How to Setup VPN on Google WiFi?
WiFi is no less than a boon for those who remain online most of the time. With WiFi, there is nothing to worry about regarding excessive bandwidth consumption. However, WiFi connectivity is not safe and secure.
It’s one of the main entry points for cybercriminals to exploit data and devices. WiFi connection can be a matter of grave concern from a security standpoint if not protected. In this blog post, you’ve got a chance to learn about the dangers of unsecured WiFi connections, ways to reduce them, and the utility of a VPN in keeping WiFi connections secured.
If you want to learn more about VPN services, you’ll find these articles helpful:
- How We Test VPN Performance
- VPN for Dummies: An Ultimate Beginner’s Guide
- VPN user statistics: What should you know about VPNs in 2024
WiFi – A Silent Killer
WiFi is an internet connectivity enabler that allows many end-users to access the internet from a single access point. This may not seem dangerous from the surface. Still, it’s a risky affair as unprotected WiFi connections or WiFi hotspots that ask for no login password can be used by cybercriminals easily (and if you keep reusing the same password repeatedly, you MUST read this article).
Have a look at some of the most notorious threats that you might face with an unsecured WiFi connection.
- Unauthorized access to the device
A skilled cyber-attacker can find out what’s happening on others’ devices as they can manage to gain remote access using malware or virus software.
- Malware distribution
Many applications get downloaded automatically when WiFi connectivity is present. So, it’s easy for a hacker to distribute malware and infect every device connected with a WiFi connection.
- Network or activity snooping
When so many people or devices are connected over a single network, it’s easy for hackers to keep an eye on the network’s activities. With this understanding, cybercriminals can easily steal particular data or blackmail people by doing inappropriate activities that people using WiFi connections are doing.
This is just a quick overview of the dangers of unsecured WiFi connections. It can go very deep based on the skills of cyber criminals.
VPN – A Viable Solution
VPN stands for Virtual Private Network and is a technology that filters and encrypts the traffic. When used over a WiFi connection, a VPN for WiFi can:
- Protect the WiFi connection
With means like adding encryption and data filtration, it's easy for a VPN tool to safeguard the WiFi connection. It happens because of the encrypted tunnel that a VPN creates between the internet and the users connected to the WiFi connection.
This tunnel ensures that no sensitive information about the end user is exposed to cybercriminals. Hackers use the IP address to track the activities of internet users. It replaces the actual IP address with a fake one and misleads the hackers. This way, hackers won't be able to determine what you're up to, and end users will enjoy safe internet connectivity.
- Protected all the devices in one go
WiFi connection is usually established using a router. With a Google WiFi VPN that is compatible with the router, it's possible to protect all the connected devices with the least possible hassle. You don't have to employ different solutions for every connected device.
- Making WiFi connection highly stable
WiFi connection can be of varied intensity. At one time, you can experience blazing speed, and the next moment, it can be as slugging as a snail. This connection instability will make your WiFi usage worse than before. With a Google WiFi VPN, it's easy to maintain stability in the entire connectivity and improve your experience.
Is It Possible to Use WiFi VPN on Google?
Google is one of the most loved search engines across the world and is your internet gateway. With a Google WiFi router, it's possible to have unmatched internet connectivity. Goggle Nest WiFi routers are the best in the market and are used by most people.
This is why it's crucial to determine whether the Google WiFi router is compatible with a VPN.
Well, to add to your misery, there is no native support for VPN in Google router and Google Nest router. The router OS is not compatible with Google WiFi routers.
It's so stringent about VPNs that not even PPTP or L2TP connections are supported. However, there are ways to make them work. With the best Google WiFi router VPN, it's easy to protect WiFi connections by minor configurations.
If you're concerned about any 3rd-party firmware that can work with Google WiFi, then only you won't have much luck as no 3rd party firmware supports Google WiFi presently.
The most preferred alternative presently is ASUSWRT routers. Routers like AC-68u feature AiMesh technology that makes a VPN work on Google WiFi.
Is There Any Way Out?
If you want to protect your Google WiFi router with the power of a VPN, even when there is no native VPN support, there is still hope. All you need to do is use the best Google WiFi router VPN and one extra router. With the help of these two solutions, it's possible for people to create a chain of routers and bind two routers in a parent-child relationship.
Once that connection is built, the traffic of the secondary router flows via the first router( Google WiFi router) as the VPN-enabled router filters the traffic.
With this strategy, you can encrypt the Google Nest WiFi router traffic and choose which devices should be protected and which not. A VPN Google WiFi makes the best add-on for your Nest-connected systems.
Want to learn how to add VPN to Google WiFi, read the very next section.
How to Setup a VPN on Google WiFi?
Now that it's clear that you have to do a manual configuration to make a VPN work on Google WiFi, it's time to learn about this process.
In this section, we will talk about 'how to run a VPN on Google WiFi' even when there is no default support for a VPN.
Prerequisites for the process
Before you want to learn about configuring Google Nest WiFi VPN, make sure you have these basic components by your side:
- Google WiFi router or a Google Nest router that will act as a primary router
- Another router with in-built VPN support will act as a secondary router. Routers like TP-Link, Asus, Linksys, Netgear, and Xiaomi are compatible with VPN. You can pick anyone
- An Ethernet cable that will help you connect these two routers
- A router-compatible VPN and its active subscription
The Process
Step #1 – Connecting two routers
Once the basic requirements are fulfilled, you must know to march forward and connect these two routers. To ensure that these two routers remain inside a working chain where there is no traffic blockage, follow the steps below.
Step #2 – Modify the subnet settings on the Google WiFi router
While you’re trying to connect two routers, it’s mandatory that both these routers have different subnets. Brands like Google automatically assign a local IP address that will look like 192.168.1.xxx. You need to make sure the secondary router doesn’t look like this.
Here is what you need to do to change the subnet of the Google WiFi router:
- Open WiFi> Settings > Advanced Networking and expand the LAN section.
- In this section, go to the Router LAN address field and change it to 192.168.2.1.
- Click on Save, and DHCP is activated. This way, the router will automatically allot a different IP address.
You need to follow the same process for the secondary router. The subnet should look something like 192.168.1.1.
Step #3 – Combine two routers
Using an Ethernet cable, you need to connect two routers. Put one end of the cable on the LAN port of the router that supports VPN and another end on the WAN port of the Google WiFi router.
At this stage, it’s vital that the VPN-supported router has an active internet connection and that the Google WiFi router’s WAN port is linked with fiber, ADSL modem, or any other source.
Before moving any further, it’s important to test the connection that was just established between these two routers. For this, connect Google WiFi routers to the internet and open any website or webpage. If pages load easily, then the job is done successfully.
Step #4 – Set up the VPN-enabled router
If you’re using a Google WiFi VPN that is already pre-configured, then there is nothing much left to do. Just on your VPN and connect with a preferred server. But, if the router is supportive of a VPN, then you need to make certain setting changes to make a VPN work on the router. Gladly, the job isn’t too hard.
You have to start by flashing the primary router with VPN-enabled firmware. However, that’s not a key step to take in every situation, as pre-configured VPNs will have this functionality.
VPNs like TP-Link, Asus, Linksys, Xiaomi, and others don’t require this step. So, you need to check the model of the router to find out whether this step is required.
Step #5 – Setting up the VPN connection
After successful router flashing, it’s time to apply VPN configuration successfully. We will explain the standard steps for this job. However, take note that not all the steps are the same for every service.
So, you need to check the support page of the VPN provider. Many of the best Google WiFi Nest router VPNs offer detailed guides for this task.
The basic steps involve:
- Going to the Setting section of the firmware
- Opening the VPN section
- Go to Network Server Setting
- Enter DHCP Server in the DHCP type section, enable DHCP, set the maximum number of DHCP users, and tick all the options like Use DHCPMasq For DHCP, Use DHCPMasq For DNS, and DHCP authoritative.
- In the Time Settings section, enable NTP client and time zone settings. Apply Settings and click on Save.
- You need to visit the OpenVPN Setting section as well. This you can find in Captive Portal>VPN Tunneling>OpenVPN client.
- In this section, you need to tick on Redirect Internet Traffic and Save the changes.
Step #6 – Test the connection
Once everything is in place, you must determine whether it works fine. To check the connection, you first need to disable the VPN. After that, open any website and check whether the page responds or not.
When you set everything up, it’s time to see how it works. Make sure you’re connected to your Google WiFi network. Use a 3rd party service like WhatIsMyIPAddress to know the present IP address.
