Connecting Surfshark VPN with Eero: Your Ultimate Guide

Trying to set up a VPN like Surfshark with your Eero mesh Wi-Fi system isn’t as straightforward as you might initially think. Eero routers, while fantastic for blanket Wi-Fi coverage and simplicity, don’t actually let you install VPN software directly onto them. This is a common point of confusion for many users looking to protect their entire home network. The good news is, you’ve got options, and we’re going to break down the best ways to get Surfshark working with your Eero, keeping your online activities secure and private.

I remember my first time trying to connect a VPN to a mesh system, and it felt like hitting a wall. Most standard routers offer a VPN client setting, but Eero is different. Their focus is on ease of use and seamless Wi-Fi, which often means sacrificing some advanced router-level features, like a built-in VPN client. So, if you’re hoping to just hop into your Eero app and toggle on Surfshark, you’ll be out of luck. However, don’t throw in the towel just yet! We’ll explore installing Surfshark on individual devices, using a separate VPN-compatible router with your Eero, and even touch on Eero’s own VPN offering. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of how to boost your network’s security with Surfshark, no matter your tech comfort level.

Understanding Eero and VPNs

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of connecting Surfshark, let’s make sure we’re on the same page about what Eero does and what a VPN is all about.

Eero is a popular mesh Wi-Fi system, and people love it for its ability to spread strong, reliable Wi-Fi throughout larger homes without dead spots. You get multiple Eero devices that work together to create a single, unified network, managed easily through a smartphone app. It’s designed to be super user-friendly – plug it in, follow a few steps in the app, and you’re good to go.

A Virtual Private Network, or VPN, on the other hand, is a tool designed to boost your online privacy and security. When you connect to a VPN, it creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and a server operated by the VPN provider. This means your internet traffic is scrambled, making it unreadable to snoopers like your Internet Service Provider ISP, hackers, or advertisers. Plus, it hides your real IP address, replacing it with the IP address of the VPN server, which can be located almost anywhere in the world. This is great for keeping your online activities private, securing your data on public Wi-Fi, and even accessing content that might be blocked in your region. Around 1.75 billion people use VPNs worldwide, which is roughly one-third of all internet users. Many people use VPNs for personal reasons like privacy, security, or accessing global content, while others use them for business.

Is Eero a VPN?

This is a common question, and it’s an important one to clarify. No, Eero itself is not a VPN, nor is an Eero a VPN router in the traditional sense. While Eero offers a subscription service called Eero Secure and Eero Secure+, these are primarily focused on network security features, not a full-fledged VPN. Eero Secure provides things like advanced threat protection, ad blocking, and content filtering. These features are awesome for keeping your home network safer from malicious sites and unwanted ads, but they don’t encrypt your internet traffic or mask your IP address in the way a VPN does. How Fast is Surfshark VPN? Unpacking Its Speed and Performance

It’s easy to get these confused because they both deal with “security.” Think of Eero Secure as a powerful gatekeeper for your home network, blocking bad stuff from coming in. A VPN, however, is like an armored car for your data, encrypting it and taking a detour through a different city before it reaches its destination.

Now, here’s a small twist: Eero Plus subscribers do get access to a VPN service powered by Guardian VPN for up to five compatible devices. This is a separate, client-side VPN that you install on individual phones, tablets, or computers, and it offers protection when you’re off your Eero network or specifically on those protected devices. It’s not a router-level VPN that protects every device connected to your Eero automatically.

Does Eero Support VPN?

Here’s where it gets a little nuanced. Eero routers do not have native support for installing VPN client software directly. This means you can’t just download a Surfshark app and install it on your Eero hub to protect your entire network at the router level. If you were hoping for a simple “install VPN” button in your Eero app, you won’t find one for third-party VPNs.

However, Eero does support what’s called VPN passthrough. What this means is that if you have a VPN already set up on an individual device like your laptop or phone, or if you use a separate router that has a VPN installed, your Eero network will allow that encrypted VPN traffic to pass through without blocking it. So, while Eero won’t run the VPN itself, it won’t stand in its way if another device or router is handling the VPN connection.

