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Best-VPN-for-netgear-routers

If you are looking to secure your entire network with a Virtual Private Network (VPN), the best way is to configure it on your network router, and Netgear routers are an ideal option for that. However, there isn’t much flexibility when we talk about the compatibility of VPNs with Netgear routers.

Although Netgear routers offer a native VPN function, they don’t usually support third-party VPN apps. So, today we are here to discuss what is the best VPN for Netgear routers and how you can easily configure it to enjoy safe internet access on all of your devices.

Setting a VPN on a Netgear Nighthawk Router, you won’t need separate VPN configurations on all your devices. Moreover, the level of data privacy and online security will also be increased and you will also be able to change your IP address and location to bypass geo-restrictions of streaming platforms, along with other benefits of using a reliable VPN.


Quick Overview – Best VPNs for Netgear routers

If you are in a rush, here’s a quick overview of the best VPN for Netgear routers:

  1. ExpressVPN: The best VPN for Netgear routers. Easy to configure VPN that offers an extensive network of 3000+ servers. Loaded with top-notch privacy features and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
  2. Surfshark: Budget-friendly VPN for Netgear routers. Known for its affordable subscription plans, ease of use, and the latest security and privacy tools. Offers a massive network of 3200+ servers.
  3. NordVPN: Secure VPN for Netgear routers. The safest option to secure your entire network. Offers a huge network of 6000+ servers and provides ultimate online protection through its pro-privacy features.

Best VPNs for Netgear routers in 2023 – Detailed Analysis | FAQs

Get ExpressVPN For Netgear Routers 30-day money-back guarantee

Best VPNs for Netgear routers in 2023 – Detailed Analysis

Since Netgear routers are a bit reluctant towards VPN support, we did extensive research and testing to find the best VPNs for Netgear routers in 2023. Let’s go through a detailed analysis of our top 3 shortlisted VPN service providers:

1. ExpressVPN – Best VPN for Netgear Routers

ExpressVPN

  • No of Servers: 3000+ servers in 105+ countries
  • Speed: 89.42 Mbps to download content and 84.64 to upload
  • Simultaneous connections: 5
  • Bandwidth: unlimited
  • Apps: Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, and Android

ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Netgear routers in 2023. This VPN has risen to the top, thanks to its exceptional performance, strong security, rapid speed, and top-tier encryption. It is, actually, the best VPN for digital nomads, which is easy to configure and adds an extra degree of protection.

This VPN service provider has over 3000 high-speed servers across 105 countries. You may easily access any server site according to your preference.

ExpressVPN includes a Split tunneling option, which allows you to select which apps should be routed through its secured tunnel. For example, you can enable Netflix to connect to the VPN network whereas other applications and services remain on the ordinary internet.

Furthermore, there is no server switch restriction, so you’re free to switch as many servers as you wish. It provides a reliable network with a 99.99% uptime guarantee, so will rarely see a server down for any technical reason.

With this VPN, you may enjoy a seamless and continuous streaming experience. It doesn’t affect your overall internet speed, rather helps you avoid ISP throttling. On a 100 Mbps connection, the ExpressVPN speed test found that it’s capable of reaching an amazing download speed of 89.42 Mbps and an upload speed of 84.64 Mbps.

Expressvpn-speed-test-on-100-mbps

This speed is enough to stream in high resolution.

ExpressVPN is safe, and in fact, a powerhouse of online security with numerous cutting-edge features including IKEv2, best-in-class AES-256-Bit Encryption, Lightway Protocol, and a strict No-Logging PolicyIt’s also the best VPN with Kill Switch that keeps you protected against DNS and IP leaks when your internet is disconnected.

It’s pretty easy to install ExpressVPN on routers and establish VPN-like connections even on devices that are not supported. Invest in your online security today by setting up ExpressVPN on Netgear router and reap the benefits of a safe and seamless internet experience.

AT&T routers are blocked by many streaming services, such as Netflix and Hulu, due to their IP address. With a VPN, you can bypass these geo-restrictions by masking your IP address with a different one from another country.

ExpressVPN is compatible with Android, macOS, Windows, and iOS. There is also an ExpressVPN app for Linux that is simple to set up on streaming devices, smart TVs, and routers.

ExpressVPN’s long-term subscription plan costs only $6.67/mo - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free and comes with a 30-day return policy, so you can cancel your ExpressVPN subscription within the timeframe without spending anything. Moreover, a 7-day ExpressVPN free trial is also given to mobile users.

For a more in-depth study, read our ExpressVPN review in detail.

