How to Set Up a VPN on Your Router

Summary

This guide will help you configure a VPN connection on your router. You can set up either OpenVPN or ShadowSocks VPN connections. A VPN will route your internet traffic through an encrypted tunnel, providing additional privacy and security for all devices connected to your network.

Prerequisites

• Access to your router's admin panel (How to Access Your Router Admin Panel)
• VPN credentials from your VPN provider
• Connect to your router's network via WiFi or Ethernet cable

Setting Up OpenVPN

1. Access the VPN Settings
   • In the admin panel sidebar, click VPN > OpenVPN
   • If you're on mobile, click the hamburger menu (☰) first, then navigate to VPN > OpenVPN
2. Enable OpenVPN Client
   • Click on OpenVPN Client
   • Toggle the switch to Open to enable the VPN client
3. Configure VPN Credentials
   • Enter the VPN credentials provided by your VPN provider
   • This typically includes:
     • Server address
     • Username and password
     • Certificate files (if required)
4. Save Settings
   • Click Apply to save your VPN configuration
   • Wait for the router to apply the changes

Setting Up ShadowSocks

1. Access ShadowSocks Settings
   • In the admin panel sidebar, click VPN > ShadowSocks
   • If you're on mobile, click the hamburger menu (☰) first, then navigate to VPN > ShadowSocks
2. Enable ShadowSocks Client
   • Click on Shadow Shuttle Client
   • Toggle the switch to Open to enable the ShadowSocks client
3. Configure VPN Credentials
   • Enter the credentials provided by your VPN provider
   • This typically includes:
     • Server address
     • Port number
     • Password
     • Encryption method
4. Save Settings
   • Click Apply to save your VPN configuration
   • Wait for the router to apply the changes

Troubleshooting

VPN not connecting:

• Double-check that all credentials are entered correctly
• Verify your VPN subscription is active with your provider
• Try restarting your router after applying VPN settings

Internet not working after VPN setup:

• Ensure your VPN provider supports router connections
• Check if your VPN provider has specific server recommendations for routers
• Try connecting to a different VPN server location

Can't find VPN options in admin panel:

• Make sure you're logged into the admin panel with the correct credentials
• Try refreshing your browser or clearing your browser cache
• Ensure your router firmware supports VPN functionality

Need additional help: If you need assistance with specific VPN provider settings or encounter issues with your VPN connection, we recommend contacting your VPN provider directly. They will be able to provide the most accurate configuration details and troubleshooting steps for their specific service.

Next Steps

Once your VPN is configured and connected, all devices connected to your router will automatically use the VPN connection. You can verify your VPN is working by checking your IP address on a website like whatismyip.com before and after enabling the VPN.