5 Best VPNs for Eero Routers: Set up a VPN Passthrough (2024)
Amazon Eero is a popular router that doesn’t natively support VPN configurations. This limitation can make it vulnerable to various online threats, such as hacking, DDoS attacks, and more. However, you can still safeguard your Eero router using a VPN through a technique known as VPN passthrough.
To secure your data effectively, you can set up a VPN on a secondary router and enable VPN passthrough on your Eero router. This approach helps protect your internet activity by adding an extra layer of encryption to your data as it travels across the internet. I’ve found some of the most dependable VPNs that offer a great balance of speed, security, and user-friendliness for use with Eero WiFi routers.
ExpressVPN is my top Eero VPN. It’s the fastest VPN we tested, and it also offers straightforward setup guides for various router models. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free, as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Try ExpressVPN for Eero Routers >>
Short on Time? Here Are the Best Eero VPNs in 2024
-
Editor’s ChoiceExpressVPN
Impressive speeds for browsing, streaming, and gaming without interruptions.70% of our readers choose ExpressVPN -
CyberGhost
Gaming-optimized servers for lag-free performance on an Eero mesh network. -
Private Internet Access
Customizable encryption levels to balance speed and security on Eero. -
NordVPN
User-friendly apps simplify VPN passthrough setup with Eero routers. -
Surfshark
IP rotation enhances privacy across all devices connected to your Eero network.
Best VPNs for Eero Router — Full Analysis (Updated in 2024)
1. ExpressVPN — The Fastest Speeds for Smooth Performance With Eero Router Passthrough
Editor’s Choice
Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested October 2024
Windows
Mac
Android
iOS
Chrome
Router
Smart TV
More
| Best Feature | Lightway protocol optimizes speed and security for Eero passthrough |
| Server Network | 3,000 servers in 105 countries for global access |
| Speed | 261Mbps (only 1% slower than base speeds) |
| Works With | Netflix, Max, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and more |
ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol works seamlessly on Eero routers, delivering excellent speeds with a VPN passthrough. We experienced minimal speed dips during ExpressVPN tests. The connections on the Eero 6 setup reached 261Mbps, which was only a 1% drop from the 263Mbps baseline internet speeds. This is impressive, considering most VPNs can slow your connection by over 30%. So you can protect your entire home network without sacrificing speed.
Nearby servers provided the fastest speeds while using ExpressVPN on Eero router
The extensive server network across 105 countries came in handy when I needed to find connections with the best balance of speed and security for my Eero setup. Servers in the US, UK, and Japan consistently gave us speeds suitable for 4K streaming without buffering. The ExpressVPN servers are privacy-friendly, too, with features like private DNS and are RAM-only tech to prevent third parties, such as ISPs, from monitoring your online activities.
Setting up ExpressVPN with my Eero router was straightforward. I had my entire network protected in under 15 minutes. While Eero doesn’t support direct VPN installation, ExpressVPN has custom apps for several Asus, Linksys, and Netgear routers and provides clear step-by-step guides for configuring a VPN passthrough. It also supports configuration on routers running DD-WRT and Sabai firmware.
The only drawback is the higher price point compared to some competitors. However, ExpressVPN runs frequent discount promotions. For example, when I opted for a 12-month plan, I got 48% off and 3 months for free, for a final price of just $6.67/month. You can also try the service risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee.
Useful Features
- MediaStreamer. This Smart DNS feature enhances streaming capabilities on devices that don’t typically support VPNs, like smart TVs connected to your Eero network.
- Automatic obfuscation. All ExpressVPN servers use obfuscation techniques to mask VPN traffic, helping bypass potential VPN blocks.
- Advanced Protection. When enabled, it blocks ads, trackers, and malicious sites.
- ExpressVPN Aircove router. Using the ExpressVPN Aircove router, which comes with pre-installed ExpressVPN software, simplifies setting up a VPN for your network. Pairing this with your Eero system in bridge mode allows for more accessible VPN coverage across your devices without complex configurations.
- Fastest speeds of the VPNs we’ve tested
- Works reliably with global platforms
- Industry-leading privacy protection
- More expensive than some VPNs
2. CyberGhost — Great Eero Router VPN for Gamers With Its Gaming-Optimized Servers
| Best Feature | Specialized gaming servers for lag-free performance on Eero networks |
| Server Network | 11,690 servers in 100 countries for global access |
| Speed | 245Mbps (7% slower than base speeds) |
| Works With | Netflix, Max, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and more |
CyberGhost’s gaming-optimized servers offer enhanced gaming performance on Eero routers. They feature significantly lower latency than standard servers, which is crucial for online gaming. In my tests with servers close to my location, I observed an impressive ping of just 24ms, with no packet losses or jitters that often degrade performance when using a VPN for gaming. Some servers are also optimized for streaming and torrenting.
