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IPVanish TP-Link OpenVPN Setup

· ·

Preparing for IPVanish TP-Link Setup

Download your IPVanish .ovpn file

If you are not already an IPVanish user Sign Up Now.

1. Log in to your account on the IPVanish website.

IPVanish login

2. Successfully log in with your account information then go to IPVanish .ovpn file page.

3. Click on the .ovpn file for the server location you want to use to dowloand the .ovpn file. Do not open this file.

IPVanish download ovpn

TP-Link Router Setup for IPVanish

Login to TP-Link firmware settings in a browser on any computer or smart device connected to the FlashRouter’s network.

1. Navigate to the Advanced tab.

TP-Link Advanced settings

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

TP-Link VPN Client

3. Check the Enable box next to VPN Client. Then click Save at the bottom of the page.

TP-Link VPN Client enable

4. Click the Add button in the Server List area.

TP-Link Add server button

5. In the Description field enter in the name you’d like to use for this OpenVPN Client profile. We typically advise entering in the location. Our example server was New York so I have entered in IPVanish New York.

Set the VPN Type to OpenVPN.

In the Username and Password fields paste in the IPVanish email and password you use to successfully login to your IPVanish website account.

Click Browse and select the .ovpn file you downloaded earlier. Then click Save.

TP-Link IPVanish

By default no devices will be assigned to the VPN Tunnel. With TP-Link firmware you must manually assign the devices that you want connected to the VPN tunnel. Proceed with the next steps to do so for all devices you want connected to VPN.

6. Click the Add button in the Device List area.

TP-Link add devices to VPN tunnel

7. A list of devices connected to the FlashRouter’s network will appear. Check the devices that you want to connect to VPN. Then click OK.

TP-Link select devices to add to VPN tunnel

8. Now that the devices have been assigned to the VPN connection click the Enable toggle in the Server List area.

TP-Link IPVanish Connected

Verify a successful IPVanish connection

  1. You should now see a CONNECTED message.
  2. Visit IPVanish’s IP Check to verify your new IP address and virtual location.

In some cases you may notice that the location is not showing the same location as the server you have input in your router settings; this is because geo tracking tools are often tricked by VPN connections. As long as you see an IP address that is not the same as your normal Internet IP address then you are indeed connected to IPVanish.

How to change the IPVanish server

  1. Follow the steps at the top of the page to obtain a new .ovpn file.
  2. Then proceed with the settings same as initial setup.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

Surfshark TP-Link WireGuard Setup

· ·

Preparing for Surfshark TP-Link Setup

Download your Surfshark .conf file

If you are not already a Surfshark user Sign Up Now.

1. Log in to your account on the Surfshark website.

Surfshark Account Login

2. Click VPN Manual Setup.

Surfshark VPN Manual Setup

3. Select Router as the Setup method.

Surfshark setup method Router

4. Select WireGuard as the Protocol.

Surfshark select WireGuard

5. Select I don’t have a key pair.

Surfshark No Key Pair

6. Enter FlashRouter as the name of the connection and click Next.

Surfshark Connection Name

7. Click Generate a new key pair.

Surfshark Generate new Key Pair

8. Click Choose a location.

Surfshark Choose a Location

9. Select the server location you want to connect to. Unless you need a specific location we recommend using Surfshark’s recommended Fastest server. Click Download to download the .conf file for this Surfshark server location.

Surfshark download conf file

TP-Link Router Setup for Surfshark

Login to TP-Link firmware settings in a browser on any computer or smart device connected to the FlashRouter’s network.

1. Navigate to the Advanced tab.

TP-Link Advanced settings

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

TP-Link VPN Client

3. Check the Enable box next to VPN Client. Then click Save at the bottom of the page.

TP-Link VPN Client enable

4. Click the Add button in the Server List area.

TP-Link Add server button

5. In the Description field enter in the name you’d like to use for this WireGuard Client profile. We typically advise entering in the location. Our example server was New York so I have entered in Surfshark New York.

Set the VPN Type to WireGuard.

Click Browse and select the .conf file you downloaded earlier. Then click Save.

TP-Link Surfshark WireGuard

By default no devices will be assigned to the VPN Tunnel. With TP-Link firmware you must manually assign the devices that you want connected to the VPN tunnel. Proceed with the next steps to do so for all devices you want connected to VPN.

6. Click the Add button in the Device List area.

TP-Link add devices to VPN tunnel

7. A list of devices connected to the FlashRouter’s network will appear. Check the devices that you want to connect to VPN. Then click OK.

TP-Link select devices to add to VPN tunnel

8. Now that the devices have been assigned to the VPN connection click the Enable toggle in the Server List area.

TP-Link Surfshark WireGuard Connected

Verify a successful Surfshark connection

  1. You should now see a CONNECTED message.
  2. Visit Surfshark’s IP Check to verify your new IP address and virtual location.

In some cases you may notice that the location is not showing the same location as the server you have input in your router settings; this is because geo tracking tools are often tricked by VPN connections. As long as you see an IP address that is not the same as your normal Internet IP address then you are indeed connected to Surfshark.

How to change the Surfshark server

  1. Follow the steps at the top of the page to obtain a new .conf file.
  2. Then proceed with the settings same as initial setup.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

Surfshark TP-Link OpenVPN Setup

· ·

Preparing for Surfshark TP-Link Setup

Download your Surfshark .ovpn file

If you are not already a Surfshark user Sign Up Now.

1. Log in to your account on the Surfshark website.

Surfshark Account Login

2. Click VPN Manual Setup.

Surfshark VPN Manual Setup

3. Select Router as the Setup method.

Surfshark setup method Router

4. Select OpenVPN as the Protocol.

Surfshark OpenVPN Protocol

5. Copy and paste your Surfshark manual username and password to a secure location. This is the username and password you will enter into the router settings to connect to Surfshark.

Surfshark OpenVPN credentials

6. Click Location and select the server location you want to connect to. Unless you need a specific location we recommend using Surfshark’s recommended Fastest server. Click Download to download the UDP .ovpn file for this Surfshark server location.

Surfshark download .ovpn file

TP-Link Router Setup for Surfshark

Login to TP-Link firmware settings in a browser on any computer or smart device connected to the FlashRouter’s network.

1. Navigate to the Advanced tab.

TP-Link Advanced settings

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

TP-Link VPN Client

3. Check the Enable box next to VPN Client. Then click Save at the bottom of the page.

TP-Link VPN Client enable

4. Click the Add button in the Server List area.

TP-Link Add server button

5. In the Description field enter in the name you’d like to use for this OpenVPN Client profile. We typically advise entering in the location. Our example server was New York so I have entered in Surfshark New York.

Set the VPN Type to OpenVPN.

In the Username and Password fields paste in the Surfshark username and password we obtained earlier.

Click Browse and select the .ovpn file you downloaded earlier. Then click Save.

TP-Link Surfshark OpenVPN

By default no devices will be assigned to the VPN Tunnel. With TP-Link firmware you must manually assign the devices that you want connected to the VPN tunnel. Proceed with the next steps to do so for all devices you want connected to VPN.

6. Click the Add button in the Device List area.

TP-Link add devices to VPN tunnel

7. A list of devices connected to the FlashRouter’s network will appear. Check the devices that you want to connect to VPN. Then click OK.

TP-Link select devices to add to VPN tunnel

8. Now that the devices have been assigned to the VPN connection click the Enable toggle in the Server List area.

TP-Link Surfshark OpenVPN connected

Verify a successful Surfshark connection

  1. You should now see a CONNECTED message.
  2. Visit Surfshark’s IP Check to verify your new IP address and virtual location.

In some cases you may notice that the location is not showing the same location as the server you have input in your router settings; this is because geo tracking tools are often tricked by VPN connections. As long as you see an IP address that is not the same as your normal Internet IP address then you are indeed connected to Surfshark.

How to change the Surfshark server

  1. Follow the steps at the top of the page to obtain a new .ovpn file.
  2. Then proceed with the settings same as initial setup.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

ProtonVPN TP-Link WireGuard Setup

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Preparing for ProtonVPN TP-Link Setup

Download your ProtonVPN .conf file

If you are not already an ProtonVPN user Sign Up Now.

