Internet it is an ocean of opportunities, but also potential threats. VPN it is supposed to protect us against them by maintaining anonymity and securing data, and also allows us to bypass geographical restrictions. But how to best use it? Let's look at two popular solutions: VPN on the router and application.
VPN on the router – a fortress for the entire home network
Our router is the gateway to the Internet. By installing a VPN on it, we create a secure tunnel for all network traffic in our home. Whether they are these laptopssmartphones, tablets, TVs and smart home devices. The big advantage of installing a VPN on a router is that it can protect devices such as TVs or smart devices on which it cannot be installed as an application.
Advantages:
- Comprehensive protection – all devices on your home network are protected, even those that do not support VPN.
- Convenience – you don't have to remember to turn on VPN on each device separately.
- Saving – one VPN license protects multiple devices.
- Constant protection – VPN works whenever we use the Internet at home.
Defects:
- More difficult configuration – requires more technical knowledge.
- Less flexibility – it is more difficult to change the VPN server or disable it for a specific device.
- Potential slowdown – may affect internet speed for all devices.
VPN in the application – personalized protection
In turn, there is a VPN in the application a much more flexible solution. We install it directly on a smartphone, laptop or tablet, and this makes it easier to change its settings.
Advantages:
- Ease of use – intuitive applications, easy to install and use.
- Flexibility – we can turn VPN on and off as needed, change servers.
- Additional features – some applications offer ad blocking or malware detection.
- Mobility – protection works everywhere, not only at home.
Defects:
- Limited range – only protects the device on which it is installed.
- Installation required on each device separately.
- Risk of forgetting to turn it on – protection does not work automatically.
So what to choose?
The choice between these two solutions depends, of course, on the individual case and preferences. If you use many different devices connected to the Internet at home and want to protect them all, then it is worth considering installing a VPN on your router. Also remember that this service is not only about protection. Would you like to log in to Netflix on a US or UK TV, where libraries of films and series can be much larger than what the website offers us in Poland? This can enable us to have a VPN on the router.
For example, if you only use a laptop and a phone, then it is probably not worth the trouble of installing it on the router – especially since it only provides protection when you are connected to your home network WiFi. The application on your phone or computer is simpler and more flexible.