Search Results for: best vpn express routers

Privacy Hero Bypass certain devices from VPN

TeamFlashRouters · Apr 3, 2023 ·

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.

If you have certain devices in your network that you do NOT want connecting to VPN you can follow these steps to bypass these devices from the Privacy Hero’s VPN connection.

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

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

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

3. Click the Devices symbol.

4. Click the name of the Device you want to bypass from VPN.

5. Set the VPN toggle to Off. You can also do the same for Adblocking and Device Protection as needed.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

Privacy Hero WireGuard VPN Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Apr 3, 2023 ·

Use these steps to connect to Privacy Hero’s own WireGuard VPN servers. You will automatically be connected to the ideal USA or Canada server based on your location.

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

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

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

3. Click the VPN symbol.

4. Set the VPN toggle to On.

5. Connect to the Privacy Hero’s via wireless or ethernet connection on your device and visit What is my IP Address from a private/incognito browser to verify your new IP address and virtual location.

Privacy Hero’s cloud based router settings access makes it so you can change settings while not connected to the Privacy Hero network so if your IP Address has not changed be sure to double check that you are indeed connected to the Privacy Hero network on the device you are checking your IP from.

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.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

Privacy Hero Private Internet Access WireGuard VPN Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Apr 3, 2023 ·

Use these steps to connect to Private Internet Access WireGuard VPN servers. You will automatically be connected to the ideal server based on your location.

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

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

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

3. Click the VPN symbol.

4. Click the Change button and select Private Internet Access from the dropdown.

Privacy Hero select Private Internet Access

5. Enter your correct Private Internet Access account login username and password and click Save.

Privacy Hero Private Internet Access enter login

6. Click Save if you want to connect to the ideal server location as recommended by Private Internet Access. To connect to a specific server location click Advanced Options and then type in the Private Internet Access server you would like to use. All servers are noted below. You can copy from there. Then click Save.

Privacy Hero Private Internet Access enter VPN location

7. Set the VPN toggle to On.

8. Connect to the Privacy Hero’s via wireless or ethernet connection on your device and visit Private Internet Access’ IP Check from a private/incognito browser to verify your new IP address and virtual location.

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.

North America

bahamas.privacy.network
ca-ontario.privacy.network
ca-toronto.privacy.network
ca-vancouver.privacy.network
ca-montreal.privacy.network
greenland.privacy.network
gt-guatemala-pf.privacy.network
mexico.privacy.network
panama.privacy.network
sanjose.privacy.network
us-alabama-pf.privacy.network
us-alaska-pf.privacy.network
us-arkansas-pf.privacy.network
us-atlanta.privacy.network
us-california.privacy.network
us-chicago.privacy.network
us-connecticut-pf.privacy.network
us-denver.privacy.network
us-florida.privacy.network
us-houston.privacy.network
us-idaho-pf.privacy.network
us-indiana-pf.privacy.network
us-iowa-pf.privacy.network
us-kansas-pf.privacy.network
us-kentucky-pf.privacy.network
us-lasvegas.privacy.network
us-louisiana-pf.privacy.network
us-maine-pf.privacy.network
us-massachusetts-pf.privacy.network
us-michigan-pf.privacy.network
us-minnesota-pf.privacy.network
us-mississippi-pf.privacy.network
us-missouri-pf.privacy.network
us-montana-pf.privacy.network
us-nebraska-pf.privacy.network
us-new-hampshire-pf.privacy.network
us-new-mexico-pf.privacy.network
us-newyorkcity.privacy.network
us-north-carolina-pf.privacy.network
us-north-dakota-pf.privacy.network
us-ohio-pf.privacy.network
us-oklahoma-pf.privacy.network
us-oregon-pf.privacy.network
us-pennsylvania-pf.privacy.network
us-rhode-island-pf.privacy.network
us-seattle.privacy.network
us-siliconvalley.privacy.network
us-south-carolina-pf.privacy.network
us-south-dakota-pf.privacy.network
us-texas.privacy.network
us-tennessee-pf.privacy.network
us-vermont-pf.privacy.network
us-virginia-pf.privacy.network
us-washingtondc.privacy.network
us-west-virginia-pf.privacy.network
us-wisconsin-pf.privacy.network
us-wyoming-pf.privacy.network
us3.privacy.network
us-baltimore.privacy.network
us-honolulu.privacy.network
us-newjersey.privacy.network
us-saltlakecity.privacy.network
us-streaming-2.privacy.network
us-streaming.privacy.network
us-wilmington.privacy.network

South America

ar.privacy.network
bo-bolivia-pf.privacy.network
bogota.privacy.network
br.privacy.network
ec-ecuador-pf.privacy.network
pe-peru-pf.privacy.network
santiago.privacy.network
uy-uruguay-pf.privacy.network
venezuela.privacy.network