1. Log in to your account on the ProtonVPN website.

ProtonVPN Account Sign in

2. Click Downloads.

ProtonVPN Downloads

3. Scroll down to WireGuard configuration and name the device FlashRouter.

ProtonVPN WireGuard Configuration Name

4. Select Router as the platform.

ProtonVPN WireGuard select Platform

5. Select the VPN options that best fit your needs. We typically use the settings as seen in the screenshot here if you are unsure.

ProtonVPN WireGuard VPN options

6. Next select the server that you would like to connect to and click Create. At the top of the page you’ll see ProtonVPN’s recommended server which we recommend using unless you need to connect to a specific location.

If you need a specific server location find it in the list and click Create.

ProtonVPN WireGuard recommended server
ProtonVPN WireGuard specific server

7. After clicking Create a new window will appear. Click Download to download the .conf file to your computer.

TP-Link Router Setup for ProtonVPN

Login to TP-Link firmware settings in a browser on any computer or smart device connected to the FlashRouter’s network.

1. Navigate to the Advanced tab.

TP-Link Advanced settings

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

TP-Link VPN Client

3. Check the Enable box next to VPN Client. Then click Save at the bottom of the page.

TP-Link VPN Client enable

4. Click the Add button in the Server List area.

TP-Link Add server button

5. In the Description field enter in the name you’d like to use for this WireGuard Client profile. We typically advise entering in the location. Our example server was New York so I have entered in ProtonVPN New York.

Set the VPN Type to WireGuard.

Click Browse and select the .conf file you downloaded earlier. Then click Save.

TP-Link ProtonVPN WireGuard

By default no devices will be assigned to the VPN Tunnel. With TP-Link firmware you must manually assign the devices that you want connected to the VPN tunnel. Proceed with the next steps to do so for all devices you want connected to VPN.

6. Click the Add button in the Device List area.

TP-Link add devices to VPN tunnel

7. A list of devices connected to the FlashRouter’s network will appear. Check the devices that you want to connect to VPN. Then click OK.

TP-Link select devices to add to VPN tunnel

8. Now that the devices have been assigned to the VPN connection click the Enable toggle in the Server List area.

TP-Link ProtonVPN WireGuard connected

Verify a successful ProtonVPN connection

  1. You should now see a CONNECTED message.
  2. Visit ProtonVPN’s IP Check to verify your new IP address and virtual location.

In some cases you may notice that the location is not showing the same location as the server you have input in your router settings; this is because geo tracking tools are often tricked by VPN connections. As long as you see an IP address that is not the same as your normal Internet IP address then you are indeed connected to ProtonVPN.

How to change the ProtonVPN server

  1. Follow the steps at the top of the page to obtain a new .conf file.
  2. Then proceed with the settings same as initial setup.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

ExpressVPN Setup for AsusWRT Firmware Routers

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You can connect to ExpressVPN on your AsusWRT router using OpenVPN.

Quick Options

  • OpenVPN: Download your preferred server .ovpn configuration file from the ExpressVPN website.

:point_right: If you are not already a ExpressVPN user Sign Up Now.

EXPRESSVPN SETUP GUIDE FOR ASUSWRT

1. Log in to your account on the ExpressVPN website.

2. In the “Set up your devices” section, click More and select Manual Configuration from the menu options.

3. Copy the Username and Password that are displayed on the right

ExpressVPN Manual Service Credentials

4. Download a server file from any of the available regions shown in the ExpressVPN Manual Configuration section (Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific, etc)

ExpressVPN Download .ovpn file

5. Log in to the Asus settings page by connecting to the Asus router’s WiFi (or wired LAN) on your computer. Then, enter 192.168.50.1 or asusrouter.com in the browser.

View our guide for more instructions on how to access AsusWRT firmware settings.

6. Navigate to the VPN tab and then click on the VPN Fusion tab, then click Add Profile

Click the VPN Button
VPN Fusion Add Profile

7.  Fill in your NordVPN information then click Apply and Enable.

  • Connection Name: Choose a name for your ExpressVPN OpenVPN connection.
  • VPN Type: Select OpenVPN
  • Import .ovpn File: Upload the OpenVPN file that you downloaded.
  • Username and Password: Copy and paste your ExpressVPN manual service credentials from step 3.

8. You should now see the Profile say Connected, indicating that the NordVPN server is successfully connected to your router.

Asus ExpressVPN Connected

9. The VPN connection is automatically set to Apply to all devices.

If you only want certain devices to connect to the VPN, then turn off the VPN connection and switch off Apply to all devices.

Now click the pencil next to the Device section and select the devices (computer, phone, etc.) that you want to connect to VPN. Click OK and then click Apply all settings.

Apply VPN by Device
  1. Connect your devices to the Asus router network and visit the ExpressVPN website, at the top it should display Your Status: Protected.
  2. Visit ExpressVPN’s IP Check to verify your new IP address and virtual location.

🚫📱Do not run ExpressVPN apps on devices connected to your ExpressVPNrouter. Using the app at the same time as the router VPN may cause conflicts and connection issues.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

PrivateInternetAccess (PIA) AsusWRT OpenVPN Setup

· ·

Preparing for PIA AsusWRT Setup

Download your PIA .ovpn file

If you are not already a PIA user Sign Up Now.

1. Log in to your account on the PIA website.

PIA login

2. Successfully log in with your account information then go to PIA’s OpenVPN Config Generator.

3. On the OpenVPN Configuration Generator select the following:

OpenVPN Version: OpenVPN 2.4 or newer

Select Platform: Linux

Select Region: Choose the server location you’d like to connect to

Select Port: Typically we recommend UDP/1198 RSA-2048 AES-128-CBC SHA1 for best speeds but feel free to select the one you want to use.

4. Click Generate to download the .ovpn file. Do not open this file once it is downloaded.

PIA Generate .ovpn file

AsusWRT Router Setup for PIA

Login to AsusWRT firmware settings in a browser on any computer or smart device connected to the AsusWRT FlashRouter’s network.

1. Navigate to the VPN tab.

Merlin VPN Tab

2. Navigate to the VPN Fusion tab.

Asus VPN Fusion

3. Click Add profile.

Asus Add profile

4. In the Connection Name field enter in the name you’d like to use for this OpenVPN Client profile. We typically advise entering in the location or server number here. Our example server was in New York so I have entered in PIA New York.

5. In the VPN Type dropdown select OpenVPN.

6. Click Import .ovpn file and select the .ovpn file you downloaded earlier. Then click Upload.

7. In the Username and Password fields paste in the PIA username and password you use to successfully login to your PIA website account.

8. Click Apply and Enable at the bottom of the page.

Asus PIA profile

If you only want certain devices to connect to the OpenVPN Client profile you are setting up instead of all the devices connected to the FlashRouter’s network click into the profile and disable Apply to all devices. Then click Devices and select the devices that you want to connect to VPN.

Asus VPN devices
Asus VPN select devices

9. At the top of the page set the Service State toggle to ON to activate the VPN connection.

Asus PIA Connected

Verify a successful PIA connection

  1. You should now see a CONNECTED message.
  2. Visit PIA’s IP Check to verify your new IP address and virtual location.

In some cases you may notice that the location is not showing the same location as the server you have input in your router settings; this is because geo tracking tools are often tricked by VPN connections. As long as you see an IP address that is not the same as your normal Internet IP address then you are indeed connected to PIA.

How to change the PIA server

  1. Follow the steps at the top of the page to obtain a new .ovpn file.
  2. Then proceed with the settings same as initial setup.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

Privacy Hero Creating User Profiles and Adding Devices to Profiles

· ·

Your Privacy Hero router uses Cloud Based router management which means you can access the router settings from anywhere on any device that has an internet connection. You can follow these steps while connected to your phone, other Wi-Fi network, or the Privacy Hero network.

The Privacy Hero router allows for User Profile creation. Doing so allows you to group different user’s devices together to customize the following rules:

  • Internet access scheduler (Bedtime settings)
  • Internet Safe Search
  • Youtube Safe Search
  • Block Adult Content

This makes the Privacy Hero a great router option for families and internet addicts.

