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Device Settings That Can Interfere With Your Router VPN

· ·

If your router VPN is connected and working on other devices but one phone, tablet, computer, or streaming device shows the wrong IP address, wrong location, cannot access certain websites, or behaves differently, check the affected device before changing the router.

VPN applications, privacy features, custom DNS settings, antivirus software, firewalls, browser settings, and corporate security software can all change how traffic is handled directly on a device.

This guide applies to all FlashRouter types and VPN providers.

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Start Here: Is the Problem the Router or One Device?

Before changing your router VPN configuration, compare the affected device with another device connected to the same FlashRouter.

If several devices show the correct VPN IP and location while only one device does not, the router VPN is already demonstrating that it can route traffic through the VPN.

Focus troubleshooting on the affected device.

If every device connected to the FlashRouter has the same VPN problem, continue with router-level VPN troubleshooting instead.

Privacy Hero users should also check the Privacy Hero dashboard. If the VPN itself displays Failed, Disconnected, Connecting, or a timeout error, troubleshoot that connection before changing device settings.

Disconnect VPN Applications Running on the Device

Do not run a VPN application directly on the device while troubleshooting a VPN running on your router.

This includes applications from NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, Proton VPN, IPVanish, Private Internet Access, Mullvad, corporate VPN providers, and other VPN services.

If both the router VPN and device VPN are active, the device VPN can take control of that device’s traffic after it passes through the router.

This can cause:

  • An unexpected public IP address.
  • An unexpected VPN location.
  • Websites or applications not loading.
  • Streaming region problems.
  • DNS problems.
  • Slow or unstable connections.
  • One device behaving differently from other devices on the same router.

Disconnect the VPN application completely before testing the router VPN.

Closing the VPN app window may not disconnect the VPN. Confirm in the application or device network settings that the device-level VPN is actually disconnected.

iPhone and iPad: Check Private Relay and Limit IP Address Tracking

Apple devices include privacy features that can change how supported internet traffic is handled and make router VPN testing more difficult.

Limit IP Address Tracking

To temporarily disable Limit IP Address Tracking for your FlashRouter WiFi network:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Select Wi-Fi.
  3. Tap the information button next to the FlashRouter WiFi network.
  4. Find Limit IP Address Tracking.
  5. Turn it Off.
  6. Disconnect from WiFi and reconnect.
  7. Test the connection again.

This setting is configured per WiFi network, so make sure you are changing it for the FlashRouter network being tested.

iCloud Private Relay

iCloud Private Relay can also alter IP address visibility for supported traffic.

For troubleshooting:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap your Apple Account/name.
  3. Select iCloud.
  4. Select Private Relay.
  5. Temporarily turn Private Relay Off.
  6. Reconnect to the FlashRouter.
  7. Test the IP address and connection again.

These settings can be restored after testing.

Android: Check Private DNS and Always-On VPN

Android devices can have DNS and VPN settings that operate independently of the router.

Private DNS

Android Private DNS can send DNS requests to a selected DNS provider instead of relying solely on the DNS configuration supplied by the router.

If you are troubleshooting DNS, website access, streaming, filtering, or location behavior:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Select Network & internet.
  3. Select Private DNS.
  4. Temporarily select Off.
  5. Save the setting.
  6. Reconnect to the FlashRouter WiFi.
  7. Test again.

Android menus vary by manufacturer and Android version. Search the device Settings for Private DNS if necessary.

Always-On VPN

An Android VPN application can be configured to automatically reconnect even after you believe the VPN has been disconnected.

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Select Network & internet.
  3. Select VPN.
  4. Select the configured VPN.
  5. Disable Always-on VPN while testing.
  6. Check whether Block connections without VPN is enabled and temporarily disable it if necessary for testing.

Then reconnect to the FlashRouter and test the router VPN again.

Check Antivirus, Firewall, Browser, and Work Security Settings

If the problem affects a computer or only occurs in one browser, check for software that modifies network traffic directly on the device.

Antivirus and Internet Security Software

Security applications may include network features such as:

  • Web Protection.
  • Safe Browsing or Secure Web.
  • Network Protection.
  • DNS Protection.
  • HTTPS scanning.
  • Tracking protection.
  • Built-in VPN services.
  • Firewall controls.

Temporarily disable the relevant network protection feature and test again. You do not normally need to disable the entire antivirus product.

Third-Party Firewalls

A third-party firewall can block applications, DNS requests, VPN-related traffic, or specific network interfaces.

Temporarily disable the firewall and test the connection. If the problem disappears, re-enable the firewall and review its network rules.

Browser VPN, Proxy, and Secure DNS

Browsers and browser extensions can also use their own:

  • VPN services.
  • Proxy connections.
  • Secure DNS or DNS-over-HTTPS.
  • Privacy or filtering extensions.
  • Location-changing extensions.

