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Privacy Hero VPN Setup Guide for Privacy Hero

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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.

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

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. Set the VPN toggle to On.

Privacy Hero Enable VPN

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 NordVPN Not Connecting or Showing Timeout Errors

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If NordVPN will not connect on Privacy Hero, shows a timeout error, remains stuck on Connecting, or displays Failed, the Privacy Hero router itself may still be working normally.

NordVPN connections can occasionally stop working when servers are placed into maintenance, removed or cycled out of service, account credentials change, or a previously saved NordVPN access token or manual service credential is no longer valid.

Start by confirming that Privacy Hero has normal internet access, then troubleshoot the NordVPN connection.

Jump to a Section

First: Confirm Privacy Hero Has Internet

Before changing your NordVPN settings, confirm that Privacy Hero itself has normal internet access.

  1. Open app.privacyhero.com.
  2. Open the VPN section.
  3. If the VPN Kill Switch is enabled, temporarily turn it Off.
  4. Turn the failed NordVPN connection off.
  5. Connect a device to the Privacy Hero network.
  6. Test normal internet access.

If internet access works normally with NordVPN and the Kill Switch disabled, the underlying Privacy Hero internet connection is working. Continue troubleshooting the NordVPN connection.

If your internet stopped working because NordVPN failed while the VPN Kill Switch was enabled, follow our Privacy Hero VPN Kill Switch: No Internet or WiFi Troubleshooting guide.

Reconnect NordVPN

A temporary NordVPN server or connection issue may resolve without changing your account information.

  1. Open the VPN section at app.privacyhero.com.
  2. Turn the NordVPN connection off.
  3. Wait a few seconds.
  4. Turn NordVPN back on.
  5. Allow the connection time to establish.
  6. Check whether the VPN status changes to Connected.

If NordVPN still shows Failed, Connecting, or a timeout error, continue with the steps below.

Try Another NordVPN Server

NordVPN regularly maintains, replaces, and cycles servers in its network. A specific NordVPN server that worked previously may eventually be taken offline, removed, or temporarily unavailable.

If your Privacy Hero NordVPN connection is configured to use a specific server and suddenly stops working, try another server or return to the normal country selection.

  1. Open app.privacyhero.com.
  2. Open the VPN section.
  3. Select your NordVPN connection.
  4. If you previously entered a specific NordVPN server under Advanced Options, remove or replace that server.
  5. Select the country or location you want to use.
  6. Save the settings.
  7. Reconnect NordVPN.
  8. Check whether the status changes to Connected.

If you specifically need to use an individual NordVPN server, make sure that server is still active before continuing to use it.

Important: A previously working specific server should not be assumed to remain available indefinitely. NordVPN may change its server network over time.

Update Your NordVPN Token for NordLynx

Privacy Hero uses a NordVPN access token to authenticate NordLynx connections.

If the saved token is expired, revoked, replaced, or otherwise no longer valid, NordLynx may show Failed, Connecting, or a timeout error.

Generating a new token is a good troubleshooting step if your NordVPN account information has changed or the existing token is no longer working.

  1. Sign in to your NordVPN account.
  2. Open the NordVPN Access Tokens page.
  3. Generate a new access token.
  4. Select Doesn’t expire if NordVPN provides that option.
  5. Copy the new token.
  6. Open app.privacyhero.com.
  7. Open the NordVPN settings.
  8. Confirm that NordLynx is the selected protocol.
  9. Replace the existing token with the newly generated token.
  10. Save the settings.
  11. Reconnect NordVPN.

Important: NordVPN access tokens are sensitive account credentials. Do not post or share your token publicly.

For complete setup instructions, see Privacy Hero NordVPN / NordLynx Setup.

Update NordVPN Manual Service Credentials for OpenVPN

If you are using OpenVPN instead of NordLynx, Privacy Hero uses NordVPN’s Manual Service Credentials.

These are different from the email address and password you normally use to sign in to the NordVPN website or application.

If the saved credentials are no longer valid, update them:

  1. Sign in to your NordVPN account.
  2. Open NordVPN Manual Service Credentials.
  3. Copy the current service username and password.
  4. Open app.privacyhero.com.
  5. Open your NordVPN settings.
  6. Confirm that OpenVPN is the selected protocol.
  7. Replace the existing manual service credentials with the current credentials from NordVPN.
  8. Save the settings.
  9. Reconnect NordVPN.

Do not enter your regular NordVPN website email address and password in place of the manual service credentials.

Did You Recently Change Your NordVPN Account Information?

If NordVPN stopped connecting after an account change, update the authentication information stored in Privacy Hero.

This is especially important after changes such as:

  • Changing your NordVPN account password.
  • Changing or updating NordVPN account security settings.
  • Generating or replacing NordVPN access tokens.
  • Changes to NordVPN manual service credentials.
  • Renewing, changing, or restoring your NordVPN subscription.

The credentials used by Privacy Hero depend on the VPN protocol:

  • NordLynx: Uses a NordVPN access token.
  • OpenVPN: Uses NordVPN manual service credentials.

Your regular NordVPN website login should not be entered as the router’s OpenVPN credentials.

If you are unsure whether the existing authentication information is still valid, retrieve current credentials directly from your NordVPN account and update Privacy Hero.

Confirm Your NordVPN Subscription Is Active

Privacy Hero cannot establish a NordVPN connection if the NordVPN account being used no longer has active VPN service.

Sign in to your NordVPN account and confirm that your subscription is active before continuing with server, token, or credential troubleshooting.

Try Another VPN Protocol

If your NordVPN account, credentials, and server selection are correct but the connection still fails, try another NordVPN protocol available in Privacy Hero.

For example, if NordLynx is not connecting, testing OpenVPN can help determine whether the issue is specific to the protocol or authentication method.

Remember that changing protocols also changes the required NordVPN authentication:

  • NordLynx requires a NordVPN access token.
  • OpenVPN requires NordVPN manual service credentials.

Important: Do Not Run Two VPNs at Once

Do not leave the NordVPN application connected directly on your phone or computer while testing the Privacy Hero VPN.

Running a VPN application on the device while also routing that device through the Privacy Hero VPN creates a double-VPN connection and can cause routing, connectivity, or IP-location problems.

Disconnect the device-level NordVPN app before testing the router VPN.

Verify the NordVPN Connection

Once Privacy Hero displays NordVPN as Connected:

  1. Connect your device to the Privacy Hero WiFi.
  2. Make sure the NordVPN app on the device is disconnected.
  3. Open a fresh private/incognito browser window.
  4. Visit NordVPN What Is My IP.
  5. Confirm that the public IP address and location correspond to your selected NordVPN location.
  6. Test several websites or applications.

If you use the Privacy Hero VPN Kill Switch, enable it only after confirming that NordVPN is connected and working.

NordVPN Is Connected but One Device Shows the Wrong IP

If Privacy Hero shows NordVPN as Connected and other devices display the correct VPN IP, the NordVPN connection itself is likely working.

Check the affected device’s Privacy Hero VPN assignment and review any VPN, privacy, DNS, browser, antivirus, firewall, or security settings running directly on that device.

See Device Privacy, DNS, VPN, and Security Settings That Can Interfere With Your Router VPN.

Related Privacy Hero Guides

NordVPN Setup for Privacy Hero

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Privacy Hero supports NordVPN using both NordLynx and OpenVPN.

NordLynx is recommended for most users. OpenVPN is also available and may be required for NordVPN Dedicated IP connections. Some Dedicated IP configurations require a private OpenVPN file imported as a Custom VPN.

Privacy Hero is cloud-managed, so you can complete the setup from any device with an internet connection. You do not need to be connected to Privacy Hero WiFi to change these settings.

NordVPN NordLynx Setup

NordLynx uses a NordVPN access token, not your regular NordVPN website email and password.

Open Privacy Hero and Select NordLynx

  1. From a computer, smartphone, or tablet, open app.privacyhero.com.
  2. Sign in with your Privacy Hero account email and password.
  3. Open the VPN section.
  4. Click Change and select NordVPN.
  5. Choose NordLynx.
NordVPN Protocol Privacy Hero

Generate Your NordVPN Access Token

  1. In another browser tab, open NordVPN Access Tokens and sign in to your NordVPN account.
  2. Complete any account or email verification requested by NordVPN.
  3. Select Generate new token; choose Doesn’t expire if available, then copy the token.

Important: Treat your NordVPN token as a password. Do not share it publicly.