1. From any device that has a browser such as a computer, smartphone, or tablet visit app.privacyhero.com

App.PrivacyHero.com

2. Enter your Privacy Hero account email and password. Click Login.

Privacy Hero Access Settings

If you have not created your Privacy Hero account yet please follow these instructions.

3. Click the Profiles symbol.

Privacy Hero Profiles

4. Click Create New Profile.

Privacy Hero Create New Profile

5. Set the Profile Name, select the Profile Icon, and click Save.

Privacy Hero Set Profile Name

6. Click the name of the User Profile.

Privacy Hero Select Profile

7. Select Devices.

Privacy Hero Select Devices

8. Select Manage Devices.

Privacy Hero Select Manage Devices

9. If you have not already connected your devices to the Privacy Hero network via wireless or ethernet you can do so now. Refresh the page after connecting a new device and it will appear in the list where you can select Move to “Profile Name” to move the device to the appropriate profile. By default new devices are in the Shared profile.

Privacy Hero Move to User Profile

If your devices were already connected to the Privacy Hero network and you are having issues identifying them I would recommend the following steps:

  1. Click the Devices icon.
  2. Select the device in question.
  3. Click Nerd and note down the IP Address of the device.
  4. Go to the network settings of your device where it will display the local IP Address and match that to the IP Address noted in Privacy Hero.

This is how you can identify a device that is not properly named.

10. Now that your devices are assigned you can set the Bedtime Settings (Internet Scheduler) and Safe Surf settings for your new Profile.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

Why can’t I access router settings?

· ·

Be sure to first try the preset details to access your FlashRouter’s settings.

First time setup

Are you connected to the FlashRouter's network?

In order to access the FlashRouter’s settings you need to be connected to the FlashRouter’s network via ethernet or WiFi.

It is possible that if you are connected to the FlashRouter’s network you device might have static IP settings from a previous connection preventing it from being read correctly. Check your device’s static IP settings before proceeding.

Is your FlashRouter wired correctly?

Your FlashRouter should be wired as detailed in our Connect FlashRouter to the Internet setup.

A common mistake is to connect from your modem or other router to a LAN/numbered port of the FlashRouter instead of the WAN/Internet port of the FlashRouter as it should be. Doing so results in no access to the FlashRouter’s settings.

Lost access

How to find you FlashRouter's Local IP Address?

It is possible that your Local IP Address was changed at some point. Your Local IP Address is the address that you can access the FlashRouter’s settings with. We recommend finding the Local IP Address of the FlashRouter.

Was your FlashRouter reset?

If your FlashRouter is showing a local IP Address of 192.168.1.1 and you are seeing ‘dd-wrt’ as an available network in your wireless networks, your FlashRouter was reset. Reconfigure your FlashRouter.

Keep in mind that seeing a Local IP Address of 192.168.1.1 can also mean your are wired incorrectly and the router has not been reset. Be sure to check your wireless networks for ‘dd-wrt’. If the FlashRouter’s wireless network name appears as it was set then your FlashRouter was not reset and you should see the above section.

Tried updating firmware

Why can't I access my FlashRouter after a firmware upgrade?

When performing a firmware upgrade there is a dropdown that has Don’t Reset or Reset to Default settings as options.

If you accidentally selected Reset to Default settings you will need to reconfigure your FlashRouter.

If you had Don’t Reset selected and are still unable to connect to the FlashRouter’s network after a firmware upgrade, first make sure you are connected to the FlashRouter’s network as WiFi can disconnect during an upgrade, and then Reboot the FlashRouter.

Getting Started With Your FlashRouter

Getting Started With Your FlashRouter

  1. Connect FlashRouter to Internet
  2. Access FlashRouter DD-WRT firmware settings
  3. Connect FlashRouter to VPN 
VIEW ALL SETUP GUIDES
TROUBLESHOOTING
FAQS

Setting Up Your VPN Service

Select your operating system below to setup the FlashRouters Privacy App on your router, the easiest way to connect to the best VPN services.  For ExpressVPN FlashRouter users, please view the following section for setting up the ExpressVPN app.

ExpressVPN NETGEAR ROUTERS
ExpressVPN LINKSYS ROUTERS

More Ways to Get Help

Can’t find the answer you are looking for? Open a support ticket and our support team will be there to assist you.

Why did my WiFi SSID change to ‘dd-wrt’?

· ·

If you are seeing ‘dd-wrt’ in your available wireless networks instead of your regular FlashRouter24 and FlashRouter50 wireless network names (SSID) this means the router has been reset to default DD-WRT firmware settings.

Follow our instructions for Resetting and Reconfiguring your FlashRouter to get setup again.

Do not confuse your SSID being replaced by ‘dd-wrt’ with ‘dd-wrt vap’ appearing alongside your regular wireless network names.

If you are seeing ‘dd-wrt vap’ it likely means you did not rename your network when attempting to setup a guest network.

Wireless Repeater Setup

· ·

If you need to extend your wireless and wired connection capabilities, you can setup a FlashRouter as a Wireless Repeater. In Wireless Repeater mode the FlashRouter connects to your main router via WiFi and then creates a completely separate network segment for you. This new “repeater” network then transmits your internet signal via FlashRouter LAN ports for wired internet access while also creating a new Wireless Extender network that will expand your wireless network range throughout your home or office just like a mesh network.

Preparing for Wireless Repeater Setup

Verify your wireless information

To connect your FlashRouter wirelessly to your existing wireless network you will need the Wireless Network Name (SSID) and Wireless Password of the existing wireless network that you will repeat. Verify and note this information.

We recommend using a 2.4GHz network to repeat as this network will have more range. Be sure to click Add under the 2.4GHz settings and not the 5GHz settings.

DD-WRT Router Setup for Wireless Repeater

Disable Firewall

Navigate to Security > Firewall

Wireless Repeater Setup on DD-WRT FlashRouter - Disable SPI Firewall
  1. Set SPI Firewall to Disable.
  2. Click Save.

Enter Wireless settings

Navigate to Wireless > Basic Settings

Select Add in the Virtual Interface area.

Wireless Repeater Setup on DD-WRT FlashRouter - Add Virtual Interface

In the Wireless Physical Interface settings for the 2.4GHz network set the Wireless Mode to Repeater.

FlashRouters with a Broadcom chipset will have Repeater as an option in the dropdown but FlashRouters with an Atheroes chipset will not. Select Client or Client (Routed) if Repeater is not listed for your FlashRouter.

Change the Wireless Network Name (SSID) to match exactly with the Wireless Network Name of the network that you will repeat.

Wireless Repeater Setup on DD-WRT FlashRouter - Set Wireless Mode to Repeater

In the Virtual Interfaces settings change the Wireless Network Name (SSID) to FlashRouter24 or any other unique SSID.

Wireless Repeater Setup on DD-WRT FlashRouter - Set SSID for Repeated Band

CLICK SAVE

Enter Wireless Security settings

Navigate to Wireless > Wireless Security

Wireless Repeater Setup on DD-WRT FlashRouter - Set Wireless Password
  1. Duplicate the wireless security settings that are set for the other bands for the newly created virtual interface.
  2. Change the WPA Shared Key to match exactly with the Wireless Password of the network that you will repeat.
  3. Click Apply Settings.

Verify the Internet Connection

In the top right hand corner of the DD-WRT you should see the WAN IP change from 0.0.0.0 to an actual IP Address. Once this changes navigate to any website to test your Internet connection.

Wireless Repeater Setup on DD-WRT FlashRouter - Verify WAN Connection

Back up your settings

Navigate to the Administration > Backup page.

  1. Click the Backup button.
  2. A file named nvrambak.bin will be saved to your computer.
  3. You can load nvrambak.bin to restore your settings in the event of a reset.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit our Troubleshooting section to diagnose common problems here.

Troubleshoot Here

Access FlashRouter DD-WRT firmware settings

· ·

You must be connected to the FlashRouter network via ethernet or WiFi connection on your device in order to be able to access the FlashRouter’s firmware settings.