If the problem occurs only in one browser, test another browser without extensions or custom networking settings.

Work and Corporate Devices

Company-managed computers and mobile devices may use corporate VPN clients, DNS filtering, web filtering, endpoint security, device-management profiles, or zero-trust networking software.

These systems may intentionally override the local router’s network behavior.

If a personal device works correctly on the same FlashRouter while a company-managed device does not, the company security configuration may be responsible.

Run a Clean Router VPN Test

For the cleanest test, temporarily remove device-level networking variables and let the FlashRouter VPN handle the connection.

  • FlashRouter VPN: On
  • Device VPN: Off
  • iCloud Private Relay: Off while testing
  • Limit IP Address Tracking: Off while testing
  • Android Private DNS/custom DNS: Off while testing
  • Always-On VPN: Off while testing
  • Third-party network filtering: Off while testing

Then:

  1. Disconnect the affected device from WiFi.
  2. Reconnect it to the FlashRouter.
  3. Open a fresh private/incognito browser window.
  4. Check the device’s public IP address and location.
  5. Compare the result with another device connected to the same FlashRouter.

If the second device shows the correct VPN IP but the affected device does not, continue troubleshooting settings or software on the affected device.

If all devices show the same incorrect IP address or all devices fail to use the VPN, continue with router-level VPN troubleshooting.

Privacy Hero VPN Connected but Device Still Shows the Wrong IP?

Privacy Hero provides device-level VPN controls. Make sure the affected device is actually assigned to use the VPN.

  1. Open app.privacyhero.com.
  2. Open the Devices section.
  3. Select the affected device.
  4. Confirm VPN protection is enabled for that device.
  5. Disconnect any VPN application running directly on the device.
  6. Test the public IP address again.

If other Privacy Hero devices show the correct VPN IP and only one device remains incorrect, continue with the device-level checks above.

Related FlashRouters Guides

IPVanish Setup for Privacy Hero

· ·

Privacy Hero supports IPVanish VPN through WireGuard (recommended) and OpenVPN. Both are configured in Privacy Hero using the Custom VPN provider option. You will need an active IPVanish VPN subscription and the configuration file for the protocol and server location you select.

Choose your method: WireGuard uses a generated .conf file and generally provides better performance. OpenVPN uses a downloaded .ovpn file plus your IPVanish VPN username and password.

Privacy Hero is cloud-managed. You can sign in and adjust VPN settings from a computer, phone, or tablet connected to any internet connection. You do not need to be on the Privacy Hero WiFi network to configure the router.

Download an IPVanish WireGuard Configuration (Recommended)

Use the WireGuard configuration generator in your IPVanish account to create a server file for your router. A generated WireGuard file contains the connection keys and server details, so keep it private.

  1. Open the IPVanish account sign-in page and log in.
  2. Open WireGuard in the account navigation to access the WireGuard Configuration Generator.
  3. Select your preferred IPVanish server location and choose Generate to download the WireGuard configuration file. Save the downloaded .conf file to the device you are using for setup.

Important: Do not publicly share your WireGuard configuration file. To switch server locations later, generate and upload a new configuration.

Add IPVanish WireGuard to Privacy Hero

  1. Sign in to the Privacy Hero dashboard at app.privacyhero.com.
  2. Open the VPN section, select Change beside the provider, and choose Custom.
  3. Choose WireGuard and upload the IPVanish .conf file you just generated.
  4. Click Save to apply the settings. Wait for Privacy Hero to report Connected.
Privacy Hero Custom WireGuard configuration with WireGuard file upload

WireGuard authentication is contained in the generated configuration file; there is no separate OpenVPN username/password step in this method.

Download an IPVanish OpenVPN Configuration File

OpenVPN is a good alternative if WireGuard is unavailable or fails to connect on your network. It requires an IPVanish .ovpn configuration file and VPN login credentials.

  1. Open the IPVanish OpenVPN server configuration list.
  2. Download an .ovpn file for your preferred available server location. If IPVanish provides both UDP and TCP files, start with UDP and keep a TCP file as a fallback.
  3. Have your IPVanish account username and password available for the OpenVPN setup. Use the credentials accepted by your IPVanish VPN account; these are not Privacy Hero login credentials.

If the linked server directory has changed, check the latest manual OpenVPN configuration downloads offered by IPVanish before selecting a file.

Add IPVanish OpenVPN to Privacy Hero

  1. Sign in at app.privacyhero.com and open VPN.
  2. Select Change, choose Custom, and select OpenVPN.
  3. Upload the IPVanish .ovpn file you downloaded.
  4. Enter your IPVanish username and password in the Custom OpenVPN fields. Do not enter the Privacy Hero account login.
  5. Click Save and wait for the connection status to show Connected.
Privacy Hero Custom OpenVPN configuration showing server file upload and username and password fields

Tip: If OpenVPN UDP times out or cannot connect, try an available IPVanish OpenVPN TCP configuration or another server location.

