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FlashRouters Support Portal

Prioritizing Privacy

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Search Results for: supported+router

Sales FAQs

admin · Jan 29, 2019 ·

Sales FAQs

Can My Router Be Preconfigured With My VPN Information?

Plug and Play VPN Support

Yes you can!

To receive a plug and play with VPN device, you will need to provide our team with the credentials from your VPN provider subscription.

IMPORTANT NOTE: This is not required but recommended for users who wish to have the simplest, most seamless experience when the FlashRouter arrives. You can always change the password when the device arrives if you wish as well.

 

To have your router VPN preconfigured:

  1. Check the “Connect To VPN For Me” box under VPN – Preconfiguration on the Product Page during check out.
  2. Select your VPN provider. If you don’t see your VPN listed select “Other” and you will see an additional field to input who your provider is.
  3. You’ll receive an email after purchase with detailed instructions. If you have any questions our team is happy to help!
Please note:  If you do give a server location, we will automatically start the device with the closest/optimal server for the location we are shipping the device by default. A location has to be added to the initial configuration for plug and play encryption security to occur on the device.

 

Privacy Hero 2 Only:

While our team isn’t able to pre-configure the Privacy Hero 2 VPN Router before shipping it out since you’ll have to make a Privacy Hero user account and register your router, we can assist you with the VPN set up process once you receive the router and create your Privacy Hero user account via 1-on-1 remote session, email, or live chat on our site.

You can also use our step-by-step Privacy Hero VPN Router Setup Guide to complete the process.

Can I Use My Dedicated IP Address With A FlashRouter?

Dedicated IP Addresses from NordVPN, SurfShark, & TorGuard are supported on almost all of our FlashRouter options.

Check out our Dedicated IP Addresses Blog Post for more details!

Can I Use A FlashRouter With My Current Mesh System?

Yes!

You will be able to connect the FlashRouter of your choosing to your current mesh router via ethernet port as shown below:

ISP Modem/Router —- FlashRouter (VPN) —- Main Mesh Router (VPN from FlashRouter) 

This setup will allow you to keep your mesh network with added VPN protection, as well as add the FlashRouter wireless network for your devices.

You can disable the wifi on the FlashRouter also if you only wanted to use the mesh network for wifi.

Can You Flash My Router and Connect me to VPN?

At FlashRouters, we offer expert router flashing and VPN configuration services through our Flash My Router plans. Whether your router needs custom firmware flashing or just a VPN configuration, we ensure it’s set up for maximum security, privacy, and streaming performance with your chosen VPN provider.

The appointment will take place via remote software. During the appointment, our team will also answer any questions you may have about using the VPN on the router. Flashing is done out of the East Coast of the United States – we will do our best to accommodate your time zone difference if you are located in another part of the United States or another country.

👉 Explore our Flash My Router plans:
🔗 Flash My Router Plans


🔹 How It Works

✅ Flashing vs. Configuration: Some routers require custom firmware (flashing) to enable VPN, while others can be configured without flashing.
✅ Fully Optimized: Our team ensures your router is ready to securely connect to your VPN, block ISP tracking, and enhance your streaming experience.
✅ Remote Assistance Available: Get expert help setting up your VPN connection remotely if needed.


Flashing vs. Configuration: Router Compatibility

At FlashRouters, we handle VPN setup differently based on your router brand and model. Some routers require flashing custom firmware (like DD-WRT or AsusWRT-Merlin), while others can be configured without flashing.

🛠 Router Setup Types by Brand

🔹 Flashing Required (Custom Firmware Installation)

These routers require firmware flashing (DD-WRT or AsusWRT-Merlin) to enable VPN compatibility.

  • Asus – Flashed with AsusWRT-Merlin or updated to the latest AsusWRT build. Some models only require configuration.
  • Linksys – Flashed with DD-WRT firmware.
  • Netgear – Flashed with DD-WRT firmware.

🔹 Configuration Only (No Flashing Required)

These routers have built-in VPN support and only require proper setup.

  • TP-Link – Configured without flashing.
  • GL.iNet – Configured without flashing.
  • Cudy – Configured without flashing.

📌 Other brands are not supported at this time. If you have a different router, we recommend checking out our pre-flashed router options.


✅ Supported VPN Providers

We work with a wide range of VPN providers, including:

  • NordVPN
  • ExpressVPN
  • Surfshark
  • CyberGhost
  • IPVanish
  • Private Internet Access (PIA)
  • VyprVPN
  • ProtonVPN
  • PureVPN
  • Windscribe
  • IVPN
  • Mullvad
  • StrongVPN
  • AzireVPN
  • AstrillVPN
  • HotspotShield VPN

(If your provider isn’t listed, reach out – we may still be able to support it!)