Stable and consistent speeds are also vital when routing your game traffic through an Eero VPN passthrough setup. Our connections reached speeds up to 245Mbps, experiencing only a 7% drop when playing League of Legends, PUBG, and Apex Legends. CyberGhost’s extensive network of servers across numerous countries makes it easy to find reliable gaming connections near your game servers.
The specialized servers have low ping for gaming on Eero routers without lag
CyberGhost enhances your Eero network’s security, helping protect against DDoS attacks and throttling during competitive gaming sessions by masking your network’s IP address and encrypting connections. This setup prevents you from being directly targeted.
Sadly, subscribing to the service monthly is quite expensive (and this plan only has a short 14-day refund period). However, the long-term subscriptions are affordable, starting from only $2.19/month. These plans are also backed by a 45-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test the VPN for free.
Useful Features
- Kill switch. CyberGhost cuts your regular internet connection if the VPN briefly drops out. This feature can be vital when hiding your real IP address, which is a priority for security and privacy reasons.
- WireGuard. This protocol offers a good balance of speed and security, which I found particularly useful for gaming through the Eero VPN passthrough.
- Router compatibility. CyberGhost is compatible with routers from major manufacturers like Asus, Linksys, and Netgear, and it provides manual setup instructions for routers running DD-WRT and Tomato firmware.
- Specialty servers based on activity
- Security essentials; plus bonus options
- Intuitive and user-friendly apps
- Expensive short-term plan
- Can’t get past the strongest firewalls
3. Private Internet Access — Customizable Security for Your Eero Mesh Network
| Best Feature | Adjustable encryption levels for optimal Eero performance |
| Server Network | 29,650 servers in 91 countries for global access |
| Speed | 233Mbps (11% slower than base speeds) |
| Works With | Netflix, Max, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and more |
PIA has highly customizable security features, perfect for tech-savvy Eero users who want to fine-tune their VPN experience. I was impressed by the ability to switch between AES 128-bit and 256-bit encryption, giving the flexibility to balance security and speed. In our tests, the AES 128-bit connections were slightly faster. Just keep in mind that you can’t choose encryption when using WireGuard protocol.
It’s possible to switch remote ports for UDP and TCP connections
Another significant advantage of PIA is its extensive server network, boasting 29,650 servers across 91 countries, including servers in every US state. This makes it easy to find a nearby secure connection for faster speeds on your Eero router. The VPN also supports port forwarding on some servers, enhancing gaming and torrenting performance.
While PIA offers excellent customization options, it might not be the most user-friendly for VPN newcomers. However, it comes pre-configured with optimal settings that work well with the Eero system straight out of the box, requiring no additional adjustments. Moreover, a 30-day money-back guarantee provides ample time to test the VPN’s compatibility with your Eero setup risk-free. The subscription plans are affordable, starting from $2.19/month.
Useful Features
- IPv6 leak protection. Turning off IPv6 on the router can help prevent IPv6 leaks if the VPN doesn’t support IPv6 traffic. This is an important consideration for securing all aspects of your network traffic.
- Unlimited simultaneous connections. You can secure as many devices as you want with a single PIA account.
- Massive network of servers worldwide
- Many customizable security settings
- Unlimited simultaneous devices
- Tricky for beginners to navigate
- Based in the US
4. NordVPN — Straightforward Apps for Easy Eero Router Passthrough Setup
| Best Feature | User-friendly interface simplifies Eero passthrough configuration |
| Server Network | 6,293 servers in 111 countries for global access |
| Speed | 211Mbps (20% slower than base speeds) |
| Works With | Netflix, Max, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and more |
NordVPN’s user-friendly apps simplify the process of setting up a VPN on compatible routers. You can manually install NordVPN on supported routers (like pfSense, Linksys, and Asus) or opt for a router pre-installed with NordVPN. Installing NordVPN on my TP-Link router took just 10 minutes, effectively securing my entire Eero network. You can also choose a Double VPN server for extra protection or obfuscation for added privacy.
NordVPN’s NordLynx protocol, an optimized version of WireGuard, offers high speeds that are ideal for Eero setups. During our tests, we consistently achieved speeds above 210Mbps, which comfortably supports streaming, gaming, and other high-demand activities on any device connected to my Eero mesh network. However, connection times varied, with some servers taking up to a minute to connect, but stability was exceptional once established.
After installing NordVPN on your router you can easily do a passthrough setup
NordVPN subscriptions start from $3.09/month, and there is a 30-day money-back guarantee that lets you test the service for free.