Europe

al.privacy.network
ad.privacy.network
austria.privacy.network
brussels.privacy.network
ba.privacy.network
sofia.privacy.network
zagreb.privacy.network
czech.privacy.network
de-berlin.privacy.network
de-frankfurt.privacy.network
denmark.privacy.network
denmark-2.privacy.network
spain.privacy.network
es-valencia.privacy.network
ee.privacy.network
fi.privacy.network
fi-2.privacy.network
france.privacy.network
gr.privacy.network
hungary.privacy.network
italy.privacy.network
italy-2.privacy.network
is.privacy.network
ireland.privacy.network
man.privacy.network
lv.privacy.network
liechtenstein.privacy.network
lt.privacy.network
lu.privacy.network
malta.privacy.network
md.privacy.network
monaco.privacy.network
montenegro.privacy.network
nl-amsterdam.privacy.network
mk.privacy.network
no.privacy.network
poland.privacy.network
pt.privacy.network
ro.privacy.network
sweden.privacy.network
sweden-2.privacy.network
rs.privacy.network
sk.privacy.network
slovenia.privacy.network
swiss.privacy.network
tr.privacy.network
uk-london.privacy.network
uk-manchester.privacy.network
uk-southampton.privacy.network
uk-2.privacy.network
ua.privacy.network

Asia

ae.privacy.network
bangladesh.privacy.network
cambodia.privacy.network
china.privacy.network
cyprus.privacy.network
georgia.privacy.network
hk.privacy.network
in.privacy.network
israel.privacy.network
jakarta.privacy.network
japan.privacy.network
japan-2.privacy.network
kazakhstan.privacy.network
kr-south-korea-pf.privacy.network
kualalumpur.privacy.network
macau.privacy.network
mongolia.privacy.network
np-nepal-pf.privacy.network
philippines.privacy.network
qatar.privacy.network
saudiarabia.privacy.network
sg.privacy.network
srilanka.privacy.network
taiwan.privacy.network
vietnam.privacy.network
yerevan.privacy.network

Oceania

au-adelaide-pf.privacy.network
au-australia-so.privacy.network
au-brisbane-pf.privacy.network
aus-melbourne.privacy.network
aus-perth.privacy.network
au-sydney.privacy.network
nz.privacy.network

Africa

dz.privacy.network
egypt.privacy.network
morocco.privacy.network
nigeria.privacy.network
za.privacy.network

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

Privacy Hero VPN Kill Switch Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Apr 3, 2023 ·

Use these steps to enable Privacy Hero’s VPN Kill Switch to make sure that no traffic goes through your router unless it is connected to VPN.

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

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

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

3. Click the VPN symbol.

4. Toggle the VPN Kill Switch setting to On.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

ExpressVPN Setup on Roqos

Dave · Dec 16, 2021 ·

Preparing for ExpressVPN Setup

Obtain your ExpressVPN login information

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

1. Visit ExpressVPN’s website login page.

2. Successfully log in with your account information. Select More.

3. Select Manual Configuration and copy the Username and Password that are displayed on the right hand side of the screen.

Connecting to ExpressVPN in the Roqos Core

Access the Roqos Core UI

1. Login to the Roqos Core web app in a browser on any computer or smart device.

2. Click VPN from the navigation menu and then click VPN OUT.

3. Click the Connect to box.

4. In the Connect dropdown choose 3rd Party VPN Providers and for the VPN Provider dropdown choose ExpressVPN.

Enter your ExpressVPN information

In the Username and Password field enter the ExpressVPN OpenVPN Username and Password that you obtained.

ExpressVPN on FlashRouters Privacy App Setup - OpenVPN Specific Username and Password

Roqos VPN ExpressVPN enter username and password

Select an ExpressVPN server

Click the Server dropdown and type in or scroll to your preferred server location.

Click the Save button.

Connect to ExpressVPN

Once you click Save you will be returned to the VPN OUT menu.

Click the Connect button to start your ExpressVPN connection. Please be patient as the router connects your entire network through VPN.

Assign devices to connect to VPN

By default there are no devices assigned to the VPN tunnel. Click Included Devices. From this page you can choose if all devices should connect to ExpressVPN or only certain devices.

From the dropdown select Include all devices if you want every device that connects to the Roqos to connect to ExpressVPN. Then click Save.

If you only want specific devices to connect to ExpressVPN while others bypass the VPN connection select Include selected devices from the dropdown and then toggle the sliders for the devices you want connected to VPN. Click Save.

Verify a successful ExpressVPN connection

Make sure you are connected to the Roqos network via WiFi or ethernet connection on your device.

Visit ExpressVPN’s IP Check to verify your new IP Address and virtual location.

You should see Connected at the top of the page underneath ExpressVPN.

Connect to a different ExpressVPN server

To change your server click Disconnect on the VPN OUT page then return to the Connect To section to select a new server from the Server dropdown and click Save. Now click Connect once again on the VPN Out page.

Disconnect from ExpressVPN

To disconnect from ExpressVPN click the Disconnect button.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the FR Privacy App Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

Why are streaming services blocked while connected to VPN?

