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NordVPN Cudy OpenVPN Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Feb 29, 2024 ·

Preparing for NordVPN Cudy Setup

Obtain your NordVPN manual Username and Password

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

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

NordVPN login

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

NordVPN setup manually

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

NordVPN verify code

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

NordVPN credentials

Download your NordVPN .ovpn file

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

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

NordVPN Recommended Server

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

NordVPN Download Specific Server

Cudy Router Setup for NordVPN

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

1. Click General Settings.

Cudy General Settings

2. Click VPN.

Cudy VPN Tab

3. Toggle the Enable switch to On.

Cudy enable VPN

4. Select OpenVPN Client from the Protocol dropdown.

Cudy select OpenVPN Client

5. Click Browse and select the .ovpn file you downloaded earlier. You should see the server file name listed next to Current Config File after doing so.

Cudy OpenVPN Browse button

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

Cudy NordVPN enter username and password

7. Click Save & Apply at the bottom of the page.

Verify a successful NordVPN connection

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

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

How to change the NordVPN server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

Privacy Hero 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.

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

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

App.PrivacyHero.com

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

Privacy Hero Access Settings

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

3. Click the VPN symbol.

Privacy Hero Setup VPN

4. Set the VPN toggle to On.

Privacy Hero Enable VPN

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

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

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

What is a DNS leak and how can I prevent a DNS leak in my router?

TeamFlashRouters · Jun 11, 2019 ·

What is a DNS leak?

A DNS Leak is an instance where your ISP receives DNS requests despite being connected to a VPN tunnel.

How do I check if my DNS is leaking?

  1. Perform the extended test on DNSLeakTest.com. Be sure to do so on multiple web browsers for best accuracy.
  2. Here you should only find one server and your ISP should not be listed as your actual ISP.
  3. If your actual ISP is not listed there is no DNS leak.

How can I prevent a DNS leak in DD-WRT?

Check your device's browser settings

Updates to web browsers have added DNS settings capabilities, while this often makes your browsing experience more secure it can also effect the results of a DNS leak test. You can go into your browser’s settings and search for “DNS” and disable the DNS of the browser for more accurate DNS leak test results.

A simple web search for “DNS settings [browser name]” should return helpful information for finding the setting in your browser.

Adjust DD-WRT settings

1. On the Setup > Basic Setup page of the DD-WRT settings check the Ignore WAN DNS box.

This setting may not appear in older DD-WRT firmware builds. If it is not appearing for you, upgrade your DD-WRT firmware.

DD-WRT Check Ignore WAN DNS

2. Lower on the same page check the Forced DNS Redirection box.

DD-WRT Check Forced DNS Redirection

3. Click Apply Settings at the bottom of the page and then wait a full minute and power the FlashRouter off and back on. Reconnect to the FlashRouter’s network once it boots back up and then make sure you are connected to VPN by going to https://whatismyipaddress.com then perform the DNS leak test again.

Adding your VPN provider’s DNS servers to the router’s configuration can be helpful as well. The DNS servers are typically found on the VPN provider’s website or you can reach out to their team for a recommendation of what DNS servers to enter.

Wireless Guest Network Setup – Unbridged (Recommended)

TeamFlashRouters · Jun 12, 2019 ·

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

Preparing for Wireless Guest Network Setup

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

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

DD-WRT Router Setup for Wireless Guest Network

Enter Wireless settings

Navigate to Wireless > Basic Settings

FlashRouter DD-WRT Wireless Guest Network Settings Unbridged

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

Wireless Network Name (SSID)

Enter the a unique network name for the guest network.

Network Configuration

Unbridged

Force DNS Redirection

Enable

Optional DNS Target

208.67.220.220

IP Address

192.168.12.1

Subnet Mask

255.255.255.0

CLICK SAVE

Enter Wireless Security settings

Navigate to Wireless > Wireless Security

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

Enable DHCP for Guest Network

Navigate to Setup > Networking

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

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

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

Back up your settings

Navigate to Administration > Backup

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

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

Troubleshoot Here

How do I find my router local IP address?

Dave · May 3, 2019 ·

The Local IP Address is the address that you can use to access a router’s firmware settings. Use the below instructions to find the local IP Address of the router you are connected to.

Make sure you are connected to the FlashRouter’s network via ethernet or WiFi. Keep in mind these instructions may vary based on your current software version.

