Struggling to get your entire home network protected by a VPN? Setting up Surfshark VPN on your ASUS router is how you do it, giving every single device on your Wi-Fi a blanket of security and privacy. Forget about installing apps on individual devices. once your router has Surfshark, everything connected to it—your smart TV, gaming console, phones, and even smart home gadgets—is automatically shielded. It’s like a set-it-and-forget-it solution for digital peace of mind.

I’ve always been a big fan of making tech work smarter, not harder. That’s why the idea of a router-level VPN just clicks. You know how it is, juggling multiple devices, each needing its own VPN app and connection. It can be a real hassle, especially with devices that don’t even have VPN app support, like some game consoles or streaming boxes. But with a VPN on your router, all those worries melt away. It centralizes your protection, making sure everything is encrypted and private from the moment it connects to your home network. No more worrying about forgotten connections or device limits. it’s always on, always secure. This guide will walk you through the process, mostly focusing on using the OpenVPN protocol, which is super reliable and widely supported by ASUS routers. We’ll get your ASUS router and Surfshark working together seamlessly, bringing top-tier security to every corner of your home network.

Table of Contents

Why Put a VPN on Your Router? It’s a Game Changer!

You might be thinking, “Why bother with my router when I can just install a VPN app on my phone or laptop?” And that’s a fair question! But trust me, once you go router VPN, you rarely go back. Here’s why it’s such a powerful move:

Protect Every Device, Always: This is the big one. Imagine your smart TV, your gaming console, your smart doorbell, or even a guest’s device. Many of these can’t run a VPN app directly. But when your router runs Surfshark, every device connected to your Wi-Fi network instantly gets that VPN protection. It’s truly a “set it and forget it” solution for network-wide security. This means consoles like PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch, which don’t natively support VPN apps, are suddenly covered.
Unlimited Connections Essentially: Most VPN providers limit the number of simultaneous connections you can have. Even a generous provider like Surfshark offers unlimited connections on individual devices, but when it’s on your router, it only counts as one device towards any potential limit. So, you can have your whole family, all their gadgets, and all your smart home tech running through the VPN without breaking any rules.
Always-On Protection: No more forgetting to turn on your VPN! Once configured on your router, the VPN connection is persistent. It’s always on, protecting your traffic 24/7 without any extra effort from you. This constant encryption shields your browsing activities and sensitive data from your Internet Service Provider ISP and other potential snoopers.
Bypass Geo-Restrictions on All Devices: Want to access content from different regions on your smart TV or a streaming stick? With a router VPN, your entire network appears to be in the VPN server’s location, effortlessly bypassing geographical restrictions across all connected devices.
Enhanced Privacy and Anonymity: By encrypting all internet traffic flowing through your router, Surfshark makes it incredibly difficult for anyone to monitor your online activities or collect data about your browsing habits. Your IP address is masked, keeping your identity and browsing history secure.
Secure Guest Networks: If you have a guest Wi-Fi network, any visitors who connect will also benefit from the VPN’s protection, without needing to install anything on their own devices.

It’s clear that a router VPN, especially with a service like Surfshark, offers a comprehensive solution for safeguarding your internet experience at home.

What You’ll Need to Get Started

Before we jump into the technical stuff, let’s gather our tools. Think of it like preparing for a DIY project – you want everything within reach! Surfshark VPN: Is it Truly Safe and Lightning Fast?

An ASUS Router with VPN Client Capabilities: This is crucial. Most modern ASUS routers running ASUSWRT firmware support VPN client mode. This means they can connect to a VPN server. Older models or basic routers provided by your ISP might not. You’re looking for firmware versions like 3.0.0.4.388.xxxx or later for the best compatibility, especially if you’re aiming for direct Surfshark integration or newer features like VPN Fusion.
A Surfshark Subscription: Obviously, you need an active Surfshark account. If you don’t have one yet, now’s the time to get one!
Surfshark OpenVPN Credentials: These are not your regular Surfshark email and password. For manual setups on routers, Surfshark provides specific service credentials a unique username and password that you’ll need to generate from your account dashboard.
Surfshark OpenVPN Configuration Files .ovpn: These small files contain all the server details your router needs to connect to a specific Surfshark server location. You’ll download these from the Surfshark website.
A Computer PC or Mac: You’ll need this to access your router’s web interface and download the necessary files.
An Ethernet Cable Optional but Recommended: While you can often set this up over Wi-Fi, a direct wired connection to your router can be more stable and prevent connection issues during the setup process.

