5 Best VPNs for TP-Link Routers in 2024: Easy Setup Guide
Reading time: 18 min
Posted on June 02, 2024
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Fact-Checked by Sarah Frazier Content Manager
Using a VPN with your TP-Link router is an excellent way to boost security for your device network — especially when you have devices that don’t natively support a VPN app.
However, not all VPNs are compatible with TP-Link routers. It’s vital to choose one that is easy to configure, has impressive connection speeds, and premium security and privacy features to protect your entire network.
I’ve tested more than 30 services with my TP-Link router to find the top compatible VPNs. ExpressVPN is the best in 2024, with a router app for easy setup and connections, fast speeds, and best-in-class security. Plus, if you change your mind, you can get a full refund within 30 days — so testing ExpressVPN is 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.
Use ExpressVPN with TP-Link routers
Caution: Configuring third-party software (like a VPN) with your TP-Link router could cause irreparable damage if not done properly, or void your warranty. It’s important to understand that you are making these modifications at your own risk. Make sure to check compatibility and warranty with the manufacturer before installation.
Short on Time? Best VPNs Compatible With TP-Link Routers
- ExpressVPN — #1 for TP-Link routers, with a dedicated router app for easy connections, fast speeds, and premium security for your devices.
- CyberGhost — hassle-free installation and easy to configure, but can’t use optimized servers with TP-Link router connections.
- Private Internet Access — customizable encryption allows precise configurations for TP-Link router connections, but US headquarters aren’t ideal for data privacy.
- NordVPN — high-quality security and reliably fast connection speeds, but only supports OpenVPN with TP-Link routers (NordLynx isn’t available).
- Surfshark — solid budget VPN with setup guides for OpenVPN and WireGuard, but top security features aren’t available for TP-Link router configurations.
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 TP-Link Routers (Tested in 2024)
1. ExpressVPN — #1 With Dedicated Router App for Easy Setup and Fast Connections
Key Features:
- Unique router app for easy connections with OpenVPN
- 3,000+ servers in 105 countries
- Fastest connection speeds for smooth streaming, torrenting, and gaming
- Military-grade encryption, kill switch, and RAM-based servers
- 30-day money-back guarantee
ExpressVPN is the best service for TP-Link routers in 2024, with a dedicated router app designed to make connections simple. After following ExpressVPN’s step-by-step OpenVPN guide, I could log in to my router via my browser to make quick changes to my VPN connection — switching servers took seconds and just a couple of clicks.
Unique to ExpressVPN’s router app, the Device Groups feature lets you create up to 5 groups with connections in different locations. For example, you can use this to stream Netflix US with MediaStreamer on a smart TV while connecting your PC and iPhone to a different local server for work. You can even switch between servers without interrupting other groups.
ExpressVPN is the fastest VPN I’ve tested, and I was impressed by my network speeds with its router connections. I had more than 10 devices using my WiFi simultaneously, and the difference in speed was negligible — I could stream, torrent, play games, and browse without any lags or interruptions.
The only issue with ExpressVPN is its price — it’s a little more expensive than other options, with plans starting at $6.67/month. However, I think it’s worth the cost for quick setup, easy configuration, and premium security.
All plans are backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN risk-free. I tested this and the process was quick and easy. I spent 5 minutes with live chat and had all my money back in just a few 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 ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
ExpressVPN works with: Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Max, BBC iPlayer, ITVX, ESPN, DAZN, and more.
ExpressVPN works on: Routers from TP-Link, Asus, Linksys, Netgear, plus Windows, macOS, Linux, Chromebook, Android, iOS, browsers, game consoles, Amazon Fire devices, streaming devices, Android TVs, smart TVs, and more.
2024 Update! ExpressVPN has dropped prices for a limited time to a crazy $6.67 per month for the 1-year plan + 3 months free (you can save up to 49%)! This is a limited offer so be sure to grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here.
2. CyberGhost — Hassle-Free Installation With Configurable Settings for TP-Link Routers
Key Features:
- Compatible with TP-Link routers (OpenVPN)
- 11,676+ servers in 100 countries
- Create VPN router configurations for gaming and ads in your account dashboard
- Military-grade encryption, leak protection, RAM-based servers, and zero-log policy
- 45-day money-back guarantee
CyberGhost’s detailed setup guides make it hassle-free to configure with your TP-Link router. There are plenty of step-by-step instructions on its help website for various routers so you can configure OpenVPN quickly and easily.
