Top-Rated Routers for Remote Workers with VPN: An Actionable Guide

The rise of remote work has brought about a need for more secure, stable, and high-performance internet connections. For many remote workers, using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is essential for maintaining privacy, accessing company resources, and ensuring secure communication. However, not all routers are equipped to handle the demands of VPN usage, which can affect connection speed, stability, and security.

In this guide, we will explore the key considerations for selecting the best router for remote workers using a VPN, and provide a list of top-rated routers that can enhance your remote working experience.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Router for Remote Workers with VPN

When working remotely, your router is your gateway to a smooth and secure experience. Here are the most important factors to consider when selecting a router that can support VPN usage effectively.

1. VPN Support and Speed

Using a VPN can slow down your internet speed because of the encryption process. Some routers are better equipped to handle VPN traffic, ensuring that the VPN connection doesn't bottleneck your internet speed. The router's processor and VPN passthrough capabilities are key to this.

• Why it matters: A router with hardware acceleration for VPN traffic can significantly improve the speed and efficiency of your VPN connection, providing faster internet while keeping your connection secure.

2. Processor Power

A router with a powerful processor is necessary for handling the encryption and decryption processes that come with VPN use. If your router lacks a strong processor, it could struggle to maintain a stable and fast connection, especially if you're doing data-heavy tasks like video conferencing, cloud storage, or downloading large files.

• Why it matters: Routers with robust processors can handle VPN encryption without slowing down your internet connection or introducing lag during critical tasks.

3. Security Features

Security is a primary concern when working remotely. Routers designed for secure VPN usage should offer advanced security features, such as WPA3 encryption, firewall protection, and support for multiple VPN protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, or IKEv2.

• Why it matters: Having a router with top-notch security features can protect your data from cyber threats, ensuring that your remote work is safe and private.

4. Dual-Band or Tri-Band Support

A router with dual or tri-band support can help manage high traffic and reduce congestion, especially if multiple devices are connected to your network. VPN traffic can put a strain on your connection, so having a router with multiple frequency bands (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz for tri-band) helps distribute traffic more efficiently.

• Why it matters: A tri-band router provides extra bandwidth and less interference, which is critical for remote workers who rely on a stable, high-speed connection while using a VPN.

5. Ease of Setup and Use

Remote workers often don't have the luxury of IT support to configure their router settings. Therefore, ease of setup and use becomes crucial. Routers with simple app-based interfaces or automatic setup options will save you time and frustration.

• Why it matters: A user-friendly interface makes it easier to configure VPN settings, set up guest networks, and manage security protocols without needing a deep technical understanding.

6. Quality of Service (QoS) Features

Quality of Service (QoS) allows you to prioritize certain types of traffic, such as VPN connections, video calls, or cloud services. For remote work, prioritizing VPN traffic ensures that your work-related tasks are not interrupted by other activities like streaming or gaming.

• Why it matters: With QoS, you can ensure that critical work applications receive the necessary bandwidth, providing you with a seamless and uninterrupted work experience.

Top-Rated Routers for Remote Workers with VPN

After understanding the key factors, let's take a look at some of the best routers that are well-suited for remote workers using a VPN. These routers combine powerful processing, excellent security features, and superior VPN compatibility to ensure a smooth and secure remote working experience.

1. Asus RT-AX88U Wi-Fi 6 Router

Best For : Remote workers who need high performance for data-intensive tasks

Price Range: Mid to High

Why it's great: The Asus RT-AX88U is a top-rated router that supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), making it an excellent choice for remote workers who need fast and secure connections while using a VPN. With a powerful 1.8 GHz quad-core processor, it handles VPN traffic efficiently without sacrificing speed.

• Key Features:

  • Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) for faster speeds and better efficiency.
  • 1.8 GHz quad-core processor that accelerates VPN encryption and improves performance.
  • AiProtection Pro powered by Trend Micro for advanced security.
  • 8 Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired connections.
  • Supports VPN protocols like OpenVPN and PPTP.

• Why it's ideal for remote workers: With Wi-Fi 6 and strong processing power, the Asus RT-AX88U ensures high-speed, secure connections, even when using a VPN. It's a solid choice for remote workers who need to maintain multiple high-demand connections simultaneously.

2. Netgear Nighthawk AX12 (RAX120) Wi-Fi 6 Router

Best For : High-performance remote work with multiple devices and VPN use

Price Range: High

Why it's great: The Netgear Nighthawk AX12 is another excellent Wi-Fi 6 router that provides ultra-fast speeds, superior coverage, and robust VPN support. With its 12-stream Wi-Fi technology and powerful 2.2 GHz quad-core processor, it can handle the demands of VPN traffic while providing a stable and fast connection for multiple devices.

• Key Features:

  • Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) support for faster speeds and improved bandwidth management.
  • 2.2 GHz quad-core processor for fast VPN encryption and improved network performance.
  • 12-stream Wi-Fi technology for efficient use of bandwidth.
  • Supports VPN protocols like OpenVPN, and has built-in security features.
  • Up to 5,000 sq. ft. coverage, making it ideal for larger homes or offices.

• Why it's ideal for remote workers: The AX12 is designed for high-speed internet and multiple device connections, making it perfect for remote work that demands reliability. Its VPN support ensures secure access to company resources while maintaining high-speed performance.

3. TP-Link Archer AX6000 Wi-Fi 6 Router

Best For : Affordable, high-performance router for remote workers

Price Range: Mid-High

Why it's great: The TP-Link Archer AX6000 is a budget-friendly option that doesn't skimp on performance. It supports Wi-Fi 6 and comes with a powerful 1.8 GHz quad-core processor, making it ideal for remote workers who require a secure VPN connection with minimal lag.

• Key Features:

  • Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) support for faster speeds and reduced congestion.
  • 1.8 GHz quad-core processor to handle VPN traffic without slowing down the connection.
  • 8 Gigabit Ethernet ports and dual-band support for improved device management.
  • Supports VPN protocols like OpenVPN and IKEv2.
  • Advanced security features including WPA3 encryption.

• Why it's ideal for remote workers: The Archer AX6000 delivers exceptional value, providing high-speed, secure internet for remote workers without breaking the bank. It's an excellent choice for those looking for reliable VPN support without the premium price tag.

4. Synology RT2600ac Wi-Fi Router

Best For : Remote workers who need a customizable, secure, and feature-rich router

Price Range: Mid-High

Why it's great: The Synology RT2600ac is a robust router that provides great VPN performance along with a suite of features for security and network management. With its 1.7 GHz dual-core processor, it's well-suited for handling VPN connections without affecting performance.

• Key Features:

  • 1.7 GHz dual-core processor that accelerates VPN encryption.
  • Advanced VPN server support for OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, and PPTP.
  • Security features like Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) and real-time network traffic monitoring.
  • Dual-band support for efficient traffic management.

• Why it's ideal for remote workers: The Synology RT2600ac is an excellent choice for those who need advanced VPN support, strong security features, and customization options. It's perfect for remote workers who require more control over their network.

Conclusion

Choosing the right router for remote work with a VPN is crucial for ensuring both security and performance. The routers listed above provide excellent VPN support, robust security features, and powerful processors to handle the demands of remote work. By investing in one of these top-rated routers, you can improve your remote working experience with fast, secure, and reliable internet, all while keeping your data safe with a VPN connection.