Verify Your IPVanish VPN Connection

After Privacy Hero displays Connected, verify that a device on the router is actually using IPVanish.

  1. Connect the device you want to test to the Privacy Hero WiFi or LAN network.
  2. Temporarily disconnect any IPVanish app, other VPN app, or device-level VPN connection on that device so you test the router VPN alone.
  3. Open a new private/incognito browser window and visit IPVanish What Is My IP Address.
  4. Confirm that your public IP address and approximate location correspond to the VPN server you selected.

Note: Privacy Hero settings can be managed remotely, but the device used for this IP test must be on the Privacy Hero network.

Streaming Relocation and Your VPN Location

If Streaming Relocation is enabled for a supported streaming service, that service may use the configured Streaming Relocation location instead of the IPVanish server location. See Privacy Hero Streaming Relocation.

IPVanish Not Connecting?

If Privacy Hero remains on Connecting, displays Failed, or reports a timeout, check the following:

  1. Make sure your IPVanish subscription is active and that Custom is selected as the VPN provider in Privacy Hero.
  2. For WireGuard, generate a fresh configuration from your IPVanish account and upload that .conf file again.
  3. For OpenVPN, confirm your IPVanish username/password and upload a fresh .ovpn file for a different server.
  4. Try a different server location. With OpenVPN, also try switching between available UDP and TCP files.
  5. Temporarily disable the Privacy Hero VPN connection and test normal internet access. If enabled, temporarily turn off the VPN Kill Switch for this test, then restore your preferred Kill Switch setting.
  6. Check whether a device-level VPN app, private DNS, proxy, or security software is interfering with the router VPN connection.

VPN Disconnected and No Internet?

The VPN Kill Switch can intentionally block internet access when the VPN disconnects. Review Privacy Hero VPN Kill Switch Setup.

VPN Connected but One Device Shows the Wrong IP?

If only one device shows an unexpected IP address, look for another VPN app, iCloud Private Relay, Private DNS, browser proxy/DNS settings, or security software on that device. See Device Settings That Can Interfere With Your Router VPN.

Related Privacy Hero Guides

NordVPN Setup for AsusWRT: Token, WireGuard & OpenVPN

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Set up NordVPN on an ASUS router using AsusWRT VPN Fusion. Supported ASUS firmware offers three different VPN types: NordVPN (access-token integration), WireGuard (downloadable .conf file), and OpenVPN (manual service credentials plus an .ovpn file). Choose the method that matches your needs and your router’s available options.

All configuration is completed directly through your ASUS router’s administration interface using VPN Fusion. Before starting, make sure your router is connected to the internet, your firmware supports VPN Fusion, and you have an active NordVPN subscription.

Which NordVPN Option Should You Choose?

1. NordVPN

NordVPN access token and a country/region dropdown. The built-in ASUS/NordVPN integration is the simplest approach if you only need a country, not an exact server file.

Follow token setup →

2. WireGuard

Import a NordVPN .conf configuration file for a server selected in Nord Account. Useful when you want a downloaded profile for a particular server.

Follow WireGuard setup →

3. OpenVPN

Import a NordVPN .ovpn server file and enter your separate manual service username and password. Also used for NordVPN Dedicated IP.

Follow OpenVPN setup →

Option 1: NordVPN Dropdown — Token-Based NordLynx

Select the NordVPN type inside VPN Fusion. This is the integrated token-based setup and offers a country/region selection, rather than a manually imported server file.

  1. In Nord Account, open NordVPN Access Tokens and complete email/account verification if requested.
  2. Generate an access token, choose an expiry period if NordVPN offers that setting, and copy the token immediately (it may only be displayed once).
  3. On your ASUS router, open VPN > VPN Fusion > Add profile.
  4. Set VPN Type to NordVPN. Name the profile, select your preferred Region, and paste the token.
  5. Choose Apply to all devices if you want it as the default route, or assign only selected devices (see the VPN Fusion guide below).
  6. Click Apply and Enable / Apply all settings, as shown in your firmware, and verify the profile connects.
ASUS VPN Fusion NordVPN VPN type with Region and Token fields
In VPN Fusion, select NordVPN, choose a region, and enter your NordVPN access token.

Need a specific server? Use the separate WireGuard file method below or the OpenVPN configuration-file method. Do not expect the token-based country dropdown to accept a .conf or .ovpn file.

Option 2: WireGuard Dropdown — Import a NordVPN .conf File

NordVPN provides downloadable WireGuard configuration files through its manual server recommendation page. This is different from the built-in NordVPN token option in VPN Fusion.