🔗 Get Started Today!

👉 Explore our Flash My Router plans:
🔗 Flash My Router Plans

🔹 Need help selecting the right option? Contact our support team! We’re happy to assist.

How Can I Add The 1 Year NordVPN Service From My FlashRouters.com Order To My Current NordVPN Account?

You can easily combine the free 1 year of NordVPN included with your FlashRouter purchase once you receive the NordVPN Activation Code Email from FlashRouters.com. The email is typically received within 24 hours of order completion and will contain a link as well as an activation code.

This code can be entered at nordvpn.com/activate with the email address associated with your current NordVPN account to add the 1 year of free service to your existing service.

 

Privacy Hero 2 Only:

You can easily combine the free 1 year of NordVPN included with the Privacy Hero 2 VPN Router during the router activation process.

After activating the router, you’ll receive a NordVPN activation code within your privacy hero account dashboard. This code can be entered at nordvpn.com/activate with the email address associated with your current NordVPN account to add the 1 year of free service to your existing service.

What Are the Differences Between New, Recertified, And Open Box FlashRouters?

New

  • Direct from manufacturer, in new box.
  • Custom flashed on demand at time of the order.
  • 30 Day Satisfaction Guarantee / 1 Year Warranty.

Recertified (RM)

  • Direct from manufacturer/reseller, may be reboxed.
  • Custom flashed on demand at time of the order.
  • Specialists tested to guarantee same functionality as NEW routers.
  • 30 Day Satisfaction Guarantee / 1 Year Warranty.

Open Box

  • Limited quantity, discount items reboxed that may have cosmetic imperfections.
  • Same testing and functionality level and New and RM.
  • 30 Day Satisfaction Guarantee / No Warranty.

Will a FlashRouter Work With My Internet Service Provider?

US Customers (Single Router Solution):

Almost all Internet Service Providers(ISPs) require a modem in place to establish a connection to their service, however a modem by itself doesn’t provide the wifi connectivity needed in the home or office. A FlashRouter can connect directly to all known modems provided by major ISPs to create a wireless network so long as there is an Ethernet port on the modem to connect to the FlashRouter Internet port. 

US Customers (Dual Router Solution): 

Yes, FlashRouters are compatible with your ISP in what is called a Dual Router Set Up.

For this type of setup, you would use your current router or modem router to connect to your local ISP while using a FlashRouter to connect to your VPN. This is recommended as you will not overhaul your network with a new router, and you will be able to use your selected VPN service on the devices you wish to use it with.

This set up would result in the creation of two networks, which can be seen as the “Local Network” and the “FlashRouter Network”. All devices connected to the FlashRouter Network will go through the VPN service. 

For any device you would prefer to use without a VPN, you can connect to the local network. The chain of devices would be connected from LAN ton your modem or modem/router to WAN on the FlashRouter, with your current router connected to the FlashRouter via Ethernet cable. 

 

International Customers (Single Router Solution):

Almost all Internet Service Providers (ISPs) require a modem in place to establish a connection to their service, however a modem by itself doesn’t provide the wifi connectivity needed in the home or office. A FlashRouter can connect directly to all known modems provided by major ISPs to create a wireless network so long as there is an Ethernet port on the modem to connect to the FlashRouter Internet port. 

International Customers (Dual Router Solution):

ISPs should all be compatible. Some providers require VLAN tagging/VID settings when wiring directly from modem to FlashRouter. 

For this type of setup, you would use your current router or modem router to connect to your local ISP while using a FlashRouter to connect to your VPN. This is recommended as you will not overhaul your network with a new router, and you will be able to use your selected VPN service on the devices you wish to use it with.

This set up would result in the creation of two networks, which can be seen as the “Local Network” and the “FlashRouter Network”. All devices connected to the FlashRouter Network will go through the VPN service. 

For any device you would prefer to use without a VPN, you can connect to the local network. The chain of devices would be connected from LAN ton your modem or modem/router to WAN on the FlashRouter, with your current router connected to the FlashRouter via Ethernet cable. 

What Stock Firmware Features Will I Lose If I Flash My Router

Open Source firmware like DD-WRT or Assu Merlin has many features equivalent to what stock firmware has, in addition to adding new features to a router. However, some features are lost from the stock firmware when a router is flashed.

These are typically features that are put into the stock firmware by the manufacturers themselves. Things like the Linksys App and the NetGear Genie are examples of what would not be available or compatible on the router after flashing.

Most routers also have a WPS button. By default, the WPS button’s functionality is disabled when a router is flashed as it can be vulnerable and a security risk. It can be re-enabled by following this guide but we do not recommend it.

Does a FlashRouter or Service Plan Purchase Include a VPN Subscription?