This distinction is super important. Many “Eero VPN issues” or “Eero VPN not working” complaints often stem from this fundamental limitation – people expect to install a VPN directly on the Eero, which isn’t how it works. Unlocking the Power of Surfshark VPN DNS Servers: Your Guide to a Faster, More Private Internet

The Eero VPN Challenge

The core challenge, as we’ve established, is that Eero routers just aren’t built to run VPN client software themselves. This isn’t necessarily a flaw. it’s a design choice. Eero prioritizes ease of use and a streamlined experience. Adding complex VPN client configurations would likely complicate their app and potentially introduce issues that go against their “simple Wi-Fi for everyone” philosophy.

For most traditional routers, you’d log into the admin interface in your web browser, find a “VPN” section, and enter your VPN provider’s details, often uploading configuration files. Eero doesn’t give you that kind of deep access for third-party VPNs. Their system is more locked down to ensure stability and simplify management. This is why if you search for “can you add a VPN to Eero router” or “how to setup VPN on Eero router,” most of the solutions involve workarounds rather than direct installation.

So, when people talk about “Eero VPN issues,” it’s usually because they’re trying to do something the Eero wasn’t designed for, or they run into problems with the workarounds. Don’t worry, we’re going to dive into those workarounds next!

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How to Use Surfshark VPN with Eero: Your Options

you can’t just snap Surfshark onto your Eero like a puzzle piece. But you absolutely can still use Surfshark effectively with your Eero system. You’ve got a few main paths you can take, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.

Option 1: Individual Device VPN The Easiest Way

This is hands down the simplest and most common method, and it’s usually what I recommend for most people.

Instead of trying to put Surfshark on your Eero router, you install the Surfshark VPN app directly onto each device you want to protect. Surfshark offers apps for just about every major platform out there:

• Computers: Windows, macOS, Linux. If you’re wondering “how to use Eero VPN on PC,” this is your primary method.
• Mobile Devices: Android, iOS.
• Smart TVs & Streaming Devices: Android TV, Fire TV Stick, Apple TV via Smart DNS or a workaround, and even some gaming consoles though often through Smart DNS or a PC sharing connection.
• Browsers: Extensions for Chrome, Firefox, Edge.

How it works:
You simply download the Surfshark app from their website or your device’s app store, log in with your Surfshark account, and connect to a server. That’s it! Your device’s internet traffic is then encrypted and routed through Surfshark’s servers, no matter which Wi-Fi network you’re on, including your Eero network. Disney Plus Not Working with Surfshark VPN: Your Ultimate Fix Guide

Pros:

• Super Simple: Easy to install and use for anyone.
• Flexible: You control exactly when and where your VPN is active. Want to turn it off for a specific app? No problem.
• Direct Control: Easily switch servers, change settings, or use features like split tunneling Bypasser or a kill switch.
• Unlimited Devices: Surfshark is fantastic here because it offers unlimited simultaneous connections with a single subscription. This means you can protect all your family’s devices without worrying about device limits.

Cons:

• Device-Specific: You have to install and manage the VPN on each device you want to protect. This isn’t ideal for smart home gadgets, IoT devices, or older devices that don’t support VPN apps.
• Not Network-Wide: Devices without the app aren’t protected. Your smart thermostat, security cameras, or gaming console might still be exposed unless they have a native VPN client which is rare.

Option 2: Router-Level VPN The Advanced Way

This method is for those who want to protect every single device on their home network automatically, including smart TVs, gaming consoles like PS4, PS5, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, which don’t natively support VPN apps, and IoT devices. Since Eero doesn’t support a VPN client directly, the trick here is to introduce another router into your network setup.

Essentially, you’re setting up a secondary VPN-enabled router and then connecting your Eero system to it. This secondary router will handle the VPN connection, encrypting all traffic before it even reaches your Eero network.