Connect Privacy Hero to NordVPN

  1. Return to Privacy Hero, paste the token into the NordLynx token field, and click Save. The default country selection automatically chooses an available NordVPN server for that location.
  2. Wait for the VPN status to show Connected.
NordVPN Protocols Privacy Hero

NordVPN OpenVPN Setup

Use OpenVPN if you prefer the OpenVPN protocol or if your configuration requires it. OpenVPN requires NordVPN Manual Service Credentials, which are different from your website login email and password.

Select OpenVPN in Privacy Hero

  1. Open app.privacyhero.com and sign in.
  2. Open the VPN section.
  3. Click Change and select NordVPN.
  4. Select OpenVPN.
NordVPN Protocol Privacy Hero

Get Your Manual Service Credentials

  1. Open NordVPN Manual Service Credentials and sign in.
  2. Complete NordVPN’s verification if prompted, then copy the current Service Username and Service Password.

Important: Do not enter your normal NordVPN website email and password into Privacy Hero’s OpenVPN fields.

Save Your OpenVPN Connection

  1. Return to Privacy Hero and enter the manual service username and password in the OpenVPN credential fields. Click Save.
  2. Confirm Privacy Hero shows the connection as Connected.

Choose a NordVPN Country or Specific Server

Privacy Hero can select a NordVPN server automatically, or you can choose a country or specify a server hostname.

Choose a Country

  1. Open your NordVPN connection in Privacy Hero.
  2. Open the Country dropdown.
  3. Search for and select your preferred country.
  4. Click Save. Privacy Hero will use an available NordVPN server for the selected country.

Use a Specific NordVPN Server

  1. Open your NordVPN connection in Privacy Hero.
  2. Open Advanced Options.
  3. Enter the NordVPN server hostname, for example us12286.nordvpn.com.
  4. Click Save.

Use NordVPN’s server recommendation tool if you need a hostname. NordVPN servers can be retired or taken offline for maintenance; if your specific server stops working, choose another server or return to country selection.

NordVPN Dedicated IP Setup

NordVPN Dedicated IP can require either the regular NordVPN OpenVPN connection or a private .ovpn file imported as a Custom VPN.

Method 1: OpenVPN Advanced Options

Try this first if your Dedicated IP works with the standard NordVPN OpenVPN setup.

  1. Set up NordVPN → OpenVPN using your NordVPN Manual Service Credentials as described above.
  2. Open Advanced Options.
  3. Enter the Dedicated IP server hostname assigned to your account.
  4. Click Save and check whether the VPN connects.
  5. Verify that your public IP matches your assigned Dedicated IP.
Nord US Dedicated OpenVPN

If connected and the public IP matches, no additional configuration is needed.

Method 2: Custom VPN With a Private OpenVPN File

Some Dedicated IP servers require a private OpenVPN configuration file. If Method 1 does not connect, follow NordVPN’s Manual Dedicated IP Server Setup instructions.

Download Your Dedicated IP Configuration

  1. Sign in to the NordVPN account associated with the Dedicated IP.
  2. Locate your assigned Dedicated IP server using NordVPN’s manual setup instructions.
  3. Download its OpenVPN UDP configuration file.
  4. Save the .ovpn file to your computer or device.

Important: Use the private configuration file for your actual Dedicated IP, not a public NordVPN server file.

Upload the File as a Custom VPN

  1. Open app.privacyhero.com and select VPN → Change.
  2. Select Custom from the VPN provider dropdown, not NordVPN.
  3. Upload your Dedicated IP UDP .ovpn file.
  4. Enter your NordVPN Manual Service Username and Password.
  5. Save the configuration, enable the VPN, and wait for Connected.
  6. Verify the public IP matches your NordVPN Dedicated IP.

These are NordVPN’s separate manual service credentials, not your regular website login.

Verify Your NordVPN Connection

  1. Connect your testing device to the Privacy Hero WiFi.
  2. Disconnect any NordVPN or other VPN app running directly on that device.
  3. Open a fresh private/incognito browser window.
  4. Visit NordVPN What Is My IP.
  5. Confirm the public IP and location match your selected NordVPN server (or assigned Dedicated IP).

Running a VPN application directly on the device at the same time as the router VPN can produce double-VPN conflicts and unexpected IP or location results.

Streaming Relocation and VPN Location

If Streaming Relocation is enabled for a supported service, that service may use the Streaming Relocation region instead of your VPN server region. See Privacy Hero Streaming Relocation.

NordVPN Not Connecting?

If the VPN displays Failed, Connecting, or a timeout error, check for:

  • A server undergoing maintenance or no longer available.
  • An expired, revoked, or outdated NordLynx access token.
  • Incorrect or changed OpenVPN Manual Service Credentials.
  • Recent account changes or an inactive NordVPN subscription.
  • A protocol-specific issue.
  • A Dedicated IP that requires a private .ovpn file and Custom provider selection.

Follow Privacy Hero NordVPN Not Connecting or Showing Timeout Errors for troubleshooting.

No Internet After NordVPN Disconnects?

If internet access stops when the VPN disconnects, the VPN Kill Switch may be blocking normal traffic as intended. See Privacy Hero VPN Kill Switch: No Internet or WiFi Troubleshooting.

VPN Connected, but One Device Shows the Wrong IP?

If other devices show the correct VPN IP, check the affected device’s VPN apps, Private Relay, Private DNS, antivirus, and browser settings. See Device Settings That Can Interfere With Your Router VPN.

Related Privacy Hero Guides

TP-Link Change Wi-Fi name and password

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Follow this guide to change the Wi-Fi name and password on your TP-Link FlashRouter.

1. Connect your computer, phone, or tablet to the TP-Link router via wireless (FlashRouter24 / FlashRouter50) or via ethernet cable to one of the LAN ports on the router.

The FlashRouter WiFi password is printed on the sheet that came with the router and is set to Wireless#[First 5 characters of your router MAC]. The router MAC can be found on the bottom of your router if you cannot locate the sheet. For e.g. if your MAC is 1459C07E70A8 then your WiFi password is Wireless#1459C

Be sure to capitalize the W.

2. Once connected via wireless or ethernet on your device open your browser and go to the TP-Link firmware settings.

TP-Link URL Access

3. Enter tp-link as the admin password to access the TP-Link firmware settings.

TP-Link admin password

4. Click Wireless.

TP-Link Wireless tab

5. Change the Network Name (SSID) and Password fields to what you want to use. The SSID should be unique and NOT a duplicate of an existing network. Click Save.

TP-Link Change Wireless name and password

If you want both 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks to be bonded and have the same name click the Smart Connect checkbox.

TP-Link Separate Wifi

6. Connect your devices to the new wireless network.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

Private Internet Access (PIA) Setup for Privacy Hero

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Privacy Hero supports Private Internet Access (PIA) with WireGuard (recommended) and OpenVPN. You need an active PIA subscription and your PIA VPN username and password.

Important difference: PIA WireGuard has a built-in provider integration in Privacy Hero. Choose Private Internet Access from the VPN provider list—not Custom WireGuard. No WireGuard configuration file or key generation is needed.

By default, Privacy Hero can automatically select an optimal available PIA server based on your location and server conditions. Alternatively, use Advanced Options to enter a specific PIA server hostname from the regional list below.

Privacy Hero is cloud-managed. You can configure your router from any device with an internet connection, whether or not you are on the Privacy Hero WiFi network.

Set Up PIA WireGuard in Privacy Hero (Recommended)

Unlike most other providers, PIA WireGuard does not use Custom VPN file uploads in Privacy Hero. The built-in PIA integration connects using your PIA account credentials and handles the WireGuard configuration for you.