I was especially impressed by CyberGhost’s customization options for router connections. With the OpenVPN protocol, you can choose which server type you want (with an option specifically for gamers — ideal for playing fast-paced online games like Call of Duty: Warzone) and include ad, tracker, and malware protection.
Overall, CyberGhost’s router connection speeds are reliably fast when using a local server. However, I noticed some slowdown when using distant servers — a 20% drop from my base speed, heightened further when I connected multiple devices. It’s worth bearing this in mind if you want to use long-distance servers and your network is slow (25Mbps or less).
I was disappointed to find there are no options to use streaming- or torrent-optimized servers with router connections. This is a shame, as CyberGhost is a top choice for both streaming and P2P downloads, and using optimized servers would provide better stability for slower networks.
It’s worth trying CyberGhost as it’s a reasonably priced option, with plans starting at $2.03/month. Plus, long-term plans have a generous 45-day money-back guarantee, so you can test the VPN without risk. If it’s not right for you, you can get a full refund by contacting the 24/7 live chat support.
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 works with: Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Max, BBC iPlayer, ITVX, ESPN, DAZN, and more.
CyberGhost works on: Routers from TP-Link, Asus, Linksys, Netgear, plus Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, browsers, game consoles, Amazon Fire devices, streaming devices, Android TVs, smart TVs, and more.
2024 Update! You can subscribe to CyberGhost for as low as $2.03 per month + get an extra 4 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to 84%)! This is a limited offer so grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here.
3. Private Internet Access — Customizable Encryption to Boost Router Speed or Security
Key Features:
- Compatible with TP-Link routers (OpenVPN)
- 35,000+ servers in 91 countries
- Customizable encryption levels for router connections
- Kill switch, MACE ad and malware blocker, and leak protection
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Private Internet Access (PIA) allows you to adjust OpenVPN encryption levels for router connections. This gives you the flexibility to use an existing configuration or create a unique connection with improved speeds (AES-128-bit encryption) or top-tier security (AES-256-bit encryption), depending on your needs.
It’s easy to set up PIA with your TP-Link router, as there are comprehensive step-by-step guides for OpenVPN on the help site. These guides are detailed to ensure you can configure the VPN with minimal hassle.
When it comes to performance, PIA maintains reasonably fast speeds, making it a good option for both streaming and torrenting. You can stream content on local providers and engage in P2P file sharing without experiencing significant speed drops, which is crucial for a seamless online experience.
My issue with PIA is that it’s headquartered in the US, a notoriously unfriendly state for data privacy. While independent audits have proven PIA doesn’t log user data, this may still be off putting for some users who want a VPN located in a more privacy-friendly country.
Price-wise, PIA is a low-cost option for both short- and long-term plans. It’s one of the best month-to-month VPNs, and its 2-year + 2 months plan is just $2.19/month. All subscriptions are backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can get a full refund if it’s not the right choice for you.
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 works with: Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Max, ITVX, ESPN, and more.
PIA works on: Routers from TP-Link, Asus, Linksys, Netgear, plus Windows, macOS, Linux, Chromebook, Android, iOS, browsers, game consoles, Amazon Fire devices, streaming devices, Android TVs, smart TVs, and more.
2024 Update! You can subscribe to PIA for as low as $2.19 per month + get an extra 2 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to 82%)! This is a limited offer, so grab it now before it's gone! See more information on this offer here!
4. NordVPN — Robust and Reliable Global Connections for Your Router
Key Features:
- Compatible with TP-Link routers (OpenVPN)
- 6,300+ servers in 111 countries
- Solid server network with reliable short- and long-distance connections
- Military-grade encryption, automatic kill switch, and zero log policy
- 30-day money-back guarantee
NordVPN’s reliable network maintains consistent connections without interruptions. During tests, I didn’t experience issues with NordVPN’s router connections on both short- and long-distance servers. Connections to the servers are fast, and I didn’t have drops that required the automatic kill switch to protect my data.
I was impressed by NordVPN’s customizable OpenVPN configurations that let you tailor your connection. You can choose the server country and type (like P2P for torrenting or Obfuscated for extra privacy). This generates a unique configuration for your TP-Link router, optimizing performance for your specific needs.
The downside to NordVPN is the need to manually reconfigure the connection each time you wish to switch servers. This process can be fiddly and annoying if you frequently change server locations for various reasons, especially if you want specific server types. Still, with its easy-to-follow setup guide for TP-Link routers, this is a minor inconvenience.
