How to Setup a VPN? | Router, Phone & Computer Instructions

How to Setup a VPN: Complete Installation Instructions

Over the past decade, I've helped thousands of Australians set up VPN services on every conceivable device—from smartphones to smart TVs, from Windows computers to Wi-Fi routers. The question "how to setup a vpn" encompasses numerous scenarios, and I'll address each one with clear, step-by-step instructions that work for Australian users regardless of technical expertise.

Setting up a VPN has become remarkably straightforward compared to even five years ago. Modern VPN services provide user-friendly apps that handle complex configuration automatically, meaning most Australians can have VPN protection running within minutes. However, advanced setups like installing VPN on routers require more detailed instructions, which I'll provide in comprehensive detail below.

Quick Answer: How to Install VPN

For most devices, installing VPN involves: (1) choosing and subscribing to a VPN service, (2) downloading their app from the App Store, Google Play, or their website, (3) logging in with your credentials, (4) clicking "Connect." The VPN handles encryption and security automatically. More advanced setups like router installation require additional steps detailed below.

How to Install VPN on Different Devices

Let me walk you through VPN installation for each major device type that Australians commonly use:

How to Install VPN on Windows Computer

Choose and Subscribe to VPN Service

Select a reputable VPN provider (ExpressVPN, NordVPN, ProtonVPN, or Surfshark are my recommendations for Australians). Visit their website and subscribe to their service, creating an account with email and password.

Download Windows Application

After subscribing, navigate to the VPN provider's download page. Download the Windows application (.exe file). Most providers detect your operating system automatically and suggest the correct download.

Run the Installer

Locate the downloaded file (usually in your Downloads folder) and double-click to run the installer. Windows may ask for administrator permission—click "Yes" to proceed. Follow the installation wizard, accepting default settings unless you have specific preferences.

Launch and Log In

After installation completes, launch the VPN application. Enter your account credentials (the email and password you created when subscribing). The app will remember your login for future sessions.

Select Server and Connect

Choose which server to connect to (Australian server for local protection, overseas servers for accessing international content). Click the "Connect" button. The VPN will establish an encrypted connection, and you'll see a "Connected" status with a green indicator.

Verify Connection

Visit a website like ipleak.net to verify your VPN is working. The site should show the IP address and location of your VPN server, not your real Australian location.

How to Install VPN on Mac

The process for Mac is similar to Windows with minor differences:

Subscribe to your chosen VPN service through their website
Download the Mac application (.dmg file) from the provider's download page
Open the downloaded .dmg file and drag the VPN application to your Applications folder
Launch the VPN app from Applications, enter your credentials
Grant necessary permissions when macOS prompts (for VPN configuration)
Select a server and click Connect
Verify your connection at ipleak.net

How to Install VPN on Android Phone

Subscribe to VPN Service

Use your phone's browser to visit your chosen VPN provider's website and subscribe to their service. Alternatively, visit their website on a computer to subscribe, then proceed to install the app on your phone.

Download from Google Play Store

Open Google Play Store on your Android device. Search for your VPN provider's name (e.g., "ExpressVPN" or "NordVPN"). Select the official app (verify it's from the correct developer). Tap "Install" and wait for download to complete.

Open App and Log In

Launch the VPN app from your app drawer. Enter your account credentials. The app may request permission to create VPN configurations—tap "OK" to grant this necessary permission.

Enable VPN Permissions

Android will ask to confirm VPN connection setup. Tick the "I trust this application" box and tap "OK." This is a security feature to prevent malicious apps from creating VPN connections.

Connect to Server

Select your preferred server location and tap the connection button. A VPN key icon will appear in your Android status bar when connected, confirming the VPN is active and protecting your traffic.

How to Install VPN on iPhone (Detailed)

I've covered iPhone VPN setup extensively on a dedicated page, but here's the abbreviated process:

Subscribe to VPN service via their website
Open App Store and search for your VPN provider's app
Download and install the official app
Launch app and log in with your credentials
Grant VPN configuration permissions when iOS prompts
Authenticate with Face ID, Touch ID, or passcode
Select server and tap Connect
Verify "VPN" icon appears in iOS status bar

For more detailed iPhone instructions, see my dedicated VPN for iPhone guide.

How to Install VPN on Router: Comprehensive Instructions

Installing VPN directly on your Wi-Fi router protects every device connected to your network automatically—phones, tablets, computers, smart TVs, gaming consoles, IoT devices—without installing VPN apps on each device individually. However, "how to install vpn on router" is more complex than device-specific installations and varies by router model.