TeamFlashRouters · Jun 4, 2019 ·

Streaming services and VPN

Most popular streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime block incoming VPN connections. This does not mean the VPN is not working, it simply means they have recognized you are connecting to a VPN server and filtered that server from being able to stream.

Below are several options for you to follow if you encounter this issue while connected to a VPN on your FlashRouter.

VPN provider server recommendation

Contact your VPN provider for a server recommendation that is not blocked by popular streaming services. Be sure to mention that you are connecting to VPN via a router instead of the computer client. If your VPN provider does not have a helpful suggestion or server recommendation please try the below options or contact us for a solution.

Bypass VPN by device

The FlashRouters Privacy App has a VPN bypass by device feature that can be used on devices dedicated to streaming.

Use SmartDNS

If access to streaming services not in your region is a higher priority for you then VPN encryption we recommend using a SmartDNS service on your FlashRouter to access the content you desire.

PrivateInternetAccess (PIA) Setup on Roqos

TeamFlashRouters · Dec 24, 2021 ·

Preparing for PIA Setup

Obtain your PIA login information

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

1. Visit PIA’s website login page.

2. Successfully log in with your account information.

Connecting to PIA in the Roqos Core

Access the Roqos Core UI

1. Login to the Roqos Core web app in a browser on any computer or smart device.

2. Click VPN from the navigation menu and then click VPN OUT.

3. Click the Connect to box.

4. In the Connect dropdown choose 3rd Party VPN Providers and for the VPN Provider dropdown choose Private_Internet_Access.

Enter your PIA information

In the Username and Password field enter the PIA Username and Password that you logged in with.

Select a PIA server

Click the Server dropdown and type in or scroll to your preferred server location.

Click the Save button.

Connect to PIA

Once you click Save you will be returned to the VPN OUT menu.

Click the Connect button to start your PIA connection. Please be patient as the router connects your entire network through VPN.

Assign devices to connect to VPN

By default there are no devices assigned to the VPN tunnel. Click Included Devices. From this page you can choose if all devices should connect to PIA or only certain devices.

From the dropdown select Include all devices if you want every device that connects to the Roqos to connect to PIA. Then click Save.

If you only want specific devices to connect to PIA while others bypass the VPN connection select Include selected devices from the dropdown and then toggle the sliders for the devices you want connected to VPN. Click Save.

Verify a successful PIA connection

Make sure you are connected to the Roqos network via WiFi or ethernet connection on your device.

Visit PIA’s IP Check to verify your new IP Address and virtual location.

You should see Connected at the top of the page underneath Private_Internet_Access.

Connect to a different PIA server

Disconnect from PIA

To disconnect from PIA click the Disconnect button.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the FR Privacy App Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

ExpressVPN TP-Link OpenVPN Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Apr 8, 2024 ·

Preparing for ExpressVPN TP-Link Setup

Obtain your ExpressVPN OpenVPN Information

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

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

2. Successfully log in with your account information. Select More.

3. Select Manual Configuration and copy the Username and Password that are displayed on the right hand side of the screen.

4. Click the Server Location that you want to connect to. This will download a .ovpn file to your computer that we will use later on. There is no need to open the file. For this example I have selected New York but feel free to select any server listed there.

TP-Link Router Setup for ExpressVPN

1. Navigate to the Advanced tab.

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

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

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

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 or server number here. Our example server was in New York so I have entered in ExpressVPN New York.

Set the VPN Type to OpenVPN.

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

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

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.

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.

Verify a successful ExpressVPN connection

You should now see a CONNECTED message.
Visit ExpressVPN’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 ExpressVPN.

How to change the ExpressVPN server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

Surfshark Merlin WireGuard Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Mar 30, 2023 ·

Preparing for Surfshark Merlin 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.

2. Click VPN Manual Setup.

3. Select Router as the Setup Method.

4. Select WireGuard as the Protocol.

5. Select I don’t have a key pair.

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

7. Click Generate a new key pair.

8. Click 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.

Merlin Router Setup for Surfshark

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

1. Navigate to the VPN tab.

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

3. Select WireGuard as the VPN Protocol.

4. Click Choose file and select the .conf file you downloaded earlier. Then click Upload.

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 here. Our example server was in New York so I have entered in Surfshark New York.

6. Set Enable WireGuard to Yes.

7. Click Apply at the bottom of the page and you should then see a Connected message appear.

8. By default no devices are assigned to the new active WireGuard connection profile. Click the VPN Director tab to assign specific devices to the new WireGuard profile. Your IP will not be changed on your devices yet.

9. On the VPN Director page click the + symbol next to Add new rule.

10. Select the new WireGuard profile in the Interface dropdown.

11. In the Local IP field enter in 192.168.50.0/24 if you want ALL devices connected to the FlashRouter’s network to use the WireGuard VPN connection. Click OK.

If you only want certain devices to connect to the WireGuard Client profile you have setting up instead of all the devices connected to the FlashRouter’s network please complete the instructions on our VPN Director guide.