Download the NordVPN WireGuard configuration

  1. Sign in to Nord Account and open NordVPN Server Recommendation.
  2. Choose your preferred country and server. Use the available filters to narrow the list if needed.
  3. Choose Get setup configuration, select WireGuard, and click Download config. Save the downloaded .conf file.
NordVPN server recommendation showing WireGuard protocol selected and Download config button
Download the WireGuard configuration file for your selected NordVPN server.

Import the configuration into ASUS VPN Fusion

  1. On your ASUS router, open VPN > VPN Fusion > Add profile, then select WireGuard as the VPN type (not NordVPN).
  2. Enter a recognizable connection name, such as NordVPN – USA WireGuard. Click Upload Config and select the .conf file you downloaded from NordVPN.
  3. Save the profile, choose which devices should use it (or apply it to all devices), and enable the VPN. Confirm the profile connects and check the public IP of a device using that profile.
ASUS VPN Fusion WireGuard profile showing NordVPN USA connection name and Upload Config button
In ASUS VPN Fusion, select WireGuard and upload your downloaded NordVPN configuration file.

NordVPN’s official instructions: How to download WireGuard and OpenVPN configuration files.

Option 3: OpenVPN Dropdown — Credentials + .ovpn File

OpenVPN requires two separate items: the configuration file for your desired server and NordVPN’s manual service credentials. Your normal Nord Account email/password is not the correct credential pair for this method.

  1. Open NordVPN Manual Service Credentials and copy the service username and service password after any required verification.
  2. Open NordVPN OpenVPN Configuration Files and choose a server/location. Download its UDP .ovpn file, or TCP .ovpn if UDP does not work on your network.
  3. On ASUS, go to VPN > VPN Fusion > Add profile and set VPN Type to OpenVPN.
  4. Enter a connection name, Import .ovpn file, and paste the NordVPN manual service username and password in the corresponding fields.
  5. Choose devices or Apply to all devices, then click Apply and Enable. Confirm VPN Fusion shows a successful connection.
ASUS VPN Fusion OpenVPN VPN type with OVPN import and username password fields
Select OpenVPN, import the server configuration file, and enter your NordVPN manual service credentials.

Server selection: The location is controlled by the server named in the imported .ovpn file. To switch locations, import another server file or use a separate OpenVPN profile.

NordVPN Dedicated IP — OpenVPN Only

If you have purchased and activated the NordVPN Dedicated IP add-on, use your specific Dedicated IP OpenVPN configuration file. Do not select the ordinary NordVPN token integration or a regular shared server.

  1. In your Nord Account, open the Dedicated IP details and download the assigned server’s OpenVPN UDP or TCP configuration file, following NordVPN Dedicated IP manual configuration instructions.
  2. Open NordVPN Manual Service Credentials and copy the manual username and password.
  3. In ASUS VPN Fusion > Add profile, choose OpenVPN.
  4. Import the Dedicated IP .ovpn file, enter manual service credentials, save, enable, and verify the public IP matches your assigned Dedicated IP.

Assign Devices, Verify the VPN, and Troubleshoot

One VPN for everyone, or different VPNs for different devices?

VPN Fusion lets you use a VPN profile as the default connection for all devices or assign specific client devices to different profiles. Some supported ASUS models can maintain one WireGuard tunnel alongside multiple OpenVPN profiles, but the number of simultaneous tunnels is model/firmware dependent; creating multiple profiles does not mean all can be active simultaneously.

For step-by-step device assignments, default routing, profile conflicts, and bypassing the VPN, see How to Use ASUS VPN Fusion: Assign Devices and Multiple VPNs. For a dedicated WiFi network with VPN or ISP routing, see ASUS Guest WiFi With or Without VPN: Setup Guide.

Verify the IP of the actual device

  1. Confirm your chosen profile shows Connected in VPN Fusion.
  2. Join the ASUS WiFi or LAN using a device that is actually assigned to that VPN profile.
  3. Open NordVPN IP Address Check and compare the public IP/location with the intended server or Dedicated IP.
  4. If the device shows an ISP IP, first check Apply to all devices and the per-device assignments in VPN Fusion.
  5. Disconnect a NordVPN app, Apple iCloud Private Relay, browser VPN/proxy, or other device-level network service during testing. Follow Device Settings That Can Interfere With Your Router VPN.

If VPN Fusion will not connect

  1. Temporarily disable the failing profile and confirm the ASUS router works using its normal ISP internet connection.
  2. For NordVPN type, check that the access token is valid and hasn’t expired; regenerate if needed.
  3. For WireGuard, import a fresh .conf from the Nord server recommendation page and make sure the profile is enabled.
  4. For OpenVPN, double-check manual service credentials (not website credentials) and try a different server file or TCP instead of UDP.
  5. Check that device-assignment rules point to the intended active profile, then retest with one clean device.

NordVPN Routers & Offers

Shop NordVPN-Ready FlashRouters

Compare NordVPN-ready router options and choose the hardware that fits your VPN and network requirements.

