Search Results for: recommended fin

My 2.4GHz network is not showing up

TeamFlashRouters · May 2, 2019 ·

If you ever have an issue with WiFi, you can always wire directly into the FlashRouter to verify and/or update your current WiFi settings.

Enter the recommended wireless settings

Our team has tested the wireless functionality for each FlashRouter that we offer and shared our recommended wireless settings in our Wifi Setup area. Replicate the settings for your FlashRouter model found on that page if the 2.4GHz is not showing.

Change the wireless channel

Navigate to Wireless > Basic Settings

Change the wireless channel setting for the 2.4GHz band that is not appearing. The most broadly compatible channels are 6 and 11.

CLICK APPLY SETTINGS

Refresh your device's network adapter

In rare instances the wireless adapter for your device may stop picking up WiFi networks and must be reset. This will be different for each device, that is why the best way to refresh your wireless adapter is to simply reboot any device in question and see if the adapter now picks up your WiFi networks.

Review wireless Status

Navigate to Status > Wireless

The readouts on this page can help tell if there are errors with the FlashRouter’s wireless. View our article on how to read the Wireless Status page for more information.

NordVPN Setup for GL.iNet Routers

TeamFlashRouters · May 29, 2023 ·

You can connect to NordVPN on your GL.iNet router using NordLynx, OpenVPN, or a Dedicated IP.

Quick Options

NordLynx: Choose your preferred city or country from NordVPN’s server list
OpenVPN: Choose your preferred city or country from NordVPN’s server list.
Dedicated IP (optional): Enter your unique configuration file if you’ve been assigned a static NordVPN IP.

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

NordVPN NordLynx Setup for GLiNet

1. Get your NordVPN Access Token for NordLynx connections. Log in to your NordVPN account and select NordVPN from your list of Services.

2. At the bottom of the page click Get Access token and you will receive a code via email. Enter this code to proceed.

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

4. Login to GL.iNet firmware settings (usually 192.168.8.1) in a browser on any computer or smart device connected to the GL.iNet FlashRouter’s network.

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

5. Navigate to the VPN tab and select Wireguard Client then choose NordVPN. Enter your Token then click Save and Continue

6. Select your preferred server locations, and click Apply.

7. Start a connection by clicking the 3 dots (…) > Start next to your chosen server.

8. A green dot confirms success. You can also switch between Global Mode or Policy Mode for routing in the VPN Dashboard.

NordVPN OpenVPN Setup for GLiNet

1. Get your NordVPN manual service credentials for OpenVPN connections. Log in to your NordVPN account and select NordVPN from your list of Services.

2. At the bottom of the page in the Manual Setup section click Setup NordVPN manually then under the Configuration section go to Service credentials. Click Verify email to receive a code via email and enter the code to view and copy your credentials.

3. Login to GL.iNet firmware settings (usually 192.168.8.1) in a browser on any computer or smart device connected to the GL.iNet FlashRouter’s network.

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

4. Navigate to the VPN tab and select OpenVPN Client.

5. Select the NordVPN group, enter your manual credentials, then click Save Credentials & Get Servers.

6. Choose UDP (recommended), select your preferred server locations, and click Apply.

7. Start a connection by clicking the 3 dots (…) > Start next to your chosen server.

8. A green dot confirms success. You can also switch between Global Mode or Policy Mode for routing in the VPN Dashboard.

NordVPN Dedicated IP Setup for GLiNet

1. Get your NordVPN manual service credentials for OpenVPN connections. Log in to your NordVPN account and select NordVPN from your list of Services.

3. Login to GL.iNet firmware settings (usually 192.168.8.1) in a browser on any computer or smart device connected to the GL.iNet FlashRouter’s network.

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

4. Navigate to the VPN tab and select OpenVPN Client.

5. Download your Dedicated IP configuration file from the NordVPN website.

6. Click +New Group and name your NordVPN Dedicated IP connection, then upload the configuration file, enter your manual service credentials and click Apply.