12. Then click Apply at the bottom of the page.

Verify a successful Surfshark connection

Visit Surfshark’s IP Check from a private/incognito browsing window to verify your new IP address and virtual location.

How to change the Surfshark server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

NordVPN TP-Link OpenVPN Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Apr 16, 2024 ·

Preparing for NordVPN TP-Link Setup

Obtain your NordVPN manual Username and Password

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

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

2. Click NordVPN on the left hand side and then click Setup NordVPN manually.

3. Enter in the verification code that was sent to your email.

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

Download your NordVPN .ovpn file

1. There are two options for obtaining the .ovpn file. The first and recommended is to navigate to NordVPN’s server recommendation page. Click Recommended Server to display the fastest server based on your actual location. You can adjust the country if you don’t want to connect to the recommended country.

Then click Show Available Protocols. Click Download Config next to OpenVPN UDP. This will download the .ovpn file to your computer for this server. Do not open this file.

The second method to obtain a server is for connecting to a specific server number that you know you want to use. This applies to NordVPN Dedicated IP servers if you are signed up for that service. Go to NordVPN’s .ovpn file page. Then search for the server number that you want to use and click Download UDP.

TP-Link Router Setup for NordVPN

1. Navigate to the Advanced tab.

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

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

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

Set the VPN Type to OpenVPN.

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

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

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

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.

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

Verify a successful NordVPN connection

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

How to change the NordVPN server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

IPVanish TP-Link OpenVPN Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Apr 29, 2024 ·

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.

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.

TP-Link Router Setup for IPVanish

1. Navigate to the Advanced tab.

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

Verify a successful IPVanish connection

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

How to change the IPVanish server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

FR Privacy App Connect Page: Auto Connect to VPN

TeamFlashRouters · Jun 12, 2019 ·

Important Update: DD-WRT Privacy App Discontinued

The FlashRouter Privacy App has been discontinued and is no longer compatible with new versions of DD-WRT firmware. If you are using DD-WRT, you can still set up OpenVPN or WireGuard manually with the latest DD-WRT builds. Our team is available to assist anyone with an active service plan during this transition.

For the easiest and most secure VPN setup experience, we highly recommend our Privacy Hero 2 solution. It’s designed to make home network security simple and comes with exclusive features, including pre-configured VPN and streaming capabilities.

If you need assistance or want to explore Privacy Hero 2, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Check the Auto Connect to VPN box so that anytime you reboot the FlashRouter, the FR Privacy App VPN connection will start up automatically with the internet.

Access the FR Privacy App and then pop out the FlashRouters Privacy App logo in the navigation area and make sure you are on the Connect page.

FlashRouters DD-WRT Privacy App - Connect Settings

Check the Auto Connect to VPN to have your FlashRouter connect to VPN when it boots up. This is assuming you have internet on the FlashRouter and you have entered valid VPN connection information into your Privacy App settings.

FlashRouters DD-WRT Privacy App - Auto-Connect to VPN Button

Uncheck the box if you would like to manually connect to VPN each time the router powers up and connects to the internet.

Privacy Hero NordLynx WireGuard VPN Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Apr 3, 2023 ·

Use these steps to connect to NordLynx WireGuard VPN servers. You will automatically be connected to the ideal server based on your location. You can also go to NordVPN’s server recommendation tool and select a specific country server to input into the Privacy Hero.

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

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

3. Click the VPN symbol.

4. Click the Change button and select NordVPN from the dropdown.

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

6. Select NordVPN on the left hand side.

7. At the bottom of the page click Access token. A code will be sent to your email. Enter this code to proceed.

8. After you enter the email code select Generate new token and set it to Doesn’t expire. Copy this token.

9. Paste the token you generated into the Token field.

10. Click Save if you want to connect to the ideal server location as recommended by NordVPN. To connect to a specific server number or location click Advanced Options and then type in the NordVPN server you would like to use formatted as the screenshot below. Then click Save.

Privacy Hero NordVPN Select Specific Server

There is also a link to NordVPN’s server recommendation tool where you can select a specific country and receive a recommendation for the fastest server based on your actual location. You can then enter that server in the Privacy Hero.

11. Set the VPN toggle to On.

12. Connect to the Privacy Hero’s via wireless or ethernet connection on your device and visit NordVPN’s IP Check from a private/incognito browser to verify your new IP address and virtual location.

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.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

FR Privacy App Connect Page: Access VPN logs

TeamFlashRouters · Jun 12, 2019 ·

Important Update: DD-WRT Privacy App Discontinued

If you need assistance or want to explore Privacy Hero 2, don’t hesitate to reach out!

VPN connection logs can be very helpful for troubleshooting if you have a connection issue. These are not logs of your VPN activity but rather logs that will report errors for connection failures to your VPN service provider.

Access the FR Privacy App and then pop out the FlashRouters Privacy App logo in the navigation area and make sure you are on the Connect page.

Scroll down and click Logs at the bottom of the page.

Within the Logs area you can take several actions.