Got all that? Great! Let’s confirm your router is ready for action.

Checking Your ASUS Router’s VPN Compatibility

It’s a bummer to get halfway through setup only to find your router isn’t up to the task. Most ASUS routers with their native ASUSWRT firmware are pretty capable, but it’s always good to double-check.

How to Verify: Surfshark VPN Reviews: Your Honest Look at What It Offers in 2025

Access Your Router’s Web Interface:
- Open a web browser on your computer.
- Type router.asus.com into the address bar and hit Enter.
- If that doesn’t work, try 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.50.1.
- You’ll see a login prompt. Enter your router’s username and password. By default, these are often admin for both, or admin with no password. If you changed them and forgot, you might need to check the back of your router for default credentials or reset your router which will wipe all your settings, so be careful!.
Look for “VPN Client”: Once logged in, look for a “VPN” section in the left-hand sidebar under “Advanced Settings”. Click on it.
Find the “VPN Client” Tab: Within the VPN section, you should see tabs like “VPN Server” and “VPN Client” at the top. If you see a “VPN Client” tab, your router likely supports this feature! If you only see “VPN Server,” your router might only be able to host a VPN, not connect to one, which isn’t what we need here.
Check Firmware Version Optional but Recommended: In the router’s interface, often under “Administration” or a similar system tab, you can find your firmware version. Look for versions like 3.0.0.4.388.xxxx or newer for optimal compatibility.

What if it’s not compatible?
If your router doesn’t have a “VPN Client” tab, it might not support this feature with its stock firmware. Many ISP-provided routers, Arris, Belkin, Cisco, TRENDnet, TotoLink, Ubee, and Google WiFi routers often don’t support OpenVPN by default. In such cases, you might consider:

Upgrading your router: Many reliable ASUS models are known for their VPN client support.
Flashing custom firmware: Options like AsusWRT-Merlin or DD-WRT can add VPN client functionality to many routers, but this is a more advanced process and carries risks like voiding your warranty or bricking your router if not done correctly. For this guide, we’re sticking to the stock ASUSWRT firmware.

Getting Your Surfshark OpenVPN Credentials and Files

Alright, your router is ready. Now, let’s get the necessary bits from Surfshark. This part is super important because these are the “keys” to your VPN connection!

Step 1: Generate Manual Setup Credentials

Remember how I said you need special credentials? Here’s how to get them: Surfshark Says “Different VPN Detected”: Here’s What to Do

Log into Your Surfshark Account: Head over to the Surfshark website and log into your account using your regular email and password.
Navigate to Manual Setup: Once logged in, look for a section like “VPN” or “Manual setup” on the left-hand side or in your account dashboard.
Select “Router” and “OpenVPN”: You’ll typically find options for different devices or setup methods. Choose “Router” and then select “OpenVPN” as the protocol.
Generate Credentials: On this page, you should see an option to “Generate credentials” or “Service credentials.” Click that button. You’ll then be given a unique username and password for manual VPN configuration.
- Pro Tip: Copy these credentials and save them somewhere safe immediately! You’ll only see them once, and you can’t retrieve them later. A temporary text file on your desktop is fine, just make sure to delete it securely after you’ve used them.

Step 2: Download OpenVPN Configuration Files .ovpn

Next up, we need the server files. Each file corresponds to a specific Surfshark server location.

Go to the “Locations” Tab: Still within the manual setup section on the Surfshark website, look for a “Locations” tab or a list of server locations.
Choose Your Desired Server: Pick the server location you want your router to connect to. For example, if you want to appear in New York, choose a US-New York server.
- Consider UDP vs. TCP: When downloading, you’ll usually have the option for UDP or TCP. UDP is generally faster and recommended for most activities like streaming and gaming, while TCP is more reliable but can be a bit slower. For router setups, UDP is a common choice, but if you experience connection issues, you can always try the TCP version.
Download the .ovpn File: Click on the download icon next to your chosen server, making sure you download the .ovpn file.
- Keep it Organized: I usually download it to my “Downloads” folder or a specific “VPN Configs” folder so it’s easy to find later. If you’re planning to use multiple server locations, download all the .ovpn files you think you’ll need.