Benefits of Router-Level VPN

Before diving into setup, understand why Australians choose router VPN installations:

Protects All Devices: Every device connecting to your Wi-Fi is automatically protected by VPN
Covers Limited Devices: Devices that don't support VPN apps (smart TVs, game consoles) get VPN protection
Bypass Connection Limits: Multiple devices count as one connection to your VPN service
Set and Forget: Once configured, VPN runs continuously without manually connecting
Guest Protection: Visitors using your Wi-Fi are automatically protected

Prerequisites for Router VPN Setup

Before attempting router VPN installation, verify:

Compatible Router: Your router must support VPN client functionality (not all do). Routers running DD-WRT, Tomato, or OpenWrt firmware support VPN. Many modern routers from ASUS, Netgear, and Linksys include built-in VPN client support.
VPN Service Support: Your VPN provider must support router connections and provide configuration files or instructions. ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark all support router setups.
Technical Comfort: Router configuration requires moderate technical knowledge. Follow instructions carefully to avoid misconfiguration.
Router Access: You'll need admin access to your router's settings (username and password).

How to Add VPN to Router: General Process

Whilst specific steps vary by router model, the general process for "how to add vpn to router" follows this pattern:

Verify Router Compatibility

Check your router's specifications to confirm it supports VPN client functionality. Look for mentions of "OpenVPN client," "PPTP client," or "VPN client" in the features list. If your current router doesn't support VPN, consider upgrading to a VPN-compatible router like ASUS RT-AC86U or Netgear Nighthawk series.

Get VPN Configuration Files

Log into your VPN provider's website and navigate to the router setup section. Download configuration files for your desired server locations. These files (usually .ovpn format for OpenVPN) contain settings needed to connect to VPN servers.

Access Router Admin Panel

Open a web browser and navigate to your router's IP address (commonly 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1). Enter your router's admin username and password. If you've never changed these, check the sticker on your router or its manual for default credentials.

Navigate to VPN Settings

Find the VPN settings section in your router's admin interface. This might be labeled "VPN," "VPN Client," "Advanced Settings," or similar depending on your router model. Locate the option to add a new VPN connection or upload configuration files.

Upload Configuration and Credentials

Upload the VPN configuration file you downloaded earlier. Enter your VPN service credentials (username and password provided by your VPN service—these might differ from your account login). Save the configuration.

Enable VPN Connection

Activate the VPN connection in your router settings. The router will establish a connection to the VPN server. This might take 30-60 seconds. Check for "Connected" status or similar confirmation.

Verify Router VPN Connection

From any device connected to your Wi-Fi, visit ipleak.net. The site should show your VPN server's IP address and location, not your real Australian location. This confirms the router VPN is working and protecting all connected devices.

How to Connect VPN to Router: Brand-Specific Instructions

Here are more specific instructions for popular router brands in Australia:

ASUS Routers with ASUSWRT

Access router at 192.168.1.1, log in with admin credentials
Navigate to VPN > VPN Client tab
Click "Add profile" button
Select "OpenVPN" as connection type
Enter description, username, and password from your VPN service
Upload .ovpn configuration file
Click "OK" then "Activate" to enable the connection

Netgear Routers (Genie Firmware)

Access router at 192.168.1.1 or routerlogin.net
Navigate to Advanced > Advanced Setup > VPN Service
Enable VPN Service and select "VPN Client"
Upload OpenVPN configuration file
Enter VPN service username and password
Click Apply and wait for connection establishment

DD-WRT Firmware (Custom Firmware)

Access router admin panel
Navigate to Services > VPN
Enable "Start OpenVPN Client"
Paste contents of .ovpn configuration file into the "Config" field
Enter VPN credentials if required
Save and Apply Settings
Reboot router to establish connection

Router VPN Limitations and Considerations

Whilst router VPN offers advantages, be aware of these limitations:

Speed Impact: Router hardware must handle VPN encryption for all devices simultaneously. Older routers may struggle, causing noticeable speed reductions. Modern routers with powerful processors handle VPN better.
All Traffic Routed: Every device on your network uses the VPN. You can't easily exclude specific devices (though some routers support dual SSIDs—one with VPN, one without).
Server Switching: Changing VPN server locations requires accessing router settings rather than simply clicking in an app, making frequent server changes less convenient.
Local Network Access: Some local network devices (printers, NAS drives) might become harder to access when router VPN is active, depending on your network configuration.
Setup Complexity: Router VPN configuration is more complex than installing apps, particularly for less technical users.

VPN Setup for Specific Devices

Smart TV VPN Setup

Smart TVs don't typically support VPN apps directly. Options include:

Router VPN: Install VPN on your router (detailed above) to protect Smart TV automatically
Shared Connection: Connect your computer to VPN, then share its connection to Smart TV via Ethernet or Wi-Fi hotspot
Android TV Apps: If your TV runs Android TV, install VPN apps directly from Google Play Store
VPN-Enabled Router: Purchase pre-configured VPN routers from some VPN providers

Gaming Console VPN Setup (PlayStation, Xbox)

Gaming consoles don't support VPN apps. Use these methods:

Router VPN: Most reliable method—install VPN on router to protect console automatically
PC Connection Sharing: Connect PC to VPN, then share that connection to console via Ethernet
DNS Configuration: Some VPN services offer Smart DNS options that work on consoles (though this doesn't provide encryption, only geo-unblocking)