FlashRouters DD-WRT Privacy App - Access OpenVPN Logs

Kill – This is another way to disconnect from VPN.
Reset – This will revert all changes you have made to the FR Privacy App on the Connect and Options pages. If you reset you will need to select your VPN provider, enter login info, etc…
Reload – Refresh the readouts of logs if you are in the middle of attempting a connection.
Download – Save logs to your computer as a text file.
Copy – Copy logs directly to your clipboard without saving to your computer.

FR Privacy App Options Page: Policy routing by Network

TeamFlashRouters · Mar 6, 2020 ·

Important Update: DD-WRT Privacy App Discontinued

If you need assistance or want to explore Privacy Hero 2, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Policy routing by network allows for you to select specific networks that you want to bypass VPN or connect to VPN. First Setup your Guest Network via the FlashRouters Privacy App (LINK).

Global Kill Switch must be Disabled on the Connect page in order to use the Kill Switch by device feature. Also, Policy Routing by Device features will not work at the same time as Policy Routing by Network, you must use one or the other.

Access the FR Privacy App and then pop out the FlashRouters Privacy App logo in the navigation area and make sure you are on the Options page.

Select Networks under Policy Routing and identify the network that you plan on adding a policy routing rule for and then select the Action option that you would like to use.

Default means the device will go through VPN if active and through ISP if VPN is inactive.
Kill-switch disables the internet connection on the specific device if the VPN connection drops.
VPN Off send the device traffic directly through your ISP and bypasses the VPN connection.

Click Apply at the bottom of the page.

Wireless Guest Network Setup – FlashRouters Privacy App

TeamFlashRouters · Mar 6, 2020 ·

Important Update: DD-WRT Privacy App Discontinued

If you need assistance or want to explore Privacy Hero 2, don’t hesitate to reach out!

The FlashRouters Privacy App makes setting up a wireless guest network easier than ever so you can have automatic VPN and ISP connections in your home for any device.

Preparing for Wireless Guest Network Setup

If you have a Dual-band or Tri-Band router you can setup a WiFi Guest Network on any band you like, creating a separate VLAN (virtual local area network) for your visitors, or in order to segment your VPN networks. 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.

FlashRouters Privacy App Setup for Wireless Guest Network

Access FlashRouters Privacy App

Navigate to Status > MyPage

Click the FlashRouters Privacy App logo and in the dropdown select Simple Setup.

Add the Guest Network

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

Enter Wireless Information for Guest Network

Set the WiFi Name (SSID) field to the desired name for your Guest Network.
Set the WiFi Password field to the wireless password required to join your Guest Network.
The DNS Server field is automatically set to 8.8.8.8 (Google DNS). You can change this field to any DNS server you desire or leave it as is.

Replicate the steps above to add more than one Guest Network to your FlashRouter.

Apply and Reboot

Click the Apply and Reboot button on the bottom of the page when your desired settings are entered. Be patient as the FlashRouter fully reboots, which can take a few minutes. Keep in mind that if you performed these steps while connected to wireless you may need to rejoin the network.

Bonus feature: Policy Routing by Guest Network

Policy routing by Network allows for you to assign either the main network or the new guest network to bypass the VPN connection and connect directly to ISP. This is a great solution for when streaming websites block the incoming VPN connection.

Additional Bonus Feature: Using SmartDNS on an ISP Guest Network

Once your guest network is set to bypass the VPN connection by following the Policy Routing by Network guide linked above, in the DNS Server field associated with your Guest Network you may add a SmartDNS server of a SmartDNS service you are signed up for to be used specifically on the new Guest Network.

Typically SmartDNS and VPN connections can not be made on a single router however with the FlashRouters Privacy App you can set your Guest Network to bypass the VPN connection making it able to have simultaneous VPN and SmartDNS connections all in one FlashRouter.

Follow the steps above to create a Guest Network
In DNS Server field enter the SmartDNS server provided to you by your SmartDNS provider.
Click Apply and Reboot.
Once the FlashRouter has booted back up access the FlashRouters Privacy App once again and select Options.
Select Networks.
In the Action dropdown for your Guest Network select VPN-Off.
Click Apply at the bottom of the page.
Then follow the steps to register your IP Address in your SmartDNS provider’s account area.

TROUBLESHOOTING

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

Troubleshoot Here

ExpressVPN Merlin OpenVPN Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Jan 11, 2023 ·

Preparing for ExpressVPN Merlin Setup

Obtain your ExpressVPN OpenVPN Information

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

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

2. Successfully log in with your account information. Select More.

3. Select Manual Configuration and copy the Username and Password that are displayed on the right hand side of the screen.

Merlin Router Setup for ExpressVPN

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

1. Navigate to the VPN tab.

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

3. Click Choose file and select the .ovpn file you downloaded earlier. Then click Upload.

4. Set Automatic Start at boot time to Yes if you want the VPN connection to begin automatically when the router is powered off and back on.

6. Set Accept DNS Configuration to Strict. Set Redirect Internet traffic through tunnel to Yes (all). Set Kill Switch to Yes or No depending on if you want the Internet to be killed if the VPN connection drops.

