Level Up Your Entire Network: How to Route Everything Through Surfshark VPN

Trying to get your entire network protected with Surfshark, so every device at home gets that sweet VPN privacy automatically? It’s totally doable! We’re talking about routing all your internet traffic through a Surfshark VPN connection, which is super handy for securing smart devices, gaming consoles, or anything else that can’t run a VPN app on its own. While the Surfshark app itself offers a “Route via VPN” feature part of its Bypasser split tunneling for specific apps or websites on certain devices, the real game-changer for whole-home coverage is setting up Surfshark directly on your router. This way, you get continuous protection, unlock content, and boost your privacy across unlimited devices without fussing with individual apps.

What Does “Route via VPN” Actually Mean?

Alright, let’s break this down. When we talk about “routing via VPN,” we’re essentially saying we want your internet traffic to take a detour through a secure, encrypted tunnel before it hits the wider internet. Instead of your data going directly from your device to a website or service, it first travels to a VPN server. That server then sends your request onward, making it look like your internet activity is coming from the VPN server’s location, not yours. This hides your real IP address and encrypts your data, keeping your online adventures private and secure.

Now, Surfshark actually has two main ways you might hear “route via VPN” discussed:

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1. Router-Level VPN: This is when you install Surfshark directly onto your home Wi-Fi router. Every single device that connects to that router—your phone, laptop, smart TV, gaming console, even your smart fridge—automatically has its internet traffic routed through the VPN. It’s a “set it and forget it” kind of protection for your entire network.
2. Surfshark’s Bypasser Feature Split Tunneling: Surfshark’s app on devices like Android and Windows for apps only has a feature called “Bypasser.” It’s their version of split tunneling, and it gives you two options: “Bypass VPN” chosen apps/websites don’t use the VPN or “Route via VPN” chosen apps/websites do use the VPN, and everything else bypasses it. By default, if you just connect to Surfshark without touching these settings, all your device’s traffic goes through the VPN. The “Route via VPN” option here is for very specific scenarios where you only want a few things encrypted and everything else to go directly.

For most people looking to “route via VPN” for widespread protection, especially for devices that don’t have their own VPN apps, the router setup is what you’re really aiming for.

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Why You’d Want to Route Everything Through Surfshark VPN

So, why go through the effort of setting up Surfshark on your router or using its special routing features? Well, there are some pretty compelling reasons:

Whole-Home Protection, Simplified!

Imagine this: you set up Surfshark on your router once, and boom! Every device connected to your home network is automatically protected. No more remembering to turn on the VPN app on each phone, tablet, or laptop. It’s especially great for devices that don’t even have dedicated VPN apps, like your smart TV, gaming consoles PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, smart home gadgets, or streaming boxes like Roku and Apple TV. They all get the VPN benefits without any extra steps. This means 24/7 protection without even thinking about it.

Protecting Every Device

Surfshark is already awesome because it offers unlimited simultaneous connections, meaning you can install the app on as many devices as you own without hitting a limit. But installing it on your router takes this a step further. It’s like a universal shield. Even if your kid’s gaming console or your partner’s tablet doesn’t have Surfshark installed, if it’s connected to your Wi-Fi, it’s protected. That’s a huge win for family-wide digital safety.

Unlocking Content & Bypassing Restrictions

Ever tried to watch something online only to hit a “Not available in your region” message? Or maybe you’re traveling and want to access your usual streaming services from back home? Routing your traffic through a VPN server in a different country can help you bypass those geo-restrictions. With Surfshark’s extensive network of over 3200 servers in 100 countries, you have a massive choice of virtual locations. This means more content and more digital freedom for everyone on your network. Does Surfshark VPN Charge VAT? Here’s What You Need to Know!

Boosted Privacy & Security

At its core, a VPN is about privacy and security. When your traffic is routed through Surfshark, it gets encrypted with industry-standard AES-256-GCM encryption. This makes your online activities unreadable to anyone trying to snoop, like your internet service provider ISP, hackers on public Wi-Fi, or other third parties. Your real IP address is masked, replaced by the VPN server’s IP, making it much harder to track your online movements. Surfshark also has a strict no-logs policy, which has even been audited by Deloitte, meaning they don’t collect data on what you do online. Plus, features like the Kill Switch protect you if the VPN connection drops, and CleanWeb blocks ads and malware, adding extra layers of defense for everyone on your network.