  1. Open app.privacyhero.com and sign in to your Privacy Hero account.
  2. Open the VPN section. Select Change beside your current VPN provider.
  3. Choose Private Internet Access from the provider list. Do not select Custom for this WireGuard setup.
  4. Enter your PIA VPN account username and password (not your Privacy Hero dashboard credentials). You can check your account at PIA Client Control Panel.
  5. For automatic server selection, leave the optional server hostname unset, then click Save to connect. Wait until Privacy Hero displays Connected.
Privacy Hero built-in Private Internet Access provider login settings

Choose the Automatic Server or a Specific PIA Location

Privacy Hero offers two ways to select the PIA WireGuard server:

  • Automatic (recommended for most users): Leave the server hostname field blank. Privacy Hero selects an optimal available PIA location, generally favoring nearby servers and server conditions such as load. You do not need to manually maintain a server address.
  • Specific location: Enter a PIA region hostname under Advanced Options. This is useful when you need an IP address from a particular country or city.
  1. To use a specific location, open the existing Private Internet Access connection and select Advanced Options.
  2. Enter a complete PIA server hostname from the list below, for example us-newyorkcity.privacy.network or uk-london.privacy.network.
  3. Click Save, wait for Connected, then verify your new public IP address. If the selected location becomes unavailable, try another hostname or remove the hostname to return to automatic selection.
Privacy Hero Private Internet Access Advanced Options field for entering a VPN server hostname

PIA Server Hostname List by Region

Use these hostnames in PIA > Advanced Options when you prefer a specific location. Expand a region below and copy the complete hostname, including .privacy.network. This list is retained from the existing FlashRouters guide.

Server availability can change. Some hostnames, particularly those ending in -pf or marked for streaming, are specialized locations and may not be available for every connection. If a hostname no longer works, use automatic selection or check PIA’s current location list for available locations. PIA’s location list names regions; it does not necessarily provide matching hostnames.

North America (65 locations)
bahamas.privacy.networkca-ontario.privacy.networkca-toronto.privacy.networkca-vancouver.privacy.networkca-montreal.privacy.networkgreenland.privacy.networkgt-guatemala-pf.privacy.networkmexico.privacy.networkpanama.privacy.networksanjose.privacy.networkus-alabama-pf.privacy.networkus-alaska-pf.privacy.networkus-arkansas-pf.privacy.networkus-atlanta.privacy.networkus-california.privacy.networkus-chicago.privacy.networkus-connecticut-pf.privacy.networkus-denver.privacy.networkus-florida.privacy.networkus-houston.privacy.networkus-idaho-pf.privacy.networkus-indiana-pf.privacy.networkus-iowa-pf.privacy.networkus-kansas-pf.privacy.networkus-kentucky-pf.privacy.networkus-lasvegas.privacy.networkus-louisiana-pf.privacy.networkus-maine-pf.privacy.networkus-massachusetts-pf.privacy.networkus-michigan-pf.privacy.networkus-minnesota-pf.privacy.networkus-mississippi-pf.privacy.networkus-missouri-pf.privacy.networkus-montana-pf.privacy.networkus-nebraska-pf.privacy.networkus-new-hampshire-pf.privacy.networkus-new-mexico-pf.privacy.networkus-newyorkcity.privacy.networkus-north-carolina-pf.privacy.networkus-north-dakota-pf.privacy.networkus-ohio-pf.privacy.networkus-oklahoma-pf.privacy.networkus-oregon-pf.privacy.networkus-pennsylvania-pf.privacy.networkus-rhode-island-pf.privacy.networkus-seattle.privacy.networkus-siliconvalley.privacy.networkus-south-carolina-pf.privacy.networkus-south-dakota-pf.privacy.networkus-texas.privacy.networkus-tennessee-pf.privacy.networkus-vermont-pf.privacy.networkus-virginia-pf.privacy.networkus-washingtondc.privacy.networkus-west-virginia-pf.privacy.networkus-wisconsin-pf.privacy.networkus-wyoming-pf.privacy.networkus3.privacy.networkus-baltimore.privacy.networkus-honolulu.privacy.networkus-newjersey.privacy.networkus-saltlakecity.privacy.networkus-streaming-2.privacy.networkus-streaming.privacy.networkus-wilmington.privacy.network
South America (9 locations)
ar.privacy.networkbo-bolivia-pf.privacy.networkbogota.privacy.networkbr.privacy.networkec-ecuador-pf.privacy.networkpe-peru-pf.privacy.networksantiago.privacy.networkuy-uruguay-pf.privacy.networkvenezuela.privacy.network
Europe (51 locations)
al.privacy.networkad.privacy.networkaustria.privacy.networkbrussels.privacy.networkba.privacy.networksofia.privacy.networkzagreb.privacy.networkczech.privacy.networkde-berlin.privacy.networkde-frankfurt.privacy.networkdenmark.privacy.networkdenmark-2.privacy.networkspain.privacy.networkes-valencia.privacy.networkee.privacy.networkfi.privacy.networkfi-2.privacy.networkfrance.privacy.networkgr.privacy.networkhungary.privacy.networkitaly.privacy.networkitaly-2.privacy.networkis.privacy.networkireland.privacy.networkman.privacy.networklv.privacy.networkliechtenstein.privacy.networklt.privacy.networklu.privacy.networkmalta.privacy.networkmd.privacy.networkmonaco.privacy.networkmontenegro.privacy.networknl-amsterdam.privacy.networkmk.privacy.networkno.privacy.networkpoland.privacy.networkpt.privacy.networkro.privacy.networksweden.privacy.networksweden-2.privacy.networkrs.privacy.networksk.privacy.networkslovenia.privacy.networkswiss.privacy.networktr.privacy.networkuk-london.privacy.networkuk-manchester.privacy.networkuk-southampton.privacy.networkuk-2.privacy.networkua.privacy.network
Asia (26 locations)
ae.privacy.networkbangladesh.privacy.networkcambodia.privacy.networkchina.privacy.networkcyprus.privacy.networkgeorgia.privacy.networkhk.privacy.networkin.privacy.networkisrael.privacy.networkjakarta.privacy.networkjapan.privacy.networkjapan-2.privacy.networkkazakhstan.privacy.networkkr-south-korea-pf.privacy.networkkualalumpur.privacy.networkmacau.privacy.networkmongolia.privacy.networknp-nepal-pf.privacy.networkphilippines.privacy.networkqatar.privacy.networksaudiarabia.privacy.networksg.privacy.networksrilanka.privacy.networktaiwan.privacy.networkvietnam.privacy.networkyerevan.privacy.network
Oceania (7 locations)
au-adelaide-pf.privacy.networkau-australia-so.privacy.networkau-brisbane-pf.privacy.networkaus-melbourne.privacy.networkaus-perth.privacy.networkau-sydney.privacy.networknz.privacy.network
Africa (5 locations)
dz.privacy.networkegypt.privacy.networkmorocco.privacy.networknigeria.privacy.networkza.privacy.network

Set Up PIA OpenVPN in Privacy Hero

OpenVPN is the alternative when you need a manually uploaded connection or if the built-in PIA WireGuard method does not work on your network. OpenVPN uses Custom in Privacy Hero, unlike the built-in PIA WireGuard setup.

Download a PIA OpenVPN Configuration File

  1. Sign in to the PIA Client Control Panel using your PIA VPN account.
  2. Open Downloads and scroll to OpenVPN Configuration Generator or OpenVPN Configurations.
  3. If using the generator, choose OpenVPN 2.4 or newer and Linux when these options are offered, then choose an available server location.
  4. Select your preferred configuration. UDP / 1198 (AES-128-CBC) is a standard default. UDP / 1197 (AES-256-CBC) is an alternative. Use a PIA-provided TCP configuration if UDP does not work on your network.
  5. Click Generate or download a suitable pre-made configuration and save the resulting .ovpn file. Each server file is tied to its selected location/settings.

PIA also provides pre-made OpenVPN configuration bundles; see PIA’s OpenVPN file instructions.

Add PIA OpenVPN as a Custom VPN

  1. Open Privacy Hero, go to VPN, click Change, and select Custom.
  2. Choose OpenVPN and upload the PIA .ovpn file downloaded in the previous section.
  3. Enter your PIA VPN username and password in the Custom OpenVPN authentication fields.
  4. Click Save and confirm Privacy Hero shows Connected.
Privacy Hero Custom OpenVPN configuration with file upload and username password fields

Note: If OpenVPN UDP cannot connect, try a TCP profile from PIA or another server. When switching protocols, make sure you upload a matching PIA configuration file.

Verify Your Private Internet Access Connection

  1. Connect a device to the Privacy Hero WiFi or LAN network.
  2. Disconnect any PIA app or other VPN running directly on the device so the router VPN can be tested independently.
  3. Open a private/incognito browser window and visit PIA What Is My IP.
  4. Confirm that your public IP address reflects the VPN connection, and that the approximate location is consistent with either the selected hostname or Privacy Hero’s automatic server selection.

Privacy Hero VPN settings can be changed remotely, but the device used to verify the VPN IP must be connected to the Privacy Hero network.

