In its standard, “out of box” form, the Linksys WRT3200ACM router doesn’t support connecting to a VPN server. So, if you want to connect all the devices in your home to a VPN, you’ll have to install open source firmware on your router. Here’s how.
How to use WRT3200ACM with a VPN service
Changing the firmware on a router requires some intermediate technical skills and a familiarity with how VPNs and routers work.
Replacing the firmware of your router may render it inoperable. However, if you pay attention, take your time, and do it right, you can use your router to protect all the devices and users of your network.
Step 1: Get your VPN-capable router.
Buy your Linksys WRT3200ACM router.
Of course, you can find other routers that work well with dd-wrt firmware. We, however, recommend the Linksys product for this purpose.
Use the dd-wrt database to verify that your router will work with the firmware.
Need help shopping? Check out the best VPN routers for 2024
Step 2: Install dd-wrt firmware on your router.
Follow the instructions for flashing your Linksys WRT3200 open-source router with dd-wrt (Link leads to resources on the dd-wrt website).
Step 3: Buy your VPN.
Get NordVPN now. You’ll check out directly with NordVPN, sharing no information with us.
Make sure that you buy a VPN service that supports routers (a.k.a., manual configurations).
NordVPN will work with your dd-wrt router.
NordVPN is the best VPN for speed and for VPN-enabled routers.
Step 4: Configure your router.
Router configurations involve setting your router’s VPN client settings to work with the OpenVPN protocol from your VPN service.
- How do I use NordVPN with dd-wrt? Get your answer from NordVPN here.
Setup your Linksys WRT3200ACM router for Surfshark, ExpressVPN or NordVPN using OpenVPN.
Step 5: Configure your devices.
Set up all your devices, including IoT, smart TVs, smartphones, Apple TV, smart home systems, smart appliances, etc, to use your router. All internet traffic from your home will now have VPN protection.
How can I do more with my VPN?
Check out some of the excellent VPN reviews and information hosted right here at IwantMyVPN.com. For example, learn how NordVPN works with Netflix.
Before you leave our site, find out why “free” VPN services are a bad idea.