The Main Event: Setting Up Surfshark VPN on Your Router

If you’re serious about whole-home protection, putting Surfshark on your router is the way to go. It might sound a bit techy, but I promise, it’s totally manageable if you follow the steps.

Check for Router Compatibility First

Before you even start, you need to know if your router can handle a VPN. Not all routers are created equal. Many modern routers, especially those from brands like ASUS, Linksys, or Netgear, often support VPN client functionality. Some might require custom firmware like DD-WRT or Tomato. Keeping Your Surfshark VPN Updated: A Complete Guide to a Safer Online World

Here’s how to check:

• Look at your router’s manual: This is usually the easiest way. It should tell you if it supports VPNs specifically, a “VPN Client” mode.
• Google it: Search for ” VPN compatibility.” You’ll find forums or manufacturer pages with answers.
• Ask Surfshark Support: If you’re unsure, their live chat support can quickly tell you if your router is compatible or recommend compatible models.

Surfshark generally supports OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols for router setups, with WireGuard often providing faster speeds.

Gather Your Surfshark Details

You’ll need specific credentials from your Surfshark account, which are different from your regular login email and password.

1. Log in to your Surfshark account on their website.
2. Go to the Manual Setup section.
3. Choose Router, and then select either OpenVPN or WireGuard.
4. You’ll find your service username and password, along with configuration files usually .ovpn files for OpenVPN or a private key for WireGuard. Make sure to download the config file for the server location you want your entire network to connect through. Jot these details down or keep the page open, because you’ll need them for your router’s settings.

Accessing Your Router’s Control Panel

This is where you’ll configure your router.

1. Find your router’s IP address. This is usually something like 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1.
   • On Windows: Open Command Prompt, type ipconfig, and look for the “Default Gateway” IP address.
   • On macOS: Go to System Settings > Network, select your Wi-Fi connection, click “Details,” then “TCP/IP.” Your router’s IP will be listed next to “Router.”
2. Open a web browser like Chrome or Firefox and type that IP address into the address bar.
3. You’ll be prompted to log in with your router’s administrator username and password. If you’ve never changed them, they might be on a sticker on the back or bottom of your router.

Installing the VPN Firmware or Configuration File

Once you’re in your router’s control panel, the exact steps vary by router brand and model, but the general idea is this: Ultrasurf VPN iOS: Your Go-To Guide for Unrestricted Access

1. Look for a “VPN,” “VPN Client,” or “Advanced Settings” tab.
2. For OpenVPN setups: You’ll usually find an option to upload an .ovpn configuration file. Select the file you downloaded from Surfshark’s website.
3. For WireGuard setups: You might need to paste the private key you generated or upload a WireGuard configuration file. Some ASUS routers have a “VPN Fusion” feature that makes it simpler, allowing you to select Surfshark directly and paste the private key.

If your router requires custom firmware like DD-WRT, you’ll need to flash it first, which involves downloading the firmware and installing it via your router’s interface. This is a more advanced step and requires careful attention to instructions specific to your router model to avoid bricking it. Surfshark and DD-WRT websites usually have detailed guides.

Configuring the VPN Client OpenVPN/WireGuard

After uploading the file or entering the key, you’ll need to input your Surfshark service username and password. You might also need to:

• Choose the VPN protocol OpenVPN UDP is a common choice, or WireGuard.
• Specify the server address/hostname from your downloaded config file or Surfshark’s manual setup page.
• Set the port number e.g., 1194 for OpenVPN UDP, 500 for IKEv2, 51820 for WireGuard.

Once all details are entered, save and apply the settings, then activate the VPN client. Your router should then connect to the Surfshark server.

Testing Your Router VPN Connection

After setup, you absolutely need to check if it’s working:

1. On any device connected to your router’s Wi-Fi, open a web browser.
2. Go to a website like “What is my IP address?” e.g., whatismyipaddress.com or surfshark.com/what-is-my-ip.
3. The IP address shown should be different from your real one, and the location should match the Surfshark server you chose.
4. You can also do a DNS leak test to ensure your DNS requests aren’t revealing your actual location.