Now you have your Surfshark service credentials username and password and your chosen .ovpn server configuration files. We’re ready for the main event!

Step-by-Step Guide: Setting Up Surfshark OpenVPN on Your ASUS Router

This is where it all comes together! Follow these steps carefully to configure your ASUS router.

Does Surfshark VPN Work in Russia? Here’s What You Need to Know in 2025

Step 1: Log into Your ASUS Router’s Web Interface

Open a Web Browser: Use the computer you prepared earlier.
Enter Router’s Address: Type router.asus.com or 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.50.1 into your browser’s address bar and press Enter.
Login: Enter your router’s username and password. Again, these are often admin/admin by default, but use what you’ve set up if you changed them.

Step 2: Navigate to the VPN Client Section

Find VPN Settings: In the left-hand menu, look for “VPN” under “Advanced Settings” and click on it.
Select VPN Client Tab: At the top of the VPN page, click on the “VPN Client” tab. This is where we’ll manage your router’s VPN connections.

Step 3: Add a New OpenVPN Profile

Click “Add profile”: At the bottom of the “VPN Client” page, you’ll see an “Add profile” button. Click it to start a new VPN configuration.
Select “OpenVPN”: A pop-up window will appear asking for the VPN connection type. Choose the “OpenVPN” tab and click “OK”.

Step 4: Configure the OpenVPN Profile

Now, we’ll input the details you gathered from Surfshark.

Description: Give your VPN profile a clear name. Something like “Surfshark US-NY” or “Surfshark Streaming” works well, so you can easily identify it later.
Username & Password: Enter the Surfshark service username and password you generated earlier not your regular account login. You can copy and paste them directly to avoid typos.
Import .ovpn File:
- Click on the “Choose File” button next to “Import .ovpn file”.
- A file explorer window will open. Navigate to where you saved your downloaded Surfshark .ovpn configuration file.
- Select the .ovpn file you want to use and click “Open”.
- Then, click the “Upload” button. You should see a “Complete!” message indicating the file was successfully imported.
- Important: Make sure the “Import the CA file or edit the .ovpn file manually” option is left unticked if it appears.
Click “OK”: After uploading the file and seeing the “Complete!” message, click “OK” to save this profile.

Step 5: Activate Your VPN Connection

You’ll now see your newly created VPN profile listed under the “VPN Client” tab.

Click “Activate”: Find your new profile and click the “Activate” button next to it.
Wait for Connection: Your router will now attempt to connect to the Surfshark VPN server. This might take a few seconds.
Verify Connection Status: Look at the “Connection Status” column for your profile. A blue checkmark or a “Connected” status indicates a successful connection. If it shows “Connecting…” or “Disconnected,” don’t panic – we’ll get to troubleshooting!

Congratulations! Your ASUS router should now be connected to Surfshark VPN. Every device that connects to your Wi-Fi will now route its internet traffic through this secure VPN tunnel.

Testing Your Surfshark VPN Connection

It’s a good practice to always verify that your VPN is actually working and that your IP address has changed.

Why Your Surfshark VPN Might Be Giving You Trouble (Common Culprits)

Open a New Browser Tab: On any device connected to your ASUS router’s Wi-Fi network.
Visit an IP Checker Website: Go to a site like surfshark.com/what-is-my-ip or simply search “what is my IP” on Google.
Check Your IP Address and Location: The website should display an IP address and location that match the Surfshark server you connected to e.g., US-New York. If it shows your actual location or your ISP’s IP address, then the VPN isn’t working correctly.

