5 Best VPNs for Netgear Routers in 2024 — Fast & Easy Install
Reading time: 21 min
Updated on November 17, 2023
A VPN is recommended if you want to use the internet safely, securely, and privately. Some Netgear routers have built-in VPNs. However, built-in VPNs aren’t as secure as premium VPNs as they don’t have the same advanced security features and aren’t as fast.
Sadly, not all premium VPNs are compatible with all Netgear routers. I tested over 50 VPNs with Netgear’s Nighthawk RAXE300, Orbi Quad-Band, and R6700AX router models to find out which VPNs worked well with them.
ExpressVPN is the best premium VPN for Netgear routers as it works natively. In addition, it’s the fastest and has the best features to keep you safe and anonymous online. You can get ExpressVPN risk-free as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
Get ExpressVPN for Netgear Routers
Quick Guide: Best VPNs for Netgear routers in 2024
- ExpressVPN — The only top VPN that offers custom firmware for Netgear routers. A 30-day money-back guarantee lets you buy ExpressVPN without risk.
- CyberGhost — Has servers optimized for streaming, but some distant servers can offer unreliable speeds.
- Private Internet Access — The biggest choice of servers to connect to with Netgear routers, but it doesn’t include instructions on how to flash your router.
- NordVPN — P2P servers offer an extra layer of security for torrenting on Netgear, but Double VPN servers aren’t available on routers.
- Surfshark — Has a built-in ad and malware blocker, but its monthly plans are expensive.
Editor’s Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
The Best VPNs for Netgear routers (Tested in 2024)
1. ExpressVPN — The Only Top VPN With Dedicated Firmware for Netgear Routers
Key Features:
- 3,000+ servers in 105 different countries all over the world
- Offers custom firmware for 5+ Netgear router models
- Keeps you safe and private on Netgear connections with military-grade AES 256-bit encryption, DNS/IP leak protection, an independently audited no-logs policy, and more
- Customer support is available via email, 24/7 live chat, and tutorials and online guides
- 30-day money-back guarantee on every subscription
ExpressVPN is the only premium VPN I tested that has native Netgear firmware. The VPN’s website offers firmware for models, including the R6300v2, R6400v2, and others. The installation process is straightforward, allowing easy configuration to protect your entire network. Detailed tutorials will guide you, and there’s 24/7 customer support if you need help.
One advantage of installing a VPN on a router is that the VPN connection will protect any device on the network. There is no limit to the number of devices that can use the VPN simultaneously. I connected 2 smartphones, a Smart TV, a PlayStation, and two PCs to the router’s ExpressVPN connection and only had an average of 3% slowdown across devices.
This was also the fastest VPN I tried with Netgear routers. I watched BBC Earth videos on YouTube in 4K while also downloading music and video-calling friends on Discord — all with no lag.
The functionalities with Netgear routers are also extremely useful. The Device Groups feature lets you assign servers to specific devices — I assigned a server in LA to my PlayStation and played Fortnite with American friends with only 10ms ping. You can also change server locations for Device Groups by selecting “VPN LOCATIONS”.
In tests, ExpressVPN servers seamlessly accessed various streaming services, including:
| Netflix | Amazon Prime Video | Disney+ | Hulu | Peacock TV | Paramount+ |
| BBC iPlayer | MUBI | MAX | Vudu | ESPN | Fubo TV |
| Showtime | DAZN | BT Sport | Discovery+ | RTE | UFC Fight Pass |
To keep you safe and anonymous while you use the internet with your Netgear router, ExpressVPN has strong data leak protection measures to prevent any of your DNS or IP information from passing through encryption ciphers. No data was exposed in my leak tests. Other security and privacy-protecting features include:
- AES 256-bit encryption — protects your data with a level of encryption that has never been cracked and is used by the US military.
- Network Lock kill switch — this feature instantly blocks all internet traffic if your Netgear router loses connection to the VPN, ensuring your data remains protected.