A subscription to a VPN does not come with a FlashRouter or Service plan. If you are planning to use a VPN, you would need to sign up for one separately, directly from a provider.

Need assistance in finding a VPN Provider? Please visit our recent VPN Provider Best Seller List.

Plug and Play VPN Support

Unlike other VPN Router providers, FlashRouters is proud to offer free VPN service integration with any purchase.

To receive a plug and play with VPN device, you will need to provide our team with the credentials from your VPN provider subscription.

IMPORTANT NOTE: This is not required but recommended for users who wish to have the simplest, most seamless experience when the FlashRouter arrives. You can always change the password when the device arrives if you wish as well.

Shows what to look for when you want to preconfigure your router.

To have your router VPN pre-configured:

  1. Select Yes from the “Want Your Router Preconfigured?” on the Payment Page during checkout.
  2. Select your VPN provider. If you don’t see your VPN listed select “Other” and you will see an additional field to input who your provider is.
  3. Enter your your VPN username and password
  4. For ExpressVPN Firmware Routers there will be an additional box for your activation code.

Please note:  If you do not enter a server location request in “Order Comments”, we will automatically start the device with the closest/optimal server for the location we are shipping the device by default. A location has to be added to the initial configuration for plug and play encryption security to occur on the device.

Can I Use A FlashRouter To Work From Home?

Yes! A large number of our customers use their FlashRouters to “work from home” no matter where your travels take you. Check out our Working Remotely Blog Post for more details.

What is the Difference Between Business VPNs and VPN Services?

Location: VPN Services offer many server locations to encrypt your traffic through. They are located in several countries worldwide for creating a private VPN tunnel for your online activities. A business VPN connects to specific central servers for data or directly to your office, creating a direct tunnel for accessing sensitive work documents and information.

Logging: Most VPN services offer log-free connections for total anonymity and security when connected (it is important to check out their terms of service and privacy policy for full details). A business VPN is monitored and maintained by employers such as corporations, hospitals or universities.

Protection: VPN services secure your family’s personal data while using computers, SmartTVs and various Internet of Things devices. Business VPNs protect the data of the company while you are tunneling into work.

Are There VPN Service Providers That Offer VPN for Business?

There are in fact several trusted VPN providers that have services specially tailored for business use. NordVPN Teams and VyprVPN for Business offer a full suite of solutions like user management tools, dedicated IPs, personal product managers, global server access, business pricing, and more.

These solutions allow you to quickly deploy a safe and secure corporate network without building and maintaining your own servers. If you are a small business looking to quickly secure remote workers as they shift to work from home, and you do not have an in-house IT expert, then you should consider NordVPN Teams or VyprVPN for Business.

Even better, when choosing a business VPN provider like NordVPN or VyprVPN, employees can use routers with direct NordVPN and VyprVPN integration already included through the FR Privacy App. Meaning that a full network kill switch, routing by device, automatic connections, and more are all included as features with your business VPN connection.

Can I use a VPN on a FlashRouter With My Work/Corporate VPN?

Many of our customers have found that they can connect to both their corporate and personal VPN, however due to the variables beyond our control, we cannot guarantee this for every unique situation.

Using two VPNs at once can lead to unpredictable results. Bouncing your network traffic to multiple servers before finally arriving at it’s intended destination can sometimes introduce speed and connection issues.

Please consider that some employers and agencies are more vigilant regarding third party VPN use than others. There are tools readily available that detect the use of VPN services.

While these tools cannot decrypt and view your network traffic, they can tell your employer that you are potentially using a VPN, which can be against company policy.

If your corporate and personal VPN do not work together, then you can always set the computer using your work VPN to bypass the FlashRouter’s VPN tunnel by accessing the router admin panel for your device.

This way, your computer would only use the work VPN. Keep in mind however, your location would appear as your actual location to your work.

Every FlashRouter also comes with a 30 Day Satisfaction Guarantee.

If in the event you determine the FlashRouter is not working out for you, you can return the device within the first 30 Days. A $25 restocking fee does apply.

Can I Use a FlashRouter to Connect to a Dedicated Business VPN Network?

Of course! If you have an OpenVPN server running on a local machine or hosted on a cloud provider like Amazon Web Services (AWS), FlashRouters can create a custom router client configuration to connect the entire router and all connected devices to your OpenVPN server. Instead of employees connecting device-by-device, a router-based VPN connection allows for always-on secure VPN tunneling.

Our service team is here to work with you to test and ensure compatibility before purchasing. Interested in a router based custom client VPN solution for your remote workers? Please do not hesitate to contact us.

And, if you’re looking for a specific router, take a look at some of our most popular options!

How can I Reset the Password for My FlashRouters.com Customer Account?