7. Start a connection by clicking the 3 dots (…) > Start next to your chosen server.

8. A green dot confirms success. You can also switch between Global Mode or Policy Mode for routing in the VPN Dashboard.

You should now see information appear in the Server Address, Server Listen Port, Traffic Statistics, and Client Virtual IP areas.
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.

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

Still having issues?

Feel free to submit a ticket and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

ProtonVPN Merlin WireGuard Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Mar 30, 2023 ·

Preparing for ProtonVPN Merlin Setup

Download your ProtonVPN .conf file

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

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

2. Click Downloads.

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

4. Select Router as the platform.

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

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

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

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

Merlin Router Setup for ProtonVPN

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

1. Navigate to the VPN tab.

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

3. Select WireGuard as the VPN Protocol.

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

5. In the Description field enter in the name you’d like to use for this WireGuard Client profile. We typically advise entering in the location here. Our example server was in US-NY#61 so I have entered in ProtonVPN NY-61.

6. Set Enable WireGuard to Yes.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Verify a successful ProtonVPN connection

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

How to change the ProtonVPN server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

How do I upgrade the Asus Merlin firmware of my FlashRouter?

TeamFlashRouters · Dec 8, 2021 ·

Download the latest AsusWRT Merlin firmware build for your specific FlashRouter model at the Asus Merlin download website. Contact support@flashrouters.com if you are uncertain about your router model or your router model is not available. Click your router model and then select the Release folder.

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

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

Navigate to Administration > Firmware Upgrade

Surfshark Merlin WireGuard Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Mar 30, 2023 ·

Preparing for Surfshark Merlin Setup

Download your Surfshark .conf file

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

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

2. Click VPN Manual Setup.

3. Select Router as the Setup Method.

4. Select WireGuard as the Protocol.

5. Select I don’t have a key pair.

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

7. Click Generate a new key pair.

8. Click Choose a location.

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

Merlin Router Setup for Surfshark

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

1. Navigate to the VPN tab.

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

3. Select WireGuard as the VPN Protocol.

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

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

6. Set Enable WireGuard to Yes.

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

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

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

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

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

Verify a successful Surfshark connection

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

How to change the Surfshark server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

NordVPN Setup for AsusWRT Firmware Routers

TeamFlashRouters · Oct 15, 2025 ·

You can connect to NordVPN on your AsusWRT router using NordLynx, OpenVPN, or a Dedicated IP.

Quick Options

NordLynx: Choose your preferred country from NordVPN’s server list
OpenVPN: Choose your preferred city or country from NordVPN’s server list.
Dedicated IP (optional): Enter your unique configuration file if you’ve been assigned a static NordVPN IP.

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

NordVPN NordLynx Setup for AsusWRT

1. Get your NordVPN Access Token for NordLynx connections. Log in to your NordVPN account and select NordVPN from your list of Services.

2. At the bottom of the page click Get Access token and you will receive a code via email. Enter this code to proceed.

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

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

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

5. Navigate to the VPN tab and then select the VPN Fusion tab, then click Add profile.

6. Fill in your NordVPN information, then click Apply and Enable.

Connection Name: Choose a name for your NordLynx connection.
VPN Type: Select NordVPN
Region: Choose your VPN server location
Token: Copy and paste your NordVPN token.

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

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

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

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

NordVPN OpenVPN Setup for AsusWRT

1. Get your NordVPN manual service credentials for OpenVPN connections. Log in to your NordVPN account and select NordVPN from your list of Services.

3. Click on OpenVPN config files. Search and download the server file for your preferred NordVPN location, UDP is recommended.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NordVPN Dedicated IP Setup for AsusWRT

1. Get your NordVPN manual service credentials for OpenVPN connections. Log in to your NordVPN account and select NordVPN from your list of Services.