Find IP Address in Windows

1.  Open the Window search box, and search “command prompt”

How to Find IP Address using Windows Command Prompt

2. Type “ipconfig” and press Enter.

3. Your router’s local IP address will be listed next to Default Gateway.

How to Find IP Address using Windows Command Prompt 2

Find IP Address in Apple / Mac

1. Open System Preferences, and select Network.

Find Static DNS settings for FlashRouter DD-WRT Using a MAC Computer

2. Select the adapter that is connected via ethernet or wireless. This will vary based on your current connection.

3. Select Advanced.

How to Find IP Address using a MAC Computer 2

4. Select the TCP/IP tab.

5. Your router’s local IP address will be listed next to Router.

Find IP Address in iOS

1.  Open Settings

2. Select WiFi, and select the blue icon next to your current connection.

Select FlashRouters DD-WRT Wireless Network in order to Check Static IP Network Settings on iOS Mobile Device

3. Your router’s local IP address will be listed next to Router.

How to Find IP Address on IOS 2

Find IP Address in Android

1. From the top of the screen, swipe down to display settings.

2. Select WiFi.

WiFi Icon and Settings in Android Mobile Device

3. Select your current network.

How to Find IP Address on Android Device

4. Click on the gear next to Network Name (note this may be different on varying Android devices)
5. Click Advanced
6. Your router’s local IP address will be listed as the Gateway under Network Details.

Find Router IP on Android

Once you have followed these instructions to find the Local IP Address of the router you can enter the Local IP address in your web browsers URL to access the router’s firmware settings.

How do I boost my Wireless Transmission power?

Dave · Apr 29, 2019 ·

Boost the wireless transmission power if you need to increase the wireless range of the FlashRouter.

Important Information

We recommend reading the entry in the DD-WRT Wiki to familiarize yourself with what TX Power values represent.

Broadcom routers

  • Netgear R8500
  • Netgear R7000
  • Netgear R6400 V2
  • Netgear R6300 V2
  • Asus RT-AC5300
  • Asus RT-AC66U
  • Asus RT-AC56U

Navigate to Wireless > WL# or ath# Advanced

  1. Set the TX Power to the desired value.
  2. Click Apply Settings.
Boost TX Power in DD-WRT Advanced Wireless Settings page to Increase Wireless Transmission

Atheros routers

  • Netgear R9000
  • Netgear R7800
  • Linksys WRT3200ACM
  • LinksysWRT32X
  • Linksys WRT1900AC/v2/ACS
  • LinksysWRT1200AC

Navigate to Wireless > Basic Settings

  1. Check Advanced Settings under the wireless interface you would like to boost.
  2. Set the TX Power to the desired value.
  3. Click Apply Settings.
Boost TX Power in DD-WRT Advanced Wireless Settings page to Increase Wireless Transmission

We advise to proceed with caution when setting the TX Power. This has been known to negatively effect the hardware if set too high.

Privacy Hero Access Router Settings

TeamFlashRouters · Feb 8, 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.

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

App.PrivacyHero.com

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

Privacy Hero Access Settings

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

What are some extra steps I can take to secure my network?

TeamFlashRouters · May 30, 2019 ·

DD-WRT open source firmware removes many firmware vulnerabilities and backdoor access issues that may cause problems in stock firmware. DD-WRT is also updated more frequently than stock firmware, so be sure to always check with the FlashRouter support team to see which DD-WRT build we recommend for the highest level of security for your router at any time.

Aside from avoiding common issues and flaws with stock firmware, DD-WRT give you more control over the firmware settings and allows you to take some extra steps to really lock down your network security. In this article we highlight additional options for WiFi network security and also preventative measures for remote execution attacks.

Wireless MAC Filtering

Navigate to Wireless > MAC Filter

Access FlashRouters DD-WRT Admin Enable MAC Filtering
  1. Set Use Filter to Enable.
  2. Select either Prevent or Permit
    • Choose Prevent to add MAC addresses that you don’t want to join your network.
    • Choose Permit to add MAC addresses that you do want to join your network, automatically blocking all others.
  3. Select Edit MAC Filter List.
  4. Add the MAC Address of the wireless devices you want to prevent or permit. Be sure to use the xx:xx:xx:xx:xx:xx format. Hint: You can see a list of connected devices MAC Address by clicking Wireless Client MAC List.
  5. Click Save.
  6. Replicate the steps above for each wireless band.
  7. Click Apply Settings.

