Installing a VPN for smart home router changes everything for IoT security. Instead of protecting one device at a time, you protect your entire home network with a single encrypted tunnel. Every device — including those that cannot run a VPN app — gets shielded automatically.
Why Your Smart Home Is a Security Nightmare Waiting to Happen
Smart homes have quietly become one of the most attractive targets for hackers. Your smart thermostat, baby monitor, Wi-Fi doorbell, and connected TV all share one thing: they’re almost always poorly secured, rarely updated, and completely exposed to the public internet the moment you plug them in. The average UK household now has over 10 connected devices. Attackers can use your IoT gadgets as a launchpad to access your laptop, banking apps, or home NAS drive.
What Is a VPN Router and How Does It Work?
A VPN router routes all internet traffic through a VPN tunnel before it reaches the wider web. When data leaves your home, it’s encrypted at the router and sent to a VPN server. Your ISP sees only that you’re connected to a VPN server. This is especially powerful for IoT devices because most smart home gadgets have no native security software and can’t run VPN clients directly.
Which Routers Support VPN Connections?
Consumer ISP-provided routers (Sky, BT, Virgin Media) almost never support VPN client configuration. You need a compatible third-party router or custom firmware.
- Asus routers — many include native VPN client support
- GL.iNet routers — support OpenVPN and WireGuard out of the box
- DD-WRT / Tomato / OpenWRT — open-source firmware for advanced VPN functionality
- Netgear Nighthawk — select models support VPN client configuration
Setting Up Your VPN on a GL.iNet Router
- Choose your VPN provider — one that supports WireGuard or OpenVPN
- Download the config file from your VPN provider’s dashboard
- Log into your GL.iNet router’s admin panel at 192.168.8.1
- Navigate to VPN > WireGuard Client and upload your config file
- Enable the VPN connection and confirm it’s active
- Test your connection by visiting ipleak.net from any device on your Wi-Fi
Should You Split Tunnel on a VPN Router?
Split tunnelling lets you decide which traffic goes through the VPN. Most GL.iNet and Asus routers support device-level split tunnelling. Set it up so your IoT devices route through the VPN while your work laptop is excluded.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Speed drops — WireGuard is significantly faster than OpenVPN
- DNS leaks — run a DNS leak test at dnsleaktest.com after setup
- Router processor limitations — look for AES-NI hardware-accelerated encryption
- VPN disconnects — use a provider with a router-compatible kill switch
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any VPN provider with a router? Most premium providers support router setup via OpenVPN or WireGuard config files.
Will a router VPN slow down my broadband? Using WireGuard minimises overhead. On a mid-range router, expect 100-300 Mbps.
Does a VPN router protect smart devices from malware? A VPN encrypts traffic but doesn’t scan for malware. Combine with Pi-hole for full IoT protection.
Is it legal to use a VPN in the UK? Yes. VPN use is entirely legal in the UK for personal and business use.