3. Now download your Dedicated IP configuration file from the NordVPN website.

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

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

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

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

Connection Name: Choose a name for your NordVPN Dedicated IP connection.
VPN Type: Select OpenVPN
Import .ovpn File: Upload the Dedicated IP OpenVPN file that you downloaded.
Username and Password: Copy and paste your NordVPN manual service credentials.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Still having issues?

Feel free to submit a ticket and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Why is my DNS showing as 192.168.11.1 on my devices?

TeamFlashRouters · May 30, 2019 ·

When connected to a FlashRouter’s network the DNS settings of the devices will be reporting as 192.168.11.1. This means that the router is handling DNS internally through the servers you have set in the Setup > Basic Setup section of the router. If you did not set any custom DNS here, then you will using your ISP or VPN DNS servers automatically.

You can always customize the DNS servers in the router to your preferred servers and through DNSmasq the router will use 192.168.11.1 to route these servers to your connected devices.

In some instances disabling DNSMasq in the DD-WRT settings can help unblock previously blocked websites while connected to VPN. This will force devices to report the DNS servers set in the router directly as opposed to 192.168.11.1.

Disabling DNSMasq is not recommended unless FlashRouters specifically advises you but we have seen this work for certain VPN providers. To disable the DNSMasq do the following.

Navigate to Setup > Basic Setup

Uncheck Use DNSMasq for DHCP.
Uncheck Use DNSMasq for DNS.
Uncheck DHCP-Authoritative.
Click Save.

Navigate to Services > Services

Set DNSMasq to Disable.
Click Apply Settings.
Reboot router.

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

TeamFlashRouters · May 30, 2019 ·

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

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

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

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

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

Navigate to Administration > Firmware Upgrade

Firmware Upgrade page in FlashRouter DD-WRT settings

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

Private Internet Access VPN Setup Guide for Privacy Hero

TeamFlashRouters · Apr 3, 2023 ·

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

Private Internet Access (PIA) Wireguard Setup for Privacy Hero (recommended)

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

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

3. Click the VPN symbol.

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

5. Enter your correct PIA account login username and password and click Save.

Privacy Hero select Private Internet Access

Privacy Hero Private Internet Access enter login

6. Click Save if you want to automatically connect to the ideal server location as recommended by Private Internet Access.

Or, connect to a specific server location click Advanced Options and then type in the PIA server name you would like to use. (All server names are noted below).

Then click Save.

Privacy Hero Private Internet Access enter VPN location

North America

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

South America

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

Europe

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

Asia

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

Oceania

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

Africa

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

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

Private Internet Access (PIA) OpenVPN Setup for Privacy Hero

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

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

3. Click the VPN symbol.

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

5. Enter your PIA Account login as the Username and Password.

6. Now log in to your PIA Account page.

7. Go to the Downloads section.

8. Scroll down to the bottom of the page, and go to OpenVPN Configuration Generator.

9. Choose OpenVPN 2.4 or newer and Linux.

10. From the Select Port section, choose UDP/1198 AES-128-CBC for a faster connection or choose UDP/1197 AES-256-CBC for stronger security as shown in the image below then Click Generate to download the server configuration file.

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

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

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

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

VPN FAQs

admin · Jan 29, 2019 ·

VPN FAQs

General VPN FAQ Answers

What is a VPN?

VPN is an acronym for ‘Virtual Private Network’, historically used by private organizations to seamlessly link geographically diverse locations via the Internet. A VPN ‘tunnels’ traffic between two devices by transmitting it over a secure network. There are also clearly identifiable benefits to individual Internet users accessing a VPN.

A VPN provides you with top-level security and privacy for all your Internet downloading, streaming and browsing. As long as you are signed into your VPN account, all data you transmit over the Internet is encrypted.
A VPN encrypts your device by hiding the IP address assigned by your Internet Service Provider (ISP) and replacing it with the IP address of your choosing from the list of server locations belonging to your VPN provider. This masks your identity when visiting sites that geo-restricted content, and helps you avoid devious local Internet marketing and advertising schemes that track you through your IP address.

Will a FlashRouter with a built-in VPN client speed up my connection?