Why do I need to access my FlashRouter's settings?

It is important to understand how to access your router if you want to:
  • Change WiFi or admin passwords
  • Switch VPN server locations
  • Attempt custom setups
  • Troubleshoot your network

Connect your device to the FlashRouter network

We recommend using a computer, tablet, or phone to access your FlashRouter firmware settings. You can connect your device to the FlashRouter via Ethernet Cable or Wireless connection.

Please note, you will NOT be able access the firmware settings unless you connect your device to the FlashRouter Network.

via Ethernet

Connect an Ethernet cable to your device’s Ethernet port.

Access FlashRouters DD-WRT Admin Settings via Ethernet Connection 1

Connect the other end of that Ethernet cable to a FlashRouter LAN/numbered port.

Access FlashRouters DD-WRT Admin Settings via Ethernet Connection 2

Be sure NOT to connect your device to the WAN/internet port of the FlashRouter. Please use the LAN/numbered ports to connect your devices.

via Wireless

Navigate to the available wireless networks in your device network settings and join any of the available FlashRouter networks – FlashRouter24, FlashRouter50, or FlashRouter80 (if you have a tri-band router).

Access the FlashRouter settings

We recommend using a Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox incognito/private browsing window to access the FlashRouter firmware settings. You can access the main DD-WRT firmware GUI or you can go directly into the FlashRouters Privacy App settings to manage your basic router settings and VPN connection settings right away.

Please note, after accessing the FlashRouter Settings at the Local IP Address, you will be prompted to enter an admin username and password. You can find this information in the subsections below.

DD-WRT - Firmware GUI

Local IP Address: 192.168.11.1

Username: flashrouter

Password: ddwrt

Keep in mind that if you enable HTTPS and disable HTTP access you will need to add https:// in front of the Local IP Address to access your FlashRouter’s firmware settings.

If your router has been reset for any reason then you can access the router at a local IP address of 192.168.1.1.

Please note you will be required to set the administration username and password as well as your WiFi and VPN network settings after a reset.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit our Troubleshooting section to diagnose common problems here.

Troubleshoot Here

How do I read my Wireless status?

· ·

The wireless status page is very helpful in diagnosing where a wireless issue stems from. Make sure the settings displayed on this page match the actual settings you have set in the DD-WRT Wireless settings. Review our recommended wireless settings for your FlashRouter if you are not getting accurate readouts.

Navigate to Status > Wireless

Interface

Select from the wireless interface that you want to view the readouts for.

MAC Address

Used to identify the wireless interface.

Chipset

Displays the wireless hardware that your FlashRouter uses.

Radio

Should always be set to Radio is On unless you have intentionally disabled the wireless on the FlashRouter. If this is displaying Radio is Off for certain wireless interfaces we recommend adjusting the Wireless Channel on the Wireless > Basic Settings page.

Mode

This should read as AP unless you are using an Advanced Wireless setup such as a Repeater, Client, or Repeater Bridge.

Network

Displays the wireless network mode that you have set for a specific wireless interface.

SSID

Displays the wireless network name that you have set for a specific wireless interface.

Channel

Displays the channel that you have set for a specific wireless interface. If this reads as Unknown it is best to select a new wireless channel or reboot the FlashRouter and check again.

TX Power

Displays the wireless transmit power that you have set for a specific wireless interface. If this reads as Unknown it is best reboot the FlashRouter and check again.

Rate

Displays an approximation of the max wireless speed available on a wireless band.

ACK Timing

Displays the ACK Timing that you have set for a specific wireless interface. If this reads as Unknown it is best reboot the FlashRouter and check again.

Encryption

Should always read as Enabled, WPA2 Personal.

Received (RX)

If this appears as 0% and there are no errors then it means that no devices have connected to the wireless interface yet. If this appears as 0% and the errors match the amount of OK packets you will need to adjust the wireless settings on the Wireless > Basic Settings page.

Transmitted (TX)

If this appears as 0% you will need to adjust the wireless settings on the Wireless > Basic Settings page.

Wireless Repeater Bridge Setup

· ·

If you need to extend your connection capabilities and you are not able to wire directly into your main router, you can setup a FlashRouter as a Wireless Repeater Bridge. In Wireless Repeater Bridge mode the FlashRouter connects to your main router on the same subnet via WiFi, and then transmits your internet signal via the FlashRouter for internet access anywhere in your home or office.

Preparing for Wireless Repeater Bridge Setup

Verify your wireless information

In order to setup your FlashRouter as a Wireless Repeater Bridge, you will need the exact SSID and password of your existing wireless network. Make sure you have this information before proceeding.

We recommend using a 2.4GHz network to repeat as this network will have more range. Be sure to click Add under the 2.4GHz settings and not the 5GHz settings.

Locate the Local IP Address of the existing wireless network

Locate the Local IP Address of the existing router that the FlashRouter will be bridged to.

DD-WRT Router Setup for Wireless Repeater Bridge

Disable Firewall

Navigate to Security > Firewall

Wireless Repeater Bridge Setup on FlashRouter DD-WRT - Disable Firewall and Enable Filter Multicast
  1. Set SPI Firewall to Disable.
  2. Uncheck all boxes except for Filter Multicast.
  3. Click Save.

Disable DNSmasq

Navigate to Services > Services

Wireless Repeater Bridge Setup on FlashRouter DD-WRT - Disable DNSMasqButton
  1. Set DNSmasq to Disable.
  2. Click Save.

Enter Wireless settings

Navigate to Wireless > Basic Settings

Select Add in the Virtual Interface area.

Wireless Repeater Setup on DD-WRT FlashRouter - Add Virtual Interface

In the Wireless Physical Interface settings for the 2.4GHz network set the Wireless Mode to Repeater Bridge.

Change the Wireless Network Name (SSID) to match exactly with the Wireless Network Name of the network that you will bridge to.

Set Wireless Mode to Repeater Bridge in FlashRouter DD-WRT Basic Wireless Settings Page

In the Virtual Interfaces settings change the Wireless Network Name (SSID) to FlashRouter24 or any other unique SSID.

Wireless Repeater Setup on DD-WRT FlashRouter - Set SSID for Repeated Band

CLICK SAVE

Enter Wireless Security settings

Navigate to Wireless > Wireless Security

Wireless Repeater Setup on DD-WRT FlashRouter - Set Wireless Password
  1. Duplicate the wireless security settings that are set for the other bands for the newly created virtual interface.
  2. Change the WPA Shared Key to match exactly with the Wireless Password of the network that you will bridge to.
  3. Click Save.

Change the FlashRouter's Local IP Address

Navigate to Setup > Basic Setup

Wireless Repeater Bridge Setup on FlashRouter DD-WRT - Set Local Router IP, Gateway, Local DNS
  1. Set the Local IP Address to a different address on the same subnet as the existing network that you noted early. (example: if the existing network is 192.168.1.1 then set the Local IP Address to 192.168.1.2)
  2. Set the Gateway to the Local IP Address of the existing network. (example: 192.168.1.1)
  3. Set the Local DNS to the Local IP Address of the existing network. (example: 192.168.1.1)
  4. Click Save.

Change the FlashRouter's Operating Mode

Navigate to Setup > Advanced Routing

Set Operating Mode to Router in FlashRouter DD-WRT Basic Wireless Settings Page
  1. Set the Operating Mode to Router.
  2. Click Apply Settings.

Reboot your FlashRouter

Power off the FlashRouter for 30 seconds and then power it back on. When it boots back up you will be able to access the FlashRouter’s settings at the new Local IP Address that you set. Your existing network and the FlashRouter’s network will now be bridged wirelessly.

Back up your settings

Navigate to Administration > Backup

  1. Click the Backup button.
  2. A file named nvrambak.bin will be saved to your computer.
  3. You can load nvrambak.bin to restore your settings in the event of a reset.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit our Troubleshooting section to diagnose common problems here.

Troubleshoot Here

How do I connect a Wireless Extender to my FlashRouter network?