- RAM-based servers — ExpressVPN’s TrustedServer technology is based on RAM rather than physical hardware, and all data is deleted at the end of each session. This means none of your online activity with your Netgear router is stored anywhere.
- Independently audited — cybersecurity audit firms PwC, KPMG, and Cure53 have all verified that ExpressVPN’s no-logs policy is accurate.
- British Virgin Islands jurisdiction — ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands — one of the most privacy-friendly jurisdictions in the world. Authorities never request or grant access to any of your data.
While its price isn’t the lowest ( a month for the 2-year + 4 months free plan), ExpressVPN offers great value thanks to the dedicated Netgear firmware and the quality of its features. Choosing longer subscription plans also significantly reduces the cost. What’s best, ExpressVPN is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
ExpressVPN is also compatible with: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Amazon Kindle, Amazon Fire, gaming consoles, other routers, and more.
Get ExpressVPN's Black Friday Deal! You can subscribe to ExpressVPN for as low as per month + get extra 4 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to %)! This is a limited offer so grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here.
2. CyberGhost — Optimized Servers For Smooth Streaming on a Netgear Router
Key Features:
- At least 11,670 servers in 100 countries
- Lets you install on Netgear routers via DD-WRT and Tomato firmware
- Military-grade encryption, data leak protection, and RAM-based NoSpy servers
- 24/7 live chat, email support, and online tutorials are available if you need support
- 45-day refund policy
CyberGhost boasts a dedicated network of streaming-optimized servers to deliver smooth and buffer-free streaming experiences on your Netgear router. You can also switch servers by manually changing the configuration on the router to your chosen location and then restarting your router to access other libraries’ content.
When it comes to compatibility, CyberGhost works with DD-WRT routers, including many Netgear models. Although you have to install it manually, the installation process is user-friendly — CyberGhost provides detailed guides on its website to help you configure it on your router.
| Netflix | Amazon Prime Video | Disney+ | Hulu | Peacock TV |
| BBC iPlayer | Paramount+ | MAX | Vudu | ESPN |
| Showtime | MUBI | Discovery+ | RTE | Fubo TV |
With CyberGhost, your online identity remains safe because of military-grade encryption and advanced leak protection mechanisms. Other useful features include:
- WiFi Protection — when connected to your Netgear router, CyberGhost safeguards your data even on public WiFi networks. It immediately encrypts your traffic, preventing potential eavesdropping.
- Kill switch — this fail-safe mechanism cuts off your internet traffic if the VPN connection drops. This prevents data leaks and keeps your browsing secure.
- Privacy-friendly jurisdiction — CyberGhost is headquartered in Romania, which isn’t part of the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance or any other international intelligence-sharing agreements.
- Strict no-logs policy — this policy has been independently audited by Deloitte, providing assurance of CyberGhost’s commitment to user privacy.
Although CyberGhost’s overall speeds are extremely fast — second only to ExpressVPN’s — faraway servers can vary in their speed. However, it isn’t hard to switch to a new server if one gets a little slow. I connected to a server in New York, and my speeds only reduced by 9% despite the 3000+ mile distance. I watched videos in UHD on YouTube with no lag.
In terms of pricing, the 2-year + 2 months plan is pretty affordable at just per month, and CyberGhost offers a 45-day money-back guarantee, so you can give it a try without any worries. I personally checked this by reaching out to their 24/7 live chat support, and I got my refund in less than a week.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as CyberGhost VPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
CyberGhost is also compatible with: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire, Amazon Kindle, gaming consoles, other routers, and more.
2024 Update! You can subscribe to CyberGhost for as low as per month + get an extra 2 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to %)! This is a limited offer so grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here.
3. PIA — More Servers to Connect to With Netgear Routers Than Any Other VPN
Key Features:
- 35,000+ servers in 91 countries
- Configuration files available for Netgear routers
- Military-grade encryption, tracker blocker, automatic kill switch, and more protect your privacy
- Customer support available via email, 24/7 live chat, Twitter/X, and online knowledge base
- Claim a refund within 30 days
Private Internet Access (PIA) has more individual servers to connect your Netgear router to than any of my top premium VPNs. This means that it’s extremely unlikely any server will become overcrowded and slow.