FlashRouters are relatively new models that may enhance data transfers across your home network or extend the range of your Wireless signal. However, the speed at which you download or stream content can not exceed the speed of the connection you pay for through your ISP. Purchasing a FlashRouter or signing up for VPN service WILL NOT transform your regular connection into a high-speed broadband connection.

At the same time, if you do have a broadband connection, a FlashRouter with a VPN connection may slow down your transfer speeds due to the processor encrypting all of your data. In certain cases a FlashRouter with a VPN can also prevent throttling by an ISP of specific service like Netflix or Amazon Video.

Which VPN provider should I use?

Our routers have been tested to perform with many of the most popular VPN providers such as ExpressVPN, NordVPN, IPVanish, PrivateInternetAccess & CyberGhost among 50+ VPN providers so that subscribers can get the maximum benefit from their VPN service. If you prefer another provider, that is not an issue at all. You can still use a DD-WRT VPN FlashRouter with any VPN provider that offers DD-WRT router integration support. Contact our team for further information about using our routers with your VPN service of choice or if you need a VPN provider recommendation based on your location.

Should my FlashRouter replace my old router?

A FlashRouter will work as a standalone router by connecting your modem to its Wide Area Network (WAN) port, or using it in a Dual Router Network by connecting it to your existing router through a Local Area Network (LAN)/Ethernet port. Either way a FlashRouter can be configured to tunnel all traffic through the VPN server of your choosing.

If you would like to set up your Home Network so that some devices are being tunneled through a VPN server, and others are connecting to your Internet Service Provider (ISP) within your home country, then using your FlashRouter as an auxiliary device is recommended.

VPN Security FAQ Answers

Can I change my IP address to one in another country?

YES! The countries that you can change your IP address to depend on the offerings of your specific VPN providers. Prices and server locations vary across all VPN providers.

If you choose to purchase a FlashRouter then you will not have to install any VPN client software on your computer to change your IP address; the VPN will already be configured within the router. Therefore, any device you plug into this FlashRouter is automatically assigned the IP address of your selected VPN server.

When is my connection secure?

As long as the VPN account preset into your FlashRouter is active, any device that is connected to the Internet through this router has its network traffic encrypted, and IP address masked. With a FlashRouter you never have to physically login to your VPN account, as the settings have been stored in the router’s DD-WRT firmware.

Don’t worry though! If you are not at home, and using Wi-Fi in a public location, you can still use your VPN account on a laptop or mobile device through various other methods.

How can I be sure my connection is safe and encrypted?

In order to make sure that the connection on your FlashRouter is being rerouted appropriately through your VPN service, visit What is my IP address and make sure the location listed is the one you have chosen in your VPN settings, NOT your actual location.

If you wish, there is an Internet Kill Switch available as well for your router which will block the internet whenever you disconnect from VPN.

What VPN connection standards are supported on a FlashRouter?

Currently we support the OpenVPN protocol for VPN client connections. PPTP VPN has been deemed as insecure by the privacy community and so we no longer offer support for PPTP VPN connections.

Technical VPN FAQ Answers

What operating systems do you support?

A FlashRouter can be used with any operating system, be it Windows, Mac OS or Linux. A FlashRouter can also be used as a wireless access point for iPhones, iPads, and Android devices.

Our routers also work in conjunction with any other brand of router of ADSL or DSL modem/router combo from ISPs across the world.

Can I set up a VPN on a PS4, Xbox One, Kindle Fire, Roku, AppleTV or other devices without native VPN support?

THAT’S WHAT WE ARE HERE FOR!

If you purchase one of our FlashRouters loaded with DD-WRT firmware, you can run the client VPN connection from your router. Once you do this every device connected to the router will tunnel through the VPN.

Now you can stream content like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Pandora Hulu, or Amazon Instant to your TV through any of these devices, instead of being constrained to streaming content on your computer!

If you need a recommendation for a VPN service with a specific streaming platform do not hesitate to contact our support team.