· ·

The settings of your FlashRouter do not need to change to connect an extender to the FlashRouter’s network. Simply access the settings of the extender device and enter the FlashRouter’s wireless network name and the correct wireless password.

The extender will then connect via wireless to the FlashRouter and add wireless range to your network.

To use a DD-WRT router as an extender follow our Advanced Wireless Setup Guides.

It is also easy to setup a Mesh system like Orbi or Velop and send your entire Mesh network through the FlashRouter VPN Network, for a VPN connected Mesh Network.

Simply connect from an open LAN port on your FlashRouter to the WAN port on your Mesh base station and then use your Mesh smart apps to complete the setup from there.

Why is my connection speed slower?

· ·

The encryption provided by a VPN connection almost always results in slower connection speed. In some cases you may have noticed that your computer or tablet was working faster when running a VPN client application or program, that is because a computer has a processor that is normally about 4-6x times as strong as a the processor on a router, and that is for managing a single VPN connection. A router has a smaller processor and is managing an entire network of devices. Encrypting an entire network does take considerable processing power.

Speed test results while connected to VPN are never going to be accurate. A speed test measures the rate at which a data packet travels from one server to another, however when you are connecting to VPN the data packets travel to an extra server where they are encrypted and then sent back into the route. We strongly recommend disabling the FlashRouter’s VPN connection when testing speeds to make sure there isn’t and issue with the router.

Connection Types

Ethernet: Wired ethernet connections will almost always be the most stable and reliable connection. To speed up your internet connection, use an ethernet cable to wire your devices to the FlashRouter.

Wireless (5.0GHz): The 5.0GHz WiFi frequency has less range than the standard 2.4GHz WiFi, but also transmits your internet connection at a significantly faster speed. If you were previously using the 2.4GHz network and experiencing slow speeds please connect to the 5GHz wireless network which should improve your speed.

Connect to the closest VPN server

Our supported VPN providers offer many servers in different countries and regions. If a server has slower connection speed we recommend connecting to the server closest to your actual location.

The process for changing servers is detailed in your provider’s setup instructions.

FlashRouters Privacy App

DD-WRT Manual VPN Configuration

Select a UDP server

UDP servers do not authenticate every data packets the way TCP servers do which results in faster connection speeds.

VPN provider server recommendation

Contact your VPN provider for a server recommendation that should provide the fastest speeds for you.

Change WiFi name and password on Asus

· ·

Set a custom WiFi network name and password for your devices to join the Asus FlashRouter’s network.

View our guide for more instructions on how to access AsusWRT firmware settings.

1. Under General select Network Map.

Merlin Wifi change name and pass

2. In the Network name (SSID) field enter the name you want your Asus WiFi to appear as. This can be the same or different for both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. We typically advise setting different names for each so you can connect your streaming devices to the 5GHz band as that is the faster WiFi band.

3. In the WPA-PSK key field enter the password you want to join your devices to the Asus WiFi network. If your WiFi names are the same for 2.4GHz and 5GHz make sure they have the exact same wireless password set.

4. Click Apply and then rejoin the new wireless network.

Wireless Client Bridge Setup

· ·

If you need to extend your wired connection capabilities and you are not able to wire directly into your main router, you can setup a FlashRouter as a Wireless Client Bridge. In Wireless Client Bridge mode the FlashRouter connects to your main router via WiFi, and then transmits your internet signal via the FlashRouter LAN ports for wired internet access anywhere in your home or office.

Preparing for Wireless Client Bridge Setup

Verify your wireless information

In order to setup your FlashRouter as a Wireless Client Bridge, you will need the exact SSID and password of your existing wireless network. Make sure you have this information before proceeding.

We recommend using a 2.4GHz network to repeat as this network will have more range.

Locate the Local IP Address of the existing wireless network

Locate the Local IP Address of the existing router that the FlashRouter will be bridged to.

DD-WRT Router Setup for Wireless Client Bridge

Disable Firewall

Navigate to Security > Firewall

Wireless Repeater Bridge Setup on FlashRouter DD-WRT - Disable Firewall and Enable Filter Multicast
  1. Set SPI Firewall to Disable.
  2. Uncheck all boxes except for Filter Multicast.
  3. Click Save.

Disable DNSmasq

Navigate to Services > Services

Wireless Repeater Bridge Setup on FlashRouter DD-WRT - Disable DNSMasqButton
  1. Set DNSmasq to Disable.
  2. Click Save.

Enter Wireless settings

Navigate to Wireless > Basic Settings

Wireless Client Bridge Setup on FlashRouter DD-WRT - Set Wireless Mode to Client Bridge
  1. In the Wireless Physical Interface settings for the 2.4GHz network set the Wireless Mode to Client Bridge.
  2. Change the Wireless Network Name (SSID) to match exactly with the Wireless Network Name of the network that you will bridge to.
  3. Click Save.

Enter Wireless Security settings

Navigate to Wireless > Wireless Security

Wireless Client Bridge Setup on FlashRouter DD-WRT - Set Wireless Password
  1. Change the WPA Shared Key to match exactly with the Wireless Password of the network that you will bridge to.
  2. Click Save.

Change the FlashRouter's Local IP Address

Navigate to Setup > Basic Setup

  1. Set the Local IP Address to a different address on the same subnet as the existing network that you noted early. (example: if the existing network is 192.168.1.1 then set the Local IP Address to 192.168.1.2)
  2. Set the Gateway to the Local IP Address of the existing network. (example: 192.168.1.1)
  3. Set the Local DNS to the Local IP Address of the existing network. (example: 192.168.1.1)
  4. Click Apply Settings.

Reboot your FlashRouter

Power off the FlashRouter for 30 seconds and then power it back on. When it boots back up you will be able to access the FlashRouter’s settings at the new Local IP Address that you set. Your existing network and the FlashRouter’s network will now be bridged wirelessly.

Your FlashRouter is now providing wired connection access to your main router network. Wireless connections to the FlashRouter are disabled in this setup.

Back up your settings

Navigate to Administration > Backup

  1. Click the Backup button.
  2. A file named nvrambak.bin will be saved to your computer.
  3. You can load nvrambak.bin to restore your settings in the event of a reset.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit our Troubleshooting section to diagnose common problems here.

Troubleshoot Here

Parental Controls on Roqos

· ·

The Roqos Core includes a suite of user access settings which can be used as Parental Controls.
You can create individual user profiles and assign specific devices. Using these profiles you can restrict access, block certain content, or even monitor internet usage if you choose to do so.

Create User Profiles

  1. Using the navigation pane on the left of the screen, select USERS.
  2. Select the ADD USER button at the top of the menu.
  3. Create a name to identify the user. You may also add a photo or picture to associate with this user however this is optional.
  4. Select the SAVE button at the bottom of the menu.

Assign Devices

  1. Once you have created a user, you must assign one or more devices to the user.
  2. Using the navigation pane on the left of the screen, select USERS. Choose a user from the list.
  3. You are now in the USER/GROUP PROFILE menu.
  1. Select DEVICES.
  2. Select ADD DEVICE.
  1. The ADD DEVICES menu lists all devices which are currently or previously connected to the Roqos. You cannot assign a device to a user unless it has been connected to the Roqos. 
  2. Use the check box to select one or more devices and then select the SAVE button to assign the device to the user.

A device can only be assigned to one user. Access restrictions you place on a user such as scheduled internet access or content restriction will apply to all devices assigned to that user regardless of who in your home is actually using the device at that time.

Turn Off Internet Access

  1. Using the navigation pane on the left of the screen, select USERS. Choose a user from the list
  2. You are now in the USER/GROUP PROFILE menu
  3. Use the PAUSE button next to the user’s name to halt all internet access to the devices assigned to this user. Conversely, you can restore internet access by pushing the PLAY button here as well.

Schedule Internet Access

  1. Using the navigation pane on the left of the screen, select USERS. Choose a user from the list.
  2. You are now in the USER/GROUP PROFILE menu.
  3. Select SCHEDULE PAUSES. You can create multiple schedules for each user to pause their internet access on a daily recurring basis for every day of the week.