You can also change servers when using PIA through a router. To change to a new server, you just need to reconfigure the files and server location directly on your router. During tests, PIA servers allowed me to access popular streaming platforms like:
| Netflix | Amazon Prime Video | Disney+ | Hulu | Peacock TV | Paramount+ | Showtime |
| RTE | MUBI | MAX | Vudu | ESPN | Fubo TV | Discovery+ |
This is a very fast VPN, too — I only experienced an 11-12% slowdown when I connected to servers in New York and New Jersey. I downloaded a 10GB video file while talking to friends on Skype and browsing in another tab, all without lag.
There are plenty of features to keep you safe and private online with PIA on a Netgear router. In addition to 256-bit encryption and leak protection safeguards, there are also:
- RAM-based servers — PIA uses RAM-based servers, meaning no data is stored on these servers permanently. This enhances your privacy, as there’s no risk of data retention or exposure.
- MACE blocker — the built-in MACE feature not only prevents annoying ads but also protects you from potential threats while you use the internet on your Netgear router.
- No-logs policy — PIA’s commitment to user privacy is backed by an independently audited no-logs policy, verified by Deloitte.
Unfortunately, PIA doesn’t include instructions on flashing your router. However, it does provide instructions on installing the VPN on firmware for Netgear routers. You can also find instructions on flashing your router elsewhere online.
At just a month with the 2-year + 2 months plan, PIA has one of the best monthly VPN plans in terms of value for money. PIA offers a generous 30-day refund window in case you’re not satisfied. I tested this out by using their online support ticket system to ask for a refund, and I received a confirmation on the same day. I had my money back in just 5 days.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
PIA is also compatible with: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire, gaming consoles, other routers, and more.
2024 Update! You can subscribe to PIA for as low as per month + get an extra 2 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to %)! This is a limited offer, so grab it now before it's gone! See more information on this offer here!
4. NordVPN — Specialized P2P Servers Let You Torrent Safely On Netgear Routers
Key Features:
- Over 6,300 servers in 111 different countries all over the world
- Install on Netgear routers with DD-WRT firmware
- Kill switch, Double VPN, and proven no-logs policy keep you anonymous online
- 24/7 live chat, email support, and online knowledge base available
- 30-day money-back guarantee on every subscription
Most of NordVPN’s servers are optimized for P2P file sharing, so you can torrent using your Netgear router connection securely and with high speeds. However, remember to only download legal, non-copyrighted files — even with a strong VPN like NordVPN.
There are plenty of other features that keep your identity private on Netgear. NordVPN uses the military-grade encryption and leak protection defenses expected from premium VPNs. It’s also based in one of the most privacy-friendly countries in the world — Panama — and its no-logs policy is verified by PwC. Its kill switch also worked without fail when I tested it.
There are servers in 111 countries, and in tests they easily accessed services like:
| Netflix | Amazon Prime Video | Disney+ | Hulu | Peacock TV | Paramount+ |
| BBC iPlayer | MUBI | MAX | Vudu | ESPN | Fubo TV |
If you want to set NordVPN up on your Netgear router, there are detailed guides online to help you configure this. You’ll need to set up DD-WRT firmware, but the instructions explain how you can do this. I tried this out (with no previous experience or technical knowledge of DD-WRT), and it only took me 20 minutes.
One potential drawback of this VPN is that the Double VPN feature — which gives you an extra layer of protection by routing your traffic through two servers — isn’t available on routers. However, NordVPN’s encryption and other security features are more than strong enough for safe, anonymous internet use.
You can get NordVPN for $2.99 with the 2-year + 3 months plan, and it also has a 30-day refund policy in case you change your mind. I put their money-back guarantee to the test by reaching out via the 24/7 live chat, and I had my money back in my account in less than a week.