Disable Remote Access

Navigate to Services > Services

Access FlashRouters DD-WRT Admin Settings and Disable Remote Access
  1. Set SNMP to Disable – this setting disables Simple Network Management Protocol, which prevents software from polling your network for information about connected devices.
  2. Set SSHd to Disable – disabling the Secure Shell is a simple way to prevent root access and brute force attacks on your network.
  3. Set Telnet to Disable – Telnet is a less secure version of SSH to manage your local router network via command line.
  4. Click Apply Settings.

Navigate to Administration > Management

Access FlashRouters DD-WRT Admin Settings and Disable Remote Access 2
  1. Set Web GUI Management to Disable.
  2. Set SSH Management to Disable.
  3. Set Telnet Management to Disable.
  4. Set Allow Any Remote IP to Enable – Even though this setting is set to Enable there is no remote access because Web GUI Management is already set to Disable. 
  5. Click Apply Settings.

Surfshark AsusWRT WireGuard Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Apr 29, 2024 ·

Preparing for Surfshark AsusWRT Setup

Copy your Surfshark Private Key

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

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

Surfshark Account Login

2. Click VPN Manual Setup.

Surfshark VPN Manual Setup

3. Select Router as the Setup method.

Surfshark setup method Router

4. Select WireGuard as the Protocol.

Surfshark select WireGuard

5. Select I don’t have a key pair.

Surfshark No Key Pair

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

Surfshark Connection Name

7. Click Generate a new key pair.

Surfshark Generate new Key Pair

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

Surfshark Private Key

AsusWRT Router Setup for Surfshark

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

1. Navigate to the VPN tab.

Merlin VPN Tab

2. Navigate to the VPN Fusion tab.

Asus VPN Fusion

3. Click Add profile.

Asus Add profile

4. In the Connection Name field enter in Surfshark.

5. In the VPN Type dropdown select Surfshark.

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

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

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

Asus Surfshark profile

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

Asus VPN devices
Asus VPN select devices

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

Asus Surfshark Connected

Verify a successful Surfshark connection

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

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

How to change the Surfshark server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

NordVPN Merlin OpenVPN Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Jan 11, 2023 ·

Preparing for NordVPN Merlin Setup

Obtain your NordVPN manual Username and Password

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

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

NordVPN login

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

NordVPN setup manually

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

NordVPN verify code

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

NordVPN credentials

Download your NordVPN .ovpn file

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

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

NordVPN Recommended Server

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

NordVPN Download Specific Server

Merlin Router Setup for NordVPN

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

1. Navigate to the VPN tab.

Merlin VPN Tab

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

Merlin VPN Client Tab

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

Merlin Choose File Upload

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

Merlin Automatic Start at boot time

5. In the Description field enter in the name you’d like to use for this OpenVPN Client profile. We typically advise entering in the location or server number here. Our example server was in us5835.nordvpn.com so I have entered in NordVPN us5835.

Merlin NordVPN Description

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

Merlin Accept DNS configuration Redirect Internet and Kill Switch

If you only want certain devices to connect to the OpenVPN Client profile you are setting up instead of all the devices connected to the FlashRouter’s network please set the Redirect Internet traffic through tunnel to VPN Director. Then complete the instructions on this page and then view our VPN Director guide.

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

Merlin VPN Username and Password

8. Click Apply at the bottom of the page.

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

Merlin Service State All Providers

Verify a successful NordVPN connection

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

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

How to change the NordVPN server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

Privacy Hero Activation and Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Feb 8, 2023 ·

Follow this article when you receive your new Privacy Hero router to create your Privacy Hero account, connect your Privacy Hero to the Internet, and customize your network so it is ready to use.

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 or your other Wi-Fi network.

Create your Privacy Hero account

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

App.PrivacyHero.com

2. Select Create Account.

Privacy Hero create Account

3. Enter the Email address you want to set for your Privacy Hero account. This will be your login to the Privacy Hero settings moving forward. Click Create Account.

Privacy Hero Enter account email

4. Go to your Email inbox and check for an email from Privacy Hero and click the Confirm email address link. This email may be in your Promotions or Spam inbox if it is not appearing in your main inbox.

Privacy Hero Confirm Email

5. Enter the password that you want to use for your Privacy Hero account. Be sure to note this in a secure location so you do not forget. Click Submit.

Privacy Hero create password

6. You have now created your Privacy Hero account. You will use this login to access the Privacy Hero router settings.

Activate your Privacy Hero Internet and setup Wi-Fi

1. You will then be taken to the Router Activation steps. Connect the ethernet cable that the Privacy Hero came with from an open Ethernet port on your ISP modem or other router to the WAN/Internet (blue) port of the Privacy Hero.