Enable Content Filters

  1. Using the navigation pane on the left of the screen, select USERS. Choose a user from the list.
  2. You are now in the USER/GROUP PROFILE menu.
  3. Select FILTER. Use existing category and content filters provided by Roqos and customize with your own blocked and allowed site lists.
  4. Select SAVE.

Monitor Internet Usage

  1. Using the navigation pane on the left of the screen, select USERS. Choose a user from the list.
  2. You are now in the USER/GROUP PROFILE menu.
  3. Select USAGE HISTORY. Access usage data for all devices assigned to this user. This includes websites visited and activity times.

Please note that in order to collect device information, you must enable this functionality on your Roqos. It is disabled by default.

  1. Using the navigation pane on the left of the screen, select ADVANCED SETTINGS.
  2. Select MISCELLANEOUS.
  3. Activate the COLLECT USER INTERNET USAGE and COLLECT DEVICE DATA USAGE options.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit our Troubleshooting section to diagnose common problems here.

Troubleshoot Here

How to Access Your GL.iNet FlashRouter Settings

· ·

This quick guide walk you through connecting to your GL.iNet FlashRouter (Flint, Slate, Beryl, or Marble) and logging into the admin settings page. You’ll use either WiFi or an Ethernet cable, then access the router dashboard through your browser.

Step 1. Connect Your Device to the Router

You can connect by WiFi or Ethernet:

  • WiFi: Look for a network name like FlashRouter24 or FlashRouter50
    • The WiFi password has been set to: Wireless#9483C
    • ⚠️ Be sure to capitalize the “W” in
  • Ethernet: Plug an Ethernet cable from your computer into one of the router’s LAN ports (usually marked or color-coded differently from the WAN port).

👉 Pro tip: Disconnect from any other WiFi networks during setup.

Step 2. Open the Router Login Page

  1. Open a web browser (Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Edge).
  2. In the address bar, type: 192.168.8.1
  3. Press Enter.
GL.iNet router access

This is the local router dashboard address (not a public website). If the page doesn’t load:

  • Try a different browser.
  • Clear your cache.
  • Ensure your device is connected to the FlashRouter network.

Step 3. Log In to the Router Settings

  • Default password: glopenwrt1 or openwrt
  • This is the factory default for all GL.iNet routers shipped by FlashRouters.
GL.iNet admin password enter

💡 Once you’re in, you can update your admin password in the settings for extra security.

Next Steps

Now that you’ve accessed your GL.iNet FlashRouter, you can:

  • Set up your VPN service
  • Customize your WiFi name and password
  • Adjust device controls and security settings

Check our support library for your specific VPN setup guide.

Wireless Access Point Setup

· ·

A Wireless Access Point is a setup that has the FlashRouter using an existing network’s DHCP instead of assigning its own. The FlashRouter’s WAN/Internet port should be not be connected to your modem or other router while performing this setup.

Preparing for Wireless Access Point Setup

Locate the Local IP Address of the existing wireless network

Locate the Local IP Address of the existing router that the FlashRouter will be bridged to.

DD-WRT Router Setup for Wireless Access Point

Disable Firewall

Navigate to Security > Firewall

Wireless Client Bridge Setup on FlashRouter DD-WRT - Disable Firewall
  1. Set SPI Firewall to Disable.
  2. Click Save.

Disable DNSmasq

Navigate to Services > Services

Wireless Repeater Bridge Setup on FlashRouter DD-WRT - Disable DNSMasqButton
  1. Set DNSmasq to Disable.
  2. Click Save.

Change the FlashRouter's Local IP Address

Navigate to Setup > Basic Setup

Wireless Client Bridge Setup on FlashRouter DD-WRT - Set Local IP
  1. Set the Local IP Address to a different address on the same subnet as the existing network that you noted early. (example: if the existing network is 192.168.1.1 then set the Local IP Address to 192.168.1.2)
  2. Set the Gateway to the Local IP Address of the existing network. (example: 192.168.1.1)
  3. Set the Local DNS to the Local IP Address of the existing network. (example: 192.168.1.1)
  4. Click Save.

Change the FlashRouter's DHCP settings

DHCP Forwarder Setup for DD-WRT
  1. Set the DHCP Type to DHCP Forwarder.
  2. Click Save.

Change the FlashRouter's Operating Mode

Navigate to Setup > Advanced Routing

DHCP Forwarder Setup for DD-WRT
  1. Set the Operating Mode to Router.
  2. Click Apply Settings.

Reboot your FlashRouter

  • Power off the FlashRouter for 30 seconds and connect from the other router’s LAN port to one of the FlashRouter’s LAN port then power it back on.  When it boots back up you will be able to access the FlashRouter’s settings at the new Local IP Address that you set.

Back up your settings

Navigate to the Administration > Backup page.

  1. Click the Backup button.
  2. A file named nvrambak.bin will be saved to your computer.
  3. You can load nvrambak.bin to restore your settings in the event of a reset.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit our Troubleshooting section to diagnose common problems here.

Troubleshoot Here

Open Ticket

OPEN SUPPORT TICKET

Please fill out the form below and be sure to use the same e-mail on file so we can streamline our diagnoses of your issue.

[zendesk_request_form]

Router FAQs

· ·

Router FAQs

What is an IP Address?

An IP (Internet Protocol) Address is a numerical assignment for each device (cell phone, iPad, laptop computer, printer etc) inside a network that uses the Internet Protocol for communication. Internet Protocol is responsible for routing information packets across network boundaries. It is the main protocol establishing the Internet.

An IP address serves two predominant functions. First is to host or network interface identification. Second, it provides location addressing. To put it bluntly, an IP address tells wherever you are connecting, to whom you are visiting, and where you are located.

What is DNS?

DNS (Domain Name System) is a protocol within the TCP/IP protocol that uses a set of standards for how computers exchange data on the Internet and on many private networks.

The basic job of DNS is to convert a user-friendly domain name into an IP address that computers use to identify one another. Think of DNS like your cellphone contact list; you tap the name and the phone contacts to a phone number.

It is easier to remember flashrouters.com, rather than its IP address. Imagine if you had to remember all of the IP addresses of your favorite websites!

What is DNSMasq?

DNSMasq is a local DNS server that speeds up host-name searches from your computer/Internet connection after pressing enter.

Basically, DNSMasq gives the router some advanced enterprise functionality – caching DNS records locally so you have a faster browsing experience. Your computer only has to go to the router instead of repeatedly scouring the web for a commonly visited site.

What is Throughput and How Do I Improve it?

Throughput is the average rate of successful delivery of messages through a network. Simply put, throughput measures the speed of message delivery inside a network. If you think about it in relationship to networks and Internet connections, throughput defines the user experience. The key to a pleasing user experience is uninterrupted service and smooth data transfer.

In order to improve throughput,  you should get a router with more memory. If you notice that your network is running slowly due to congestion, you could probably benefit by upgrading your router to one with more memory. FlashMemory and RAM on a router add more room to prevent network congestion and improve throughput.

Most of FlashRouters‘ high-end units come with at least 8 MB of Flash memory and 64 MB of RAM which should be more than capable for providing for the average home users’ or small business will need in the future.

What is PPPoE?

PPPoE stands for Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet, a network protocol for encapsulating Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP) frames inside Ethernet frames. It is used mainly with DSL services where individual users connect to a DSL modem over Ethernet.

With PPPoE, users virtually “dial” from one machine to another over an Ethernet network, establish a point-to-point connection and then data packets are securely transported through the connection.

PPPoE offers an Internet service provider (ISP) an easier way to track exactly how much bandwidth you are using in case they want to charge for it in the future.

What is the Difference Between VPN Encryption and Wireless Network Security?

VPN Encryption: If you are connected to the VPN on your home network, then any data that flows over the Internet is entirely encrypted whether you are connected to the Internet either wired or wirelessly. This means that if your Local ISP was trying to see what you are browsing or downloading, they would not be able to see your data.

Wireless Network Security: If you leave your wireless network open or insecure, it does not matter whether Internet traffic is encrypted, because someone can directly see what you are doing on your network, or even worse, can go in and put a wireless password on your network, locking you out. They may also be able to access folders and files on your computer without your control.

