, well-protected connections, as well as reliable access to geo-blocked content. All of this is provided for a reasonable price. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark: Best budget-price router VPN. This budget-priced VPN choice offers great Asus compatibility, a fast-growing global server network, fast and well-protected connections, and more, all for a bargain-basem*nt price.
3. ExpressVPN: Premium router VPN protection. This premium provider is admittedly a bit expensive, but offers an excellent return on investment. ExpressVPN offers its own custom firmware for select Asus routers.
4. CyberGhost: Easy-to-use router VPN. CyberGhost offers an excellent tutorial for setting up your Asus router to use its service. The provider’s streaming-optimized servers make it a great choice for streaming fans.
5. Private Internet Access (PIA): Reliable VPN protection. PIA’s protected connections work well with Asus routers, providing comprehensive protection and access to other geo-controlled content around the globe.
6. PrivateVPN: Mighty mite router VPN. Although this provider has the smallest server network on this list, it provides reliable VPN protection for your Asus router, while delivering reliable access to geo-controlled content.

I evaluated and ranked the top Asus router VPNs using the following criteria:

• Asus router compatibility (bonus points for pre-configured routers)
• Fast connections
• Optimal global server coverage
• Strong privacy and security protections
• Top-notch customer support

For more information about the criteria I considered when selecting the best VPNs for the job, make sure you check out the testing methodology section further down this article.

Best VPNs for Asus Routers – Summary table

We’ve compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for Asus Routers.

Here’s my list of the top six VPNs for use with Asus routers.

1. NordVPN

May 2024

NordVPN ranks at the top of this list thanks to the provider’s fast connections, top-notch privacy and online security, and more.

The provider’s service has the ability to work with both the AsusWRT (Asus’ native firmware) and AsusWRT-Merlin (a custom firmware) firmware. If you aren’t up to do-it-yourself configuration, pre-configured Asus routers are available at the FlashRouters website.

Apps for other popular mobile and desktop devices are also available from NordVPN for your away-from-home internet activities.

NordVPN is one of the fastest providers around today, delivering more than enough bandwidth for streaming HD video, playing fast-moving online games, and more. No data caps or bandwidth limits with this provider.

With nearly 5,600 servers stationed in close to 60 countries around the world, NordVPN offers reliable access to geo-controlled content globally.

No worries about anyone tracking you when using NordVPN, as the provider offers excellent online security and privacy protections. These protective measures include the use of military-level AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and IP/DNS leak prevention.

A strict no-logs policy and a Bitcoin payment option keep things covered on the privacy end of things.

NordVPN’s owned-and-operated servers keep third-party operators away from your personal information. Plus, the provider runs all servers 100% from RAM, writing no data to a physical hard drive. This means all data is securely wiped when a NordVPN server is rebooted or shut down.

When you’re away from home, you can take advantage of NordVPN’s comprehensive app support. The provider offers native app support for Android, Android TV, iOS, macOS (with M1/M2 Mac support), Windows, Amazon Fire, Linux, and other devices. Chrome, Edge, and Firefox browser extensions are available.

24/7 chat, email support, and a searchable support library are all available to assist you whenever you need them.

BEST VPN FOR ASUS ROUTERS:NordVPN is the best option for Asus router owners. The provider offers support for multiple Asus routers, fast connections, top-notch online security and privacy, and much more. A risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of NordVPN.

2. Surfshark

Surfshark may be the provider for you if you blew most of your money on a new Asus router and are looking for a good VPN that won’t break the bank.

The Surfshark website includes a tutorial to walk you through setting up the VPN on routers that run the AsusWRT firmware. Pre-configured, Surfshark-compatible Asus routers are available on the Flashrouters website.

App support is also available for numerous desktop and mobile devices, including Android, Android TV, Amazon Fire, iOS, macOS (with native Apple Silicon support), Windows, and Linux. Chrome, Edge, and Firefox browser extensions are also available.

Surfshark’s fast connections are never throttled or restricted by data caps. The provider’s connections easily handle gaming, streaming, and any other popular online activity.

One of Surfshark’s biggest shortcomings in the past was its limited global server coverage. However, the provider now boasts an impressive 3,200+ servers in 99+ countries.

Government-grade AES 256-bit encryption, an automatic kill switch, and IPv6/DNS leak protection protect your connection. A “MultiHop” server option is also available and routes your connection through two VPN servers for added encryption and anonymity.

Surfshark keeps no server logs of any kind, and a Bitcoin payment option is also available to help protect your privacy.

The provider also offers virus protection, alerts when your personal info is exposed in a data breach, and truly private search.

Around-the-clock customer support options include 24/7 chat, a support contact form, and a searchable support library.

BEST BUDGET-PRICED ASUS VPN OPTION:Surfshark’s fast-growing global server network provides access to geo-blocked content in most regions of the world. The provider delivers fast, well-protected connections at a bargain price. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of Surfshark.

3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN offers excellent, if rather expensive, VPN protection for Asus router users.

The provider is not only compatible with multiple Asus routers, it also offers its own proprietary firmware (along with step-by-step installation instructions) to be used with five Asus router models. If you’re not up to installing new firmware, you can also opt for pre-configured router options from FlashRouters.

Apps for popular mobile and desktop device platforms are also available. App offerings include options for Android, Android TV, Amazon Fire, iOS, macOS (with M1/M2 Mac support), Windows, Linux, and Chromebook devices. Chrome, Edge, and Firefox browser extensions are available.

ExpressVPN connections have scored well in all of my speed tests, ranking as the fastest in my most recent testing. HD and 4K video stream well, and there are no issues with fast-moving games, or with downloading and sharing large files. No bandwidth limitations or data caps to deal with here.

3,000+ servers located in 94+ countries provide reliable access to geo-blocked content around the globe.

The provider’s connections are protected with government-grade AES 256-bit encryption, an automatic kill switch, and DNS/IP leak prevention.

The company’s servers keep no logs of any kind. Plus, thanks to the provider’s proprietary TrustedServer technology, no data is written to a physical hard drive, only volatile RAM. This means that all data on the service’s servers are wiped clean whenever they are rebooted. ExpressVPN also accepts Bitcoin to keep your payment info undercover.

Customer support is always available thanks to 24/7 live chat, a searchable support library, and a trouble ticket tracking system.

VERSATILE VPN FOR ASUS ROUTERS:ExpressVPN is a reliable way of enhancing and protecting your internet connection via your Asus router. The provider’s custom firmware makes it easy to set up the service on your router. Offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read my full review of ExpressVPN.

4. CyberGhost

CyberGhost offers easy-to-use VPN protection for Asus routers using the DD-WRT firmware. Pre-configured routers are available from FlashRouters, if that’s the way you roll.

Apps for popular desktop and mobile devices are also available.

CyberGhost provides connection speeds that are fast enough for streaming HD and 4K video, gaming, and any other online pastime. No bandwidth limitations or monthly data caps to spoil your online fun.

Accessing content around the world is a breeze, as the provider has over 8,900 servers stationed in 90+ countries around the globe.

Government-grade AES 256-bit encryption keeps your online travels undercover, and the provider also offers IP/DNS leak prevention. Meanwhile, a strict no-logs policy ensures there are never any records of your online travels to share, and the provider’s Bitcoin payment option keeps your payment info private.

The provider offers native app support for Android, Android TV, Amazon Fire, iOS, macOS, Windows, and Linux device platforms. Also available are Chrome and Firefox browser extensions.

In addition to comprehensive VPN protection, CyberGhost also offers a password manager and alerts when your email address is exposed in a data breach. Windows users can take advantage of CyberGhost’s virus and malware protection, increased Windows privacy, and more.

Always-available support includes 24/7 live chat, an easy-to-use support ticket system, and a searchable support library.

BEST FOR ROOKIE VPN USERS:CyberGhost is the best choice for new VPN users who are looking for reliable, yet easy-to-use VPN protection for their Asus router. A large global server network provides fast connections to content around the globe. The provider offers pre-configured routers. A 45-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of CyberGhost.

5. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access (PIA) works quite well with select Asus router models, providing well-protected access to online content.

The PIA global server network is made up of over 3,300 servers stationed in more than 80 countries. The provider’s network provides reliable access to geo-protected content in those countries.

In addition to Asus router support, PIA’s offers native app support for Android, Android TV, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux devices. Chrome, Opera, and Firefox browser extensions are available to protect your web browsing.

Up to 10 devices can be simultaneously connected to PIA servers on a single set of login credentials. By using a router, you can have multiple devices connected to PIA while counting as only a single connection.

This provider’s download speeds are far from being the fastest on this list. However, this is a fast lineup, so PIA can easily handle streaming video content, online gaming, and much more. No data caps or bandwidth throttling to spoil the fun here.

All PIA-provided connections are protected with banking-grade encryption, IP/DNS leak prevention, and a kill switch. Blocking of ads, tracking, malware, and perilous websites.

No user logs recording your online travels are ever saved to PIA servers. The provider also accepts Bitcoin as payment. This helps protect both your usage and payment privacy. Use a disposable email address to add an additional bit of privacy.

Customer support options include live agent chat, a trouble ticket system, and a searchable support library.

RELIABLE VPN FOR ASUS ROUTERS:Private Internet Accessprovides reliable VPN protection for Asus routers and all of its connected devices. The provider’s fast, well-protected connections provide efficient access to content around the globe. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of Private Internet Access.

6. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN is admittedly lacking when it comes to global server network size. That said, it has nothing to be ashamed of in the performance department.

200+ servers is not a huge number by any stretch of the imagination. However, the servers are well-positioned around the globe. PrivateVPN has them spread out among 60+ countries.

The service’s fast connections provide efficient access to online streaming content, gaming, and much more.

Those fast connections are well-protected, thanks to the provider’s use of banking-grade encryption, a kill switch, and IP/DNS leak prevention.

A strict “no logs” rule is present and accounted for on PrivateVPN’s server network, and you can keep your payment info incognito thanks to the provider’s Bitcoin payment policy.

PrivateVPN’s app support is about as basic as it can be, with apps for only macOS, Windows, Android, and iOS devices. However, its comprehensive router support keeps all of your connected devices covered, no matter what platform they run.

Up to 10 simultaneous connections are allowed on a single login. (Router connections count as only one connection, no matter how many devices are connected on the router side of things.)

Customer support is adequate, but not dazzling. Live chat is available, as is a “Contact Us” form, and a non-searchable FAQ section.

FAST CONNECTIONS FOR ASUS ROUTERS:PrivateVPN’s speedy VPN serviceprovides fast connections for Asus router users. While the provider’s app support is a bit light, any device can be protected, as long as it’s connected to your router. A 30-day money-back guarantee keeps the risk factor to a minimum.

Read my full review of PrivateVPN.

Methodology for Assessing VPNs for Asus Routers

It’s important to consider several factors when deciding upon a VPN service for use with your Asus. Not all VPN providers offer the same features.

These are the most important aspects of a VPN to consider when choosing a VPN for your Asus router.

• Router features: Any VPN worth your consideration should provide compatibility with your Asus router. Remember, Asus makes numerous router models, so be sure the provider is compatible with the router you have. Score bonus points if the provider offers its own firmware for your router model.
• Connection speed: Fast connection speeds are a must for today’s online activities. All of the VPNs on my list offer well-above average speeds. I test connection speeds on a regular basis.
• Server network: Look for a large server network. The more countries a VPN serves, the better access you’ll see to geo-fenced content. Also, look for a large number of servers in each country, as this will help prevent any individual server from being overloaded with users.
• Value: A VPN should offer features and functionality required to provide good value. Each VPN I recommend offers excellent value for money.
• Ease of use: While this article is all about VPNs and routers, you’ll likely need VPN protection while you’re out and about. This makes it vital to find a VPN that also offers app support for your connected devices. An easy-to-use app will make it simple to connect to a VPN server while on the go. Each VPN on my list offers easy-to-use apps for popular devices.
• Security and privacy: Your router is always connected to the internet, making it vulnerable to online attacks. A VPN should offer, at the least, banking-level encryption, an automatic kill switch, and DNS/IP leak protection, if not more. Also look for a no-logs policy. All of the VPNs on this list meet those requirements.
• Streaming: As streaming is a popular online pastime, there is a very good chance that you subscribe to streaming services. The VPNs on my list are capable of providing reliable access to Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and many other streaming services.