Here’s the general idea: Does Surfshark Really Work? Your Honest Guide to This Popular VPN

1. Get a VPN-Compatible Router: This is the most crucial step. You need a router that can act as a VPN client. Many ASUS, TP-Link, Linksys, GL.iNet, and Netgear routers are compatible. Some can be “flashed” with custom firmware like DD-WRT or OpenWRT for enhanced VPN functionality. You can even find routers pre-configured with VPNs.
   • Pro-Tip: Check Surfshark’s help center for a list of compatible routers and specific setup guides. They have detailed instructions for many brands and firmware types, including AsusWRT, OpenWRT, and DD-WRT.
2. Install Surfshark on the Secondary Router: This usually involves:
   • Accessing the router’s admin panel often by typing its IP address, like 192.168.1.1, into your browser.
   • Navigating to the VPN client settings.
   • Downloading Surfshark’s OpenVPN or WireGuard configuration files for your chosen server from their website. WireGuard is often faster.
   • Entering your unique Surfshark service credentials these are different from your regular login email and password, you’ll find them in your Surfshark account dashboard.
   • Uploading the configuration file and activating the VPN client.
3. Connect the VPN Router to Your Eero:
   • Connect an Ethernet cable from one of the LAN ports on your VPN-enabled router to the WAN/Ethernet port on your main Eero device.
   • Enable VPN Passthrough on Eero: In your Eero app, go to Settings -> Advanced -> DHCP & NAT. You might need to set your Eero to “Bridge Mode” or “Automatic” depending on your specific Eero model and setup. Eero needs to be able to pass through the VPN traffic, and these settings help manage that.
   • Once configured, all devices connected to your Eero network will now have their internet traffic routed through the VPN router, meaning they’re all protected by Surfshark.

• Network-Wide Protection: Every device connected to your Eero Wi-Fi is automatically protected by Surfshark, even those that can’t run VPN apps.

• Convenience: Set it up once, and you don’t have to worry about individual device installations unless you want different VPN locations for specific devices.

• Bypass Geo-restrictions: All devices benefit from the ability to access content from other regions.

• Complexity: This is a more advanced setup and can be daunting if you’re not comfortable with router settings.

• Extra Hardware: You’ll need to buy a separate VPN-compatible router if your current one doesn’t support it. Surfshark vpn down

• Potential Speed Impact: Routing all traffic through a VPN on a router can sometimes lead to speed reductions, especially on older or less powerful routers. VPNs inherently add some overhead, and a router’s processor might struggle to encrypt/decrypt all traffic at full speed.

• Double NAT Concerns: Connecting two routers your VPN router and your Eero can sometimes lead to a “Double NAT” situation, which might cause issues with online gaming, port forwarding, or certain network applications. While Eero’s bridge mode can help mitigate this, it’s something to be aware of.

• Eero Feature Limitations: When Eero is in bridge mode or connected to another router, some of its own features like Eero Secure’s content filtering might not function as expected because the VPN traffic is encrypted before Eero can inspect it.

Option 3: Smart DNS For Streaming, Not Full VPN Protection

Surfshark, like many premium VPNs, offers a Smart DNS service. This isn’t a VPN, but it can be useful for unblocking geo-restricted streaming content on devices that don’t support VPN apps like some older smart TVs or gaming consoles.

Instead of encrypting your traffic and changing your IP, Smart DNS simply reroutes your DNS queries through a server in a different country. This makes streaming services think you’re in that country, allowing you to access their local content libraries. Unlocking Your Steam Deck’s Full Potential with Surfshark VPN

Setting it up with Eero:
You can usually configure custom DNS servers directly in your Eero app. You’d use the Smart DNS server addresses provided by Surfshark.

• Faster Speeds: Since there’s no encryption overhead, Smart DNS is typically faster than a VPN, which is great for streaming.

• Broad Device Compatibility: Works on almost any internet-connected device, even those without VPN app support.

• No Encryption or IP Masking: This is the big one. Smart DNS doesn’t offer any of the privacy or security benefits of a VPN. Your internet traffic isn’t encrypted, and your real IP address isn’t hidden.

• Limited Use Cases: Primarily useful for unblocking streaming content. it won’t protect you on public Wi-Fi or hide your browsing from your ISP. Surfshark dd-wrt

Surfshark VPN: A Closer Look

Now that we’ve talked about how to use a VPN with Eero, let’s talk about why Surfshark is a solid choice. Surfshark has built a strong reputation as a reliable and feature-rich VPN provider, often being praised for its value and performance.