Browse NordVPN Routers →

NordVPN Partner Offer

Need NordVPN service? See the current FlashRouters NordVPN promotional offer. Subscription pricing and terms are shown on the offer page.

See NordVPN Offer →

Related AsusWRT Guides

Upgrade your ASUS router

Explore the Latest WiFi 7 ASUS FlashRouters

Looking for a newer ASUS router? Browse WiFi 7 models available from FlashRouters and compare features to find the right fit for your home or office. VPN Fusion and other features vary by router model and firmware.

Shop ASUS WiFi 7 Routers →

How to Use ASUS VPN Fusion: Assign Devices and Multiple VPNs

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ASUS VPN Fusion lets supported AsusWRT routers run VPN client profiles and decide which connected devices use each VPN connection. You can send the entire network through one VPN, use separate VPN profiles for selected devices, or leave certain devices on the regular ISP connection.

This guide covers how to use ASUS VPN Fusion to assign devices to specific VPN connections, manage multiple VPN profiles simultaneously, and choose which devices use a VPN or connect directly through your ISP. These features work with supported VPN providers and protocols, including WireGuard and OpenVPN.

Open VPN Fusion

  1. Connect your computer or phone to your ASUS FlashRouter’s WiFi or LAN.
  2. Open http://www.asusrouter.com or the router’s LAN IP (often 192.168.50.1) and log in. See How to Access Your AsusWRT FlashRouter Settings.
  3. Go to VPN > VPN Fusion. Add and configure at least one working VPN client profile before assigning devices.
ASUS VPN Fusion page with Add Profile and Internet Connection
VPN Fusion displays your saved VPN profiles and the Add Profile option.

Method 1: Apply One VPN to All Devices

Use this option when you want the selected VPN profile to be your router’s default connection.

  1. In VPN Fusion, open the VPN profile that should provide the default internet route.
  2. Enable Apply to all devices (or Default Connection in firmware that uses that label).
  3. Click Apply all settings, then enable the VPN profile.
  4. Connect a test device to the router and check its IP. If you use per-device overrides, verify those rules separately.
ASUS VPN Fusion Apply to all devices setting and device count
Enable Apply to all devices to use the selected VPN as the default connection.

Method 2: Send Only Selected Devices Through a VPN

  1. In VPN Fusion, turn off Apply to all devices for a profile when you do not want that VPN used network-wide.
  2. Open the profile’s Device area using the pencil/edit icon or the firmware’s device-assignment control.
  3. Select the intended devices (for example, a TV and streaming box), confirm with OK, then click Apply all settings.
  4. Enable the VPN profile and verify the selected devices’ public IPs.
  5. For devices that should use the normal ISP internet, leave them on the Internet Connection route or explicitly set the Internet/bypass rule available in your firmware. Remove any conflicting VPN assignments.

Important: A device being connected to ASUS WiFi does not guarantee that it is assigned to the desired VPN. Check the assigned profile and the actual public IP.

How Multiple VPN Connections Work

On supported models, VPN Fusion can keep several VPN connections active and route different devices through different providers at the same time. For example:

TVNordVPN — WireGuard
LaptopProton VPN — OpenVPN
Streaming deviceSurfshark — OpenVPN
Work computerRegular ISP connection

You may be able to run one WireGuard profile and multiple OpenVPN profiles concurrently, but connection limits and supported combinations vary by ASUS router model and firmware. Adding many saved OpenVPN profiles is not the same as having all of them connected at once.

  1. Create separate profiles with clear names, such as Nord-US-WG, Proton-US-OVPN, and Surfshark-UK-OVPN.
  2. Enable only the profiles you need and confirm each shows connected.
  3. Assign each client device to the appropriate active profile; avoid applying conflicting default routes.
  4. Verify each device’s observed IP and server country. If one tunnel fails, test it individually with the other profiles temporarily disabled.

ASUS reference: How VPN Fusion handles multiple tunnels and devices.

Confirm a Device Is Actually Using the VPN

  1. In VPN Fusion, confirm the target profile’s connection status is active.
  2. Check the device’s assignment in the ASUS VPN Fusion interface.
  3. On that same device, visit IPLeak.net or another public-IP checker.
  4. Compare the reported public IP and location with the VPN server assigned to that device.
  5. If the device still shows your ISP IP, test with its own VPN app and iCloud Private Relay / Private DNS / browser proxy disabled. Use Device Settings That Can Interfere With Your Router VPN.

Quick isolation test

  1. Turn off VPN Fusion routing for a test device and confirm ISP internet works.
  2. Turn on just one known-working VPN profile for that device.
  3. Recheck public IP. If it now works, reintroduce other profiles/assignments individually.

Want a Separate WiFi Network With or Without VPN?