Pros
  • Fast speeds for a high-quality experience
  • An extensive network of 3000+ servers
  • Easy to configure on Netgear routers
  • AES 256-bit Encryption
  • 5 simultaneous connections
  • 24/7 customer assistance

Cons
  • Expensive subscription plans
  • The iOS app lacks the Kill Switch feature

Get ExpressVPN For Netgear Routers 30-day money-back guarantee

2. Surfshark – Budget-Friendly VPN for Netgear Routers

  • No of Servers: 3200+ servers in 100 countries
  • Speed: 81.32 Mbps to download content and 76.12 Mbps to upload
  • Simultaneous connections: Unlimited
  • Bandwidth: Unlimited
  • Apps: Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, and Android

Surfshark is the most budget-friendly VPN for Netgear routers in 2023. It provides an ideal balance of data protection, fast speed, and affordable pricing. Also, it is the best VPN for multiple devices owing to its unrestricted simultaneous connections on a single account.

It provides a dependable network of 3200+ servers in 100 countries, giving you access to thousands of IP addresses in different locations across the globe.

Surfshark has a rigorous No-logging Policy and does not store any of your online data or web traffic. Furthermore, it has an automatic Kill Switch that disables your online connection if the VPN connection fails, as well as DNS and IP leak protection.

Camouflage Mode, Multi-hop Servers, NoBorders mode, and Clean Web are some significant features that will protect your privacy.

As per the Surfshark speed test, you may achieve ultra-fast connections for continuous streaming, gaming, and other online experience. We achieved a download speed of 81.32 Mbps and an upload speed of 76.12 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection.

Surfshark-speed-test

We achieved blazing-fast speed results on the US servers.

Surfshark is a platform-agnostic service with software for macOS, Windows, Linux, and iOS. It also ranks as one of the most best VPNs for Android owing to its convenience. Its installation guides make it easy to configure Surfshark on routers.

Surfshark subscriptions start at$2.49/mo - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee. You will also receive a 1-month money-back offer. The Surfshark 7-day free trial is yet another advantage, which is available to mobile users.

Read our comprehensive Surfshark review for complete info.

Pros
  • Trustworthy network of 3200+ servers
  • Provide setup guides for routers
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections
  • Fast speeds and unlimited bandwidth
  • Server obfuscation for more anonymity
  • Customer support 24/7

Cons
  • No Borders Mode slows the VPN
  • No dedicated app is available for routers

Get Surfshark For Netgear Routers 30-day money-back guarantee

3. NordVPN – Secure VPN for Netgear Routers

NordVPN

  • No of Servers: 6000+ in 61+ countries
  • Speed: 83.82 Mbps to download content and 44.64 Mbps to upload
  • Simultaneous connections: 5
  • Bandwidth: Unlimited
  • Apps: Windows, MacOS, iOS, Linux, and Android

NordVPN is the most secure VPN for Netgear routers in 2023. This VPN has been around the market for a decade now and is credited with developing various security features. With its industry-leading encryption techniques, including its proprietary NordLynx protocol, you may utilize this VPN for reliable and secure internet access.

This VPN is also well-known for its massive network of 6000+ servers spread over 61 countries. These servers are more than enough to access international streaming servers like HBO Max, Paramount, Hulu, and Netflix with NordVPN.

NordVPN has next-generation encryption methods and security mechanisms. It follows a strict No-Logs Policy and does not gather or keep any digital data. Furthermore, you may use NordVPN’s Automatic Kill switch to maximize DNS leak protection.

NordVPN is among the best VPNs with Meshnet and Double VPN and also includes a Dark Web Monitor to provide a secure and virus-free online experience. These capabilities allow you to browse freely while being secure and private.

It also exceeds our expectations in terms of speed and performance. Using a 100 Mbps connection, the NordVPN speed test produced remarkable results. It achieves a download speed of 83.82 Mbps and an upload speed of 44.64 Mbps.

NordVPN speed test

NordVPN proved to be a true streaming VPN by delivering fast-speed results during our test.

NordVPN provides compatible client apps for all major operating systems including macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, and Windows. You can easily configure NordVPN on the router with its comprehensive installation guides.

NordVPN is now on deck for just $3.99/mo - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend, and you can also enjoy a 30-day return assurance. Moreover, if you sign up via your mobile phone, a 1-week NordVPN’s free trial will also be given.

For more technical details look up our extensive NordVPN review.

Pros
  • Fast speed connection
  • Setup guides for routers configuration
  • Extensive server choice
  • Access all popular streaming services
  • Military-grade AES-256 encryption
  • 30-day refund pledge

Cons
  • No app for the router

Get NordVPN For Netgear Routers 30-day money-back guarantee

Setup VPN on your Netgear router (Step-by-step)

When doing the Netgear VPN setup on your router, keep in mind It is not supposed to provide you with an encrypted tunnel or different public IP address. Because you are configuring both a server and a client, you will have to set up your VPN on both the router and the device in use.

