Guide to setting up a VPN on your TP-Link router

Setting up a VPN on your TP-LINK router is the simplest way to stream geo-blocked content on your smart TV or game console, enhance your online privacy, and avoid the hassle of multiple installs or simultaneous connection limits on your VPN subscription.

We’ll explain how to set up a VPN on TP-Link routers in just a second. Afterward, we’ll answer some frequent questions people have on the topic. Before that, let’s take a quick look at your choices regarding TP-Link VPNs.

The best TP-Link routers

These are the best VPNs for TP-Link routers:

  1. NordVPN: Best TP-Link router VPN. Comes with 6,400+ servers in 111+ countries, breakneck speeds, great unblocking capabilities, and amazing security features. Includes an online tool to easily find the right config files for the job.
  2. Surfshark: Affordable TP-Link VPN. Nice location variety, fast connection speeds, and works with all manner of streaming sites. One of the few VPNs with WireGuard configs for router setup.
  3. IPVanish: Has 2,400+ fast servers in 90+ locations and outstanding download speeds. Unblocks popular platforms and has helpful 24/7 live chat support.
  4. ExpressVPN: Security-focused, high-speed VPN that’s also a great fit for streaming and other tasks. Has thousands of servers in 105+ countries.
  5. CyberGhost VPN: Over 9,000+ global servers spread across 100+ countries. Includes a strict no-logs policy, and has an ad-blocking option for routers.
  6. Private Internet Access: Very fast VPN with decent unblocking ability. A favorite for torrenters due to its customizability and plentiful features.
  7. PrivateVPN: Straightforward and secure VPN with a true zero-logs policy. Has decent speeds and streaming support.

Setting up a VPN on TP-Link router: A complete guide

Here’s how to set up a VPN on a compatible TP-Link router:

  1. Before anything, download the VPN configuration files from your provider’s website. You can use NordVPN’s server picker tool for easier access to the .ovpn files you want.
  2. Go to http://tplinkwifi.net (or type one of these in your address bar: 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1).
  3. Enter your login credentials. The default username and password for TP-Link routers is admin.
  4. Navigate to Advanced > VPN Client and toggle on the VPN Client option.
  5. Under Server List, click Add, then click Set up manually in the pop-up.
  6. Name your connection in the Description field.
  7. Select OpenVPN or WireGuard from the VPN Type drop-down.
  8. Enter your VPN login details in the Username and Password fields.
  9. Click Browse, navigate to your .ovpn file (or .conf if using WireGuard), and double-click it to upload.
  10. Click Save to finish up. You can toggle the connection on and off in the Server List.

That’s all there is to setting up a VPN on your TP-Link router. A few extra notes:

  • Use Browserleaks or similar services to test whether your VPN works correctly.
  • You can add or remove specific devices you wish to use. Under Device List, click on Add, select the ones you want, and click OK. Then you can check (or uncheck) the box under VPN Access as needed.
  • Changing locations requires you to upload a different .ovpn/.conf file.

Can you install a VPN on TP-Link Deco?

Yes, you can install a VPN on supported TP-Link Deco models by using the VPN Client feature within the Deco mobile app. Here’s the full process:

  1. Download your VPN provider’s .ovpn files to your mobile device.
  2. Open the Deco app and navigate to More > Advanced > VPN Client.
  3. Toggle on the VPN Client feature and press Add VPN Server.
  4. Select OpenVPN from the list.
  5. Name your connection, type in your VPN login info, and then tap Browse File.
  6. Go to your .ovpn file download location and tap to import it.

If you want to limit your VPN connection to a select few gadgets, do the following:

  1. Tap Client List then the + sign to add your preferred devices.
  2. Select the ones you want and tap Add.
  3. In the main VPN Client menu, press Access Permission.
  4. Choose Client List, and you’re done!

Setting up a VPN on your TP-Link router FAQs

Does TP-Link have a built-in VPN?

No, TP-Link routers do not have a built-in VPN. However, you can manually install a VPN on TP-Link with your provider’s configuration files using our guide above.

Is there a free VPN for TP-Link routers?

To our knowledge, there are no free VPNs available for TP-Link routers. Free providers usually don’t offer extended support and tend to stick to major platforms. Besides, using a free VPN on your router isn’t a great idea. You’d have to deal with slow speeds, monthly data caps, or having your data sold to advertisers and other third parties.

What is the best VPN for a TP-Link router?

NordVPN is the best VPN for TP-Link routers for several reasons. Not only does it have 6,400+ ultra-fast servers in 111+ countries, but it can unblock most services out there without a hitch. Best of all, the provider’s server picker utility lets you find the config files you need for your preferred location. No more rummaging through .zip files for the right one.

How do I know if my router allows VPNs?

Consult the manual to find out if your router allows VPN connections. Alternatively, you can just google “[your TP-Link model] VPN compatible” for a quicker answer.

Do all routers support VPNs?

Sadly, not all routers support VPN connections. You’ll need a router with compatible firmware to install a VPN. You could also flash your router to install Tomato, DD-WRT, or other firmware that allows VPNs.

If I install a VPN on my TP-Link router, do I still need to use a VPN app?

No, you don’t need to install a VPN app if you already have one set up on your router. The exception is your mobile devices, as a router VPN only secures your home network.

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