Searching for a router model 6E along with its protection configurations.
Searching for a router model 6E along with its protection configurations.
I'm evaluating Asus routers now and wondering which one suits my needs. Since I'm upgrading my home network with 6E connectivity this year, I want something future-proof. I'm also seeking features like VPN support and strong protection. In the crypto space, I need more flexibility online, so having a VPN that can route traffic from any connected device is important. I've heard you can set up a VPN on the router itself, which would let any device with a connection join the network securely. While I enjoy gaming, my internet speed is solid at 750Mb/s wired (fiber), and I mostly use an ISP device. The setup I have seems limited—about 95% of features are missing—and it feels locked down. That's the main reason I'm considering an upgrade. I'm aiming for a mid-range model, though higher-end options are fine if they fit my budget.
Internet gateway is commonly used. What kind of internet link are you considering—fiber or cable? Are you aiming to swap your ISP unit or link the new router to the ISP unit? To sustain strong WAN-to-LAN performance and VPN connectivity, you’ll need a device with a powerful CPU. In this scenario, the Ubiquiti Dream Machine Pro or a pfSense appliance works well.
I’m unlikely to use a VPN for general browsing—it won’t offer much benefit. Which risks are you aiming to protect yourself from? What capabilities should be missing from your ISP’s setup? Is the Wi-Fi connection fast enough? Are you running any servers?
You have options like running OPNsense in a virtual machine or purchasing one of their devices. PFSense is too restrictive and not free, while Ubiquity locks you into their account system, giving them control over your internet access. Their EdgeMAX line is impressive but likely ending soon. As for whether an Asus router uses free software, it’s unclear—free software is important for a security device, so you’d want to avoid anything that isn’t open-source.
Without linking the device to an account, it won’t function properly. They also restrict transferring ownership, and future restrictions are uncertain. That’s what I discovered—my own setup doesn’t have one. Do you own a device like this? Can you verify you can install the pro version directly, connect to your internet, configure firewall settings, and set everything up without needing remote access? Also, confirm you can sell it without any complications, and that no account is needed for resale. Plus, why would I need an account for remote management? Shouldn’t I be able to connect via VPN, WireGuard, or SSH and manage it however suits me?
I mainly aim to conceal my identity online because I interact with many people daily and use apps that track time, location, and IP addresses. Most Wi-Fi connections are slow and lack Wi-Fi 6. It functions as an ISR device combining three features, but it performs poorly overall. There are no advanced capabilities beyond changing the SSID and password or switching between automatic and static IP. I don’t have a server yet, though I hope to add one in the future.
What kinds of fibre are available? You usually need to connect via their modem or ONT, and VPNs won’t make much difference here. Your location relies more on it than the VPN, and sites can still track most of your activity even with a VPN. I wouldn’t use both at once based on what you mentioned. I think you’ll likely end up with some Wi-Fi APs instead. How big is your house? The router on the ISP device seems adequate for your needs, but you probably just need improved Wi-Fi coverage.
I wouldn't bother with WiFi because I won't use it much. Others might, or if I'm on a laptop, I usually don't stay at home. But since I'm about to switch to a new one, I might take advantage of what the market offers today. It's unclear how this could work. The device is completely locked down—its main purpose is simply plug-and-play, and anything else feels out of reach because settings aren't available. Could I be asking the wrong question? Are there unlocked router options in stores that could help me? Or am I searching in the wrong direction? I'm curious to learn more and avoid sites and apps that track my activities. Essentially, I'm trying to stay more anonymous than I am now.