Here are the steps to set up a VPN for Netgear armor:

  1. Subscribe to a premium VPN service. We recommend ExpressVPN.
  2. Now, open the web browser of your choice and use your router login.
  3. Enter your credentials for your router’s admin panel. (These credentials by default will be set as the username ‘admin’ and the password ‘password’ but you should customize them if you have not already done that.)
  4. Now, go to the settings and click on Advanced > Advanced Setup and then VPN Service.
  5. Enable VPN Service here and Apply these settings.
  6. Specify any VPN service settings that you want.
  7. Download the configuration files for OpenVPN on the device with which you want to connect your VPN and router.
  8. Add the OpenVPN account you have created in the app and connect!
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Our Methodology for choosing the Best VPN for Netgear routers

When choosing a VPN for Netgear routers it can be very tricky to find a service that can provide high performance along with all the features that are required. With such a saturated market there are a lot of options available and things can get very tricky to make the right choice.

Here is our methodology for how we selected our recommended VPNs suggested in this guide for you, what features you need the most, and what to look for:

  • Server choice: The server options and server count that a VPN offers must be vast and large. As a VPN is used to unblock geo-restricted content so it includes providing servers around the world.
  • Compatibility with routers: The best VPN for Netgear routers offers a wide range of device compatibility. The VPN should be compatible with the routers and should offer easy-to-configure setups.
  • VPN resources and guides: A VPN should offer resources and complete guides for the users. Also, the setup steps should be easy and every step should be included in the guide for clear guidance if someone is a beginner with VPNs.
  • Speed & security: A VPN should not throttle the bandwidth and offer high-speed servers as it is another essential feature. The security protocols should be advanced and upgraded. Military-grade security features like No-Logs Policy, Automatic Kill switch, OpenVPN,  and DNS leak protection should be available.
  • Price: A VPN should be priced keeping the users’ needs in mind. And the prices offered should be market competitive keeping the other VPNs’ prices in mind.

Can I use a free VPN with my Netgear router?

Yes, technically you can use a free VPN with your Netgear router, however, we do not recommend using a free VPN. It is not safe as free VPNs are not reliable especially if you are using a VPN to secure your data and internet traffic.

As free VPNs are free of cost they tend to sell these users’ data to third parties like ad companies. So this will result in your devices getting bombarded with ads all the time. It can also lead to viruses and malware on your device. So, where free VPNs are not recommended due to their security and privacy policies freemium VPNs can still work on routers if you want options.

We always support and recommend our users to use a premium VPN app for whatever VPN needs. ExpressVPN is our top-choice VPN service that can offer all kinds of features that you will require in your VPN. The best free VPN for Netgear routers option can be the ExpressVPN 30-day money-back guarantee.

Setting up ExpressVPN on your router comes with an added advantage: you can safeguard your network also by using its free trial. This makes it a dependable option as a free VPN for routers in USA, ensuring your online privacy and data are shielded every time you connect.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Best VPNs for Netgear routers

It’s reiterated that Netgear routers offer native VPN support. However, if you want to use any other VPN with your router to connect to its remote servers in other locations, you will require to change the firmware of your router to Tomato or DD-WRT. Our recommended VPNs offer setup guides for manual configuration as well.

Though Netgear routers have been in the business for over 2 decades, most of the models offered by the company don’t support OpenVPN, WireGuard, or other latest VPN protocols. To make your Netgear router compatible with a premium VPN app, you’ll be required to replace the firmware of your router with after-market firmware. You can either get the widely-used DD-WRT or you can also install Tomato firmware.

Yes, a Netgear router has a built-in VPN but that is not a robust kind of VPN that can protect your Internet connection or helps unblock geo-restricted content. If you want to use a VPN app due to these seasons, security, and geo-blocks, you need to configure a premium VPN service on your Netgear router.

Yes, NordVPN works great with a Netgear router and you can opt for it. Setting up NordVPN on your router can allow you to secure your internet traffic and it is a good way to allow a VPN on devices that do not support a VPN app. As NordvPN offers 24/7 customer support any issues can be resolved in minutes if you are facing them.


Conclusion

There’s no denying that installing a VPN on Netgear routers can enhance your online security significantly. However, the real roadblock is that Netgear doesn’t support the majority of VPN services available in the market. That’s why we have compiled this guide for you to help you get the best VPN for Netgear routers.

We have thoroughly tested multiple VPNs and analyzed their compatibility and utility with Netgear routers, along with speed, privacy, security, and other handy features.

The good thing is that all of our recommended VPNs support Netgear routers and provide setup guides to users for easy installation. ExpressVPN is our top-recommended VPN for Netgear routers because it offers custom support for Netgear along with state-of-the-art services.