Merlin Accept DNS configuration Redirect Internet and Kill Switch

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 please set the Redirect Internet traffic through tunnel to VPN Director. Then complete the instructions on this page and then view our VPN Director guide.

7. Enter your ExpressVPN username and password that you obtained earlier in the Username and Password. Note that these are different from your ExpressVPN email login and password.

8. Click Apply at the bottom of the page.

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

Verify a successful ExpressVPN connection

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

How to change the ExpressVPN server

Copy the new ExpressVPN server address from the below server list.
Paste the server into the Server Address field.
Click Apply at the bottom of the page.

ExpressVPN Server Addresses

Americas

usa-atlanta-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
usa-boston-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
usa-chicago-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
usa-dallas-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
usa-dallas-2-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
usa-denver-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
usa-kansascity-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
usa-losangeles-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
usa-losangeles-1-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
usa-losangeles-2-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
usa-losangeles-3-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
usa-los-angeles-4-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
usa-miami-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
usa-miami-2-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
usa-minneapolis-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
usa-newjersey-1-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
usa-newjersey-3-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
usa-newyork-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
us-new-york-2-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
usa-phoenix-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
usa-saltlakecity-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
usa-sanfrancisco-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
usa-sanjose-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
usa-seattle-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
usa-tampa-1-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
usa-virginia-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
usa-washingtondc-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
usa-washingtondc-2-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
canada-montreal-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
canada-toronto-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
canada-toronto-2-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
canada-vancouver-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
mexico-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
argentina-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
brazil-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
brazil-2-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
chile-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
colombia-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
costarica-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
ecuador-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
guatemala-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
panama-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
peru-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
uruguay-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
venezuela-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com

Europe

uk-berkshire-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
uk-berkshire-2-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
uk-docklands-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
uk-east-london-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
uk-kent-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
uk-london-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
france-paris-1-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
france-paris-2-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
france-strasbourg-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
germany-darmstadt-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
germany-frankfurt-1-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
germany-frankfurt-2-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
germany-nuremberg-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
italy-cosenza-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
italy-milan-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
netherlands-amsterdam-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
netherlands-rotterdam-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
netherlands-thehague-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
spain-barcelona-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
spain-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
sweden-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
sweden-2-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
switzerland-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
switzerland-2-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
albania-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
andorra-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
armenia-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
austria-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
azerbaijan-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
belarus-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
belgium-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
bosniaandherzegovina-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
bulgaria-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
croatia-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
cyprus-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
czechrepublic-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
denmark-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
estonia-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
finland-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
georgia-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
greece-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
hungary-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
iceland-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
ireland-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
isleofman-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
jersey-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
latvia-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
liechtenstein-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
lithuania-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
luxembourg-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
macedonia-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
malta-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
moldova-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
monaco-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
montenegro-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
norway-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
poland-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
portugal-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
romania-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
serbia-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
slovakia-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
slovenia-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
ukraine-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com

Asia Pacific

australia-brisbane-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
australia-melbourne-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
australia-perth-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
australia-sydney-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
australia-sydney-2-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
australia-sydney-3-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
hongkong-2-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
hongkong4-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
hongkong-1-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
japan-tokyo-1-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
japan-tokyo-2-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
india-chennai-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
india-mumbai-1-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
singapore-cbd-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
singapore-jurong-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
southkorea-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
southkorea2-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
bangladesh-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
bhutan-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
brunei-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
cambodia-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
indonesia-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
kazakhstan-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
kyrgyzstan-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
laos-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
macau-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
malaysia-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
mongolia-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
myanmar-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
nepal-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
newzealand-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
pakistan-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
ph-via-sing-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
srilanka-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
taiwan-3-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
thailand-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
vietnam-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com

Middle East and Africa

algeria-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
israel-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
kenya-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com
southafrica-ca-version-2.expressnetw.com

Merlin ExpressVPN change server location

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

NordVPN Merlin OpenVPN Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Jan 11, 2023 ·

Preparing for NordVPN Merlin Setup

Obtain your NordVPN manual Username and Password

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

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

2. Click NordVPN on the left hand side and then click Setup NordVPN manually.

3. Enter in the verification code that was sent to your email.

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

Download your NordVPN .ovpn file

Then click Show Available Protocols. Click Download Config next to OpenVPN UDP. This will download the .ovpn file to your computer for this server. Do not open this file.

Merlin Router Setup for NordVPN

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

1. Navigate to the VPN tab.

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

3. Click Choose file and select the .ovpn file you downloaded earlier. Then click Upload.

4. Set Automatic Start at boot time to Yes if you want the VPN connection to begin automatically when the router is powered off and back on.

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 or server number here. Our example server was in us5835.nordvpn.com so I have entered in NordVPN us5835.

7. Enter your NordVPN username and password that you obtained earlier in the Username and Password. Note that these are different from your NordVPN email login and password.