Useful Features
- Meshnet. This feature allows you to create a private, secure network for direct device-to-device connections, which is helpful for remotely accessing devices across different networks.
- Dark Web Monitor. This service monitors the dark web for data breaches and alerts you if your credentials are found, enhancing your proactive security measures.
- Various advanced security options
- Fast speeds from across the globe
- Excellent streaming capabilities
- Concerning change to privacy policy
- Sometimes slow to establish connections
5. Surfshark — IP Rotation to Enhance Privacy on Eero Routers
| Best Feature | IP Rotator for enhanced anonymity on Eero networks |
| Server Network | 3,200 servers in 100 countries for global access |
| Speed | 200Mbps (24% slower than base speeds) |
| Work With | Netflix, Max, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and more |
Surfshark’s IP Rotator feature enhances privacy across Eero router setups by regularly changing your IP address without disconnecting from the VPN. This makes it more difficult for anyone to track your online activities and is particularly useful for circumventing IP-based restrictions and bans on your Eero system. Additionally, Surfshark’s MultiHop servers route your traffic through two or more servers, further bolstering your privacy.
IP randomizer makes it hard for third parties to monitor your Eero mesh network activities
I didn’t find any IP leaks when testing Surfshark. That means your Eero network remains secure from third-party monitoring after a passthrough configuration.
One minor concern is Surfshark’s location in the Netherlands, which is part of the 9-eyes intelligence alliance. However, it follows a strict no-logs policy and doesn’t record your online activity, so you don’t have to worry about your data being exposed to third parties.
Useful Features
- Flexible plans. Surfshark offers several subscription tiers, with the most affordable long-term plans starting at $2.19/month. All plans are backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Camouflage mode. This obfuscation technology masks your VPN traffic as regular HTTPS traffic, making it harder for ISPs or network administrators to detect VPN usage on your Eero network.
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Security essentials and advanced options
- Fast and reliable global server network
- Unreliable with some streaming sites
- Based in the Netherlands
Quick Comparison Table: Eero VPN Features
When setting up your Eero network, certain VPN features may be more valuable to you, depending on your priorities. Here’s a handy comparison of key features from top VPNs that work well with Eero routers, highlighting those that are most important for smooth integration and optimal performance.
| Lowest Price | Router Compatibility | Average Speed | Protocols | Money-Back Guarantee | |
 ExpressVPN |
$6.67/month | Asus, Linksys, Netgear, ExpressVPN Aircove | 261Mbps (1% drop) | Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2, L2TP/IPSec | 30 days |
 CyberGhost |
$2.19/month | Supports routers that are compatible with OpenVPN protocols | 245Mbps (7% drop) | OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard |
45 days |
 PIA |
$2.19/month | DD-WRT, AsusWRT |
233Mbps (11% drop) | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec (iOS only) |
30 days |
| NordVPN | $3.09/month | AsusWRT Merlin, DD-WRT, OpenWRT, OPNsense, Padavan, pfSense |
211Mbps (20% drop) | NordLynx (based on WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec |
30 days |
| Surfshark | $2.19/month | Supports routers that are compatible with OpenVPN or IKEv2 protocols | 200Mbps (24% drop) | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
30 days |
Our Methodology for Testing VPNs for Eero Routers
Our review of VPNs for Eero routers focused on compatibility, performance, and security. We tested each VPN’s integration with Eero’s VPN passthrough across different models, checking if they work reliably. We conducted thorough speed tests while routing traffic through the Eero passthrough, assessing how it handled activities like 4K streaming, downloading large files, and gaming.
For security, we rigorously checked for IP and DNS leaks, tested kill switch effectiveness, and analyzed the strength of encryption protocols. We also reviewed each VPN’s privacy policies to understand their impact on Eero users.
How to Set Up a VPN Passthrough on Your Eero Router
Since Eero routers don’t natively support VPN configurations, you will need a secondary router that does. Here’s how to set up a VPN passthrough using your Eero router:
1. Set up a VPN on a secondary router. Choose any router that supports VPN installation, such as those compatible with DD-WRT or AsusWRT firmware.
2. Install a VPN on the secondary router. Follow the VPN installation guide specific to your router model. Providers like ExpressVPN offer custom firmware that simplifies this process, minimizing the need for manual configurations.
3. Connect the Eero router to the secondary router. Use an Ethernet cable to connect the LAN port of the secondary router (where the VPN is configured) to the WAN port on your Eero router.
4. Enable Bridge Mode on the Eero router:
- Open the Eero app on your Android or iOS smartphone.