Streaming Relocation and Your PIA Location

If Streaming Relocation is enabled for a supported service, that service may use the Streaming Relocation location instead of your PIA VPN server location. See Privacy Hero Streaming Relocation.

PIA VPN Not Connecting?

If Privacy Hero reports Failed, stays on Connecting, or connected devices lose internet access, try these checks:

  1. Confirm your PIA subscription is active and enter your PIA VPN login, not your Privacy Hero email/password.
  2. For built-in PIA WireGuard, verify the provider is Private Internet Access—not Custom. No downloaded WireGuard file is required.
  3. Remove any specific server hostname to test automatic server selection. If that connects, the previous hostname may be unavailable.
  4. For Custom OpenVPN, upload a fresh PIA .ovpn file, re-enter the PIA credentials, and try a different server or a TCP configuration.
  5. Turn off the router VPN temporarily to check that normal internet access works. If the VPN Kill Switch is blocking internet traffic, temporarily disable it for testing, then restore your preferred setting.
  6. Check whether a separate VPN app, iCloud Private Relay, Private DNS, proxy, or security software on the testing device is affecting your VPN IP results.

No Internet When the VPN Disconnects?

The Privacy Hero VPN Kill Switch may intentionally block internet access if the VPN goes down. See Privacy Hero VPN Kill Switch: No Internet or WiFi Troubleshooting.

VPN Connected but One Device Shows the Wrong IP?

If other devices show the expected VPN address, review device VPN apps, iCloud Private Relay, Private DNS, and security settings.

Related Privacy Hero Guides

TP-Link Change Wireless Channel

· ·

Follow this guide to change the Wireless channel on your TP-Link FlashRouter.

1. Connect your computer, phone, or tablet to the TP-Link router via wireless (FlashRouter24 / FlashRouter50) or via ethernet cable to one of the LAN ports on the router.

The FlashRouter WiFi password is printed on the sheet that came with the router and is set to Wireless#[First 5 characters of your router MAC]. The router MAC can be found on the bottom of your router if you cannot locate the sheet. For e.g. if your MAC is 1459C07E70A8 then your WiFi password is Wireless#1459C

Be sure to capitalize the W.

2. Once connected via wireless or ethernet on your device open your browser and go to the TP-Link firmware settings.

TP-Link URL Access

3. Enter tp-link as the admin password to access the TP-Link firmware settings.

TP-Link admin password

4. Click Wireless.

TP-Link Wireless tab

5. Change the Channel setting to the number that you want to use. Click Save.

TP-Link Change Wireless Channel

6. Connect your devices to the wireless network again as they may have been disconnected when making this change.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

TP-Link Merge or Separate 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi

· ·

Your TP-Link router broadcasts a 2.4GHz and a 5GHz Wi-Fi network. These can be separated to allow you to assign your devices to the network that best suits them or merged into a single network so your devices automatically select the best band to use. Follow this guide to separate or merge your Wi-Fi bands.

1. Connect your computer, phone, or tablet to the TP-Link router via wireless (FlashRouter24 / FlashRouter50) or via ethernet cable to one of the LAN ports on the router.

The FlashRouter WiFi password is printed on the sheet that came with the router and is set to Wireless#[First 5 characters of your router MAC]. The router MAC can be found on the bottom of your router if you cannot locate the sheet. For e.g. if your MAC is 1459C07E70A8 then your WiFi password is Wireless#1459C

Be sure to capitalize the W.

2. Once connected via wireless or ethernet on your device open your browser and go to the TP-Link firmware settings.

TP-Link URL Access

3. Enter tp-link as the admin password to access the TP-Link firmware settings.

TP-Link admin password

4. Click Wireless.

TP-Link Wireless tab

5. Check the Smart Connect checkbox to merge the two Wi-Fi bands. Uncheck the Smart Connect checkbox to separate the two Wi-Fi bands. If you have the two Wi-Fi bands separated make sure the Network Name (SSID) fields have different names for 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. Click Save.

TP-Link Merge Wifi
TP-Link Separate Wifi

6. Connect your devices to the new wireless network.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

Privacy Hero Adblocking Malware and Phishing Prevention Setup

· ·

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.

Use these steps to enable Privacy Hero’s adblocking, malware, and phishing prevention settings to add extra security to your network.

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. Toggle the Adblocking and Malware & Phishing switches to On.

Privacy Hero Adblocking Malware and Phishing

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

Privacy Hero VPN Kill Switch Setup

· ·

The Privacy Hero VPN Kill Switch prevents regular internet traffic from passing through your router if its VPN disconnects or fails to connect. This helps prevent devices from using your normal ISP connection without VPN protection.

Before enabling: Make sure your VPN is already Connected and that internet access works through the VPN. The Kill Switch is optional, but useful if you prefer internet access to stop rather than continue unprotected when the VPN goes down.

Privacy Hero is managed at app.privacyhero.com. You can make changes using a computer, phone, or tablet.

How to Enable the VPN Kill Switch

  1. Open app.privacyhero.com and sign in using your Privacy Hero account. If the router has not been activated yet, follow the Privacy Hero Activation and Setup guide first.
  2. Open the VPN section of your Privacy Hero settings.
  3. Confirm that your selected VPN provider is active and its connection status shows Connected. If the VPN is failing, fix the connection before proceeding.
  4. Find VPN Killswitch (VPN Kill Switch) and move its toggle to On (orange). The setting is enabled when its toggle is On.
  5. Keep a device connected to the Privacy Hero WiFi or LAN and confirm that ordinary websites work with the VPN connected.
Privacy Hero Security and Privacy VPN Killswitch toggle enabled, highlighted on the right side of the settings page
In Privacy Hero, the VPN Killswitch toggle is shown directly below the VPN provider setting.

Tip: To check the router’s VPN IP address, use a browser on a device connected to Privacy Hero, not on a phone using cellular data or another WiFi network. Disable any separate VPN app on the test device so you can verify the router VPN independently.

What Happens When the Kill Switch Is On?

VPN status Kill Switch Normal internet traffic
Connected On Allowed through the VPN
Disconnected or Failed On Blocked until the VPN reconnects or you turn the Kill Switch off
Disconnected or Failed Off May use the normal ISP connection without VPN protection

The Kill Switch does not turn off the WiFi network. Your device may stay connected to Privacy Hero WiFi but report No Internet when the VPN is unavailable. Some phones and computers may automatically switch to cellular data or another saved WiFi network.

Access Privacy Hero Even When the Kill Switch Is Blocking Internet

Important: Privacy Hero includes a built-in exception for its cloud management dashboard. If the VPN is down and the Kill Switch blocks normal internet traffic, you can still access app.privacyhero.com while connected to the Privacy Hero WiFi or LAN network, provided the router itself still has its upstream/cloud connection.

This means you can sign in, check the VPN status, change the server or protocol, or switch off the Kill Switch without first leaving the Privacy Hero network.

You can also access the cloud dashboard through another working WiFi connection or cellular data. If the router shows Offline in the dashboard, that indicates a separate WAN or cloud-connectivity problem rather than normal Kill Switch behavior.

How to Turn Off the Kill Switch or Restore Internet

If your VPN has stopped connecting and you need to restore ordinary internet access temporarily:

  1. Open app.privacyhero.com, including from the Privacy Hero network if the Kill Switch is blocking regular internet.
  2. Open VPN and check the current VPN status.
  3. Move VPN Killswitch to Off.
  4. If the VPN remains Failed or Disconnected, temporarily switch the VPN connection Off and test internet access using a device on the Privacy Hero network.
  5. Repair the VPN connection, confirm Connected, and verify that ordinary internet traffic works through the VPN before turning the Kill Switch back On.

Security note: With the Kill Switch off, devices may access the internet without VPN protection if the VPN is disconnected. Re-enable it after testing if preventing non-VPN traffic is your goal.

VPN showing Failed? Privacy Hero includes a Reset option that removes all saved third-party VPN settings. With an active Privacy Premium subscription, the router reconnects using the built-in Privacy Hero VPN. With Privacy Core, it returns to your normal ISP connection without a router VPN.

Before using Reset, see our How to Reset a Failed VPN Connection on Privacy Hero guide.

For a complete diagnosis of WiFi connected but no internet, VPN failures, and router Offline status, follow the Privacy Hero VPN Kill Switch: No Internet or WiFi Troubleshooting guide.