8. Click Apply at the bottom of the page.

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

Verify a successful NordVPN connection

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

How to change the NordVPN server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

IPVanish Merlin OpenVPN Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Jan 11, 2023 ·

Preparing for IPVanish Merlin 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.

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.

Merlin Router Setup for IPVanish

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

1. Navigate to the VPN tab.

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

3. Click Choose file and select the .ovpn file you downloaded earlier. Then click Upload.

4. Set Automatic Start at boot time to Yes if you want the VPN connection to begin automatically when the router is powered off and back on.

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 here. Our example server was in nyc-a50 so I have entered in IPVanish a-50.

7. Enter your IPVanish account email/username and password.

8. Click Apply at the bottom of the page.

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

Verify a successful IPVanish connection

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

How to change the IPVanish server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

PureVPN Merlin WireGuard Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Jul 20, 2023 ·

Preparing for PureVPN Merlin Setup

Download your PureVPN .conf file

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

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

2. Select Manual Configuration.

3. Select the Server Location you want to connect to and then click Download.

4. In the Select Protocol dropdown choose WireGuard.

5. In the Select Device dropdown choose DD-WRT. Then click Generate Configuration. This will save a .conf file to your computer.

Merlin Router Setup for PureVPN

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

1. Navigate to the VPN tab.

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

3. Select WireGuard as the VPN Protocol.

4. Click Choose file and select the .conf file you downloaded earlier. Then click Upload.

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 here.

6. Set Enable WireGuard to Yes.

7. Click Apply at the bottom of the page and you should then see a Connected message appear.

9. On the VPN Director page click the + symbol next to Add new rule.

10. Select the new WireGuard profile in the Interface dropdown.

11. In the Local IP field enter in 192.168.50.0/24 if you want ALL devices connected to the FlashRouter’s network to use the WireGuard VPN connection. Click OK.

12. Then click Apply at the bottom of the page.

Verify a successful PureVPN connection

Visit PureVPN’s IP Check to verify your new IP address and virtual location.

How to change the PureVPN server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

PrivateInternetAccess (PIA) Asus AX1800S OpenVPN Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Feb 26, 2024 ·

Preparing for PIA Asus AX1800S 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.

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.

Asus AX1800S Router Setup for PIA

1. Navigate to the VPN tab.

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

3. Click Add Profile.

4. Click Choose file and select the .ovpn file you downloaded earlier. Then click Upload.

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 here.

6. Enter your PIA account username and password.

7. Click the Activate button.

Verify a successful PIA connection

You should now see a check mark in the Connection Status area.
Visit PIA’s IP Check to verify your new IP address and virtual location.

How to change the PIA server

Follow the steps at the top of the page to obtain a new .ovpn file.
Then proceed with the settings same as initial setup.
Be sure to deactivate a previously active connection before activating the new one. You do not want to connect to two at the same time.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

FR Privacy App Connect Page: Changing VPN providers

TeamFlashRouters · Jun 12, 2019 ·

Important Update: DD-WRT Privacy App Discontinued

If you need assistance or want to explore Privacy Hero 2, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Changing VPN providers on your FlashRouter has never been easier thanks to the FlashRouters Privacy App. There are currently more than 25 VPN providers to choose from in the default FR App installation.

Access the FR Privacy App and then pop out the FlashRouters Privacy App logo in the navigation area and make sure you are on the Connect page.

Choose your VPN provider from the dropdown menu options and be patient as your provider settings load into the FR Privacy App. If you are using a provider that has 1000+ servers it may take a bit longer to load.

FlashRouters DD-WRT Privacy App -Select VPN Provider

Now you can go ahead and follow your VPN provider setup to connect to your preferred VPN server location. Most providers simply require a username and password to complete the setup, but certain providers require additional certificate and key information as well.

Why can’t I send emails while connected to VPN?

TeamFlashRouters · Jun 4, 2019 ·

Can’t send or receive emails? Connecting to a VPN server can result in your email client not being able to send or receive emails. This can happen for several reasons:

The VPN provider you are connected to is blocking the ports the email client is using (SMTP).
Your email service is blocking access to datacenter IPs
Your email service is only allowing access to residential IPs
Your email service is only allowing access to IPs of its own country
Your email service is only allowing access to certain ISPs

This issue will only occur with email client applications and not with web browser email.

Steps to take if your email is not working

Change SMTP port

Access the settings of your email client and change the SMTP port to 587 or 465.

Change the VPN server

Connect to a different VPN server. The process for changing servers is detailed in your provider’s setup instructions.

FlashRouters Privacy App

DD-WRT Manual VPN Configuration

Disconnect from VPN

Disconnect from VPN on the FlashRouter and use your ISP Internet connection when using email.

Dual router setup users can leave the VPN running on the FlashRouter and simply connect to the other router’s network when using email.

Contact your VPN Service Provider

In some cases if you contact your VPN service provider they will be able to give you access to a specifically requested e-mail service.