NordVPN’s plans start at $3.09/month, but you’ll find the price increases significantly if you renew after your initial subscription. All plans have a 30-day money-back guarantee to try NordVPN.
NordVPN works with: Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Max, BBC iPlayer, ITVX, ESPN, and more.
NordVPN works on: Routers from TP-Link, Asus, Linksys, Netgear, plus Windows, macOS, Linux, Chromebook, Android, iOS, browsers, game consoles, Amazon Fire devices, streaming devices, Android TVs, smart TVs, and more.
5. Surfshark — Only Top VPN to Support WireGuard With TP-Link Routers
Key Features:
- Compatible with TP-Link routers (OpenVPN and WireGuard)
- 3,200+ servers in 100 countries
- Supports WireGuard protocol for faster connections
- AES-256-bit encryption, data leak protection, and audited privacy policy
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Surfshark is the only top VPN provider that offers both WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols for TP-Link routers. This lets you choose between a faster connection (ideal for slower networks) or a tried-and-tested protocol with improved security.
Detailed step-by-step guides are readily available on the website, ensuring that even if you’re new to VPNs, you can easily set up your router for enhanced security and privacy.
During tests, Surfshark maintained good speeds across its network, so I could stream and torrent without interruptions. However, ping was high over long distances — making it difficult to play online games.
While Surfshark boasts solid security and privacy features, it is worth noting a minor drawback: some of its best features aren’t available in the router configuration. I was disappointed to find I couldn’t configure IP rotation and automatic ad blocking.
If you’d like to try Surfshark, its plans are competitively priced. You get the best deal with a long-term subscription, starting at $2.19/month. All subscriptions have a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you change your mind, you can get a full refund.
Surfshark works with: Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Max, BBC iPlayer, ITVX, ESPN, and more.
Surfshark works on: Routers from TP-Link, Asus, Linksys, Netgear, plus Windows, macOS, Linux, Chromebook, Android, iOS, browsers, game consoles, Amazon Fire devices, streaming devices, Android TVs, smart TVs, and more.
Comparison Table: 2024’s Best VPNs for TP-Link Routers
| ExpressVPN | CyberGhost | PIA | NordVPN | Surfshark | |
| Router App | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ |
| Connection Speed | Very Fast | Fast | Good | Fast | Good |
| Server Network | 3,000+ servers in 105 locations | 11,676+ servers in 100 locations | 35,000+ servers in 111 locations | 6,300+ servers in 111 locations | 3,200+ servers in 100 locations |
| Lowest Price | $6.67/month | $2.03/month | $3.09/month | $3.09/month | $2.19/month |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 30 days | 45 days | 30 days | 30 days | 30 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.
How I Tested and Ranked the Best VPNs for TP-Link Routers
I tested the best VPNs in 2024 and ranked them according to the following criteria:
- Compatibility with TP-Link routers — the recommended VPNs are compatible with TP-Link routers and support OpenVPN connections, with some also supporting WireGuard.
- Easy to set up — I looked for step-by-step setup guides for TP-Link devices or router instructions that are easy to follow so you can get connected quickly.
- Fast connection speeds — each VPN underwent multiple tests to ensure they provide reliably fast speeds, even with a whole network of devices connected, for browsing, streaming, downloading, and gaming without lag or interruptions.
- Premium security and privacy features — you’ll find military-grade encryption, leak protection, a kill switch, and a zero-log privacy policy to ensure your data is secure and protected when you’re connected.
- 24/7 customer support — the recommended VPNs have 24/7 live chat available for quick help with setup, connection queries, and other questions you may have.
- Value for money — the best VPNs are available at a variety of price points to suit your budget, and each VPN has a tried-and-tested money-back guarantee for peace of mind.
7 Easy Steps: How to Set Up a VPN With a TP-Link Router
Before you attempt to configure your VPN with your router, check to make sure that the TP-Link router you have is VPN-compatible. If it’s not, you’ll need to install different firmware on your router that is VPN-compatible — this can be tricky and cause permanent damage if done incorrectly, so I don’t recommend it unless you’re certain of the process.
If your TP-Link router is VPN-compatible, here are the steps to configuring a VPN with your router:
- Get a VPN that works with TP-Link routers. For fast speeds and reliable network connections, ExpressVPN is the best option in 2024.
