More and more users are choosing to use a VPN to browse the Internet, a decision that we can make for very varied reasons: from work reasons to security and privacy issues on the network, to avoiding geographical restrictions on access. time to access streaming content platforms.
Today we have a multitude of different VPNs at our disposal. Of course, not all alternatives are recommended and it is important to take into account a series of tips to choose the right VPN. If you have already chosen a VPN, it is interesting to keep in mind that There are usually two options to install it: independently on each device or on the router.
Setting up a VPN on the router
Although the most common thing when starting to use a VPN connection is to configure it directly on the mobile or computer, this method forces us to repeat the process for each device in which we want to use the VPN. That is, we have to configure the VPN manually on the mobile, tablet, computer, smart TV and similar devices. The task is complicated if several people live at home and they all want to take advantage of the advantages of using a VPN.
Luckily, there is an alternative way that should be taken into account: configure the VPN directly on the router. Thus We only have to complete the process once. and all devices connected to the network (both wirelessly and wired) will be able to browse the Internet through the VPN we have chosen.
Installing the VPN directly on the router is not a very complex process, although it requires some skill when configuring this type of device. The first thing we have to do is access the router configuration page from one of the devices we have at home. It is generally possible to do entering the address 192.168.1.1 (in some cases the router address may be 192.168.0.1) from any browser.
It is important to keep in mind that to access the router configuration panel we will have to enter the access password, which is not the same as that of the WiFi network. If you are not sure what the router access password is, I recommend checking the manual or contacting your telephone company to consult.
Once in the configuration panel we will have to locate the VPN configuration section. Every router is different, so There is no single way to access these settings. Even so, the most common thing is that it is found within the advanced configuration options. If your router has a section dedicated to VPN settings, you will need to follow the instructions of your chosen VPN provider to complete the installation.
The steps to follow usually consist of entering our username and password and upload a configuration file to the router in order to complete the process. This part may vary depending on the VPN we choose, since not all configuration processes are the same. Once the process is complete, all that remains is to make sure to save the changes so that all devices on the network can navigate through the VPN without having to manually configure it on each one.
At this point it is worth keeping in mind that Not all routers allow you to configure a VPN. Although this setting is available on many different models, the option may not be available if you use your carrier’s router. If you are very interested in this option, we recommend purchasing a router compatible with VPN configuration.
Cover image | Stephen Phillips (Unsplash)