Surfshark TP-Link WireGuard Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Apr 29, 2024 ·

Preparing for Surfshark TP-Link Setup

Download your Surfshark .conf file

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

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

2. Click VPN Manual Setup.

3. Select Router as the Setup method.

4. Select WireGuard as the Protocol.

5. Select I don’t have a key pair.

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

7. Click Generate a new key pair.

8. Click Choose a location.

TP-Link Router Setup for Surfshark

1. Navigate to the Advanced tab.

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

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

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

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

Set the VPN Type to WireGuard.

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

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

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

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

TP-Link select devices to add to VPN tunnel

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

Verify a successful Surfshark connection

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

How to change the Surfshark server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

Surfshark TP-Link OpenVPN Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Apr 29, 2024 ·

Preparing for Surfshark TP-Link Setup

Download your Surfshark .ovpn file

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

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

2. Click VPN Manual Setup.

3. Select Router as the Setup method.

4. Select OpenVPN as the Protocol.

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

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

TP-Link Router Setup for Surfshark

1. Navigate to the Advanced tab.

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

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

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

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

Set the VPN Type to OpenVPN.

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

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

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

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

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

Verify a successful Surfshark connection

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

How to change the Surfshark server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

ProtonVPN TP-Link WireGuard Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Apr 29, 2024 ·

Preparing for ProtonVPN TP-Link Setup

Download your ProtonVPN .conf file

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

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

2. Click Downloads.

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

4. Select Router as the platform.

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

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

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

TP-Link Router Setup for ProtonVPN

1. Navigate to the Advanced tab.

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

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

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

Set the VPN Type to WireGuard.

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

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

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

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

Verify a successful ProtonVPN connection

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

How to change the ProtonVPN server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

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

TeamFlashRouters · Jun 4, 2019 ·

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

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

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

Steps to take if your email is not working

Change SMTP port

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

Change the VPN server

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

FlashRouters Privacy App

DD-WRT Manual VPN Configuration

Disconnect from VPN

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

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

Contact your VPN Service Provider

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

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Search Results for: recommended fin

Enter the recommended wireless settings

Change the wireless channel

Refresh your device's network adapter

Review wireless Status

Quick Options

Preparing for ProtonVPN Merlin Setup

Download your ProtonVPN .conf file

Merlin Router Setup for ProtonVPN

Verify a successful ProtonVPN connection

How to change the ProtonVPN server

Preparing for Surfshark Merlin Setup

Download your Surfshark .conf file

Merlin Router Setup for Surfshark

Verify a successful Surfshark connection

How to change the Surfshark server

Quick Options

North America

South America

Europe

Asia

Oceania

Africa

VPN FAQs

General VPN FAQ Answers

What is a VPN?

Will a FlashRouter with a built-in VPN client speed up my connection?

Which VPN provider should I use?

Should my FlashRouter replace my old router?

VPN Security FAQ Answers

Can I change my IP address to one in another country?

When is my connection secure?

How can I be sure my connection is safe and encrypted?

What VPN connection standards are supported on a FlashRouter?

Technical VPN FAQ Answers

What operating systems do you support?

Can I set up a VPN on a PS4, Xbox One, Kindle Fire, Roku, AppleTV or other devices without native VPN support?

Preparing for Surfshark TP-Link Setup

Download your Surfshark .conf file

TP-Link Router Setup for Surfshark

Verify a successful Surfshark connection

How to change the Surfshark server

Preparing for Surfshark TP-Link Setup

Download your Surfshark .ovpn file

TP-Link Router Setup for Surfshark

Verify a successful Surfshark connection

How to change the Surfshark server

Preparing for ProtonVPN TP-Link Setup

Download your ProtonVPN .conf file

TP-Link Router Setup for ProtonVPN

Verify a successful ProtonVPN connection

How to change the ProtonVPN server

Steps to take if your email is not working

Change SMTP port

Change the VPN server

Disconnect from VPN

Contact your VPN Service Provider

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