If everything looks good, congratulations! Your entire network is now routing through Surfshark VPN. Surfshark ubiquiti

Using Surfshark’s “Route via VPN” Feature Bypasser/Split Tunneling

While router setup is great for whole-network protection, Surfshark’s in-app “Bypasser” feature gives you more granular control on individual devices Windows and Android. This is where the explicit “Route via VPN” option comes into play.

How Surfshark’s Bypasser Works

Bypasser, Surfshark’s split tunneling tool, lets you decide which applications or websites use the VPN and which don’t.

• Bypass VPN: Selected apps or websites will not use the VPN and will connect directly to the internet.
• Route via VPN: Only the selected apps or websites will use the VPN connection. All other traffic on that device will bypass the VPN.

This feature is particularly useful if, for example, you need your banking app to use your local IP address for security reasons while you want your browser to be protected by the VPN. Or, as some users experience, certain streaming services might work better outside the VPN, while you want other specific apps to remain encrypted. How to Use Surfshark VPN on Your TV

Setting Up “Route via VPN” on Your Device

Here’s a general guide on how to configure this within the Surfshark app:

1. Open the Surfshark application on your Windows or Android device.
2. Go to Settings, then VPN Settings, and find Bypasser.
3. Enable Bypasser.
4. You’ll see options for “Bypass VPN” and “Route via VPN.” Choose the “Route via VPN” option.
5. Now, you can add specific applications on Windows and Android or websites on Android that you want to exclusively use the VPN connection.
6. Once you’ve added your desired apps/websites, connect to a Surfshark VPN server. Only the items you specified in the “Route via VPN” list will go through the VPN. everything else on your device will use your regular, unprotected internet connection.

It’s important to remember that if you choose to “Route via VPN” for specific apps, anything not on that list will be unprotected. So, use this feature thoughtfully!

What to Do If Your Surfshark VPN Route Isn’t Working

It can be frustrating when your VPN isn’t doing what it’s supposed to. If you’re encountering issues with Surfshark, whether it’s not connecting at all or the “route via VPN” Bypasser feature is acting up, here’s a troubleshooting checklist:

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Quick Checks First

• Is your internet connection stable? A weak or spotty internet connection can definitely mess with your VPN. Run a speed test, restart your router, or try moving closer to your Wi-Fi.
• Is Surfshark app updated? Make sure you’re running the latest version of the Surfshark app. Updates often fix bugs and improve compatibility.
• Restart everything: Sometimes the simplest solution is the best. Try restarting the Surfshark app, your device, and even your router.

Troubleshooting Connection Issues

If your Surfshark VPN isn’t connecting at all:

1. Try a different server: The server you’re trying to connect to might be overcrowded or experiencing temporary issues. Surfshark has over 3200 servers in 100 countries, so switch to another nearby location.
2. Change the VPN protocol: Surfshark offers WireGuard, OpenVPN UDP/TCP, and IKEv2. If one isn’t working, try switching to another in the app’s settings. For router setups, ensure you used the correct protocol configuration.
3. Check for interfering apps: Your firewall or antivirus software might be blocking the VPN connection. Try temporarily disabling them just for a moment to test, then re-enable! or add Surfshark to their exception list. Other VPNs installed on your device can also cause conflicts.
4. Incorrect credentials or configuration: For router setups, double-check that you entered your Surfshark service username and password correctly, and that you uploaded the right configuration file for your chosen server.
5. Disable IPv6: Some users report that disabling IPv6 on their device or router can resolve connectivity issues with VPNs.
6. Network restrictions: If you’re on a public Wi-Fi network, at work, or in a country with heavy internet censorship, the network might be actively blocking VPN traffic. In such cases, Surfshark’s NoBorders mode usually activated automatically when needed or manually trying different protocols might help.
7. DNS issues: You could try using custom DNS settings e.g., Surfshark’s own DNS servers or public ones like Cloudflare or Google DNS if you suspect a DNS resolution problem.