Then power the Privacy Hero device on by connecting the power supply. This is shown in the video on the page as well. Wait about a minute or so for the Privacy Hero router to fully boot up and then click I’m Connected.

Wire Up Privacy Hero

2. The next page may say Router Found or ask you to enter the Activation Code. If it asks for the Activation Code that will be the code printed on the bottom of the Privacy Hero. Enter this code and click Next.

Privacy Hero Router Found

3. Set the Wi-Fi name and password for connecting your devices to the Privacy Hero network. Make sure it is not a duplicate name of an existing Wi-Fi network. Click Next.

Privacy Hero Set wifi name and password

4. To activate your 1 Year NordVPN code:

Click on Claim NordVPN 1 Year Code Now

NordVPN Claim Code

Go to the Account section of your router settings.

Copy the NordVPN code shown under Claim NordVPN 1 Year Code.

PH Nord Code

Go to the NordVPN activation page.

This code can be used with a new or existing NordVPN account.

NordVPN Activate Page

5. You are now all set to begin joining your devices to the new Privacy Hero network with the Wi-Fi name and password you entered and setting up some of the Privacy Hero features.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

NordVPN Asus AX1800S OpenVPN Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Feb 26, 2024 ·

Preparing for NordVPN Asus AX1800S Setup

Obtain your NordVPN manual Username and Password

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

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

NordVPN login

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

NordVPN setup manually

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

NordVPN verify code

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

NordVPN credentials

Download your NordVPN .ovpn file

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

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

NordVPN Recommended Server

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

NordVPN Download Specific Server

Asus AX1800S Router Setup for NordVPN

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

1. Navigate to the VPN tab.

Merlin VPN Tab

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

Asus AX1800S VPN Settings

3. Click Add Profile.

Asus AX1800S VPN Settings

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

Asus AX1800S OpenVPN upload

5. In the Description field enter in the name you’d like to use for this OpenVPN Client profile. We typically advise entering in the location or server number here.

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

7. Click the Activate button.

Verify a successful NordVPN connection

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

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

How to change the NordVPN server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

ExpressVPN Cudy OpenVPN Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Feb 29, 2024 ·

Preparing for ExpressVPN Cudy Setup

Obtain your ExpressVPN OpenVPN Information

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

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

ExpressVPN login page

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

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

ExpressVPN Manual Configuration
ExpressVPN username and password

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

ExpressVPN Download .ovpn file

Cudy Router Setup for ExpressVPN

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

1. Click General Settings.

Cudy General Settings

2. Click VPN.

Cudy VPN Tab

3. Toggle the Enable switch to On.

Cudy enable VPN

4. Select OpenVPN Client from the Protocol dropdown.

Cudy select OpenVPN Client

5. Click Browse and select the .ovpn file you downloaded earlier. You should see the server file name listed next to Current Config File after doing so.

Cudy OpenVPN Browse button

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

Cudy ExpressVPN enter username and password

7. Click Save & Apply at the bottom of the page.

Verify a successful ExpressVPN connection

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

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

How to change the ExpressVPN server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

IPVanish Cudy OpenVPN Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Feb 29, 2024 ·

Preparing for IPVanish Cudy Setup

Download your IPVanish .ovpn file

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

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

IPVanish login

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

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

IPVanish download ovpn

Cudy Router Setup for IPVanish

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

1. Click General Settings.

Cudy General Settings

2. Click VPN.

Cudy VPN Tab

3. Toggle the Enable switch to On.

Cudy enable VPN

4. Select OpenVPN Client from the Protocol dropdown.

Cudy select OpenVPN Client

5. Click Browse and select the .ovpn file you downloaded earlier. You should see the server file name listed next to Current Config File after doing so.

Cudy OpenVPN Browse button

6. Enter your IPVanish account login email and password that you obtained earlier in the Username and Password.

Cudy IPVanish enter username and password

7. Click Save & Apply at the bottom of the page.

Verify a successful IPVanish connection

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

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

How to change the IPVanish server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

PrivateInternetAccess (PIA) Cudy OpenVPN Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Feb 29, 2024 ·

Preparing for PIA Cudy Setup

Download your PIA .ovpn file

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

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

PIA login

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

3. On the OpenVPN Configuration Generator select the following:

OpenVPN Version: OpenVPN 2.4 or newer

Select Platform: Linux

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

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

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

PIA Generate .ovpn file

Cudy Router Setup for PIA

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

1. Click General Settings.

Cudy General Settings

2. Click VPN.

Cudy VPN Tab

3. Toggle the Enable switch to On.

Cudy enable VPN

4. Select OpenVPN Client from the Protocol dropdown.

Cudy select OpenVPN Client

5. Click Browse and select the .ovpn file you downloaded earlier. You should see the server file name listed next to Current Config File after doing so.