This list doesn’t include everything that I consider. In fact, the factors listed above are just a part of my comprehensive VPN testing methodology. This data-driven approach helps me to better understand VPNs and their services, allowing me to recommend only those VPNs that are a good fit for my readers’ needs.

How to Use a VPN With Your Asus Router

Enhancing and protecting online activities for all of your connected devices via a VPN may seem somewhat complicated at first blush, but it basically consists of a few simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a VPN. (You already knew that one, right?)
2. Set up the VPN on your Asus router (or purchase a pre-configured router). Instructions will vary according to the provider.
3. Select a VPN server (usually performed in the router’s VPN settings, but can vary by VPN provider).
4. Connect your devices to the VPN-protected router.
5. Enjoy your newly enhanced and protected access to the internet.

Is a Free VPN a Good Option For Use With an Asus Router?

That would be a strong “NO.”

Free VPN providers usually only provide support for the major device platforms (Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows); they don’t provide support for routers.

Even if you found a free VPN that would work with your Asus router (doubtful), I can think of a number of other reasons why you shouldn’t use a free VPN.

First of all, the performance of a “free” provider usually sucks. Many freebie VPN providers throttle their users’ connections and place a daily or monthly data cap on their usage. They want to preserve their bandwidth for paying customers.

If you’re using a VPN on your router, all of the connected devices in your home or office will be using the VPN connection. This means your connection speeds will be s-l-o-o-o-w, and you’ll use up your allotted data cap in no time at all.

Free VPNs are also less than private. Many “free” providers collect logs of their users’ online travels, then sell that valuable information to advertisers and other nosy parties. Plus, they have also been caught inserting unwanted ads and tracking cookies into users’ browsing sessions.

A month of quality VPN protection generally costs less than your favorite fast food combo. Don’t take any chances with a free VPN.

How Can I Tell If a VPN Will Work With My Asus Router?

Just like any other router manufacturer, Asus offers numerous models of their routers. They range from “value-priced” routers that offer basic protection, average connection speeds, and wireless coverage, to top-of-the-line gaming and business-capable routers that offer faster connections and wide-ranging coverage.

Not all Asus routers will run custom firmware or offer manual configuration for using a VPN. This means you’ll need to contact Asus, as well as any VPN provider that you’re considering, to ask if your Asus router is compatible with VPN providers.

Is There a Downside to Using a VPN on My Router?

While this article focuses on the benefits of using a VPN with your Asus router, it wouldn’t be fair to say that there aren’t a few shortcomings.

First, all of your connected devices at your home or office will be using a single VPN tunnel. This means that depending on the provider and server location, as well as the performance capabilities of your router, your connection could slow down a bit.

If you’re going to use a VPN with your Asus router, don’t be tempted to go cheap and buy one of the company’s lesser router models.

Many routers don’t exactly use the most powerful available hardware. Encrypting and decrypting data on the fly, like a VPN does, requires additional processing. Some cheaper routers may not be able to efficiently do this, slowing your online connection.

Conclusion

Users who are looking to provide a VPN-protected internet connection to all of their connected devices can take advantage of the features a VPN offers on their Asus router.

Using a VPN encrypts the information that your devices use and opens up access to content you might not normally have access to.

NordVPN is the best available option for enhancing and protecting the internet connections provided to your devices via your Asus router. The provider offers fast connection speeds, comprehensive global server coverage, and top-notch customer support.

For more information or to purchase a subscription, visit the NordVPN website.

Asus Router VPN FAQs