To reset your password, you’ll want to click the “Account” icon in the upper right hand corner on our main website (Flashrouters.com). Once clicked, a menu will open where you can enter your login information, or select the “Forgot Password” button to trigger a reset email.

If you’re still having issues accessing your FlashRouters.com customer account after attempting a password reset, please reach out to us at support@flashrouters.com for further assistance.

What Payment Methods does FlashRouters Accept?

We accept Apple Pay, Google Pay, and all major cred/debit card providers on our payment method options page during checkout.

 

If you’d like to complete a purchase using PayPal as a payment method, please contact our team at support@flashrouters.com to request an invoice.

Can I Make Change/Update/Cancel My Order?

We strive to process and ship all orders within one business day. If you wish to make changes or cancellations, please contact us within 24 hours of placing your order at support@flashrouters.com with your order number and the changes you’d like to make.

While we will do our best to accommodate your request, please note that we cannot guarantee changes or cancellations.

Please note that if you need to update the shipping address, the order will require reapproval through our fraud prevention system with the new address.

Trouble Checking Out

Some customers have found that trying the methods below have helped solve any checkout errors they may have encountered:

⚡️Clearing cache
⚡️Refreshing web page
⚡️Switching web browsers
⚡️Using an incognito/private window
⚡️Confirming all billing information is accurate
⚡️Disable VPN if one is enabled
⚡️Disable Ad & Script Blockers if enabled
⚡️If you’re using a mobile device, switching to a computer or laptop would be ideal.

Device Settings That Can Interfere With Your Router VPN

Dave · Oct 6, 2026 ·

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

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

This guide applies to all FlashRouter types and VPN providers.


Jump to a Section

  • Start Here: Router or Device?
  • Device VPN Applications
  • iPhone & iPad Privacy Settings
  • Android VPN & DNS Settings
  • Security, Firewall & Browser Settings
  • Run a Clean VPN Test

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

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

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

Focus troubleshooting on the affected device.

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

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

  • Privacy Hero VPN Kill Switch: No Internet or WiFi Troubleshooting
  • Privacy Hero NordVPN Not Connecting or Showing Timeout Errors

Disconnect VPN Applications Running on the Device

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

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

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

This can cause:

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

Disconnect the VPN application completely before testing the router VPN.

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

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

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

Limit IP Address Tracking

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

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

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

iCloud Private Relay

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

For troubleshooting:

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

These settings can be restored after testing.

Android: Check Private DNS and Always-On VPN

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

Private DNS

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

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

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

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

Always-On VPN

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

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

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

Check Antivirus, Firewall, Browser, and Work Security Settings

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

Antivirus and Internet Security Software

Security applications may include network features such as:

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

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

Third-Party Firewalls

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

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

Browser VPN, Proxy, and Secure DNS

Browsers and browser extensions can also use their own:

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

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

Work and Corporate Devices

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

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

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

Run a Clean Router VPN Test

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

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

Then:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


Related FlashRouters Guides

  • Should I Be Using My Computer, Phone, or Tablet VPN App While Connected to the FlashRouter?
  • What Is a DNS Leak and How Can I Prevent a DNS Leak in My Router?
  • FlashRouters VPN FAQs
  • FlashRouters Router Troubleshooting
  • Privacy Hero VPN Kill Switch: No Internet or WiFi Troubleshooting
  • Privacy Hero NordVPN Not Connecting or Showing Timeout Errors
  • Privacy Hero VPN Kill Switch Setup

ExpressVPN Setup for Privacy Hero

TeamFlashRouters · Aug 14, 2025 ·

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

Important: In Privacy Hero, select Custom as the VPN provider when using ExpressVPN. Upload the ExpressVPN OpenVPN configuration file and enter the separate manual configuration credentials. Do not use your normal ExpressVPN website login.

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


ExpressVPN Setup Guide

  • Get Your ExpressVPN Manual Configuration
  • Download Your OpenVPN Server File
  • Add ExpressVPN to Privacy Hero
  • Verify Your VPN Connection
  • ExpressVPN Not Connecting?

Get Your ExpressVPN Manual Configuration Credentials

ExpressVPN provides a separate username and password for manual OpenVPN connections. These are different from the email address and password you use to sign in to the ExpressVPN website.

1. Open ExpressVPN Set Up Devices and sign in to your ExpressVPN account.

2. In the left navigation, click Set Up Devices.

3. Under Applications, expand Advanced setup, then select Manual Configuration.

4. Under Manual configuration, locate the unique Username and Password provided for OpenVPN. Keep this tab open so you can copy them into Privacy Hero later.

Important: These OpenVPN credentials are not your regular ExpressVPN account password. Do not share or post your actual manual configuration credentials.

Download an ExpressVPN OpenVPN Configuration File

The OpenVPN file contains the settings for the ExpressVPN server location you select. Each location may have a different configuration file.

