Although VPN software is very powerful, extending your VPN security through your Wi-Fi is even more secure.
When you use a VPN router to extend your VPN connection throughout your house, everything becomes encrypted–meaning all of your data on your iPhone, Android, iPad, laptops, game consoles, and even streaming boxes like your Roku and Apple TV.
VPN routers are super useful for accessing streaming services on other devices, or just maintaining a tight network of security. Sometimes setting up a VPN router can be difficult, but we’ve hand-picked some great routers that are pre-flashed with everything you need for a plug and play experience.
Here are the best DDWRT and Tomato VPN routers of 2016.
TP-LINK TL-WDR3500
The TP-Link TL-WDR3500 is an affordable powerhouse just under a $100 budget. We love this router since it performs well despite the low price point with a dual band channel that delivers 300 Mbps at 2.4Ghz and 300 Mbps at 5Ghz. The WDR3500 features an outside USB port for external device connection, a WPS button for simple access without online setup, and two detachable antennas.
Specs:
TP-LINK TL-WDR3500 Features:
- 600Mbps available
- 2 Dual band antennas
- 1 USB port
- WPS button
- 11.2 x 2.7 x 8.8 inches ; 1.6 pounds
- Supports 100-240V power supply
- Wi-Fi on/off button
- Ships Pre-Configured with GhostVPN Service
TP-LINK ARCHER C7 AC1750
The TP-Link Archer C7 AC1750 router is perfect for the multi-media powered house or a crowded gaming network. This router impressed us with the 2.4Ghz 450 Mbps channel alongside a robust 5Ghz 1300Mbps dual band channel.
Even with wide distances between router and devices, three external antennas provide a stable connection even in larger houses with multiple Internet-connected devices.
It’s quite easy to download and watch 4k video on Netflix, stream game streams, or even simultaneously download torrents on both channels uninterrupted with the Archer C7 AC1750.
Specs:
TP-LINK TL-WR1043ND Features:
- 1.75 Gbps available
- Dual-band 802.11 A/C
- 3 antennas
- Supports 100-240V power supply
- Wi-Fi on/off button
- 2 USB ports
- WPS button
- 6.4 x 9.6 x 1.3 inches ; 1.9 pounds
- Ships Pre-Configured with GhostVPN Service
ASUS RT-AC66U
If you need some serious power and high speeds, the Asus RT-AC66U is the perfect fit with Broadcom’s 5th generation Wi-Fi (5G). The router features a powerful dual band system with 2.4GHZ/5Ghz bands that deliver data rates of 1.75Gbps.
On the outside, RT-AC66U features twin USB ports, Asus’s unique AiRadar technology that optimizes signals for advanced relay and expanded networks.
Specs:
- 5th generation 802.11ac chipset gives you concurrent dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz for blazing fast 1.75Gbps
- Gigabit Ethernet ports for the most secure, reliable internet performance
- AiRadar optimizes wireless coverage with detachable high-powered antennas
- File sharing, printer sharing, and 3G sharing via two multi-functional built-in USB ports
NIGHTHAWK X6 AC3200
If you’re not on a budget, or you crave speeds that are next-generation, the NightHawk X6 AC3200 is the only router you’ll likely ever need. Packed full of powerful hardware, the X6 delivers fast reliable speeds.
The NightHawk X6 AC3200’s powerful processor handles robust encryption with ease providing high speeds outperforming any other router on the market. Enjoy high-speed downloads, 4k video, and seamless gaming experiences, up to 3.2Gbps over a simultaneous tri-band connection (2.4Ghz + 5Ghz + 5 Ghz).
Ensure your connection is always outperforming your needs with six high-performance antennas and powerful amplifiers that maximize connectivity range. Stay connected with 5-gigabit ports and high-speed 3.0 ports.
Specs:
- Wireless-AC technology
- Data transfer rates up to 3.2Gbps
- Compatible with 802.11a/b/g/n/ac standards
- Six high-performance antennas & powerful amplifiers maximize range
- Tri-Band WiFi for multiple devices
- Game, stream and download large files quickly and easily
- Get fast OpenVPN speeds
- Number of Antenna: 6
- Number of Ports: 4 LAN