Cudy OpenVPN Browse button

6. Enter your PIA account login username and password in the Username and Password.

Cudy PIA enter username and password

7. Click Save & Apply at the bottom of the page.

Verify a successful PIA connection

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

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

How to change the PIA server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

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.

ProtonVPN Account Sign in

2. Click Downloads.

ProtonVPN Downloads

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

ProtonVPN WireGuard Configuration Name

4. Select Router as the platform.

ProtonVPN WireGuard select Platform

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

ProtonVPN WireGuard VPN options

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

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

ProtonVPN WireGuard recommended server
ProtonVPN WireGuard specific server

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

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.

Merlin VPN Tab

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

Merlin VPN Client Tab

3. Select WireGuard as the VPN Protocol.

Merlin VPN Client WireGuard

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

Merlin WireGuard Choose File 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.

Merlin WireGuard ProtonVPN Description

6. Set Enable WireGuard to Yes.

Merlin Enable WireGuard

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

Merlin WireGuard Connected

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.

WireGuard select VPN Director

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

WireGuard VPN Director Add new rule

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

WireGuard VPN Director select Interface

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.

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

How to change the ProtonVPN server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

IVPN WireGuard Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Oct 13, 2021 ·

Preparing for IVPN WireGuard Setup

Verify your IVPN login information

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

Log in to your account on the IVPN website.

IVPN website login

DD-WRT Router Setup for IVPN WireGuard

Navigate to Setup > Tunnels 

Enter IVPN WireGuard settings

1. Click Add Tunnel.

2. Set Tunnel to Enable.

Setup - Tunnel - Enable Tunnel

3. Select Wireguard from the dropdown.

Setup - Tunnel - Select Wireguard

3. Set MTU to 1412.

IVPN Wireguard MTU setting

4. Click Generate Key.

Setup - Tunnel - Generate Key

9. Copy the Local Public Key.

IVPN Wireguard Local Public Key

10. In a new tab (leave the DD-WRT settings opened), go to your IVPN Account and click WireGuard and then click WireGuard Key Management.

IVPN Wireguard Key Management

11. Click Add New Key.

IVPN Wireguard Add New Key

12. Paste the copied Local Public key to the Public Key field and click Add Key.

IVPN Wireguard Paste Public Key

13.Copy the IP Address assigned to your public key and add it to the IP Addresses/Netmask(CIDR) field followed by a /32 subnet mask.

IVPN Wireguard copy IP Address
IVPN Wireguard paste IP Address

Certain DD-WRT builds will show two separate fields here: IP Address and Subnet Mask. If that is the case set the IP Address field to the Address without the /32 added and set the Subnet Mask to 255.255.255.255

14. Click Add Peer.

Setup - Tunnel - Add Peer

15. Set the Peer Tunnel IP to 0.0.0.0. Set Peer Tunnel DNS to 172.16.0.1

IVPN Wireguard Peer Tunnel IP and DNS

16. Set Endpoint to Enable.

IVPN Wireguard Enable Endpoint

17. Go to the IVPN Server Status page and copy the server name for the WireGuard server location you want to connect to.

IVPN Wireguard Endpoint server

Be sure to copy the WireGuard server address and not the OpenVPN server address.

18. Paste the server name you copied into the Endpoint Address field and set the Port to 2049.

IVPN Wireguard Endpoint Address

19. On the IVPN Server Status page copy the Public Key of the server location you entered. Paste the Public Key into the Peer Public Key field.

IVPN Wireguard copy server Public Key
IVPN Wireguard enter Peer Public Key

20. Leave Allowed IPs as 0.0.0.0/0. Set Router Allowed IP’s via tunnel to Enable. Set Persistent Keep Alive to 25.

IVPN Wireguard Peer settings

21. At the bottom of the page click Save and then click Apply Settings.

Set IVPN DNS servers

Navigate to Setup > Basic Setup

Set Static DNS 1 to 172.16.0.1

Set Static DNS 2 to 198.245.51.147

IVPN Wireguard Static DNS

Click Apply Settings.