Here’s a quick rundown of what makes Surfshark stand out:

• Unlimited Devices: This is a huge selling point, especially for Eero users. With one Surfshark subscription, you can protect every single device you own—your phone, laptop, tablet, desktop, and anything else that can run their app. This makes it incredibly cost-effective for families or households with many gadgets.
• Strong Security Features: Surfshark uses AES-256 encryption, which is industry-standard and virtually uncrackable. It supports secure VPN protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2. These are crucial for keeping your data safe.
• No-Logs Policy: Surfshark has a strict no-logs policy, meaning they don’t collect or store information about your online activities. This is independently audited, which builds trust.
• Global Server Network: They boast over 3,200 servers in 100 countries. A large server network means you’ll almost always find a fast, uncongested server nearby, and it gives you plenty of options for bypassing geo-restrictions.
• Speed: Surfshark is known for its impressive speeds. While any VPN can slow down your internet a bit due to encryption and routing, Surfshark generally performs very well, minimizing the impact on your browsing, streaming, and gaming. They even recommend WireGuard for its speed, which is great for router setups.
• Ad Blocker CleanWeb: Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature helps block ads, trackers, and malware, making your browsing experience cleaner and potentially faster.
• Kill Switch: This is a critical security feature. If your VPN connection unexpectedly drops, the kill switch automatically disconnects your device from the internet, preventing your real IP address and data from being exposed.
• Bypasser Split Tunneling: This feature lets you choose which apps or websites use the VPN and which go directly through your regular internet connection. For example, you might want your streaming app to use the VPN for geo-unblocking, but your banking app to use your local IP.
• Smart DNS: As mentioned, this is a handy tool for streaming on devices that don’t support VPN apps.
• Customer Support: They offer 24/7 live chat support, which can be a lifesaver if you run into any setup issues, especially with router configurations.

When people ask “is Surfshark VPN reliable” or “is Surfshark VPN safe to use,” the answer is generally a strong yes, thanks to these features and its audited no-logs policy. And if you’re wondering “is Surfshark VPN worth it,” its combination of features, speed, unlimited device connections, and competitive pricing especially on longer plans often makes it a top recommendation, particularly for budget-conscious users. While it’s not a “free VPN,” they usually offer a money-back guarantee, letting you try it risk-free. Your Exclusive Online Highway: Everything You Need to Know About Surfshark’s Dedicated IP VPN

Troubleshooting Eero and Surfshark

Even with the best planning, things can sometimes go sideways. If you’re experiencing “Eero VPN issues” or finding that your “Eero VPN not working,” here are some common troubleshooting steps and things to check:

1. Check Individual Device VPNs First:

   • If you’re using Surfshark apps on individual devices, ensure the app is actually connected. Sometimes it can disconnect in the background.
   • Try switching to a different Surfshark server. The server you’re on might be overloaded or experiencing issues.
   • Make sure your Surfshark app is up to date. Old software can cause compatibility problems.
   • Temporarily disable any other security software antivirus, firewalls on your device to see if they’re interfering.

2. Verify Eero VPN Passthrough: Does Surfshark Work with DraftKings? Here’s the Real Deal

   • While Eero supports VPN passthrough, sometimes settings can get reset or changed. Double-check your Eero app under Settings -> Advanced -> DHCP & NAT to ensure it’s configured correctly, especially if you’re using a secondary VPN router.
   • Eero is designed to pass VPN traffic, but if you’re using specific business VPNs like Pulse Connect Secure, AWS Client VPN, or Cisco AnyConnect, some users have reported issues. For general personal VPN use, it usually works fine.

3. Router-Level VPN Specifics:

   • Double-check your secondary router’s VPN client settings: Are your Surfshark credentials service username and password, not your login email correct? Is the configuration file properly uploaded and selected?
   • Test the VPN router in isolation: Disconnect your Eero from the VPN router and connect a single device like a laptop directly to the VPN router. Does the VPN work then? If so, the issue might be with the Eero connection or its settings.
   • Speed Drops: If you notice significant speed drops “does Surfshark VPN slow down internet”, it could be due to the overhead of encryption on your VPN router, especially if it’s an older or less powerful model. Try using a faster protocol like WireGuard if your router and Surfshark support it.