Best thing to do is protect your wireless network with a WPA secured password along with your VPN connection.

Are FlashRouters Affected By the Shellshock Bug?

No.

According to our in-house testing and multiple DD-WRT community reports, we have found that the Shellshock vulnerability will not work on with DD-WRT or TomatoUSB installed router. The vulnerability is based on a shell called BASH (Bourne Again Shell) but DD-WRT & Tomato firmware use BusyBox which is confirmed to not have this issue.

Please be advised that if you are using Optware on your DD-WRT router there is a chance that implementation is BASH based. Only used trusted optware on your router.

Privacy Hero Change VPN Providers

· ·

Your Privacy Hero router uses Cloud Based router management which means you can access the router settings from anywhere on any device that has an internet connection. You can follow these steps while connected to your phone, other Wi-Fi network, or the Privacy Hero network.

Each Privacy Hero router comes with a year free of Privacy Hero WireGuard VPN and can be setup for NordVPN and Surfshark users as well. Use these steps to change between the VPN providers to find the best connection for your needs.

1. From any device that has a browser such as a computer, smartphone, or tablet visit app.privacyhero.com

App.PrivacyHero.com

2. Enter your Privacy Hero account email and password. Click Login.

Privacy Hero Access Settings

If you have not created your Privacy Hero account yet please follow these instructions.

3. Click the VPN symbol.

Privacy Hero Setup VPN

4. Click the Change button and select the VPN provider that you want to use.

Privacy Hero Change VPN Providers

Follow our guides for connecting to NordVPN or Surfshark. If you are switching to Privacy Hero VPN just select it from dropdown and toggle the VPN switch to On.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

ProtonVPN Setup Guide for Privacy Hero

· ·

Your Privacy Hero router uses Cloud Based router management which means you can access the router settings from anywhere on any device that has an internet connection. You can follow these steps while connected to your phone, other Wi-Fi network, or the Privacy Hero network.

ProtonVPN Wireguard Setup for Privacy Hero (recommended)

1. From any device that has a browser such as a computer, smartphone, or tablet visit app.privacyhero.com.

App.PrivacyHero.com

2. Enter your Privacy Hero account email and password. Click Login.

Privacy Hero Access Settings

3. Click the VPN symbol.

Privacy Hero Setup VPN

4. Click the Change button and select Custom from the dropdown and choose the Wireguard option.

Privacy Hero Change VPN Providers

5. In a new tab login to your ProtonVPN account.

6. Go to the Downloads section of your ProtonVPN account page.

7. Scroll down to find the WireGuard configuration section. Name your configuration and then select Router as the platform, and select Standard server configs.

8. Click on the country name that you want to choose, and Download any of the available server files from the list.

9. Drag and drop or click to Upload the server file into the Custom box on your Privacy Hero settings page. Then press Save.

10. Your Privacy Hero settings should now show a Connected message, indicating you have successfully signed in to your ProtonVPN server!

Wireguard connection

ProtonVPN OpenVPN Setup for Privacy Hero

1. From any device that has a browser such as a computer, smartphone, or tablet visit app.privacyhero.com.

App.PrivacyHero.com

2. Enter your Privacy Hero account email and password. Click Login.

Privacy Hero Access Settings

3. Click the VPN symbol.

Privacy Hero Setup VPN

4. Click the Change button and select Custom from the dropdown and choose the OpenVPN option.

Privacy Hero Change VPN Providers

5. In a new tab login to your ProtonVPN account.

6. Navigate to the Account tab and find your OpenVPN specific Username and Password.

FlashRouters DD-WRT Privacy APP ProtonVPN OpenVPN Specific Username and Password

7. Copy and paste the username and password from previous step into the Custom box on your Privacy Hero settings page.

8. Go to the Downloads section of your ProtonVPN account page.

9. Scroll down to find the OpenVPN Configuration Files section. Then select “Router” as the platform, and select “Standard Server Configs.”

10. Click on the country name that you want to choose, and Download any of the available server files from the list.

11. Drag and drop or click to Upload the server file into the Custom box on your Privacy Hero settings page. Then press Save.

12. Your Privacy Hero settings should now show a Connected message, indicating you have successfully signed in to your ProtonVPN server!

Privacy Hero’s cloud based router settings access makes it so you can change settings while not connected to the Privacy Hero network. Visit the ProtonVPN IP Check to verify your VPN IP address. If it has not changed be sure to double check that you are indeed connected to the Privacy Hero network.

Keep in mind that the VPN connection will not change the location of the streaming services listed in the Streaming Relocation area of the Privacy Hero settings if the Streaming Relocation feature is Enabled.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Contact our Support Team.

Troubleshoot Here

Wireless Guest Network Setup – Bridged (Advanced)

· ·

If you would like to prevent visitors from connecting to your main WiFi network then you can create a Bridged Guest Network that will prevent access to the main router. This setup also allows you to create different rules for different WiFi SSID’s in your home ranging from QoS controls, access restrictions, VPN network segmentation, and more.

Preparing for Wireless Guest Network Setup

If you have a Dual-band or Tri-Band router you can setup a WiFi Guest Network, creating a separate VLAN (virtual local area network) for your visitors, or in order to segment your VPN networks on any band you like. We recommend using the 2.4GHz network for your DD-WRT Guest Wireless Network so it is compatible with the most possible WiFi devices. Setting up a guest network for visitors in your home allows you to keep them off of your main WiFi network.

We recommend performing this setup while connected to the FlashRouter via ethernet cable. If your computer does not have an ethernet port and you must proceed via wireless connection to the FlashRouter pay attention to the wireless connection as you may need to rejoin the FlashRouter’s network after making changes.

DD-WRT Router Setup for Wireless Guest Network

Enter Wireless settings

Navigate to Wireless > Basic Settings

Bridged Wireless Guest Network Setup on DD-WRT FlashRouter – Setting SSID for Guest Network
  1. Under the 2.4GHz or 5GHz Interface click the Add button.
  2. In the Wireless Network Name (SSID) field enter the unique network name of the guest network.
  3. Click Save.

Enter Wireless Security settings

Navigate to Wireless > Wireless Security

Bridged Wireless Guest Network Setup on DD-WRT FlashRouter – Setting Guest Network Wireless Password
  1. Duplicate the wireless security settings that are set for the other bands for the newly created virtual interface.
  2. Click Apply Settings.
  3. Reboot your router.

Create Bridge

Navigate to Setup > Networking

Bridged Wireless Guest Network Setup on DD-WRT FlashRouter – Create Bridge
  1. Under Create Bridge click Add. Name the newly created bridge br1.
  2. Click Apply Settings

Assign to Bridge

Bridged Wireless Guest Network Setup on DD-WRT FlashRouter – Assign Bridge
  1. Under Assign to Bridge select br1 from the Assignment dropdown. Select wl1.1 or ath1.1 depending on your router model.
  2. Click Apply Settings.

Depending on the router model and WiFi band you are using, the wireless interfaces will be labelled differently.

This setting can be labelled wl1.1, ath0.1, wl2.1, and so on. Make sure when you get up to the bridge assignment section that you are using the correct guest network Virtual Interface.

Network Configuration br1

Bridged Wireless Guest Network Setup on DD-WRT FlashRouter – Configure Bridge DNS Redirection
  1. Under Network Configuration br1 select Enable for Forced DNS Redirection.
  2. Set Optional DNS Target to 208.67.220.220
  3. Set IP Address to 192.168.12.1
  4. Set Subnet Mask to 255.255.255.0
  5. Click Apply Settings.

Multiple DHCP Server

Bridged Wireless Guest Network Setup on DD-WRT FlashRouter – Configure DHCP Server Settings
  1. Under Multiple DHCP Server click Add.
  2. Set the first dropdown to br1.
  3. Click Apply Settings.
  4. Reboot your router.