If the IP address and location match your chosen Surfshark server, you’re all set! Enjoy your encrypted and private browsing on all your devices.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even the smoothest setups can hit a snag. If your Surfshark VPN isn’t connecting on your ASUS router, here are a few common issues and fixes:

Routing Your Digital Life: How to Use Surfshark to Route Via VPN

“Connection Status” Isn’t Green/Connected:
- Double-Check Credentials: Re-enter your Surfshark service username and password the ones you generated for manual setup, not your regular login very carefully. Even a tiny typo will prevent connection.
- Try a Different Server: The .ovpn file you downloaded might be for a server experiencing issues. Go back to the Surfshark website, download a .ovpn file for a different server location preferably UDP first, delete the old profile on your router, and try setting up a new one.
- Try TCP Instead of UDP: If you downloaded a UDP .ovpn file, try downloading the TCP version for the same server. TCP is slightly slower but more reliable in some network conditions.
- Update Router Firmware: Ensure your ASUS router is running the latest firmware version. Outdated firmware can cause compatibility problems. You can usually update it through the “Administration” section in your router’s web interface.
- Router Reboot: Sometimes a simple router reboot can clear up minor glitches. Unplug it for 10-15 seconds, then plug it back in.
Slow Speeds:
- Change Servers: Try connecting to a Surfshark server that is geographically closer to you. The further the server, the more latency you’ll experience.
- Check Router Processing Power: Routers convert your VPN’s encrypted traffic, and this process requires CPU power. Older or less powerful routers might struggle to maintain high speeds with VPN encryption. If this is a persistent issue, you might consider upgrading your router to a more powerful model, especially one designed for VPN use.
- Consider WireGuard if supported: If your ASUS router supports it especially with AsusWRT-Merlin firmware or newer stock firmware like VPN Fusion, WireGuard is a newer, faster protocol compared to OpenVPN. While OpenVPN is excellent for security, WireGuard often delivers better performance.
DNS Leaks: If your IP checker shows your actual location’s DNS servers instead of Surfshark’s, you might have a DNS leak.
- Check Router DNS Settings: In your router’s WAN Internet settings, ensure that DNS is set to automatically obtain from ISP or use Surfshark’s recommended DNS servers if you configure them manually.
- Surfshark’s apps often handle this automatically, but on a router, sometimes manual adjustments are needed.

If you’re still stuck, don’t hesitate to reach out to Surfshark’s customer support. They’re usually available 24/7 and can provide specific guidance for your setup.

Advanced Tips for Your Router VPN

Once you’re comfortable with the basic setup, you might want to explore some advanced features to get even more out of your router VPN.

VPN Director / Selective Routing Policy-Based Routing

Many ASUS routers with advanced firmware including AsusWRT-Merlin offer a feature called “VPN Director” or “Policy-Based Routing” within the VPN Client settings. This lets you decide which devices or even which applications on your network use the VPN and which bypass it.

How it works: Instead of all traffic going through the VPN, you can configure rules. For example:
- Your smart TV uses the VPN for accessing geo-restricted content.
- Your work laptop connects directly to the internet for maximum speed.
- Your gaming console uses the VPN for specific regions.
Benefits: This offers flexibility, allowing you to optimize speed for certain tasks while maintaining privacy for others. It’s a great way to fine-tune your network without constantly toggling the VPN on and off.

Using AsusWRT-Merlin Firmware

For those who want more control and features, flashing your ASUS router with AsusWRT-Merlin firmware is a popular option. Merlin is a highly optimized, open-source firmware based on ASUSWRT that adds extra functionalities, better performance, and enhanced VPN client options, including WireGuard support. Surfshark VPN in Russia: What You Really Need to Know

Why consider it:
- More robust VPN client configuration options.
- Improved stability and performance.
- Advanced features like Ad Blocking Diversion, Skynet and custom scripts.
- Better WireGuard protocol integration if your stock firmware doesn’t fully support it.
Caution: Flashing custom firmware requires technical know-how and comes with risks, including potentially voiding your router’s warranty or bricking the device if done improperly. Always research thoroughly and follow guides specific to your router model if you decide to go this route.

Setting Up Multiple VPN Profiles

While most ASUS routers allow only one active OpenVPN client connection at a time, you can often create multiple profiles for different Surfshark server locations. This means you can quickly switch between, say, a US server and a UK server without going through the entire setup process again. You just deactivate one and activate another from the VPN Client tab.