Reboot the FlashRouter

Navigate to Administration > Management

Scroll to the bottom of the page and click the red Reboot Router button. Wait for the FlashRouter to reboot and then reconnect.

Verify a successful IVPN connection

Navigate to Setup > Tunnels

  1. You should Endpoint, Latest handshake, and Transfer in the WireGuard status area.
  2. Visit IVPN’s website to verify your status as using IVPN.

Back up your settings

Navigate to Administration > Backup

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

NordVPN TP-Link OpenVPN Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Apr 16, 2024 ·

Preparing for NordVPN TP-Link Setup

Obtain your NordVPN manual Username and Password

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

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

NordVPN login

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

NordVPN setup manually

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

NordVPN verify code

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

NordVPN credentials

Download your NordVPN .ovpn file

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

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

NordVPN Recommended Server

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

NordVPN Download Specific Server

TP-Link Router Setup for NordVPN

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

1. Navigate to the Advanced tab.

TP-Link Advanced settings

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

TP-Link VPN Client

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

TP-Link VPN Client enable

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

TP-Link Add server button

5. In the Description field enter in the name you’d like to use for this OpenVPN Client profile. We typically advise entering in the location or server number here. Our example server was us6821 so I have entered in NordVPN us6821.

Set the VPN Type to OpenVPN.

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

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

TP-Link NordVPN

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

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

TP-Link add devices to VPN tunnel

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

TP-Link select devices to add to VPN tunnel

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

TP-Link NordVPN connected

Verify a successful NordVPN connection

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

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

How to change the NordVPN server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

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.

  • Asus RT-AC5300
  • Asus RT-AC56U
  • Asus RT-AC66U
  • Asus RT-AC68U
  • Asus RT-AC87U
  • Linksys WRT1200AC
  • Linksys WRT1900AC
  • Linksys WRT1900ACv2
  • Linksys WRT1900ACS
  • Linksys WRT1900ACSv2
  • Linksys WRT3200ACM
  • Linksys WRT32X
  • Netgear R6300v2
  • Netgear R6400
  • Netgear R6400v2
  • Netgear R6700
  • Netgear R6700v2
  • Netgear R6700v3
  • Netgear R7000
  • Netgear R7000P
  • Netgear R7450
  • Netgear R7800
  • Netgear R8000
  • Netgear R8500
  • Netgear R9000

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
  1. 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.
  2. Click Choose File and select the file you have downloaded.
  3. Click Upgrade.

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.

Surfshark Account Login

2. Click VPN Manual Setup.

Surfshark VPN Manual Setup

3. Select Router as the Setup method.

Surfshark setup method Router

4. Select OpenVPN as the Protocol.

Surfshark OpenVPN Protocol

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

Surfshark OpenVPN credentials

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

Surfshark download .ovpn file

TP-Link Router Setup for Surfshark

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

1. Navigate to the Advanced tab.

TP-Link Advanced settings

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

TP-Link VPN Client

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

TP-Link VPN Client enable

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

TP-Link Add server button

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

Set the VPN Type to OpenVPN.

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

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

TP-Link Surfshark OpenVPN

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

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

TP-Link add devices to VPN tunnel

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

TP-Link select devices to add to VPN tunnel

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

TP-Link Surfshark OpenVPN connected

Verify a successful Surfshark connection

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

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

How to change the Surfshark server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

ProtonVPN TP-Link WireGuard Setup

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.

ProtonVPN Account Sign in

2. Click Downloads.

ProtonVPN Downloads

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

ProtonVPN WireGuard Configuration Name

4. Select Router as the platform.

ProtonVPN WireGuard select Platform

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

ProtonVPN WireGuard VPN options

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

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

ProtonVPN WireGuard recommended server
ProtonVPN WireGuard specific server

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

TP-Link Router Setup for ProtonVPN

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

1. Navigate to the Advanced tab.

TP-Link Advanced settings

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

TP-Link VPN Client

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

TP-Link VPN Client enable

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

TP-Link Add server button

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

Set the VPN Type to WireGuard.

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

TP-Link ProtonVPN WireGuard

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

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

TP-Link add devices to VPN tunnel

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

TP-Link select devices to add to VPN tunnel

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

TP-Link ProtonVPN WireGuard connected

Verify a successful ProtonVPN connection

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

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

How to change the ProtonVPN server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

Privacy Hero Safe Surf

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.