![screenshot of ExpressVPN website router page, highlighting the "Get ExpressVPN" button]()
- Download your VPN’s router configuration files. These will be available in your VPN account settings.
![image of ExpressVPN account showing the download options, highlighting the router firmware download option]()
- Log in to your router using the TP-Link website. You’ll need your TP-Link ID or router password.
- Enable the VPN Client in your router by choosing “Advanced” and “VPN Client.”
![screenshot of TP-Link router interface VPN Client settings, with "Enable" setting highlighted.]()
- Add VPN servers by clicking “Add” in the “Server List” section. Here, you’ll need to add the information from your VPN provider, including a name for your connection, the VPN type (for example, OpenVPN), and configuration files.
![image of TP-Link router "Add Profile" settings, highlighting boxes that need user information and file uploads.]()
- Add the devices that will connect to the VPN by clicking “Add” in the “Device List” section. These could be your smartphone, PC, or smart TV.
![image of TP-Link router "Add Devices" settings, highlighting the checkbox to add a specific device to allow VPN access.]()
- Save your settings, and connect your chosen device to the router. You can now access the internet through your TP-Link router with the protection of your VPN.
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.
VPN Not Working With TP-Link Router? Try These Quick Fixes
There are a few reasons your VPN might not be working with your TP-Link router: incorrect settings, an incompatible protocol, firewall restrictions or even network congestion. Fortunately, there are a few things you can try to resolve the issue:
- Review your connection settings — make sure all VPN details are entered correctly, like the server address, protocol type, and your login information.
- Connect to a different VPN server — choose an alternative server and reconfigure your router with the new connection details, making sure they’re correct.
- Change your protocol — if your VPN supports multiple protocols, switch from OpenVPN to WireGuard or IKEv2 to see if this works better for you.
- Update your VPN and router firmware — make sure both your VPN and router firmware are up-to-date, as this will ensure all necessary patches and fixes are installed.
- Configure antivirus and firewall settings — it’s possible your antivirus or firewall are blocking the VPN connection — add your VPN as a trusted connection to your antivirus and firewall settings.
- Contact your VPN customer support — your VPN’s support agents can guide you through additional troubleshooting tips or help configure your connection to get it working again.
FAQs: VPNs and TP-Link Routers
Why do I need a VPN for my TP-Link router?
Setting up a VPN with your TP-Link router is the best way to encrypt unlimited device connections. Your router only counts as 1 device, no matter how many additional devices to add to your network via WiFi — you can protect every device you own, including those that don’t support a VPN app (like a smart TV or game console).
By using a VPN with your TP-Link router, you secure your online activities from third-party spies and ISP throttling. Sensitive data (for banking or shopping) is hidden from anyone watching, and bandwidth-heavy activities (like streaming or torrenting) aren’t detectable. This means you get top-tier protection and improved performance.
Is my VPN compatible with a TP-Link router?
Is OpenVPN on TP-Link safe or should I use WireGuard?
Yes, OpenVPN is a safe option for setting up a VPN with your TP-Link router. OpenVPN is widely considered one of the safest and most robust protocols available, with a long history of proven security and privacy.
If your VPN supports WireGuard configuration, this is also a good option. It’s much more lightweight than OpenVPN (4,000 lines of code vs 40,000 lines) so you’ll have better speeds as well as high-level security.
Can I use a free VPN with a TP-Link router?
Most free VPNs don’t have router compatibility, so it’s unlikely you’ll find a free VPN that actually works. Unlike the top VPNs for TP-Link routers, free services usually only support 1 device connection for platforms like Windows or iOS — but not for routers. Plus, you’ll also experience slower speeds, server restrictions, and data caps with free VPNs.
Even the best free VPNs in 2024 aren’t ideal for TP-Link routers as they don’t generally have router support for free users. I recommend using a premium VPN to ensure full compatibility and unlimited service for your TP-Link router connections.
Protect Your TP-Link Router With a VPN
Using a VPN with your TP-Link router significantly enhances security across your entire network, providing protection for all connected devices. Choosing a VPN that offers easy configuration, robust speeds, and superior security and privacy features ensures your network is secure against online threats.
After extensive testing, ExpressVPN emerges as the top choice in 2024. It simplifies the setup process through a dedicated router app and maintains fast connection speeds with leading-edge security features. Plus, you can test ExpressVPN without risk as all plans are backed by a 30-day guarantee.
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