NordVPN is also compatible with: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire, gaming consoles, and more.
5. Surfshark — Built-in Malware Blocker Keeps You Safe On Netgear Routers
Key Features:
- 3,200+ servers in 100 different countries
- Compatible with DD-WRT and Tomato routers
- 256-bit encryption, kill switch, and built-in malware blocker
- Customer support available via email, 24/7 live chat, and tutorials and online guides
- 30-day refund policy
Surfshark’s CleanWeb is a powerful tool designed to keep your Netgear online experience free from malware, phishing attempts, and intrusive ads. CleanWeb blocks access to malicious websites, shields you from online threats, and even eliminates ads. To use it on a router, change the router’s DNS to 151.236.14.64 and 62.216.95.100, then press “Apply”.
Surfshark also has 256-bit encryption and leak protection for extra security and privacy. Camouflage Mode disguises your VPN traffic to appear like regular internet traffic, enhancing your online privacy. RAM-based servers and a no-logs policy mean that none of your data is collected or stored.
It’s a fast VPN as well as a secure one — I connected to a server in New York and only had an 18% slowdown. During tests, One Piece on Netflix loaded in less than 10 seconds and played lag-free.
In tests, Surfshark’s servers accessed:
| Netflix | Amazon Prime Video | Disney+ | Hulu | MUBI |
| Peacock TV | MAX | Vudu | ESPN | Paramount+ |
The VPN is compatible with various Netgear router models, and its installation process is straightforward. You can easily configure Surfshark on your Netgear router by following Surfshark’s user-friendly online setup guides.
Although Surfshark’s 1-month plan is pretty expensive at $12.95, you can get a 2-year + 4 months subscription for just $1.99. Plus, you have 30 days to get a refund if you change your mind. I tried this out through their 24/7 live chat, and I had my money back within a week.
Surfshark is also compatible with: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire, and more.
Comparison Table: 2024’s Best VPNs for Netgear Routers
| VPN | Dedicated Netgear Firmware? | Global Servers and Countries | Security and Privacy Features | AES 256-bit encryption | Best Plan and Price |
| ExpressVPN | ✔ | 3,000+ servers in 105 countries |
|
✔ | a month for 2-year + 4 months free plan |
| CyberGhost | ✘ | 11,670+ servers in 100 countries |
|
✔ | a month for 2-year + 2 months plan |
| PIA | ✘ | 35,000+ servers in 91 countries |
|
✔ | a month for 2-year + 2 months plan |
| NordVPN | ✘ | 6,300+ servers in 111 countries |
|
✔ | $2.99 a month for 2-year + 3 months plan |
| Surfshark | ✘ | 3,200+ servers in 100 countries |
|
✔ | $1.99 a month for 2-year + 4 months plan |
Editor’s Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
How I Tested and Ranked the Best VPNs for Netgear Routers in 2024
I judged each premium VPN on a list of criteria to narrow the selection down to the top 5:
- Compatible with Netgear routers — the first thing I tested was whether or not each VPN worked with Netgear routers. Only Netgear-compatible VPNs made the final list.
- Strong security features — the best VPNs for Netgear routers have features like military-grade encryption, kill switches, and data leak protection. My list only includes VPNs with these features to protect your data.
- No-logs policy — unfortunately, some VPNs log your online activity and data. I only included VPNs with no-logs policies.
- Fast speeds — whether you just want to check Facebook or play Call of Duty: Warzone online, you want a VPN with fast speeds. No VPNs in the final running slowed my speeds too much.
- Large server networks — unlike Netgear’s built-in VPNs, the best VPNs should give you a range of locations to route your traffic through. Only VPNs with servers all over the world made my top 5 list.
- Customer support — setting up a VPN on your Netgear router isn’t always easy, and there are often multiple ways to configure it. I only picked VPNs with accessible customer support to give advice on this.