Linux Computer VPN Setup

Linux users have several options:

VPN Provider Apps: Many providers offer Linux apps (check your distribution's compatibility)
OpenVPN Manual Setup: Install OpenVPN client via package manager, import configuration files, connect via command line or Network Manager
WireGuard Setup: Install WireGuard, import configuration, connect via wg-quick command

Troubleshooting Common VPN Setup Issues

Installation Fails on Windows/Mac

Solutions:

Run installer as administrator (right-click > Run as Administrator)
Temporarily disable antivirus software during installation
Download installer again (file might be corrupted)
Check system requirements (ensure your OS version is supported)

VPN Won't Connect After Installation

Solutions:

Verify your internet connection works without VPN
Check your subscription is active and hasn't expired
Try connecting to different servers
Update VPN app to latest version
Restart your device
Check firewall isn't blocking VPN connection

Router VPN Connection Fails

Solutions:

Verify configuration file is correct for your VPN service
Double-check username and password (often different from account credentials)
Ensure router firmware is up-to-date
Try different VPN protocol if your router supports multiple options
Consult your VPN provider's router setup documentation
Check router logs for specific error messages

Slow Internet Speed After VPN Installation

Solutions:

Connect to geographically closer VPN servers
Switch to faster VPN protocol (WireGuard instead of OpenVPN)
Verify your baseline internet speed without VPN is adequate
For router VPN, ensure router hardware is powerful enough for VPN encryption
Close bandwidth-intensive applications whilst using VPN

Advanced VPN Setup Configurations

Split Tunnelling Configuration

Split tunnelling lets you choose which apps or websites use VPN and which use your regular connection:

Open your VPN app settings
Look for "Split Tunnelling" or "App-based VPN" option
Select apps to exclude from VPN (like banking apps or local services)
Or select apps to include in VPN (all others bypass VPN)
Save settings and reconnect VPN

Kill Switch Activation

Kill switches prevent internet access if VPN disconnects, protecting against accidental data leaks:

Navigate to VPN app settings
Find "Kill Switch," "Network Lock," or "Internet Kill Switch" option
Enable the feature
Test by manually disconnecting internet whilst VPN is active—internet should stop working

Auto-Connect Configuration

Configure VPN to connect automatically when your device starts or joins specific networks:

Access VPN app settings
Look for "Auto-connect" or "Connect on startup" option
Choose to connect automatically always, or only on unsecured networks
Select default server for auto-connection
Save settings

Post-Setup: Verifying Your VPN Works Correctly

After installation, verify your VPN functions properly:

IP Address Check

Visit ipleak.net or ipleak.org with VPN connected. Verify:

Displayed IP address matches your VPN server location
No DNS leaks showing your real location
No WebRTC leaks revealing your actual IP

Speed Test

Run speed tests with and without VPN to understand performance impact:

Test at speedtest.net without VPN connected (baseline)
Connect to VPN and test again
Compare results—expect 10-30% speed reduction with quality VPNs
If reduction exceeds 50%, try different servers or protocols

Streaming Test

If you plan to use VPN for streaming:

Connect to appropriate country server (US for American Netflix)
Access streaming service and verify correct content library appears
Stream content to verify adequate speed for video quality

Maintaining Your VPN Setup

Keep VPN Software Updated

Regular updates fix security vulnerabilities and improve performance:

Enable automatic updates in VPN app settings
Check for updates monthly if automatic updates disabled
Read update notes to understand improvements and changes

Monitor VPN Performance

Periodically verify your VPN continues working correctly:

Run leak tests quarterly at ipleak.net
Check connection speeds periodically
Verify streaming access still works if that's important to you
Review VPN provider's status page for service issues

Review VPN Configuration

As your needs change, adjust VPN settings:

Update auto-connect preferences
Adjust split tunnelling for new apps
Change default server locations as needed
Enable or disable features like kill switch based on requirements

Successfully Setting Up Your VPN

Setting up VPN protection for your devices and network is a valuable investment in your digital privacy and security. Whilst device-specific installations are straightforward, router-level VPN setups require more technical knowledge but provide comprehensive protection for every device on your network.

Follow the instructions relevant to your specific devices, verify your VPN works correctly after installation, and maintain your setup through regular updates and monitoring. If you encounter difficulties, don't hesitate to contact your VPN provider's customer support—quality services offer knowledgeable assistance for setup questions.

Whether you're protecting a single smartphone or your entire home network, VPN setup has become accessible to Australians at all technical levels. Take the time to install and configure your VPN properly, and you'll enjoy enhanced privacy and security for years to come.

VPN Setup Complete?

Now that you've set up your VPN, explore my other articles for guidance on choosing the best services, optimising performance, understanding safety features, and maximising your digital privacy.

— Mia Wexford, IT Security Specialist