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.
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.
Still having issues?
Feel free to submit a ticket or click on the live chat button for additional assistance. We are available Monday – Friday, from 10AM – 6PM EDT and Saturday and Sunday, from 12PM – 6PM EDT
Mon-Fri: 10am - 5pm EST