Benefits of Surfshark on Your ASUS Router: A Recap

By now, you’ve hopefully got Surfshark up and running on your ASUS router, and you’re already experiencing the perks. But let’s quickly recap why this setup is so fantastic:

Why You Can’t Just Download Surfshark on Roku

Complete Home Network Protection: Every gadget, from your phone to your smart fridge, is secured by military-grade encryption.
Zero Device Limits: Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections, but on your router, it’s just one connection covering everything.
Effortless Geo-Unblocking: Access global content on any device in your home, no apps needed on individual devices.
Enhanced Privacy: Your ISP and other third parties won’t be able to monitor your online activities, giving you true anonymity.
Always-On Security: Your VPN connection is persistent, ensuring continuous protection without manual intervention.
Protect Incompatible Devices: Game consoles, smart TVs, and other devices that don’t support VPN apps directly now get full VPN benefits.

In a world where online privacy is constantly under threat, having a VPN at the router level is one of the most effective ways to safeguard your digital life and the digital lives of everyone in your home. Surfshark’s robust security features, like AES-256 encryption and a strict no-logs policy, combined with the convenience of an ASUS router, make for a powerful duo.

Remember, your online privacy is a continuous effort. By taking this step to secure your router, you’re building a strong foundation for a safer internet experience for everyone under your roof.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of ASUS router do I need for Surfshark VPN?

You’ll need an ASUS router that supports “VPN Client” mode and runs ASUSWRT firmware. Look for models with firmware version 3.0.0.4.388.xxxx or later for the best experience. Many current ASUS routers, especially those in the RT and AX series, are compatible. If your router has “VPN Fusion” in its settings, it’s a good sign it supports VPN client functionality, potentially even with WireGuard. Older or ISP-provided routers may not be compatible.

Setting Up Surfshark VPN on Your Router: Your Ultimate Home Network Protector

Is it better to use OpenVPN or WireGuard on my ASUS router with Surfshark?

OpenVPN is a very secure and widely supported protocol, making it a reliable choice for most ASUS routers. However, WireGuard is a newer protocol known for its faster speeds and lighter code. If your ASUS router’s stock firmware or custom firmware like AsusWRT-Merlin supports WireGuard, you might get better performance. For this guide, OpenVPN is the more broadly compatible option, but if speed is a top priority and your router supports it, WireGuard is worth exploring.

Can I set up Surfshark on an ASUS router using my regular Surfshark login credentials?

No, you cannot. For manual VPN setups on routers, you need to generate specific Surfshark service credentials a unique username and password from your Surfshark account dashboard. These are different from the email and password you use to log into your Surfshark account or apps. Make sure to generate and save them before starting the router configuration.

What if my ASUS router doesn’t show a “VPN Client” tab?

If you don’t see a “VPN Client” tab under the VPN settings in your ASUS router’s web interface, it likely means your router’s stock firmware doesn’t support acting as a VPN client. In this situation, you have a few options: you could purchase a newer ASUS router that explicitly supports VPN client functionality, or you could look into installing custom firmware like DD-WRT or AsusWRT-Merlin if your router model is compatible. Be aware that flashing custom firmware carries risks.

How do I switch Surfshark server locations once it’s set up on my ASUS router?

You don’t need to re-do the entire setup. If you’ve created multiple OpenVPN profiles each with a different .ovpn file for a different server location, you can simply go to the “VPN Client” tab in your ASUS router’s web interface. Deactivate the currently active profile and then click “Activate” next to the new server location profile you wish to use. The router will then connect to the new server.

What should I do if my internet speed drops significantly after setting up Surfshark on my router?

A speed drop can happen because your router’s CPU has to encrypt and decrypt all network traffic. To troubleshoot, first, try connecting to a Surfshark server geographically closer to you. If the issue persists, your router might not have enough processing power for high-speed VPN encryption. Upgrading to a more powerful router, especially one known for strong VPN performance, can help. Also, if your router supports it, switching from OpenVPN TCP to OpenVPN UDP or even WireGuard can often improve speeds, as these protocols are generally faster. Surfshark VPN Review UK: The Lowdown for 2025

Can I use split tunneling with Surfshark on my ASUS router?

Yes, many ASUS routers with advanced firmware including AsusWRT-Merlin offer a feature often called “VPN Director” or “Policy-Based Routing”. This allows you to selectively route traffic, meaning you can choose which devices or even specific applications send their data through the VPN tunnel and which connect directly to the internet. This gives you granular control over your network’s VPN usage, letting you optimize for both speed and privacy where needed.

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Secure Your Whole Home: Setting Up Surfshark VPN on Your ASUS Router