Using Device Groups to bypass VPN on ExpressVPN/Aircove firmware

TeamFlashRouters · May 12, 2022 ·

Bypassing the ExpressVPN tunnel on certain devices allows you to have multiple IP Addresses while connected to the same router. This feature is very helpful with certain websites where VPN is blocked such as streaming services and banking information.

1. Connect to the FlashRouter’s network via ethernet cable or wireless.

2. Open your web browser and enter expressvpnrouter.com or 192.168.132.1 in the URL.

3. Login with your ExpressVPN FlashRouter admin password.

4. Select VPN Off on the right hand side of the menu.

5. Click and drag the device that you want to bypass the VPN tunnel to the No VPN area.

The devices assigned to No VPN will now correct directly to your ISP internet while the devices in the VPN group will remain connected to the VPN server.

Connect: Should I be using UDP or TCP for my VPN server?

TeamFlashRouters · May 16, 2019 ·

Important Update: DD-WRT Privacy App Discontinued

If you need assistance or want to explore Privacy Hero 2, don’t hesitate to reach out!

For certain providers in the FlashRouters Privacy App you will see two options for each server: UDP and TCP.

Learn more about the difference between UDP and TCP.

Feel free to try either option and see what works best for you.

If your VPN provider does not include both options then it is using UDP by default.

How do I upgrade the DD-WRT firmware of my FlashRouter?

TeamFlashRouters · May 30, 2019 ·

The following DD-WRT builds are from 11/24/2024 r58699. Keep in mind that these builds are for upgrading routers that already have DD-WRT firmware flashed. To flash a stock firmware router with DD-WRT firmware see our Flash My Router plan!

Download an updated DD-WRT firmware build for your specific FlashRouter model below. Contact support@flashrouters.com if you are uncertain about your router model or your router model is not available below.

Please be aware that FlashRouters is not responsible for any DIY firmware flashing updates. If you have questions or concerns contact FlashRouters Support or check out the DD-WRT Community for additional helpful resources.

Make sure you are following the directions below to load the firmware file into the router settings and not trying to open the firmware file on its own.

Access the FlashRouter via wired connection. It is possible to upgrade firmware via WiFi, but this is not recommended unless you are unable to wire directly to the router.

Navigate to Administration > Firmware Upgrade

Firmware Upgrade page in FlashRouter DD-WRT settings

Do NOT select Reset to Default Settings in the dropdown menu as this will erase all of your FlashRouter settings.
NOTE: If you are updating from an older DD-WRT build you may be required to reset the router after a firmware update for new features and UI to properly load. You will then be required to setup the administration username and password along with your WiFi and VPN network settings.
Click Choose File and select the file you have downloaded.
Click Upgrade.

FR Privacy App Options Page: Policy routing by device

TeamFlashRouters · Jun 12, 2019 ·

Important Update: DD-WRT Privacy App Discontinued

If you need assistance or want to explore Privacy Hero 2, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Policy routing by device allows for you to select specific devices that you want to bypass VPN or connect to VPN.

Global Kill Switch must be Disabled on the Connect page in order to use the Kill Switch by device feature.

Access the FR Privacy App and then pop out the FlashRouters Privacy App logo in the navigation area and make sure you are on the Options page.

Identify the device that you plan on adding a policy routing rule for via the device name or the HW (MAC) address and then select the Action option that you would like to use.

Default means the device will go through VPN if active and through ISP if VPN is inactive.
Kill-switch disables the internet connection on the specific device if the VPN connection drops.
VPN-bypass send the device traffic directly through your ISP and bypasses the VPN connection.

Click Apply at the bottom of the page.

If the action settings for a device are reverting back to default then we recommend setting a static IP address for that device in DD-WRT and then following this guide once again.

Connect: Will the FlashRouters Privacy App automatically connect to VPN?

TeamFlashRouters · May 16, 2019 ·

Important Update: DD-WRT Privacy App Discontinued

If you need assistance or want to explore Privacy Hero 2, don’t hesitate to reach out!

The FlashRouters Privacy App features an Auto Connect to VPN checkbox. When checked your FlashRouter’s VPN connection will begin as soon as the FlashRouter boots up. Note that the FlashRouter must be connected to the internet when powering up.

Begin the VPN connection in the FlashRouters Privacy App by clicking Connect when Auto Connect to VPN is unchecked.

Connect: How do I change my VPN provider in the FlashRouters Privacy App?

TeamFlashRouters · May 22, 2019 ·

Important Update: DD-WRT Privacy App Discontinued

If you need assistance or want to explore Privacy Hero 2, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Change your VPN provider in a few click with the FlashRouters Privacy App.

FlashRouters DD-WRT Privacy App - Select VPN Provider in Dropdown

On the Connect page select the dropdown that has the current VPN provider you are using.
From the dropdown select the new VPN provider you would like to use.
Be patient as the new provider’s information loads into the FlashRouters Privacy App.
Follow the Setup guide for correctly entering in the information for your new VPN provider in the FlashRouters Privacy App.

Why is my connection speed slower?

TeamFlashRouters · Jun 4, 2019 ·

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.

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