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

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

App.PrivacyHero.com

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

Privacy Hero Access Settings

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

3. Click the Profiles symbol.

Privacy Hero Profiles

4. Click the name of the User Profile.

Privacy Hero Select Profile

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

Privacy Hero Safe Search

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

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

TeamFlashRouters · Mar 16, 2022 ·

When is a router reset needed?

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

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

Reset Router

Asus FlashRouters:

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

Aircove, Linksys and Netgear FlashRouters:

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

Access Router Settings

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

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

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

ExpressVPNrouter.com
192.168.132.1

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

ExpressVPN Get Started

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

ExpressVPN Activation Code

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

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

ExpressVPN Wiring

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

ExpressVPN Share Crash Report

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

ExpressVPN Set WiFi Name and Password

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

ExpressVPN admin password

8. Your ExpressVPN FlashRouter is now fully setup!

ExpressVPN Connected

IPVanish AsusWRT OpenVPN Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Apr 29, 2024 ·

Preparing for IPVanish AsusWRT Setup

Download your IPVanish .ovpn file

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

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

IPVanish login

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

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

IPVanish download ovpn

AsusWRT Router Setup for IPVanish

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

1. Navigate to the VPN tab.

Merlin VPN Tab

2. Navigate to the VPN Fusion tab.

Asus VPN Fusion

3. Click Add profile.

Asus Add profile

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

5. In the VPN Type dropdown select OpenVPN.

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

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

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

Asus IPVanish profile

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

Asus VPN devices
Asus VPN select devices

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

Asus IPVanish Connected

Verify a successful IPVanish connection

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

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

How to change the IPVanish server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

CyberGhost AsusWRT OpenVPN Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Apr 29, 2024 ·

Preparing for CyberGhost Setup

Obtain your CyberGhost OpenVPN information

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

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

CyberGhost Website Login

2. Select VPN.

CyberGhost VPN

3. Click Configure New Device.

CyberGhost Configure Device

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

CyberGhost protocol and location

5. Press View configuration.

CyberGhost view configuration

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

CyberGhost Website OpenVPN Configuration Files Generator 1

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

AsusWRT Router Setup for CyberGhost

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

1. Navigate to the VPN tab.

Merlin VPN Tab

2. Navigate to the VPN Fusion tab.

Asus VPN Fusion

3. Click Add profile.

Asus Add profile

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

5. In the VPN Type dropdown select OpenVPN.

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

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

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

Asus CyberGhost import certs and keys

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

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

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

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

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

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

Then click OK.

Asus CyberGhost enter certs and keys

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

Asus CyberGhost profile

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

Asus VPN devices
Asus VPN select devices

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

Asus CyberGhost connected

Verify a successful CyberGhost connection

  1. You should now see a CONNECTED message.
  2. Visit What is my IP Address from a private/incognito browser to verify your new IP address and virtual location.

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

How to change the CyberGhost server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

PrivateInternetAccess (PIA) Merlin OpenVPN Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Jan 11, 2023 ·

Preparing for PIA Merlin Setup

Download your PIA .ovpn file

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

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

PIA login

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

3. On the OpenVPN Configuration Generator select the following:

OpenVPN Version: OpenVPN 2.4 or newer

Select Platform: Linux

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

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

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

PIA Generate .ovpn file

Merlin Router Setup for PIA

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

1. Navigate to the VPN tab.

Merlin VPN Tab

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

Merlin VPN Client Tab

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

Merlin Choose File Upload

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

Merlin Automatic Start at boot time

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

PIA Description

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

Merlin Accept DNS configuration Redirect Internet and Kill Switch

If you only want certain devices to connect to the OpenVPN Client profile you are setting up instead of all the devices connected to the FlashRouter’s network please set the Redirect Internet traffic through tunnel to VPN Director. Then complete the instructions on this page and then view our VPN Director guide.

7. Enter your PIA account username and password.

Merlin VPN Username and Password

8. Click Apply at the bottom of the page.

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

Merlin Service State All Providers

Verify a successful PIA connection

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

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

How to change the PIA server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

IPVanish Merlin OpenVPN Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Jan 11, 2023 ·

Preparing for IPVanish Merlin Setup

Download your IPVanish .ovpn file

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

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

IPVanish login

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

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

IPVanish download ovpn

Merlin Router Setup for IPVanish

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

1. Navigate to the VPN tab.

Merlin VPN Tab

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

Merlin VPN Client Tab

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

Merlin Choose File Upload

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

Merlin Automatic Start at boot time

5. In the Description field enter in the name you’d like to use for this OpenVPN Client profile. We typically advise entering in the location here. Our example server was in nyc-a50 so I have entered in IPVanish a-50.