5. On the same Manual Configuration page, scroll down to the available regions, including Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Middle East & Africa.

6. Expand the region you want and download the UDP .ovpn configuration file for your preferred available location. Save it to the device you are using to access the Privacy Hero dashboard.

Only the locations displayed on your ExpressVPN Manual Configuration page are available for this setup. For a different ExpressVPN location, download its corresponding .ovpn file if available.


Add ExpressVPN to Privacy Hero as a Custom VPN

Open the VPN Settings

7. Open app.privacyhero.com and sign in to your Privacy Hero account.

8. Select the VPN section.

Privacy Hero dashboard VPN navigation icon

9. Click Change beside the VPN provider and select Custom from the provider dropdown.

Privacy Hero Change VPN provider button

Upload the OpenVPN File and Enter Credentials

10. In the Custom VPN setup, choose OpenVPN. Upload the UDP .ovpn file you downloaded from ExpressVPN.

11. Copy the separate Manual Configuration Username and Password from your ExpressVPN account into the corresponding Privacy Hero fields.

Privacy Hero Custom OpenVPN setup with username password and configuration file upload

Check the OpenVPN Configuration

12. If Privacy Hero displays the OpenVPN configuration in an editor, check that the file specifies the UDP protocol. If the proto udp directive is missing, add the following line at the beginning of the configuration:

proto udp

Do not add a second conflicting protocol directive if proto udp already appears in the configuration.

Privacy Hero Custom OpenVPN configuration editor showing proto udp directive

13. Click Save to apply the settings and connect to ExpressVPN.

14. Once the connection is established, Privacy Hero should display Connected for the Custom OpenVPN connection.

Privacy Hero dashboard showing Custom OpenVPN connected


Verify Your ExpressVPN Connection

Once Privacy Hero displays the VPN as Connected, confirm that traffic from your device is using the VPN.

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

Important: Because Privacy Hero is cloud-managed, you can change the VPN settings from another network or cellular data. However, to verify the router VPN IP, the device performing the IP test must actually be connected to the Privacy Hero network.

Streaming Relocation and Your VPN Location

If Privacy Hero Streaming Relocation is enabled for a supported streaming service, that service may use its Streaming Relocation location instead of the location selected in your ExpressVPN OpenVPN file.

See Privacy Hero Streaming Relocation for more information.

ExpressVPN Not Connecting?

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

  1. Confirm that your ExpressVPN subscription is active and that you entered its separate Manual Configuration username and password.
  2. Make sure you selected Custom, not another VPN provider, in Privacy Hero.
  3. Download a fresh UDP .ovpn file for an available ExpressVPN location and upload it again. Server configurations can change.
  4. Confirm that the configuration specifies proto udp and does not contain conflicting protocol directives.
  5. Temporarily disable the VPN Kill Switch while determining whether normal internet access works without the VPN.
  6. Try a different ExpressVPN server location or restart the VPN connection.

If the VPN fails and connected devices report no internet, check whether the VPN Kill Switch is blocking normal traffic. See Privacy Hero VPN Kill Switch: No Internet or WiFi Troubleshooting.

VPN Connected but One Device Shows the Wrong IP?

If the VPN is connected and works on other devices, check the affected device for VPN applications, iCloud Private Relay, Private DNS, browser proxy/DNS settings, antivirus filtering, or other security software.

See Device Settings That Can Interfere With Your Router VPN.

Related Privacy Hero Guides

  • Privacy Hero VPN Kill Switch Setup
  • Privacy Hero VPN Kill Switch: No Internet or WiFi Troubleshooting
  • Privacy Hero Streaming Relocation
  • Device Settings That Can Interfere With Your Router VPN
  • FlashRouters Router Troubleshooting

NordVPN Setup for Privacy Hero

TeamFlashRouters · Apr 3, 2023 ·

Privacy Hero supports NordVPN using both NordLynx and OpenVPN.

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

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


Choose Your NordVPN Setup

  • NordLynx Setup (Recommended)
  • OpenVPN Setup
  • Country & Specific Server Selection
  • NordVPN Dedicated IP Setup
  • Verify Your NordVPN Connection
  • NordVPN Not Connecting?

NordVPN NordLynx Setup

NordLynx provides the primary NordVPN connection method for Privacy Hero. To authenticate NordLynx, you will need a NordVPN access token.

Do not use your normal NordVPN website email and password for NordLynx.