Related Privacy Hero Guides

ExpressVPN Setup for Privacy Hero

· ·

Privacy Hero supports ExpressVPN using OpenVPN. To connect, you need your ExpressVPN Manual Configuration username and password and an OpenVPN (.ovpn) configuration file for your preferred server location.

Important: In Privacy Hero, choose Custom as the VPN provider. Upload the ExpressVPN .ovpn file and enter your separate Manual Configuration credentials, not your regular ExpressVPN website login.

Privacy Hero is cloud-managed, so you can complete setup from any computer, smartphone, or tablet with an internet connection. You do not need to be connected to Privacy Hero WiFi while changing the settings.

Get Your ExpressVPN Manual Configuration Credentials

ExpressVPN provides separate credentials for manual OpenVPN connections. These are different from your normal ExpressVPN website email and password.

  1. Open ExpressVPN Set Up Devices and sign in to your ExpressVPN account.
  2. In the left navigation, select Set Up Devices.
  3. Under Applications, expand Advanced setup and choose Manual Configuration.
  4. Find your unique Username and Password under Manual Configuration. Keep this tab open so you can copy them into Privacy Hero.

Important: Do not use your regular ExpressVPN account password, and do not share your manual configuration credentials publicly.

Download Your ExpressVPN OpenVPN Server File

Each available ExpressVPN location has its own OpenVPN configuration file. The file determines the server location used by Privacy Hero.

  1. On the same Manual Configuration page, locate the server regions, such as Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific, or Middle East & Africa.
  2. Expand your preferred region and download the UDP .ovpn file for an available location. Save it to the device you are using to configure Privacy Hero.

Only locations offered on your ExpressVPN Manual Configuration page can be used for this setup. To change locations later, download the corresponding .ovpn file and upload it to Privacy Hero.

Add ExpressVPN to Privacy Hero as a Custom VPN

ExpressVPN uses Privacy Hero’s Custom VPN configuration rather than a dedicated ExpressVPN provider option.

Upload the OpenVPN File and Enter Credentials

  1. Open app.privacyhero.com and sign in to your Privacy Hero account.
  2. Open the VPN section.
  3. Click Change beside the VPN provider and choose Custom.
  4. Choose OpenVPN if prompted, then upload the UDP .ovpn file downloaded from ExpressVPN.
  5. Copy the separate ExpressVPN Manual Configuration Username and Password into the corresponding Privacy Hero fields.
Privacy Hero Custom OpenVPN configuration showing file upload and manual username and password fields

Check the UDP Configuration and Connect

  1. If Privacy Hero displays the OpenVPN configuration in an editor, confirm that the downloaded UDP configuration specifies proto udp. If the directive is missing, add proto udp at the beginning of the configuration. Do not add a conflicting second protocol directive.
  2. Click Save to apply the configuration and establish the VPN connection.
  3. Confirm Privacy Hero displays Connected for the Custom OpenVPN connection.
Privacy Hero Custom OpenVPN configuration editor with proto udp directive

Verify Your ExpressVPN Connection

After Privacy Hero reports Connected, check that devices on the Privacy Hero network are actually using the VPN.

  1. Connect the testing device to the Privacy Hero WiFi or LAN network.
  2. Disconnect the ExpressVPN app or any other VPN application running directly on that device.
  3. Open a fresh private/incognito browser window.
  4. Visit ExpressVPN What Is My IP.
  5. Confirm the public IP address and approximate location correspond to the ExpressVPN server selected in your .ovpn file.

Important: You can manage Privacy Hero’s VPN settings from another network or cellular data. However, to verify the router’s VPN IP, the testing device must be connected to the Privacy Hero network. Running another VPN app on the device can produce double-VPN results.

Streaming Relocation and VPN Location

If Streaming Relocation is enabled for a supported streaming service, that service may use its Streaming Relocation region instead of the location defined in the ExpressVPN configuration file. See Privacy Hero Streaming Relocation.

ExpressVPN Not Connecting?

If Privacy Hero shows Failed, stays on Connecting, or displays a timeout error, try these checks:

  1. Confirm your ExpressVPN subscription is active and you entered the separate Manual Configuration username and password.
  2. Check that you selected Custom in Privacy Hero, rather than another VPN provider.
  3. Download a fresh UDP .ovpn file for an available ExpressVPN server location and upload it again.
  4. Check that the OpenVPN configuration uses proto udp without conflicting protocol directives.
  5. Temporarily disable the VPN Kill Switch while testing whether normal internet access works without the VPN, then restore your preferred Kill Switch setting.
  6. Try another ExpressVPN server location or reconnect the VPN.

No Internet After the VPN Disconnects?

The Privacy Hero VPN Kill Switch may intentionally block normal internet traffic when the VPN connection is unavailable. See Privacy Hero VPN Kill Switch: No Internet or WiFi Troubleshooting.

VPN Connected, but One Device Shows the Wrong IP?

If other devices show the correct VPN IP, check the affected device’s VPN apps, iCloud Private Relay, Private DNS, antivirus filtering, browser proxy/DNS settings, or other security software. See Device Settings That Can Interfere With Your Router VPN.

Related Privacy Hero Guides

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

ProtonVPN Setup for Privacy Hero

· ·

Privacy Hero supports Proton VPN through WireGuard and OpenVPN using the Custom VPN provider option.

WireGuard is recommended for most users. It uses a downloadable .conf configuration file. OpenVPN uses a downloadable .ovpn file and a separate Proton VPN OpenVPN username and password (not your regular Proton Account login).

Privacy Hero is cloud-managed. You can configure the VPN from a computer, smartphone, or tablet connected to any internet network; you do not need to be on the Privacy Hero WiFi to change settings.

Proton VPN WireGuard Setup (Recommended)

WireGuard uses a configuration file generated by Proton VPN. You do not need an OpenVPN username and password for this method.

Generate Your Proton VPN WireGuard Configuration

  1. Open your Proton VPN account and sign in.
  2. Go to Downloads → WireGuard configuration.
  3. Enter a recognizable configuration name and select Router as the platform.
  4. Choose your preferred VPN options and an available server or country. For a straightforward setup, select a standard server configuration.
  5. Click Create, then Download to save the generated WireGuard .conf file to your device.

Important: A WireGuard configuration contains a private key. Keep the downloaded file private; do not paste its contents into public posts or unprotected support messages. For detailed Proton account instructions, see Proton VPN: Download WireGuard Configuration Files.

Upload WireGuard to Privacy Hero

  1. Open app.privacyhero.com and log in to your Privacy Hero account.
  2. Open the VPN section, click Change beside the VPN provider, and choose Custom.
  3. Select WireGuard and upload the Proton VPN .conf file you downloaded.
  4. Click Save to apply the configuration and connect. Confirm that Privacy Hero reports Connected.
Privacy Hero Custom WireGuard configuration screen showing the configuration file upload

Proton VPN OpenVPN Setup

OpenVPN is an alternative to WireGuard. You need a Proton VPN OpenVPN-specific username and password and a server .ovpn configuration file.

Get Your Proton VPN OpenVPN Credentials

  1. Sign in to your Proton VPN account.
  2. Open Account → OpenVPN username to find your separate OpenVPN username and password.
  3. Copy these credentials or keep the page open. Do not use your usual Proton Account email and password for the manual OpenVPN connection.

For help locating these credentials, see Proton VPN: How to Sign In / OpenVPN Credentials.

Download Your Proton VPN OpenVPN Server File

  1. In your Proton VPN account, go to Downloads → OpenVPN configuration files.
  2. Select Router as the platform and UDP as the protocol (recommended starting point). If UDP does not work on your network, you can try a TCP configuration later.
  3. Select an available country or individual server from the standard configuration list, then click Download to save its .ovpn file.

For additional details about the file download options, see Proton VPN: Download OpenVPN Configuration Files.

Upload OpenVPN to Privacy Hero

  1. Open app.privacyhero.com and sign in to your Privacy Hero account.
  2. Open the VPN section, click Change, and select Custom as the VPN provider.
  3. Choose OpenVPN and upload the Proton VPN .ovpn file you downloaded.
  4. Enter your separate Proton VPN OpenVPN username and password into the Custom VPN fields.
  5. Click Save, then confirm Privacy Hero displays Connected.
Privacy Hero Custom OpenVPN setup with configuration file upload and separate VPN username and password fields

Verify Your Proton VPN Connection

After Privacy Hero reports Connected, confirm that a device on the router network is using your Proton VPN connection.

