Many people that already know what a VPN is are using their VPN software not directly from their PC or games machine, but from their internet router. The reason for this is because if you install the software on your smartphone, PC, laptop or any other device that is not directly connected to the internet, then only the device the software is installed on is protected.
In Italian, we say cos è un VPN! The fact is a VPN, which is short for Virtual Private Network, can do a lot more for you on a router at home, but you have to balance your needs.
Why Install the VPN on my Router?
There are several reasons. If you are someone that uses multiple devices and you are looking to always or occasionally surf the internet with complete privacy, then a VPN on your router is the perfect solutions.
When you get home, you can use your router to log on to the VPN. While you are there you should turn off your mobile data on your smartphone and connect your phone to your WiFi router. This way whenever you access the internet via your phone while you are at home, your connection will be secure and private.
At the same time, if you also use your touchpad device, PC, or laptop while you are at home, they will all be connecting through the very same router your VPN software is installed on. Now you can already start building a picture of how this scenario works.
The protection also extends to your Smart TV, Chrome Cast, and any gaming consoles that connect to the internet because each of these devices will also be using the same router to connect to the internet.
The Disadvantages of Installing VPN Software on All Your Device Individually
If you install VPN software on all your devices there are a few problems. This we call cos è il VPN!
- The VPN software license usually covers only one device. This does not mean you cannot install the software on all your devices. What it means is that each time you want to swap devices, you will need to log off the device you are not using and then log on to the VPN using the device you want to use to surf the net.
- If you want to use VPN software on all of your devices individually, then you will need separate subscriptions for each device. With the VPN on the router, you only need to log on once.
One last point before we conclude this VPN advice article. The beauty of this is that when you leave your home, you can log off the VPN on your router so you can then use the software on your smartphone while you are out and about.