Quick Guide: How to Install a VPN on Netgear Router
- Subscribe to and download a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN as it’s the best overall VPN for Netgear routers. Its 30-day money-back guarantee lets you buy it confidently.
- Download the router firmware from your VPN’s website. Choose your model of Netgear router from the menu.
- Connect your router to the internet. Carry out the initial setup if it’s a new router.
- Install the firmware on the router. Follow your VPN’s instructions, and sign in with your router’s username and password if prompted.
- Connect your device to the new VPN router. The network name will be your Netgear router’s WiFi name. Alternatively, use a LAN cable.
- Finish the router setup. When a setup screen appears, follow the instructions.
- Connect to a server. Choose a server in your desired location. You can also let the VPN find the fastest server automatically.
- That’s it! Now, you can use the internet safely and anonymously via your Netgear router.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
FAQs About VPNs for Netgear Routers
How do VPNs work on Netgear routers, and why are they recommended?
Installing a VPN on your Netgear router secures your entire home network. The best VPNs encrypt your data with military-grade ciphers, making it virtually impossible for anyone to intercept or eavesdrop on your online activities. This is recommended for anyone using the internet because it ensures privacy and security, protecting all devices connected to the router.
Which VPNs work with Netgear routers?
Not all VPNs work with all Netgear routers. However, all of the VPNs on this list are compatible with popular Netgear router models like the R6700AX, Nighthawk RAXE300, and Orbi Quad-Band.
Are all Netgear routers compatible with VPNs?
Netgear routers that support OpenVPN or L2TPIPsec are compatible with most VPNs. Premium VPNs like ExpressVPN even offer custom firmware for router brands, including Netgear. To find out if your router supports VPN installations, check the user manual or visit the Netgear website and look up your router’s specifications.
Some Netgear routers have built-in VPNs, but they’re less secure or versatile than premium VPN services. They also don’t let you connect to remote servers. If your router doesn’t support VPNs, you can still protect your devices by installing a VPN directly on each device.
How do you replace the firmware on a Netgear router, and which firmware should you use?
The best VPNs for Netgear routers have instructions on how to replace router firmware with VPN-compatible firmware. Replacing firmware (also known as “flashing”) will let you connect your router to VPN servers. Follow instructions carefully, as flashing incorrectly can damage your router and/or void its warranty.
The firmware compatible with your VPN will most likely be DD-WRT, Tomato, or OpenWRT. I recommend trying DD-WRT first, as it has the most support available and works on most routers. On some sites, you can also buy Netgear routers with specific premium VPNs pre-installed.
Do you need to install a VPN on other devices if you’ve installed it on your router?
No, you don’t need to install a VPN client on individual devices when you’ve already set up your VPN on your Netgear router. The router routes all connected devices’ traffic through the VPN server, allowing you to use as many devices as you want simultaneously.
However, you may want to install VPN clients on devices if you use them outside the house and want to maintain privacy and security on other networks. This is especially important if you use public WiFi, which is often unsecured.
Can you use a free VPN with your Netgear router?
You can, but I don’t recommend it. Even the very best free VPNs lack the advanced security and privacy features of premium options. Many don’t encrypt your data, and some even sell it to third parties like marketers and advertisers.
If you want to save money, I recommend using a premium VPN and claiming a refund instead. Many premium VPNs have policies that allow this. For example, CyberGhost lets you get your money back within 45 days of using it.
Get a VPN For Your Netgear Router Today
A VPN is crucial to safeguard your online privacy and security. While some Netgear routers offer built-in VPNs, they lack the functionality to route your traffic through remote servers. Many of Netgear’s built-in VPNs are also on blocklists, so they may not work with all the services you are trying to access.
I suggest using a premium VPN like ExpressVPN with your Netgear router to protect your entire home network. ExpressVPN has robust security features, a vast choice of servers in numerous locations, and blazing-fast speeds. Its 30-day money-back guarantee also means you can use it without risk.
Summary: 5 Best VPNs for Netgear Routers 2024
Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
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