Once you know the present IP address, you need to enable a VPN. After a successful VPN connection, you need to select a server and try connecting to any other website. Use the same 3rd party service to check the IP address. If you get a new IP address, it means everything worked fine, and you’ve successfully set up the Google WiFi router VPN.
Best Google WiFi VPNs to Try in 2024
If you've paid attention to the above steps and have done everything as guided or said, we don't think you'll face any hassles using a VPN on a Google WiFi router. However, there is one more thing to look into, and it's choosing the best Google WiFi VPN for the router. Without a good option, nothing will seem right or go as planned.
Even though tons of options are offered, only a few can bring success in this job. We extensively tested some of the best Google WiFi VPNs for routers and presented you with the most preferred one.
#1 - ExpressVPN - Easy and Feature-rich VPN on Google WiFi
Anyone with any basic knowledge of the VPN industry would be aware that ExpressVPN is the leader in this industry. With a wide range of servers and lightning-fast speed, it will make anyone fall in love with it. At a time, it can safeguard 5 devices.
ExpressVPN has a dedicated router app that is very responsive. We tested its router app and were amazed to see that server switching is possible. It's a rare feature to spot. It permits end-users to connect with the Google Nest WiFi router from anywhere they want.
As far as the manual configuration of VPN on a Google WiFi router is concerned, you've nothing much to worry about. The setup is simple and will be done in a fraction of a second with the help of its MediaStreamer app. If you face any hassles, you have a very responsive customer care support system to help you out.
Once successfully installed on your Google WiFi router, it can easily protect unlimited devices connected to that router.
Along with mobile phones and desktops, it can also protect the smart devices connected to the router. It's hard to beat when it comes to security features. It supports various security protocols and is an in-build kill switch feature. This way, it ensures that your online activities remain hidden.
To make things extra friendly and safe, there is also an audited zero-log policy. The audit report, curated by Cure53, is also available for public use. So, anyone who doubts the utility of this VPN for Google WiFi can refer to that audit report.
- Easy device switching with the facility of drag and drop
- Divide connected devices into groups and get different IPs for each group
- Stable speed across all the connected devices
- A wide range of WiFi routers are supported
- World-class setup support
Get the Best Deal on ExpressVPN
#2 - NordVPN – Cost-effective Deal to Make
If you don't want to make any compromises on the offerings of ExpressVPN and yet want to save a few bucks, try NordVPN. This VPN for Google WiFi router is everything that ExpressVPN offers, minus the high subscription cost.
With one single account, you can protect every device connected to the Google WiFi router. It's a great option to build a mesh network to help you use a VPN on the Google Nest WiFi router.
It's entirely pre-configured VPN software. Even on a Google WiFi router, it will help you use a double VPN feature, which is great.
A Global Kill Switch facility allows one to protect sensitive information if a connection drops abruptly.
To make your VPN usage on a Google WiFi router easier than before, it offers a FlashRouter app. This is indeed one of the most useful and powerful apps that we have presently. With a simple and interactive UI, this FlashRouters app will make everything easy for you. The app even allows you to use the split tunneling feature.
- Firmware like DD-WRT, OpenWRT, and Padavan are supported
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Remote management of VPN connection
- Compatibility with a wide range of routers
#3 - Surfshark - VPN with Unlimited Capabilities
Unlimited bandwidth, device support, and server switch are what you'll experience with Surfshark. So, if you need a VPN for a Google WiFi router that provides limitless usage, then Surfshark is the best bet to make.
Even though there is no dedicated VPN app for the router, Surfshark features a straightforward setup and installation process.
In the blink of an eye, this VPN for Google WiFi will be activated and start protecting your Google router. This Google WiFi VPN server network is vast, and all of its servers are backed with features like military-grade encryption, zero-log policy, auto kill switch, multiple server switch, streaming and torrenting optimization, and so on.
At a much reduced cost, this VPN provides you unlimited bandwidth and the ability to connect to as many devices as you want to connect to. So, if you're someone who browses or downloads a lot, then having this VPN as the secondary VPN in the router mesh will help you enjoy hassle-free operation.
- Clean Web that blocks ads and malware completely
- Bypasser feature that will help you bypass geographic restrictions
- AES-256-GCM encryption
- Great customer support
Get the Best Deal on Surfshark
#4 - CyberGhost
Lastly, we've CyberGhost as a viable option. It offers more than 8,000 servers across the globe, and each of its servers will help you have great speed during the entire connectivity.