Open the Privacy Hero VPN Settings

1. From a computer, smartphone, or tablet, visit app.privacyhero.com.

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

3. Click the VPN symbol.

Privacy Hero Setup VPN

4. Click Change and select NordVPN.

5. Select NordLynx.

NordVPN Protocol Privacy Hero

Generate Your NordVPN Access Token

6. In a new browser tab, open the NordVPN Access Tokens page and sign in to your NordVPN account.

7. Complete NordVPN’s account verification if requested.

NordVPN Access Token

8. Select Generate new token. If available, select Doesn’t expire, then generate and copy the token.

NordVPN Generate new token
NordVPN Copy Token

Important: Your NordVPN access token is a sensitive account credential. Do not post or share it publicly.

Connect Privacy Hero to NordVPN

9. Return to the Privacy Hero dashboard and paste the NordVPN access token into the NordLynx token field.

If you leave the normal country selection in place, Privacy Hero will automatically connect using the available NordVPN server selection for that location.

Click Save.

NordVPN Protocols Privacy Hero

10. Privacy Hero will attempt to establish the NordLynx connection.

Once connected, the VPN status will display Connected.

Privacy Hero Nordlynx Connected

NordVPN OpenVPN Setup

Privacy Hero also supports NordVPN using OpenVPN.

Use OpenVPN if you specifically want to use the OpenVPN protocol or if your NordVPN configuration requires OpenVPN.

OpenVPN requires NordVPN’s Manual Service Credentials. These are not the same as your normal NordVPN website email and password.

Choose OpenVPN in Privacy Hero

1. Visit app.privacyhero.com and sign in.

2. Open the VPN section.

Privacy Hero Setup VPN

3. Click Change and select NordVPN.

4. Select OpenVPN.

NordVPN Protocol Privacy Hero

Get Your NordVPN Manual Service Credentials

5. In a new browser tab, open NordVPN Manual Service Credentials and sign in to your NordVPN account.

6. Complete NordVPN’s account verification if requested, then copy the current Service Username and Service Password.

NordVPN Manual OpenVPN
NordVPN Service Credentials

Important: Do not enter your normal NordVPN account email and password. Router OpenVPN connections require NordVPN’s Manual Service Credentials.

Connect Privacy Hero Using OpenVPN

7. Return to the Privacy Hero dashboard and enter the NordVPN Manual Service Username and Password into the OpenVPN credential fields.

Click Save to establish the connection.

NordVPN OpenVPN Privacy Hero

8. Once connected, Privacy Hero will display Connected.

NordVPN OpenVPN USA

Choose a NordVPN Country or Specific Server

Privacy Hero can automatically select a NordVPN server for you, or you can choose a country or enter a specific NordVPN server.

Choose a Country

To connect through a particular country:

  1. Open your NordVPN connection in Privacy Hero.
  2. Click the Country dropdown.
  3. Scroll or type to search for the location.
  4. Select the country you want to use.
  5. Click Save.

Privacy Hero will automatically use an available NordVPN server for the selected country.

Nordlynx VPN Country Selection Privacy Hero

Use a Specific NordVPN Server

If you specifically want to use an individual NordVPN server:

  1. Open your NordVPN connection in Privacy Hero.
  2. Open Advanced Options.
  3. Enter the complete NordVPN server hostname, such as uk1784.nordvpn.com.
  4. Click Save.
Nordlynx Advanced Privacy Hero

You can use NordVPN’s server recommendation tool when you need a specific server hostname.

Important: NordVPN maintains and changes its server network over time. A specific server that works today may later be placed into maintenance, replaced, or removed. If a manually entered server stops connecting, remove the specific server selection or choose a current server.


NordVPN Dedicated IP Setup

NordVPN Dedicated IP connections can require one of two OpenVPN setup methods depending on the Dedicated IP configuration provided by NordVPN.

First, try the normal NordVPN OpenVPN setup in Privacy Hero using your NordVPN Manual Service Credentials and the Dedicated IP server hostname.

Method 1: NordVPN OpenVPN Advanced Options

  1. Configure NordVPN using OpenVPN and your NordVPN Manual Service Credentials as described above.
  2. Open Advanced Options.
  3. Enter the NordVPN Dedicated IP server hostname assigned to your account.
  4. Click Save.
  5. Check whether Privacy Hero successfully connects to the Dedicated IP server.
Nord US Dedicated OpenVPN

If Privacy Hero displays Connected and your public IP matches your NordVPN Dedicated IP, no additional configuration is required.

NordVPN OpenVPN USA

Method 2: Dedicated IP Using a Custom OpenVPN File

Some NordVPN Dedicated IP configurations use a private OpenVPN configuration file specific to the Dedicated IP server.

If the normal NordVPN OpenVPN Advanced Options method does not connect, download the Dedicated IP OpenVPN configuration file from NordVPN and add it to Privacy Hero as a Custom VPN.

Follow NordVPN’s Manual Dedicated IP Server Setup instructions to locate your Dedicated IP server and download its OpenVPN configuration.