4. Network Conflicts and DNS:

   • DNS Leaks: Your VPN is supposed to handle DNS requests, but sometimes they can “leak” to your ISP. Use an online DNS leak test easily found with a quick search to ensure your DNS is being resolved through Surfshark’s servers.
   • IPv6: Some VPNs can have issues with IPv6. You might try disabling IPv6 in your Eero settings if available or on your individual devices to see if that resolves the problem.
   • Guest Network: Sometimes, creating a guest network on your Eero and connecting your VPN devices to that can resolve some conflicts.

5. What if Surfshark Itself is Down?

   • It’s rare, but sometimes a VPN service can experience outages. If you suspect “is Surfshark VPN down,” check Surfshark’s official status page or their social media channels for any announcements. You can also try searching online for “Surfshark down” to see if other users are reporting issues.

6. Contact Support:

   • Don’t hesitate to reach out to Surfshark’s customer support. They’re usually available 24/7 via live chat and are experts at troubleshooting their service, even with complex router setups.
   • For Eero-specific questions not related to the VPN itself, Eero’s support is also available.

Remember, patience is key with network troubleshooting. Go step-by-step, test after each change, and don’t be afraid to factory reset a secondary router if you feel you’ve messed up the configuration too much. Surfshark VPN Device Limit: Your Ultimate Guide to Protecting *All* Your Gadgets

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Eero Secure a VPN?

No, Eero Secure is not a VPN. Eero Secure is a subscription service that adds extra security features to your Eero network, like advanced threat detection, content filtering, and ad blocking. While these features enhance your online safety, they don’t encrypt your internet traffic or mask your IP address like a true VPN service such as Surfshark does. Eero Plus, however, does include a separate client-side VPN service powered by Guardian VPN for individual devices, which is different from Surfshark.

Can I install Surfshark directly on my Eero router?

No, you cannot install Surfshark VPN software directly onto your Eero router. Eero routers do not have native support for VPN client functionality. Their design prioritizes ease of use and mesh Wi-Fi performance over advanced router-level VPN client installations. You’ll need to use alternative methods, such as installing Surfshark on individual devices or setting up a separate VPN-compatible router to work with your Eero system.

What’s the best way to use Surfshark with Eero?

The “best” way really depends on your needs. For most people, installing the Surfshark app on individual devices laptops, phones, tablets, smart TV apps is the easiest and most flexible method. This is great because Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections. If you need network-wide protection for all devices, including those that can’t run VPN apps like gaming consoles or smart home gadgets, then setting up a secondary VPN-compatible router flashed with compatible firmware or pre-configured and connecting your Eero to it is the way to go, utilizing Eero’s VPN passthrough feature. Surfshark VPN: How to Get Your 30-Day “Free Trial” (and Why It’s Not Quite What You Think!)

Will using Surfshark with Eero slow down my internet?

Any VPN will inherently introduce some level of speed reduction due to the encryption process and the extra distance your data travels to the VPN server. Surfshark is known for its impressive speeds, which helps minimize this impact. However, if you’re setting up a router-level VPN, the processing power of your secondary VPN router can affect speeds. Older or less powerful routers might struggle to encrypt/decrypt all network traffic at high speeds, leading to a more noticeable slowdown. Using a faster protocol like WireGuard can also help improve performance.

Does Eero support VPN passthrough?

Yes, Eero routers support VPN passthrough. This means that if you have a VPN connection established on an individual device connected to your Eero network, or if you have another router handling a VPN connection before or with your Eero, the Eero system will allow that encrypted VPN traffic to pass through without blocking it. You might need to check your Eero app settings under Settings -> Advanced -> DHCP & NAT to ensure it’s configured for optimal passthrough, sometimes by enabling “Bridge Mode”.

Why isn’t my VPN working with my Eero network?

If your VPN isn’t working with your Eero, it could be a few things. First, remember Eero doesn’t host VPN clients directly, so you need a separate setup device app or secondary VPN router. Common issues include the VPN app on your device not being connected, incorrect configuration on a secondary VPN router like wrong Surfshark credentials or server files, or conflicts with other network settings. Make sure Eero’s VPN passthrough is enabled in the DHCP & NAT settings. Sometimes, turning your Wi-Fi off and on, updating your VPN software, or even contacting Surfshark’s customer support can help diagnose and fix the problem.

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