There is no dedicated router app or pre-configured VPN software offered. However, it can be configured on a wide range of routers in a blink of an eye.
The VPN and its knowledge base on the website provide detailed assistance in setting it up on Google Nest. Once the setup is complete, you have the freedom to protect all the connected devices, unblock geo-restricted content, switch servers, and even block the malware. This is why this VPN is a great choice to make.
The setup or router configuration is easy. But, if you still need assistance, then there is no dearth of it. There are detailed tutorials available on the website. The customer care support is ultra-supportive. All in all, you'll be able to create a successful router mesh.
What impressed us the most was its 45-day long money-back guarantee. This was something that no other VPN for Google WiFi routers was offering. The maximum offering of other VPNs was a 30-day money-back guarantee. So, if you're not sure to invest your money and need security, then try this VPN for sure.
There is a flash router app that is packed with features like a kill switch, one account for all devices, SmartDNS, and many more.
- Pre-installed VPNs
- FlashRouter privacy app
- Great internet speed
Get the Best Deal on CyberGhost
Quick Comparison Table
|
Dedicated router app |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
|
Router compatibility
|
Tomato, DD-WRT, Asus, D-Link, TP-Link, Sabai, Netduma, and Xiaomi |
EdgeRouter and Ubiquiti, GL.iNe, Netduma, Netgear, MikroTik, Peplink/Pepwave |
LinkSys, NetGear, Asus |
DD-WRT, Tomato USB, Tomato USB-Merlin |
|
Tutorials available |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Pre-installed VPNs |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Is It Illegal to Use a VPN on Google WiFi?
It's very crucial to check the legalities involved in VPN usage, as few countries don't promote its usage. Unless you stay in countries where no internet freedom is granted, like China, Russia, and North Korea, you have nothing to worry about during your usage of a VPN on Google WiFi.
However, there is one thing that you should be attentive to. A VPN shouldn't be used for any illegal activity. For instance, you shouldn't get involved in tasks like accessing copyright material, spreading malware, or carrying out a virus attack on others.
Involving in such activities is a criminal offense, and you might end up facing a hefty penalty or imprisonment as per the cyber law and copyright law of your region. So, we suggest you use a VPN on Google WiFi to your full awareness.
VPNs that will work perfectly in different countries:
- Ukraine-Russia War - Fight Misinformation Using a VPN
- VPN for the UK: The Best VPN Solutions to Choose from in 2024
- VPN for Canada: The Best VPN Solutions to Choose from in 2024
- VPN for Australia: The Best VPN Solutions to Choose from in 2024
Pros and Cons of Configuring VPN with the Router
You've learned a lot about setting up a VPN on a router. But we will still suggest you hold your horses and compare the pros and cons of doing so carefully before you make a choice.
Let's talk about the pros first:
- With this option, you can protect the Google WiFi connection
- In one shot, you can protect all the connected devices
- Enjoy VPN protection even on a device that has no native support for the VPN
- Adding military-grade encryption and private browsing makes things more secure
Now, it's time to discuss the cons, as not everything is rosy about this job:
- You have to get involved in the detailed installation
- Control settings will become more complex
- The capabilities of the Google WiFi router become VPN router-dependent
- If the mesh network fails, then you will end up putting everything at risk
So, you need to consider both of these aspects before trying out this option.
Ending Notes
Google WiFi router is an excellent device for WiFi connectivity at home or workplace. However, it shouldn't be used without the protection of a VPN. We know that the Google WiFi router isn't a VPN-friendly router. But you still have hope if you're ready to make extra efforts and configure a Google Nest WiFi VPN.
In this post, we've explained everything about 'how to add VPN to Google WiFi'. The only thing that you need is to follow this guide by heart. Once you manage to do that, there is no stopping for you, and you can enjoy the best security on a Google WiFi router as well.
Make sure that you pick the secondary VPN for building a chain from the above-mentioned options only. Any other option might fail to work, and all of your efforts will go in vain then.
Related articles to improve your online browsing experience:
- Anonymous Internet Browsing: Is it Even Possible?
- Data Room: Everything One Needs to Know in 2024
- Erase Digital Footprint: 10 Tips to Delete Yourself from the Internet
FAQs
No, there is no native support for VPN on the Google WiFi router. However, you can use a VPN with your Google Nest WiFi router with extra effort. You need to create a router mesh with the help of another VPN-enabled VPN.
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