Download the Dedicated IP UDP Configuration

  1. Sign in to the NordVPN account containing your Dedicated IP subscription.
  2. Follow NordVPN’s Dedicated IP manual setup instructions to locate the server assigned to your Dedicated IP.
  3. Download the OpenVPN UDP configuration file for the Dedicated IP server.
  4. Save the .ovpn file to the computer or device you are using to configure Privacy Hero.

Important: Use the OpenVPN configuration file associated with your actual NordVPN Dedicated IP. A normal public NordVPN server configuration file is not the same as your private Dedicated IP configuration.

Add the Dedicated IP as a Custom VPN

When importing the private NordVPN Dedicated IP .ovpn file, select Custom from the Privacy Hero VPN provider dropdown instead of NordVPN.

  1. Open app.privacyhero.com.
  2. Open the VPN section.
  3. Click Change.
  4. Select Custom from the VPN provider dropdown.
  5. Upload the NordVPN Dedicated IP UDP .ovpn configuration file.
  6. Enter your NordVPN Manual Service Username.
  7. Enter your NordVPN Manual Service Password.
  8. Save the VPN configuration.
  9. Enable the VPN and allow Privacy Hero to establish the connection.

If you need the current credentials, open NordVPN Manual Service Credentials.

Do not use your regular NordVPN website email address and password. The Custom OpenVPN connection still requires NordVPN’s Manual Service Credentials.


Verify Your NordVPN Connection

Once Privacy Hero displays the VPN as Connected, verify that your device is actually using the Privacy Hero VPN connection.

  1. Connect your device to the Privacy Hero WiFi.
  2. Make sure the NordVPN application or another VPN application is not connected directly on the device.
  3. Open a fresh private/incognito browser window.
  4. Visit NordVPN What Is My IP.
  5. Confirm that the public IP address and location correspond to your selected NordVPN location.

Do not run the NordVPN application directly on the testing device while also testing NordVPN through Privacy Hero. Running both connections at the same time creates a double-VPN connection and can produce unexpected IP, location, or connectivity results.

Streaming Relocation and Your VPN Location

If Streaming Relocation is enabled for a supported streaming service, that service may use the Streaming Relocation location instead of the location of your selected VPN server.

This is expected behavior.

See Privacy Hero Streaming Relocation for more information.

NordVPN Not Connecting?

If Privacy Hero displays NordVPN as Failed, remains on Connecting, or shows a timeout error, do not repeatedly recreate the entire VPN setup.

Common causes include:

  • A specific NordVPN server that is undergoing maintenance or has been removed.
  • An old, invalid, expired, or revoked NordLynx access token.
  • Outdated NordVPN OpenVPN Manual Service Credentials.
  • Recent changes to your NordVPN account or authentication information.
  • An inactive NordVPN subscription.
  • A protocol-specific connection problem.
  • A Dedicated IP that requires its private OpenVPN configuration file instead of the normal NordVPN OpenVPN server selection.

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

No Internet After NordVPN Disconnects?

If NordVPN disconnects and devices connected to Privacy Hero suddenly report no internet, check whether the VPN Kill Switch is enabled.

The Kill Switch intentionally blocks normal internet traffic when the VPN connection is unavailable.

Follow our Privacy Hero VPN Kill Switch: No Internet or WiFi Troubleshooting guide.

VPN Connected but One Device Shows the Wrong IP?

If Privacy Hero shows NordVPN as Connected and other devices display the correct VPN IP, check the affected device before changing the NordVPN configuration.

Device VPN applications, iCloud Private Relay, Android Private DNS, antivirus software, firewalls, browser settings, and other privacy or security features can interfere with router VPN testing.

See Device Settings That Can Interfere With Your Router VPN.

Related Privacy Hero Guides

  • Privacy Hero NordVPN Not Connecting or Showing Timeout Errors
  • Privacy Hero VPN Kill Switch Setup
  • Privacy Hero VPN Kill Switch: No Internet or WiFi Troubleshooting
  • Privacy Hero Streaming Relocation
  • Device Settings That Can Interfere With Your Router VPN

Why is my connection speed slower?

TeamFlashRouters · Jun 4, 2019 ·

The encryption provided by a VPN connection almost always results in slower connection speed. In some cases you may have noticed that your computer or tablet was working faster when running a VPN client application or program, that is because a computer has a processor that is normally about 4-6x times as strong as a the processor on a router, and that is for managing a single VPN connection. A router has a smaller processor and is managing an entire network of devices. Encrypting an entire network does take considerable processing power.

Speed test results while connected to VPN are never going to be accurate. A speed test measures the rate at which a data packet travels from one server to another, however when you are connecting to VPN the data packets travel to an extra server where they are encrypted and then sent back into the route. We strongly recommend disabling the FlashRouter’s VPN connection when testing speeds to make sure there isn’t and issue with the router.