- Go to Settings > Advanced Settings.
- Under DHCP & NAT, select Bridge Mode. This allows Eero to work alongside the VPN-configured router.
5. Save the settings. After enabling Bridge Mode, all internet traffic from your network will route through the VPN on the secondary router, encrypting all connections across your Eero mesh network.
Maximizing VPN Performance With Your Eero Mesh Network
For optimal VPN performance with your Eero mesh network, you can take specific measures to improve speed, reduce latency, and maintain a stable connection:
- Use a reliable VPN provider. ExpressVPN provides custom firmware tailored for select routers to boost their VPN compatibility and performance. This special firmware works with routers that support the open-source DD-WRT firmware, as well as certain models from well-known manufacturers like Asus, Linksys, and Netgear. Installing this firmware allows you to fully integrate ExpressVPN’s features, offering a seamless experience and robust network protection right from your router’s settings interface. This makes managing your VPN simpler and your connection more secure.
- Select optimal server locations. Connect to VPN servers close to your geographical location to minimize latency and balance access needs with performance.
- Optimize router placement. Ensure your Eero nodes are strategically placed throughout your home to enhance coverage and reduce latency, supporting smoother VPN performance.
- Use Ethernet for key devices. For devices needing reliable, high-speed connections, use Ethernet connections to minimize WiFi interference.
- Limit bandwidth-intensive activities. Running multiple high-bandwidth activities on your network while connected to a VPN can lead to congestion. Prioritize bandwidth usage or schedule these activities to reduce performance drops. Also, keep track of how many devices are connected to your Eero network because excessive devices can strain network performance.
- Keep firmware and VPN apps updated. Regularly update your Eero firmware and VPN apps to benefit from the latest performance improvements and security patches..
- Use QoS (Quality of Service) settings. If available, set up QoS on your secondary router to prioritize VPN traffic, ensuring better bandwidth allocation for VPN-connected devices.
If you want to know more about certain VPNs and how they work with routers, check out our detailed guides:
FAQs on Eero VPNs
Do Eero routers have a built-in VPN?
No, Eero routers don’t have a built-in VPN. However, you can set up your Eero system to support VPN passthrough using a secondary router to manage the VPN connection. This setup is a bit more complex but allows you to use robust VPN services to protect devices connected to your Eero network.
While Eero Plus offers access to the Guardian VPN app, it’s important to note that this app must be installed on devices like phones and PCs, not directly on the Eero router, and covers up to 5 devices.
Can I flash custom firmware onto an Eero router?
Eero routers don’t support custom firmware flashing. Eero uses a closed system to maintain stability and security, preventing users from modifying the core software. If you need more advanced features or customization, a viable workaround is to use your Eero in bridge mode with a separate, customizable router. This combination preserves Eero’s mesh networking capabilities while allowing you to implement advanced features through the secondary router.
Will using a VPN with an Eero router slow down my internet speed?
Using a VPN with an Eero router may slightly reduce your internet speed due to the encryption and routing processes. However, the impact is usually minimal with high-quality VPN services, especially if you connect to nearby VPN servers. Occasionally, a VPN can even increase speeds by bypassing ISP throttling.
What can I do if my Eero VPN is not working?
If your Eero VPN setup isn’t functioning correctly, start by confirming your internet connection is stable without the VPN. Then, review your VPN passthrough configuration on the Eero app and your secondary router’s settings. Try connecting to a different VPN server or switching protocols and see if that’s the issue. Also, update both your Eero and VPN software to the latest versions to fix any performance issues.
If problems continue, test your VPN on a device directly connected to the secondary router to isolate whether the issue is with the VPN service or the Eero passthrough. You can also contact your VPN provider’s support team for specific troubleshooting steps related to their service.
Can I use a free VPN with Eero routers?
Using a free VPN with your Eero router is possible but not recommended. Free VPNs often have severe limitations, including slower speeds, data caps, and fewer server options, which can significantly impact your experience. Instead, you can try a trusted premium VPN with a money-back guarantee and get access to useful tools and features for Eero systems.
Moreover, free VPNs may employ questionable privacy practices, potentially exposing your data rather than protecting it. They can also install malware and trackers on your devices, exposing you to cyber threats.
Get the Best Eero VPN
Setting up a VPN with your Eero router is an essential step in protecting your home network. However, only a select few VPNs work with Eero routers, and some may significantly slow down your fast internet connections.
ExpressVPN is the top recommendation for Eero routers. Its Lightway protocol maintains fast speeds even with passthrough routing, and it’s also packed with robust security features to keep your network safe. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free since it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
To summarize, these are the best VPNs for Eero routers…
React to this headline:
