VPN routers and VPN apps like ExpressVPN protect against cyber threats. Many people use a VPN router and VPN service to enhance web security. A VPN router can’t work without a modem, providing you can connect all the wireless devices on a network with a VPN.
You don’t have to subscribe to a VPN service plan when using a VPN router. Moreover, it can protect wireless devices without sufficient space to install a VPN app. However, setting up a VPN router can be challenging without an expert’s intervention.
On the other hand, a VPN app can be easily installed and set up on wireless devices. The main advantage of a VPN service is that you can use it on multiple devices. However, using a VPN app and VPN router can be expensive in the long run.
Let’s find who wins the VPN routers vs VPN services debate:
Advantages of Using a VPN Router in Your Home/Office
We will first discuss the pros of using a VPN router over a VPN service to know which is best for you. Here, we have mentioned the top reasons to install a VPN router in a home or office setup:
1. Provides Protection to Multiple Devices
It is one of the prime reasons to use a VPN router over a user-friendly VPN app. It protects against potential cyber attacks on multiple devices. However, a VPN service provider limits the number of devices linked with a monthly/yearly subscription.
Users must upgrade the VPN service plan to add more than 10 devices. You don’t have to do that when using a VPN router in your home/office. Simply set up the router and connect the desired wireless devices for internet safety.
2. Protects Different Types of Smart Devices
VPN routers protect different kinds of Wi-Fi-enabled devices from online threats. You can connect everything from Smart TVs to game consoles to activity trackers with these wireless routers. A VPN router will encrypt all the traffic, making it difficult for unauthorized users to access the Wi-Fi network.
3. Saves Time
Since you have a VPN router, you can save the time of installing or downloading a VPN app on all your wireless devices. Moreover, finding the right VPN service for your device can be challenging. So, use a VPN router to remove the hassle of setting up a VPN on your every device.
4. Precautionary Measure
You don’t have to worry about turning on and off the VPN connection to protect the business data from cyber criminals with a VPN router. It is ideal for every company regardless of their type and the services or products they deal with.
What if a hacker steals your customers’ sensitive information when the VPN is off? It always bothers all the employees or employers involved in the corporate IT sector. You can remove the security and privacy concerns when using a VPN router.
Downsides of Using a VPN Router at Your Home or Office
Despite these benefits, you must be aware of certain drawbacks of a VPN router. Here, we have mentioned the cons of using these routers:
1. Complicated Setup Process
Many people avoid buying VPN routers because of their complex setup process. You might have to contact your ISP to set up the networking equipment. Besides, it takes at least 10-20 minutes to configure the VPN router settings. On the other hand, a VPN can be set up within a minute by following some simple steps.
2. Lacks a Web Interface or App
Some VPN router’s settings can’t be modified from the web interface or mobile app. Thus, you can’t change these routers’ default Wi-Fi password or network name. Troubleshooting the VPN router problems will also be difficult because of the absence of the settings page.
3. Additional Costs
A VPN router isn’t the right option if you run on a tight budget. Depending on the manufacturer and features, a VPN router can be more expensive than a standard router. So, you must think twice before buying a VPN router.
4. Limited Server Options
Unfortunately, VPN routers provide more limited server options than a VPN app. The limitation can restrict you from switching between multiple servers. Thus, you can’t access geo-restricted content using a VPN router. However, you can choose different servers and install or use the apps restricted in your country.
Advantages of Using a VPN Service or App
A VPN app has its advantages, which differ from a VPN router. Here are the benefits of choosing a VPN app over a VPN router:
1. User-Friendly
Most VPN applications have a user-friendly and simple interface. After installation, you can connect your phone or computer with the VPN service. Enabling or disabling features and changing service locations can be done without technical knowledge.
2. Easy Installation and Setup
You must open the Google Play Store to install a VPN app on your device. iPhone users can download and install this app from the App Store. Create a free account on a VPN app and prevent your ISP or scammers from checking your online activity.
3. Connects Your Devices to Different Server Locations
You can connect your devices to different locations using a VPN service. For instance, you can connect your computer to an Australian service and your phone to a German server location. So, you can choose a preferred server location with a VPN app.
4. Connect Your Devices On the Go
VPN apps let you connect your devices from literally wherever you are. You can use the VPN connection on your smartphone, laptops, or computers on the go with a stable cellular data or Wi-Fi connection.
Downsides of Using a VPN App or Service
Not every Wi-Fi-enabled device is compatible with VPN services. For instance, your Smart TV or gaming controllers might not support a VPN client software. Thus, you will need a VPN router to connect these devices to the VPN.
Besides, you might get only some of the required features in one VPN application. Hence, you must buy subscriptions from multiple VPN services, which could be expensive. So, choosing a VPN router over a VPN app will be the best way to save money.
A VPN Router vs a VPN App – Which is Best for You?
Whether you will use a VPN router or a VPN service depends on your need or preferences; if you need constant VPN connection on multiple devices simultaneously, consider buying a VPN router. However, a VPN app will be a better option if you prefer flexibility and ease of use over compatibility.