Connection Types

Ethernet: Wired ethernet connections will almost always be the most stable and reliable connection. To speed up your internet connection, use an ethernet cable to wire your devices to the FlashRouter.

Wireless (5.0GHz): The 5.0GHz WiFi frequency has less range than the standard 2.4GHz WiFi, but also transmits your internet connection at a significantly faster speed. If you were previously using the 2.4GHz network and experiencing slow speeds please connect to the 5GHz wireless network which should improve your speed.

Connect to the closest VPN server

Our supported VPN providers offer many servers in different countries and regions. If a server has slower connection speed we recommend connecting to the server closest to your actual location.

The process for changing servers is detailed in your provider’s setup instructions.

FlashRouters Privacy App

DD-WRT Manual VPN Configuration

Select a UDP server

UDP servers do not authenticate every data packets the way TCP servers do which results in faster connection speeds.

VPN provider server recommendation

Contact your VPN provider for a server recommendation that should provide the fastest speeds for you.

Untangle Support

TeamFlashRouters · Jul 16, 2019 ·

Support for Untangle Router NG Firewall features is provided by the Untangle Support team and not the FlashRouter support team.

We recommend reviewing these excellent resources that Untangle has created to get you setup as desired.

  • Untangle Help Center
  • Untangle Wiki
  • Untangle Forums
  • Untangle.com

To contact Untangle directly you can email them at support@untangle.com and their team would be happy to assist you with getting setup to use their NG Firewall settings such as Web Monitor, Captive Portal, Intrusion Prevention, and many other features supported by the Untangle firmware running on your FlashRouter.

StrongVPN WireGuard Setup

TeamFlashRouters · Jan 8, 2021 ·

DD-WRT Router Setup for StrongVPN WireGuard

StrongVPN Wireguard DD-WRT setup is now officially supported by FlashRouters. Follow the steps below to gather all the required information to complete your Wireguard router setup.

Navigate to Security > Firewall

Set SPI Firewall to Disable.

Wireless Client Bridge Setup on FlashRouter DD-WRT - Disable Firewall

Click Save at the bottom of the page.

Select your actual time zone for you physical location from the dropdown and enter 1.pool.ntp.org in the Server IP/Name dropdown.

WireGuard for StrongVPN DD-WRT set Time Zone

Click Apply Settings at the bottom of the page.

Preparing for StrongVPN WireGuard Setup

Obtain your StrongVPN WireGuard Information

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

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

WireGuard for StrongVPN account login

2. Select Router icon as the Platform

Select Router for StrongVPN WireGuard Platform

3. Select the Advanced Options dropdown and then check Exclude LAN Traffic and set any value between 52000 and 60000 in the Custom Port field.

WireGuard for StrongVPN set Custom Port

4. Select the Server Location from the dropdown that you would like to connect to.

Select the StrongVPN Wireguard server location

5. Select the Generate at the bottom of the page.

6. Click the DD-WRT installer script box to copy.

DD-WRT installer script WireGuard for StrongVPN

Enter StrongVPN WireGuard Script

Navigate to Administration > Commands

Paste the StrongVPN Script that was copied in the empty Commands Shell.

WireGuard for StrongVPN install script

Delete the very last line sleep 8 && reboot.

Click Save Custom (or Save Custom Script may appear depending on your firmware build, they are the same thing)

Copy the line below and paste into the empty Commands Shell.

WireGuard for StrongVPN script 2
sh /tmp/.rc_custom

Click Run Commands.

Wait two minutes and then power the FlashRouter off and back on. Reconnect to the FlashRouter’s network when it has booted back up.

Verify a successful StrongVPN WireGuard connection

Navigate to Setup > Tunnels

  1. You should now see that page filled in with WireGuard info.
  2. Visit StrongVPN’s IP Check to verify your new IP address and virtual location.

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

Connecting to OpenVPN on Asus Merlin Firmware

TeamFlashRouters · Sep 22, 2021 ·

To setup VPN on your Asuswrt Merlin router, you will need to first download an OpenVPN (.ovpn) file from your VPN service provider and load it onto your router.

Review your specific VPN service instructions below. Follow these instructions to locate and upload your OpenVPN file. Depending on the VPN service, there may be additional steps and configurations required to complete the setup.

NordVPN

ExpressVPN

IPVanish

Astrill

Hide.Me

Hotspot Shield

IVPN

Mullvad

SaferVPN

StrongVPN

SurfShark

TorGuard

VPNUnlimited

VyprVPN

Windscribe

Using Asuswrt Merlin’s VPN Director, your router can store up to five different VPN connections and switch between them at will.

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