  1. Connect your testing device to the Privacy Hero WiFi or LAN network.
  2. Disable any Proton VPN app or other VPN application running directly on that device, so it does not create a second VPN connection.
  3. Open a private/incognito browser window.
  4. Visit Proton VPN’s IP Address Checker.
  5. Verify that the public IP address and approximate location correspond to the Proton VPN server configured in Privacy Hero.

Important: You can manage Privacy Hero from another WiFi network or cellular data. However, the device performing the VPN IP test must be connected to the Privacy Hero network.

Streaming Relocation and VPN Location

If Privacy Hero Streaming Relocation is enabled for a supported streaming service, that service may use its Streaming Relocation location rather than the country selected in your Proton VPN configuration. See Privacy Hero Streaming Relocation.

Proton VPN Not Connecting?

If Privacy Hero displays Failed, remains on Connecting, or reports a timeout, work through these checks:

  1. Confirm that you selected Custom as the VPN provider in Privacy Hero and chose the protocol that matches your configuration file.
  2. For WireGuard, create and download a fresh Proton VPN .conf file for an available server, then upload it again. Do not use an OpenVPN .ovpn file in the WireGuard section.
  3. For OpenVPN, verify that you entered Proton VPN’s separate OpenVPN username and password, not your regular Proton Account login.
  4. Download a fresh configuration for a different Proton VPN server and reconnect. Proton VPN occasionally changes server configurations.
  5. If using OpenVPN UDP and the connection still fails, download and try a TCP .ovpn configuration file to test for a protocol-related issue.
  6. Temporarily disable the VPN Kill Switch while checking whether internet works without the VPN. Re-enable your preferred Kill Switch setting once testing is complete.

VPN Disconnects and Devices Have No Internet?

The VPN Kill Switch may be intentionally blocking normal internet traffic when the VPN connection is unavailable. See Privacy Hero VPN Kill Switch: No Internet or WiFi Troubleshooting.

VPN Connected but One Device Shows the Wrong IP?

Check the affected device for a second VPN app, iCloud Private Relay, Private DNS, browser proxy settings, or filtering software. See Device Settings That Can Interfere With Your Router VPN.

Related Privacy Hero Guides

Privacy Hero Bedtime Settings (Internet Scheduler)

· ·

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 Bedtime settings feature allows users to schedule when internet access will be turned off for specific user profiles. All devices assigned to this profile will have these rules applied.

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 the name of the User Profile.

Privacy Hero Select Profile

5. Click Schoolnights or Weekends depending on which you need to set rules for.

Privacy Hero Bedtime School Nights Weekends

6. Select the time that you want the Internet to turn off and the days you want this rule to apply to. Click Save.

Privacy Hero Set Bedtime

7. Set the Bedtime toggle to On.

Privacy Hero Enable Bedtime

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

How to Access Your AsusWRT FlashRouter Settings

· ·

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.

Privacy Hero Safe Surf

· ·

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 Safe Surf settings feature allows users to block inappropriate search results, YouTube videos, and adult content. All devices assigned to this profile will have these rules applied.

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 the name of the User Profile.

Privacy Hero Select Profile

5. Toggle On the settings for Internet Safe Search, YouTube Safe Search, and Block Adult Content as needed.

Privacy Hero Safe Search

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

Hotspot Shield Manual OpenVPN Setup

· ·

Preparing for Manual Hotspot Shield Setup

Obtain your Hotspot Shield OpenVPN Information

If you are not already a Hotspot Shield user Sign Up Now.

1. Log in to your account on the Hotspot Shield website.

2. Click Hotspot Shield on the left side navigation.

Hotspot Shield - Website Admin

3. Under Choose your device click Router.

Hotspot Shield - Select Router

4. In the Set up your router section Select your desired virtual location and then click Download file.

Open the file that was downloaded with NotePad++ for Windows or TextEdit for Apple. You only need the <cert> and <key> from the .ovpn file. All Hotspot Shield servers have different keys and certificates.

Hotspot Shield - Download Configuration File

5. Copy the VPN Username, and Password that appear under Step 2 to a notepad, you will need this information later in the setup process.

Hotspot Shield - OpenVPN username and password

DD-WRT Router Setup for Hotspot Shield

Navigate to Services > VPN

Enter Hotspot Shield settings

OpenVPN Client

Start OpenVPN Client

If you wish to disable your VPN connection simply set this to Disable at any time and click Apply Settings.

Server IP/Name

At the top of the .ovpn file you downloaded above, there is a line e.g.:
remote universitycalendar.us 8041
universitycalendar.us is your Hotspot Shield server name. Enter the server name in this field.

Port

8041

Tunnel Device

TUN

Tunnel Protocol

UDP

Encryption cipher

AES-128-CBC

Hash Algorithm

SHA256

User Pass Authentication

Enable

Username

Enter the Username you obtained in your Hotspot Shield account.

Password

Enter the Password you obtained in your Hotspot Shield account.

Advanced Options

Enable

TLS Cipher

None

LZO Compression

No

NAT

Enable

Firewall Protection

Enable

Additional Config

resolv-retry infinite
remote-random
nobind
tun-mtu 1500
tun-mtu-extra 32
mssfix 1450
persist-key
persist-tun
ping 15
ping-restart 0
reneg-sec 0
remote-cert-tls server

Policy Based Routing

This field can be used for split VPN and Dual Gateway routing.

CA Cert

—–BEGIN CERTIFICATE—–
MIIFazCCA1OgAwIBAgIRAIIQz7DSQONZRGPgu2OCiwAwDQYJKoZIhvcNAQELBQAw
TzELMAkGA1UEBhMCVVMxKTAnBgNVBAoTIEludGVybmV0IFNlY3VyaXR5IFJlc2Vh
cmNoIEdyb3VwMRUwEwYDVQQDEwxJU1JHIFJvb3QgWDEwHhcNMTUwNjA0MTEwNDM4
WhcNMzUwNjA0MTEwNDM4WjBPMQswCQYDVQQGEwJVUzEpMCcGA1UEChMgSW50ZXJu
ZXQgU2VjdXJpdHkgUmVzZWFyY2ggR3JvdXAxFTATBgNVBAMTDElTUkcgUm9vdCBY
MTCCAiIwDQYJKoZIhvcNAQEBBQADggIPADCCAgoCggIBAK3oJHP0FDfzm54rVygc
h77ct984kIxuPOZXoHj3dcKi/vVqbvYATyjb3miGbESTtrFj/RQSa78f0uoxmyF+
0TM8ukj13Xnfs7j/EvEhmkvBioZxaUpmZmyPfjxwv60pIgbz5MDmgK7iS4+3mX6U
A5/TR5d8mUgjU+g4rk8Kb4Mu0UlXjIB0ttov0DiNewNwIRt18jA8+o+u3dpjq+sW
T8KOEUt+zwvo/7V3LvSye0rgTBIlDHCNAymg4VMk7BPZ7hm/ELNKjD+Jo2FR3qyH
B5T0Y3HsLuJvW5iB4YlcNHlsdu87kGJ55tukmi8mxdAQ4Q7e2RCOFvu396j3x+UC
B5iPNgiV5+I3lg02dZ77DnKxHZu8A/lJBdiB3QW0KtZB6awBdpUKD9jf1b0SHzUv
KBds0pjBqAlkd25HN7rOrFleaJ1/ctaJxQZBKT5ZPt0m9STJEadao0xAH0ahmbWn
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qHyGO0aoSCqI3Haadr8faqU9GY/rOPNk3sgrDQoo//fb4hVC1CLQJ13hef4Y53CI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=
—–END CERTIFICATE—–
—–BEGIN CERTIFICATE—–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—–END CERTIFICATE—–

Public Client Cert

In the .ovpn file Copy and Paste all contents in between the <cert> and </cert> lines from your .ovpn file starting and ending with:
—–BEGIN CERTIFICATE—–
…
—–END CERTIFICATE—–

Private Client Key

In the .ovpn file Copy and Paste all contents in between the <key> and </key> lines from your .ovpn file starting and ending with:
—–BEGIN PRIVATE KEY—–
…
—–END PRIVATE KEY—–

CLICK APPLY SETTINGS

Leave all settings not mentioned above as their default setting.

Verify a successful Hotspot Shield connection

Navigate to Status > OpenVPN

  1. You should now see a CONNECTED SUCCESS message.
  2. Visit Hotspot Shield’s website 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 Hotspot Shield.

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.

How to change the Hotspot Shield server

  1. Follow the instructions for obtaining the OpenVPN information from above.
  2. Enter the new Server Address in the Server IP/Name field.
  3. Enter the new Username and Password.
  4. Enter the new Public Client Cert and Private Client Key.
  5. Click Apply Settings.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

How do I reset and reconfigure my FlashRouter?

· ·

When is a router reset needed?

A reset of the FlashRouter should only be performed in the following instances:

  • You have exhausted all other troubleshooting methods and cannot access your router settings.
  • A backup file was saved of your previously working settings.
  • Username and password to access the FlashRouter’s settings are not working.
  • Power light on the router is blinking steadily.
  • Firmware upgrade was performed with Reset to Default settings selected.

Reset Router

Asus FlashRouters:

  1. While the router is powered off press and hold the WPS button on the back or side of the router. Power up the router while continuing to hold the WPS. Continue to hold for 15 seconds as the router powers on (note this could be up to 45 seconds on some models before lights flash).
  2. You will see the lights on the router flashing steadily and this is how you know you have reset the router.
  3. Let the router sit for about a minute and then reboot the router.

Linksys and Netgear FlashRouters:

  1. While the router is plugged in, find the reset button located on the back of the router. You will need a pin or pencil to hold down the button for 15 seconds.
  2. You will see the lights on the back of the router flash simultaneously and this is how you know you have reset the router.
  3. Let the router sit for about a minute and then reboot the router.

Access Router Settings

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

The wireless network will appear as “dd-wrt” and will likely not require a password to join. If it does require a password to join the password will be the default wireless password found on the bottom of the router.

2. Open your web browser and enter 192.168.1.1 in the URL.

Reset FlashRouters DD-WRT Settings Back to Default Settings

3. Delete the dots and enter the new administration login in the Router Username, Router Password, and Re-enter to confirm fields.

TYPE CAREFULLY when setting the administration login as a typo will result in needing to reset the router again.

Change Local IP Address and DNS

Navigate to Setup > Basic Setup

1. Set the Local IP Address to 192.168.11.1

2. Set the Static DNS 1 to 8.8.8.8

3. Set the Static DNS 2 to 8.8.4.4

4. Set the Static DNS 3 to 208.67.220.220

Enter New Local IP Address and DNS Servers After FlashRouter DD-WRT Reset

CLICK SAVE

Setup WiFi

Navigate to Wireless > Basic Settings

Find your FlashRouter model in the WiFi Setup section and replicate the wireless settings on this page.

CLICK APPLY SETTINGS

REBOOT ROUTER

Connect to the FlashRouter's network

You will be able to connect to the newly setup wireless network using the details you set. The router will now be accessible at 192.168.11.1

Back up your settings

  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.

How do I reset and reconfigure my ExpressVPN/Aircove FlashRouter?

· ·

When is a router reset needed?

A reset of the FlashRouter should only be performed in the following instances:

  • You have exhausted all other troubleshooting methods and cannot access your router settings.
  • Password to access the FlashRouter’s settings are not working.
  • Power light on the router is blinking steadily.
  • Router is not accessible after upgrading the firmware

Reset Router

Asus FlashRouters:

  1. While the router is powered off press and hold the WPS button on the back or side of the router. Power up the router while continuing to hold the WPS. Continue to hold for 15 seconds as the router powers on (note this could be up to 45 seconds on some models before lights flash).
  2. You will see the lights on the router flashing steadily and this is how you know you have reset the router.
  3. Let the router sit for about a minute and then reboot the router.

Aircove, Linksys and Netgear FlashRouters:

  1. While the router is plugged in, find the reset button located on the back of the router. You will need a pin or pencil to hold down the button for 15 seconds.
  2. You will see the lights on the back of the router flash simultaneously and this is how you know you have reset the router.
  3. Let the router sit for about a minute and then reboot the router.

Access Router Settings

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

The wireless network will appear as “Aircove”, “Linksys##”, “Netgear##”, or “Asus” and the password to join the network will be the default wireless password printed on the bottom of the router.

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

ExpressVPNrouter.com
192.168.132.1

3. Click Get Started on the ExpressVPN page that is displayed.

ExpressVPN Get Started

4a. If your FlashRouter is wired to the Internet correctly then you will be prompted to enter your ExpressVPN Activation Code found in your ExpressVPN account. Paste that in and click Sign in to ExpressVPN.

ExpressVPN Activation Code

4b. If your FlashRouter is not wired correctly or is not receiving Internet properly make sure you are wired as detailed in the diagram that appears. If you are stuck at this screen we recommend powering off your ISP modem and any other router that the ExpressVPN FlashRouter is wired to and then powering them back up one by one.

Proceed with step “4a” above once the router is receiving Internet and you are prompted to enter the Activation Code.

ExpressVPN Wiring

5. Select if you want to share anonymous crash report data with ExpressVPN to help them improve the firmware for future releases.

ExpressVPN Share Crash Report

6. Set the WiFi name and password your wireless devices will use to connect to the FlashRouter’s network. Make sure the WiFi name is unique and not a duplicate of an existing WiFi name if you change it. You can also leave it as the default information if you like. Click Continue.

ExpressVPN Set WiFi Name and Password

7. Enter the admin password you will use to access the ExpressVPN router settings. Be sure to TYPE CAREFULLY when setting the admin password as a typo will result in needing to reset the router again. Note this password in a secure location or commit it to memory.

ExpressVPN admin password

8. Your ExpressVPN FlashRouter is now fully setup!

ExpressVPN Connected

ExpressVPN/Aircove FlashRouter Internet Setup and Activation

· ·

Follow this article when you receive your new ExpressVPN FlashRouter to connect your FlashRouter to the Internet via ExpressVPN and customize your network so it is ready to use.

Obtain your ExpressVPN Activation Code

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

1. Visit ExpressVPN’s website login page.

ExpressVPN on FlashRouters Privacy App Setup - Sign Into ExpressVPN Dashboard

2. Copy your ExpressVPN Activation code and paste it into a document or leave this page open while you proceed with the instructions.

Access Router Settings

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

The wireless network will appear as “Aircove”, “Linksys##”, “Netgear##”, or “Asus” and the password to join the network will be the default wireless password printed on the bottom of the router.

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

ExpressVPNrouter.com
192.168.132.1

3. Click Get Started on the ExpressVPN page that is displayed.

ExpressVPN Get Started

4a. If your FlashRouter is wired to the Internet correctly then you will be prompted to enter your ExpressVPN Activation Code found in your ExpressVPN account. Paste that in and click Sign in to ExpressVPN.

ExpressVPN Activation Code

4b. If your FlashRouter is not wired correctly or is not receiving Internet properly make sure you are wired as detailed in the diagram that appears. If you are stuck at this screen we recommend powering off your ISP modem and any other router that the ExpressVPN FlashRouter is wired to and then powering them back up one by one.

Proceed with step “4a” above once the router is receiving Internet and you are prompted to enter the Activation Code.

ExpressVPN Wiring

5. Select if you want to share anonymous crash report data with ExpressVPN to help them improve the firmware for future releases.

ExpressVPN Share Crash Report

6. Set the WiFi name and password your wireless devices will use to connect to the FlashRouter’s network. Make sure the WiFi name is unique and not a duplicate of an existing WiFi name if you change it. You can also leave it as the default information if you like. Click Continue.

ExpressVPN Set WiFi Name and Password

7. Enter the admin password you will use to access the ExpressVPN router settings. Be sure to TYPE CAREFULLY when setting the admin password as a typo will result in needing to reset the router again. Note this password in a secure location or commit it to memory.

ExpressVPN admin password

8. Your ExpressVPN FlashRouter is now fully setup!

ExpressVPN Connected

Change VPN Protocols on ExpressVPN/Aircove firmware

· ·

Changing the VPN protocol your ExpressVPN FlashRouter is using can help with obtaining faster speeds while connected to VPN and connectivity issues in some regions of the world. A great advantage of using ExpressVPN firmware is the ability to use multiple protocols such as OpenVPN, IKEv2, and ExpressVPN’s own protocol Lightway.

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.

ExpressVPNrouter.com
192.168.132.1

3. Login with your ExpressVPN FlashRouter admin password.

ExpressVPN Router admin login

4. Select VPN Options on the left hand side of the menu.

ExpressVPN VPN Options

5. Select VPN Preferences on the left hand side of the menu.

ExpressVPN VPN Preferences

6. Choose the VPN protocol that best suits your needs. We typically see the fastest speeds while using the Lightway – UDP or IKEv2 protocols. Click Save.

ExpressVPN Protocols

7. Click OK and then select Dashboard.

ExpressVPN Dashboard

8. Click Disconnect to turn the VPN connection off.

ExpressVPN Disconnect

9. Click Connect to turn the VPN connection back on so it is using the new Protocol you selected.

ExpressVPN Connect

Change Wireless Channels on ExpressVPN/Aircove firmware

· ·

Changing the wireless channel on your ExpressVPN FlashRouter can help with WiFi stability and allows you to use a wireless channel with less traffic in your local environment.

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.

ExpressVPNrouter.com
192.168.132.1

3. Login with your ExpressVPN FlashRouter admin password.

ExpressVPN Router admin login

4. Select Network Settings on the left hand side of the menu.

ExpressVPN Network Settings

5. Select Wi-Fi Settings on the left hand side of the menu.

ExpressVPN WiFi Settings

6. Select Advanced Settings.

ExpressVPN WiFi Advanced Settings

7. Select the Channel Width and Main Channel you want your ExpressVPN FlashRouter to use. Note that higher 5GHz Wi-Fi channels will not be compatible with older devices. Click Save. Click Continue.

ExpressVPN WiFi Channels

Separate 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi bands on ExpressVPN/Aircove firmware

· ·

By default ExpressVPN firmware bonds the 2.4GHz and 5GHz wireless networks to a single wireless network name. Your device will automatically choose which one will provide the best connection. You can separate these networks to have unique Wi-Fi names so you can control which network your devices will use.

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.

ExpressVPNrouter.com
192.168.132.1

3. Login with your ExpressVPN FlashRouter admin password.

ExpressVPN Router admin login

4. Select Network Settings on the left hand side of the menu.

ExpressVPN Network Settings

5. Select Wi-Fi Settings on the left hand side of the menu.

ExpressVPN WiFi Settings

6. Click the toggle for Separate 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi.

ExpressVPN Separate 2.4GHz and 5GHz

7. Separate Wi-Fi details for the 5GHz band will now display. You can change the name and password if you so choose or leave it with the default name and password with “-5GHz” added to the name. Click Save. Click Continue.

ExpressVPN 5GHz added

Using Device Groups to bypass VPN on ExpressVPN/Aircove firmware

· ·

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.

ExpressVPNrouter.com
192.168.132.1

3. Login with your ExpressVPN FlashRouter admin password.

ExpressVPN Router admin login

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

ExpressVPN select No VPN

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

ExpressVPN No VPN select device
ExpressVPN No VPN select device 2

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.

Using Device Groups to connect to multiple VPN locations on ExpressVPN/Aircove firmware

· ·

ExpressVPN offers a great feature of connecting the FlashRouter to multiple ExpressVPN servers at the same time. You can then assign your devices to the location that you wish.

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.

ExpressVPNrouter.com
192.168.132.1

3. Login with your ExpressVPN FlashRouter admin password.

ExpressVPN Router admin login

4. Select Add Group and name the new group or select one of the pre-named groups below.

ExpressVPN Add Group

5. Click the three dots next to the new server location and type in the location you want to connect to. Click the new location to connect.

ExpressVPN Change server
ExpressVPN select new server

5. Click and drag the device that you want assigned to the VPN New Group.

ExpressVPN select device
ExpressVPN device assigned

The devices assigned to new group will now connect to that location while the devices in the first VPN group will remain connected to the VPN server selected in that area.

Change server locations on ExpressVPN/Aircove firmware

· ·

You can change the ExpressVPN server location at any time so your Internet connection appears as originating from that location.

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.

ExpressVPNrouter.com
192.168.132.1

3. Login with your ExpressVPN FlashRouter admin password.

ExpressVPN Router admin login

4. Click the three dots next to the server location.

ExpressVPN change server 1

5. Type in the location you want to connect to. Click the new location to connect.

ExpressVPN change server 2

6. You are now connected to the new server location.

ExpressVPN change server 3

ExpressVPN offers servers in locations all over the world. Typically for speeds it is best to connect to the server closest to your actual location. Clicking a country instead of a city will connect you to the ideal city in that country.

IPVanish AsusWRT OpenVPN Setup

· ·

Preparing for IPVanish AsusWRT 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

AsusWRT Router Setup for IPVanish

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 IPVanish 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 IPVanish email and password you use to successfully login to your IPVanish website account.

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

Asus IPVanish 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 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

CyberGhost AsusWRT OpenVPN Setup

· ·

Preparing for CyberGhost Setup

Obtain your CyberGhost OpenVPN information

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

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

CyberGhost Website Login

2. Select VPN.

CyberGhost VPN

3. Click Configure New Device.

CyberGhost Configure Device

4. Set Protocol to OpenVPN. Select the Country you would like to connect to. Select the Server Group. Name the device in the Device Name field. Click Save Configuration.

CyberGhost protocol and location

5. Press View configuration.

CyberGhost view configuration

6. Copy the Username, and Password that appear to a notepad, since you will need this information later in the setup process. Click Download Configuration.

CyberGhost Website OpenVPN Configuration Files Generator 1

Open the folder that was downloaded. Then open the ca.crt the client.crt, and client.key files with NotePad++ for Windows or TextEdit for Apple. All CyberGhost servers have different keys and certificates.

AsusWRT Router Setup for CyberGhost

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 USA so I have entered in CyberGhost USA.

5. In the VPN Type dropdown select OpenVPN.

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

7. In the Username and Password fields enter in the CyberGhost assigned username and password that you obtained earlier.

8. After uploading the openvpn.ovpn file you will get a message that says “Complete, Lack of Client Key!, Lack of Client Certificate, Lack of Certificate Authority”. For CyberGhost you need to enter in these details manually. Click Import the CA file or edit the .ovpn file manually and then click the edit icon next to Content modification of Keys and Certificate.

Asus CyberGhost import certs and keys

9. In the Certificate Authority field paste in the entire content of the ca.crt file.

—– BEGIN xxx —– / —– END xxx —– block (including those two lines).

10. In the Client Certificate field paste in the entire content of the client.crt file.

—– BEGIN xxx —– / —– END xxx —– block (including those two lines).

11. In the Client Key field paste in the entire content of the client.key file.

—– BEGIN xxx —– / —– END xxx —– block (including those two lines).

Then click OK.

Asus CyberGhost enter certs and keys

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

Asus CyberGhost 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 CyberGhost connected

Verify a successful CyberGhost connection

  1. You should now see a CONNECTED message.
  2. Visit What is my IP Address from a private/incognito browser 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 CyberGhost.

How to change the CyberGhost server

  1. Follow the steps at the top of the page to create a new CyberGhost location profile in your account.
  2. Then proceed with the settings same as initial setup.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

ExpressVPN Merlin OpenVPN Setup

· ·

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.

ExpressVPN 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.

ExpressVPN Manual Configuration
ExpressVPN username and password

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.

ExpressVPN Download .ovpn file

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.

Merlin VPN Tab

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

Merlin VPN Client Tab

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

Merlin Choose File 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.

Merlin Automatic Start at boot time

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.

Merlin ExpressVPN Description

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.

Merlin VPN 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.

Merlin Service State

Verify a successful ExpressVPN connection

  1. You should now see a CONNECTED message.
  2. 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

  1. Copy the new ExpressVPN server address from the below server list.
  2. Paste the server into the Server Address field.
  3. 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

Obtain your NordVPN manual Username and Password for OpenVPN

· ·

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.

NordVPN login

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

3. Go to the Service Credentials section and click Verify email. Enter in the verification code that was sent to your email.

Nord Email Verification
NordVPN verify code

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 OpenVPN.

NordVPN OpenVPN Credentials

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

NordVPN Merlin OpenVPN Setup

· ·

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.

NordVPN login

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

NordVPN setup manually

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

NordVPN verify code

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.

NordVPN credentials

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.

NordVPN Recommended Server

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.

NordVPN Download Specific Server

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.

Merlin VPN Tab

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

Merlin VPN Client Tab

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

Merlin Choose File 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.

Merlin Automatic Start at boot time

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.

Merlin NordVPN Description

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 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.

Merlin VPN 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.

Merlin Service State All Providers

Verify a successful NordVPN connection

  1. You should now see a CONNECTED message.
  2. Visit NordVPN’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 NordVPN.

How to change the NordVPN 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