IPVanish Description

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

Merlin Accept DNS configuration Redirect Internet and Kill Switch

If you only want certain devices to connect to the OpenVPN Client profile you are setting up instead of all the devices connected to the FlashRouter’s network please set the Redirect Internet traffic through tunnel to VPN Director. Then complete the instructions on this page and then view our VPN Director guide.

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

Merlin VPN Username and Password

8. Click Apply at the bottom of the page.

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

Merlin Service State All Providers

Verify a successful IPVanish connection

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

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

How to change the IPVanish server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

ExpressVPN Asus AX1800S OpenVPN Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Feb 26, 2024 ·

Preparing for ExpressVPN Asus AX1800S Setup

Obtain your ExpressVPN OpenVPN Information

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

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

ExpressVPN login page

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

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

ExpressVPN Manual Configuration
ExpressVPN username and password

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

ExpressVPN Download .ovpn file

Asus AX1800S Router Setup for ExpressVPN

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

1. Navigate to the VPN tab.

Merlin VPN Tab

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

Asus AX1800S VPN Settings

3. Click Add Profile.

Asus AX1800S VPN Settings

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

Asus AX1800S OpenVPN upload

5. In the Description field enter in the name you’d like to use for this OpenVPN Client profile. We typically advise entering in the location or server number here.

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

7. Click the Activate button.

Verify a successful ExpressVPN connection

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

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

How to change the ExpressVPN server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here

ExpressVPN MediaStreamer SmartDNS Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Jun 13, 2019 ·

ExpressVPN offers a SmartDNS service known as MediaStreamer for unblocking geo-restricted content without the encryption of a VPN service. SmartDNS routes DNS servers to different regions which “tricks” the website to allow access to previously restricted content.

SmartDNS does not change your IP Address or provide the encryption that a VPN connection does. This can result in faster speeds and unblocked content.

SmartDNS and VPN should not both be configured at the same time. When using a SmartDNS connection make sure to disable your VPN connection on the FlashRouter.

Login to ExpressVPN

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

Visit ExpressVPN website login page and successfully login.

Register your IP with ExpressVPN

Navigate to the DNS Settings tab on top right of the ExpressVPN Dashboard.

ExpressVPN MediaStreamer DNS Settings

Click on Register my IP address.

Register IP for ExpressVPN MediaStreamer use on FlashRouter DD-WRT

Navigate to the ExpressVPN Dashboard.

Finding ExpressVPN MediaStreamer Specific DNS Servers in ExpressVPN Dashboard

Click on Set Up on More Devices.

Finding ExpressVPN MediaStreamer Specific DNS Servers

Scroll down and click on MediaStreamer and note the DNS servers that appear on the right side of the page.

ExpressVPN MediaStreamer Specific DNS servers

Enter MediaStreamer SmartDNS servers on your FlashRouter

Navigate to Setup > Basic Setup

  1. Scroll down to Network Address Server Settings (DHCP).
  2. Enter in the MediaStreamer SmartDNS servers you noted into Static DNS fields 1 and 2.
  3. Click Apply Settings at the bottom of the page.
  4. Reboot the FlashRouter.

Once the FlashRouter has fully rebooted, you can now access your desired regional content on any device that connects to the FlashRouter’s network.

IPVanish Asus AX1800S OpenVPN Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Feb 26, 2024 ·

Preparing for IPVanish Asus AX1800S Setup

Download your IPVanish .ovpn file

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

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

IPVanish login

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

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

IPVanish download ovpn

Asus AX1800S Router Setup for IPVanish

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

1. Navigate to the VPN tab.

Merlin VPN Tab

2. Navigate to the VPN Client tab.

Asus AX1800S VPN Settings

3. Click Add Profile.

Asus AX1800S VPN Settings

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

Asus AX1800S OpenVPN upload

5. In the Description field enter in the name you’d like to use for this OpenVPN Client profile. We typically advise entering in the location or server number here.

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

7. Click the Activate button.

Verify a successful IPVanish connection

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

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

How to change the IPVanish server

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

TROUBLESHOOTING

Still having issues? Visit the VPN Troubleshooting section.

Troubleshoot Here
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