VPN - Configuration Guide for Archer Routers
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) improves online privacy by encrypting traffic and can also allow secure remote access to your home network. Configuring a VPN on your Archer router enhances both privacy and accessibility, such as using a VPN Server to remotely access your home network, or a VPN Client to route your devices through a third-party VPN provider.
With WireGuard now available on supported models, you gain a faster, more efficient VPN protocol alongside the traditional OpenVPN and PPTP options. Always update firmware regularly and use strong account credentials to maintain security.TP-Link Archer Wi-Fi routers support several VPN options, including PPTP, OpenVPN, and WireGuard (on supported models). If you are not familiar with VPN technology or the benefits it brings to your Archer Router, visit our Community Story: What is a VPN? What Can a VPN Do For Your Network?
Looking for a VPN Configuration Guide for Deco? Check out VPN - Configuration Guide for Deco Mesh Systems
Before You Begin:
- Check Compatibility: Confirm that your Archer router model supports the VPN feature you need. VPN availability differs between models.
- Update Firmware: Update your router to the latest firmware for best compatibility and security.
- Gather VPN details: either account credentials from your VPN provider or your home network’s WAN IP or Dynamic DNS information for VPN Server setup.
VPN Modes on Archer Routers
- VPN Server – Enables secure access to your home network when away. Supported protocols: PPTP, OpenVPN, and WireGuard (on select models).
- VPN Client – Connects your Archer router (and optionally specific devices in your network) to an external VPN service. Supported protocols: PPTP/L2TP, OpenVPN, and WireGuard (on select models).
Note on WireGuard Support
WireGuard is currently supported on select, newer Archer routers running the latest firmware. Support may continue expanding to additional models over time. Always check the specifications and firmware release notes page for your model on our official website.
Configuring the Router as a VPN Server
- PPTP Server
- Navigate to Advanced > VPN Server > PPTP.
- Enable PPTP Server.
- Create user accounts with usernames and passwords.
- Note your router’s WAN IP or configure Dynamic DNS for easier access.
- On your remote device, create a PPTP VPN connection with these details.
- OpenVPN Server
- Go to Advanced > VPN Server > OpenVPN.
- Enable OpenVPN Server and configure the desired service type (UDP or TCP) and subnet settings.
- Export the configuration file.
- Install the OpenVPN app on your remote device, then import the configuration file.
- Connect to access your home network securely.
- WireGuard Server (where supported)
- Navigate to Advanced > VPN Server > WireGuard.
- Enable WireGuard Server.
- The router will automatically generate a WireGuard configuration file and QR code.
- On your remote device, install the WireGuard app.
- Import the configuration file or scan the QR code.
- Save and connect—the app will establish a tunnel to your Archer router.
- Note: You will have the option of selecting from existing regional servers from your VPN Provider within the Web UI.
Configuring the Router as a VPN Client
- Access the Router's Web UI.
- Go to Advanced > VPN Client.
- Enable VPN Client.
- Add a new VPN connection:
- OpenVPN – Upload the .ovpn file from your VPN provider. Enter username and password if required.
- PPTP/L2TP – Enter the VPN server address, username, and password provided.
- WireGuard – Upload your VPN provider’s WireGuard configuration file or manually enter parameters such as private key, public key, endpoint, and DNS.
- Save and connect.
- (Optional) Specify which client devices should use the VPN under device assignment or policy routing
If you encounter any unexpected VPN configuration behaviors or have trouble connecting to your VPN service, check out VPN - Troubleshooting Guide for Archer Routers
——————————
Related Links
General questions about VPN function on TP-Link Routers and Deco