Rather than selecting devices one at a time, supported ASUS routers offer Guest Network Pro or Network > VPN Network features that can associate a WiFi SSID with VPN routing. See ASUS Guest WiFi With or Without VPN: Setup Guide.

On routers with only the traditional Guest Network feature, available VPN-by-SSID behavior may differ; do not assume the standard guest SSID bypasses a network-wide VPN default.

Related AsusWRT Guides

Upgrade your ASUS router

Explore the Latest WiFi 7 ASUS FlashRouters

Looking for a newer ASUS router? Browse WiFi 7 models available from FlashRouters and compare features to find the right fit for your home or office. VPN Fusion and other features vary by router model and firmware.

Shop ASUS WiFi 7 Routers →

ASUS Guest WiFi With or Without VPN: Setup Guide

· ·

On supported ASUS routers, you can create a separate WiFi network (SSID) that routes connected devices through a VPN profile, while another network uses the regular ISP connection. This is useful for streaming TVs, guests, work devices, and family members who need different VPN behavior.

The available controls depend on your ASUS model and firmware. Newer routers may call the feature Guest Network Pro or simply Network; older routers may only have Guest Network, which does not offer the same VPN-by-SSID options.

What You Need Before Starting

  1. Connect to your ASUS router and open http://www.asusrouter.com or its LAN IP. For login details, see AsusWRT Router Access Guide.
  2. For a VPN WiFi network, first set up and verify at least one connected VPN profile under VPN > VPN Fusion. Choose a supported VPN provider from the AsusWRT VPN Setup Guides, then review How to Use ASUS VPN Fusion: Assign Devices and Multiple VPNs for routing options.
  3. Look for Guest Network Pro, Network, or VPN Network in your ASUS firmware. If you only see the traditional Guest Network screen, read the legacy note below before proceeding.

Create a Dedicated WiFi Network That Uses the VPN

Preferred route for supported ASUS models: create a VPN Network SSID so all devices joining that SSID use the chosen VPN without individual device assignments.

  1. Open Guest Network Pro > VPN Network, or the equivalent Network > Add Network > VPN Network menu in newer firmware.
  2. Choose a recognizable WiFi name such as Home-VPN and a strong WiFi password.
  3. Select the configured, connected VPN Fusion client/profile and enable VPN routing for that network.
  4. Review any options for local-network access, guest isolation, and bands, then click Apply.
  5. Connect a test device to the new Home-VPN WiFi SSID and check its public IP.

ASUS official walkthrough: Guest Network Pro / VPN Network Setup.

Alternative: Assign a VPN to an Existing Guest Network Pro SSID

  1. In Guest Network Pro / Network, open the existing Guest Network profile.
  2. Select the VPN tab, enable VPN routing, and choose your existing VPN Fusion client.
  3. Click Apply, reconnect a device to the guest SSID, and verify the VPN IP.

ASUS also documents this path: Assign a VPN to Guest Network Pro.

Create a Separate WiFi Network Without a VPN

Use a guest/secondary network routed through the regular ISP internet connection for devices that should not use the VPN.

  1. Under Guest Network Pro / Network, add a normal Guest Network or other suitable network profile (not the VPN Network preset).
  2. Set a clear name such as Home-ISP and secure it with a strong password.
  3. In that network profile’s VPN tab, leave the VPN assignment disabled or choose the Internet/ISP path if your firmware offers it.
  4. Check your VPN Fusion default connection and device policies. If a VPN is set to Apply to all devices, simply turning off the Guest Network’s VPN toggle may not guarantee an ISP bypass on every firmware. Configure an explicit ISP/bypass route where supported.
  5. Save, join the Home-ISP network with a test device, and confirm the public IP matches the ISP connection.

Confirm Each WiFi Network Uses the Intended Internet Route

  1. Connect a phone or laptop to the VPN WiFi SSID. Disable any VPN app or iCloud Private Relay on the device for this test.
  2. Visit WhatIsMyIPAddress.com and note the public IP and location. This should reflect your selected VPN endpoint.
  3. Disconnect and join the ISP WiFi SSID. Repeat the IP check; it should now show the ISP’s public internet route.
  4. If both SSIDs show the same IP, review the VPN Fusion default profile, guest-network VPN assignment, and any device-specific rules.

Common Issues and What to Check

I only see “Guest Network,” not “Guest Network Pro” or “VPN Network”

Your router may use older firmware or lack this feature. Traditional Guest Network creates a separate WiFi SSID, but the VPN routing option may not exist. Use VPN Fusion device assignments as an alternative rather than assuming the guest network automatically bypasses or uses the VPN.

Every network still uses the VPN

Check whether Apply to all devices is enabled in VPN Fusion. If it is, verify that the guest profile actually overrides the default route on your firmware. You may need an explicit per-network or per-device ISP rule.

A phone reports the wrong IP although the guest VPN profile is correct

Temporarily disable device-level VPN apps, iCloud Private Relay / Limit IP Address Tracking, browser proxy, or Private DNS settings, then reconnect. See Device Settings That Interfere With Router VPN.

Guest devices cannot reach local printers or other LAN devices

Check the guest network’s intranet access / network isolation settings. Changing isolation affects LAN access, not necessarily VPN selection. Keep guests isolated unless LAN access is actually needed.

Upgrade your ASUS router

Explore the Latest WiFi 7 ASUS FlashRouters

Looking for a newer ASUS router? Browse WiFi 7 models available from FlashRouters and compare features to find the right fit for your home or office. VPN Fusion and other features vary by router model and firmware.

Shop ASUS WiFi 7 Routers →

Surfshark Setup for Privacy Hero

· ·

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

WireGuard is recommended for most users. It requires a Surfshark WireGuard key pair and a downloaded server configuration file. OpenVPN uses a downloaded .ovpn file and Surfshark’s separate Manual Setup credentials, not your usual Surfshark login email and password.

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

Surfshark WireGuard Setup (Recommended)

WireGuard uses a key pair for authentication. A separate Surfshark username and password is not needed for the WireGuard configuration.

Create or Select Your Surfshark WireGuard Key Pair

  1. Sign in to your Surfshark account.
  2. Open VPN → Manual Setup, choose the Router setup option, and select WireGuard.
  3. If you already registered a key pair with Surfshark, select I have a key pair and follow the prompts to register your public key. Otherwise, select I don’t have a key pair.
  4. If generating a new key pair, enter a name and choose Generate a new key pair. Save the generated keys securely when prompted.

Important: Your WireGuard private key is sensitive. Do not publish or send it in a support ticket. Surfshark notes that you may not be able to view the generated keys again after leaving that screen.

Download a Surfshark WireGuard Server File

  1. After setting up the key pair, select Choose a location or open the Locations section.
  2. Choose an available Surfshark server and download its WireGuard configuration file to your device.

Do not download the WireGuard configuration before setting up the key pair. Surfshark warns that a file downloaded too early can be missing the required key information. For more detail, see Surfshark’s manual WireGuard router instructions.

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, and choose Custom as the VPN provider.
  3. Select WireGuard and upload the Surfshark WireGuard configuration file you downloaded.
  4. Click Save and allow Privacy Hero to establish the connection. Confirm the VPN status shows Connected.
Privacy Hero Custom WireGuard configuration and file upload panel

Surfshark OpenVPN Setup

OpenVPN is an alternative to WireGuard. It requires a Surfshark Manual Setup username and password and a downloaded OpenVPN configuration (.ovpn) file.

Get Your Surfshark OpenVPN Credentials

  1. Sign in to your Surfshark account.
  2. Open VPN → Manual Setup, choose Router, and select OpenVPN.
  3. Open the Credentials tab. If credentials are not yet available, select Generate credentials.
  4. Copy the Manual Setup username and password, or keep the tab open to enter them into Privacy Hero later.

Important: These are not your regular Surfshark website email and password. Keep the service credentials private.

Download a Surfshark OpenVPN Server File

  1. In Surfshark’s OpenVPN Manual Setup area, open the Locations tab.
  2. Select a country or server and download its UDP .ovpn configuration file. UDP is the recommended starting option; a TCP configuration may be worth trying later if needed.

Download a new .ovpn file whenever you want to switch to a different Surfshark server location. See Surfshark’s manual server selection instructions.

Upload OpenVPN to Privacy Hero

  1. Open app.privacyhero.com, sign in, and select the VPN section.
  2. Click Change, select Custom, and choose OpenVPN.
  3. Upload the Surfshark UDP .ovpn file you downloaded.
  4. Enter the Surfshark Manual Setup username and password into the Custom OpenVPN fields.
  5. Click Save, then confirm the VPN status shows Connected.
Privacy Hero Custom OpenVPN screen with configuration file upload and username and password fields

Verify Your Surfshark Connection

Privacy Hero showing Connected confirms the router connection status. Test a device on the Privacy Hero network to confirm it is using Surfshark.

  1. Connect your device to the Privacy Hero WiFi or LAN.
  2. Disconnect the Surfshark app or any other VPN app running directly on the testing device.
  3. Open a fresh private/incognito browser window.
  4. Visit Surfshark’s IP address checker.
  5. Confirm the displayed public IP and approximate location correspond to your selected Surfshark server.

You can change Privacy Hero settings while using another WiFi network or cellular data, but the device performing this VPN IP test must be connected to Privacy Hero. Avoid running a separate VPN app on the same testing device, as that creates a double-VPN connection.

Streaming Relocation and Your VPN Location

When Streaming Relocation is enabled for a supported streaming service, that service may use its Streaming Relocation region instead of the Surfshark VPN server region. See Privacy Hero Streaming Relocation.

Surfshark Not Connecting?

If Privacy Hero displays Failed, remains on Connecting, or reports a timeout, try these steps:

  1. Confirm your Surfshark subscription is active and that Custom is selected as the VPN provider in Privacy Hero.
  2. If using WireGuard, confirm that the key pair was created or registered before downloading the server file. If necessary, generate a new key pair, download a fresh configuration, and upload it again.
  3. If using OpenVPN, double-check your separate Surfshark Manual Setup username and password, not your regular website login.
  4. Download a fresh server configuration for another available Surfshark location and try again.
  5. If OpenVPN UDP continues to fail, try a Surfshark TCP .ovpn configuration file to check for a protocol-specific issue.
  6. Temporarily disable the VPN Kill Switch while checking whether internet access works without the VPN, then restore your preferred Kill Switch setting.

No Internet After Surfshark Disconnects?

The 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 Privacy Hero devices display the expected Surfshark VPN IP, review the affected device for VPN apps, iCloud Private Relay, Private DNS, proxy settings, antivirus filtering, or other security software. See Device Settings That Can Interfere With Your Router VPN.

Related Privacy Hero Guides

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 Dashboard Not Updating or Showing Old Information

· ·

If the Privacy Hero dashboard is showing old information, a VPN status does not appear to update, settings you changed are not displaying correctly, or the dashboard behaves unexpectedly, your browser may be displaying cached Privacy Hero website data.

Before changing your router or VPN configuration again, open a fresh browser session and confirm that the dashboard is displaying the current information.

Start With a Private or Incognito Browser Window

The fastest test is to open the Privacy Hero dashboard in a new private or incognito browser window.

  1. Close any existing Privacy Hero dashboard tabs.
  2. Open a new private or incognito browser window.
  3. Visit app.privacyhero.com.
  4. Sign in to your Privacy Hero account.
  5. Check the router, VPN, device, or setting again.

If the correct information appears in the private browser window, the original browser session was likely displaying cached or stale website information.

Refresh the Privacy Hero Dashboard

If the dashboard has been open while you are changing VPN or router settings, refresh the page before assuming that a change failed.

  1. Refresh the Privacy Hero dashboard.
  2. Allow the page to finish loading.
  3. Return to the section you were changing.
  4. Check the current status again.

If the information still appears incorrect, sign out of Privacy Hero, close the browser tab, and sign back in through a fresh browser session.

Clear Cached Privacy Hero Site Data

If Privacy Hero works correctly in a private/incognito window but not in your normal browser window, clear the cached website data for Privacy Hero.

Browser menus vary, but look for settings related to:

  • Cached files and images.
  • Cookies and site data.
  • Website data.
  • Privacy and browsing data.

If your browser allows you to remove data for an individual website, clear the stored data for app.privacyhero.com rather than clearing your entire browser history.

Then reopen app.privacyhero.com, sign in again, and check the dashboard.

Try Another Browser or Device

If the dashboard still behaves unexpectedly, test it from another browser or device.

  1. Open app.privacyhero.com in another browser.
  2. Sign in using the same Privacy Hero account.
  3. Check whether the same router and settings appear correctly.

You can also test from another computer, phone, or tablet.

Privacy Hero is cloud-managed, so you do not need to be connected to the Privacy Hero WiFi to access the dashboard. You can use cellular data, another WiFi network, or another internet connection.

Disable Browser Extensions While Testing

Browser extensions can sometimes interfere with website login, scripts, or dashboard functions.

If the problem occurs only in one browser, temporarily test without extensions such as:

  • Ad blockers.
  • Privacy extensions.
  • Script blockers.
  • VPN or proxy extensions.
  • Security or filtering extensions.

A private/incognito window may disable some extensions automatically, depending on your browser configuration.

VPN Status Still Shows Failed or Connecting?

If a fresh browser session confirms that Privacy Hero is actually reporting the VPN as Failed, Connecting, Disconnected, or showing a timeout error, the problem is no longer just a browser display issue.

NordVPN users should continue with Privacy Hero NordVPN Not Connecting or Showing Timeout Errors.

No Internet After the VPN Failed?

If the dashboard confirms that the VPN has failed and your Privacy Hero network also has no internet access, check whether the VPN Kill Switch is enabled.

See Privacy Hero VPN Kill Switch: No Internet or WiFi Troubleshooting.

One Device Shows the Wrong VPN IP?

If Privacy Hero shows the VPN as connected and working but only one device shows an unexpected IP address or location, the browser cache is probably not the main issue.

Check the device for its own VPN application, Private Relay, Private DNS, browser Secure DNS, antivirus, firewall, or other network settings.

See Device Settings That Can Interfere With Your Router VPN.

Related Privacy Hero Guides

Private Internet Access (PIA) Setup for Privacy Hero

· ·

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

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.

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