Firewall Rules

Navigate to Administration > Commands

  1. Copy the fire script from below and paste into the empty Commands shell
  2. Click Save Firewall.
  3. Wait one minute and then reboot your router.

iptables -I FORWARD -i br1 -o br0 -m state –state NEW -j DROP
iptables -I FORWARD -i br0 -o br1 -m state –state NEW -j DROP
iptables -I INPUT -i br1 -p tcp –dport telnet -j REJECT –reject-with tcp-reset
iptables -I INPUT -i br1 -p tcp –dport ssh -j REJECT –reject-with tcp-reset
iptables -I INPUT -i br1 -p tcp –dport www -j REJECT –reject-with tcp-reset
iptables -I INPUT -i br1 -p tcp –dport https -j REJECT –reject-with tcp-reset

You will now have a working Bridged Guest Network on the FlashRouter. By inputting the firewall rules, this will also prevent any guests on your network from gaining access to your router settings.

Back up your settings

Navigate to Administration > Backup

  1. Click the Backup button.
  2. A file named nvrambak.bin will be saved to your computer.
  3. You can load nvrambak.bin to restore your settings in the event of a reset.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit our Troubleshooting section to diagnose common problems here.

Troubleshoot Here

How to Access Your AsusWRT FlashRouter Settings

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This quick guide will walk you through connecting to your AsusWRT FlashRouter and logging into the admin settings page. You’ll use either WiFi or an Ethernet cable, then access the router dashboard through your browser.

Step 1. Connect Your Device to the Router

You can connect by WiFi or Ethernet:

  • WiFi: Look for a network name like FlashRouter24 or FlashRouter50.
    • The WiFi password is set to: Wireless#[First 5 characters of your router’s MAC]
    • Example: If your MAC is CC28A07E70A8, your WiFi password is Wireless#CC28A.
    • ⚠️ Be sure to capitalize the “W” in Wireless.
  • Ethernet: Plug an Ethernet cable from your computer into one of the router’s LAN ports (usually marked or color-coded differently from the WAN port).

👉 Pro tip: Disconnect from any other WiFi networks during setup.

Step 2. Open the Router Login Page

  1. Open a web browser (Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Edge).
  2. In the address bar, type: 192.168.50.1 or go to asusrouter.com
  3. Press Enter.
Access Asus Router

This is the local router dashboard address (not a public website). If the page doesn’t load:

  • Try a different browser.
  • Clear your cache.
  • Ensure your device is connected to the FlashRouter network.

Step 3. Log In to the Router Settings

  • Default username: flashrouter
  • Default password: asuswrt-admin1
  • Some older devices may use: asuswrt1 or asuswrt
  • This is the factory default for AsusWRT routers shipped by FlashRouters.
Asus Router Login

💡 Once you’re in, you can update your admin password in the settings for extra security.

Next Steps

Now that you’ve accessed your AsusWRT FlashRouter, you can:

  • Set up your VPN service
  • Customize your WiFi name and password
  • Adjust device controls and security settings

Check our support library for your specific VPN setup guide.

Wireless Guest Network Setup – Unbridged (Recommended)

· ·

If you would like to prevent visitors from connecting to your main WiFi network then you can create a separate Guest Network that will prevent access to the main router. This setup also allows you to create different rules for different WiFi SSID’s in your home ranging from QoS controls, access restrictions, VPN network segmentation, and more.

Preparing for Wireless Guest Network Setup

If you have a Dual-band or Tri-Band router you can setup a WiFi Guest Network, creating a separate VLAN (virtual local area network) for your visitors, or in order to segment your VPN networks on any band you like. We recommend using the 2.4GHz network for your DD-WRT Guest Wireless Network so it is compatible with the most possible WiFi devices. Setting up a guest network for visitors in your home allows you to keep them off of your main WiFi network.

We recommend performing this setup while connected to the FlashRouter via ethernet cable. If your computer does not have an ethernet port and you must proceed via wireless connection to the FlashRouter. Be sure to pay attention to the wireless connection as you may need to rejoin the FlashRouter’s network after making changes.

DD-WRT Router Setup for Wireless Guest Network

Enter Wireless settings

Navigate to Wireless > Basic Settings

FlashRouter DD-WRT Wireless Guest Network Settings Unbridged

Under the 2.4GHz or 5GHz Interface click the Add button.

Wireless Network Name (SSID)

Enter the a unique network name for the guest network.

Network Configuration

Unbridged

Force DNS Redirection

Enable

Optional DNS Target

208.67.220.220

IP Address

192.168.12.1

Subnet Mask

255.255.255.0

CLICK SAVE

Enter Wireless Security settings

Navigate to Wireless > Wireless Security

Wireless Guest Network Setup on DD-WRT FlashRouter Unbridged
  1. Duplicate the wireless security settings that are set for the other bands for the newly created virtual interface.
  2. Click Apply Settings.
  3. Reboot your router.

Enable DHCP for Guest Network

Navigate to Setup > Networking

Wireless Guest Network Setup on DD-WRT FlashRouter Unbridged Setting DHCP Server
  1. Scroll to the very bottom of the page and under DHCPD click Add.
  2. Select wl0.1 or ath1.1 depending on your router model.
  3. Click Apply Settings.
  4. Reboot your router.

Depending on the router model and WiFi band you are using, the wireless interfaces will be labelled differently.

This setting can be labelled wl1.1, ath0.1, wl2.1, and so on. Make sure when you get up to the bridge assignment section that you are using the correct guest network Virtual Interface.

Back up your settings

Navigate to Administration > Backup

  1. Click the Backup button.
  2. A file named nvrambak.bin will be saved to your computer.
  3. You can load nvrambak.bin to restore your settings in the event of a reset.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit our Troubleshooting section to diagnose common problems here.

Troubleshoot Here

Surfshark AsusWRT WireGuard Setup

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Preparing for Surfshark AsusWRT Setup

Copy your Surfshark Private Key

If you are not already a Surfshark user Sign Up Now.

1. Log in to your account on the Surfshark website.

Surfshark Account Login

2. Click VPN Manual Setup.

Surfshark VPN Manual Setup

3. Select Router as the Setup method.

Surfshark setup method Router

4. Select WireGuard as the Protocol.

Surfshark select WireGuard

5. Select I don’t have a key pair.

Surfshark No Key Pair

6. Enter FlashRouter as the name of the connection and click Next.

Surfshark Connection Name

7. Click Generate a new key pair.

Surfshark Generate new Key Pair

8. A Public Key and Private Key will then appear. Use the copy box to copy the Private Key. You will not need the public key.

Surfshark Private Key

AsusWRT Router Setup for Surfshark

Login to AsusWRT firmware settings in a browser on any computer or smart device connected to the AsusWRT FlashRouter’s network.

1. Navigate to the VPN tab.

Merlin VPN Tab

2. Navigate to the VPN Fusion tab.

Asus VPN Fusion

3. Click Add profile.

Asus Add profile

4. In the Connection Name field enter in Surfshark.

5. In the VPN Type dropdown select Surfshark.

6. In the Region dropdown select the Surfshark location you want to connect to.

7. In the Private Key field paste in the Surfshark Private Key obtained earlier.

8. Click Apply and Enable at the bottom of the page.

Asus Surfshark profile

If you only want certain devices to connect to the Surfshark profile you are setting up instead of all the devices connected to the FlashRouter’s network click into the profile and disable Apply to all devices. Then click Devices and select the devices that you want to connect to VPN.

Asus VPN devices
Asus VPN select devices

9. At the top of the page set the Service State toggle to ON to activate the VPN connection.

Asus Surfshark Connected

Verify a successful Surfshark connection

  1. You should now see a CONNECTED message.
  2. Visit Surfshark’s IP Check to verify your new IP address and virtual location.

In some cases you may notice that the location is not showing the same location as the server you have input in your router settings; this is because geo tracking tools are often tricked by VPN connections. As long as you see an IP address that is not the same as your normal Internet IP address then you are indeed connected to Surfshark.

How to change the Surfshark server

  1. Use the profile service state toggle to disconnect the currently connected location.
  2. Then click into the Surfshark profile in the router’s settings.
  3. Then adjust the Region dropdown to a new location.
  4. Click Apply all settings.
  5. Use the profile service state toggle to connect the new location.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here