If you’re still stuck, don’t hesitate to reach out to Surfshark’s customer support. They’re usually very responsive and can help diagnose more specific problems.

Dealing with Slow Speeds

If your Surfshark VPN is connected but your internet feels sluggish:

• Switch to a closer server: The further away the VPN server, the higher the latency and potentially slower speeds. Pick a server geographically closer to you.
• Change to WireGuard protocol: Many reviewers, and Surfshark itself, highlight WireGuard as their fastest protocol. If you’re using OpenVPN, try switching to WireGuard in your app settings or reconfigure your router if applicable.
• Check your base internet speed: Run a speed test without the VPN. If your base speed is slow, the VPN can only work with what it’s given.
• Reduce network load: Close bandwidth-heavy applications or streams on other devices connected to your network.
• Consider Surfshark’s FastTrack feature: Surfshark’s Nexus technology includes FastTrack, which optimizes your traffic’s route to the VPN server to boost speeds, sometimes by up to 70%. This happens automatically in the background.

Surfshark’s Network & Features That Help

Surfshark isn’t just about routing your traffic. it comes packed with features and a robust network designed to make that experience smooth, fast, and secure.

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A Global Server Network

Surfshark boasts an impressive network with over 3200 servers spread across 100 countries. This massive global coverage means you’ll almost always find a server nearby for optimal speed or one in a specific location to bypass geo-restrictions. They offer servers in numerous cities within many countries, allowing for even more precise location spoofing. Plus, Surfshark utilizes RAM-only servers, meaning all data is wiped with every reboot, adding an extra layer of privacy.

Blazing Fast Speeds

When you’re routing all your traffic through a VPN, speed is crucial. Nobody wants a sluggish internet connection. Surfshark consistently ranks as one of the fastest VPNs available, especially when using its WireGuard protocol. Independent tests by TechRadar and Tom’s Guide have reported speeds often exceeding 950 Mbps, sometimes even maxing out the connection line. While any VPN will introduce some speed loss due to encryption, Surfshark typically sees a very manageable 17-19% drop, which is excellent for handling demanding activities like 4K streaming, online gaming, and large file downloads without a hitch. Their “FastTrack” feature, part of their Nexus network, actively works to optimize server routes for even better performance.

Essential Security Tools

Beyond just routing, Surfshark layers on crucial security features:

• Kill Switch: This is your safety net. If your VPN connection unexpectedly drops, the Kill Switch automatically cuts your internet access, preventing any of your data from leaking unprotected.
• CleanWeb: Blocks ads, trackers, and malware, making your browsing cleaner and safer.
• NoBorders Mode: If you’re in a restrictive network or country that tries to block VPN traffic, NoBorders mode kicks in to help you connect and access the open internet.
• MultiHop Double VPN: For those seeking maximum anonymity, MultiHop routes your traffic through two different VPN servers in different countries, adding an extra layer of encryption and location obfuscation.
• Bypasser Split Tunneling: As we discussed, this lets you choose which apps or websites route via the VPN and which bypass it.

Combining these features with Surfshark’s strong encryption and strict no-logs policy gives you a comprehensive shield for all your online activities, whether on a single device or your entire home network. Is Surfshark VPN Free to Use? The Real Deal

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between “Bypass VPN” and “Route via VPN” in Surfshark’s Bypasser?

“Bypass VPN” lets you select specific apps or websites that will not use the VPN, meaning they connect directly to the internet while everything else on your device is protected by the VPN. “Route via VPN” does the opposite: only the apps or websites you select will use the VPN, and all other traffic on that device will bypass the VPN and be unprotected.

Can Surfshark VPN be installed on any router?

No, not all routers are compatible with VPN client software. You’ll need a router that specifically supports VPN client functionality, often through its native firmware or by installing custom firmware like DD-WRT or Tomato. Always check your router’s manual or Surfshark’s compatibility list before attempting installation.

Will routing via VPN slow down my internet speed significantly?

Any VPN will introduce some speed reduction due to encryption and routing traffic through a distant server. However, Surfshark is known for its fast speeds, especially with its WireGuard protocol, often showing a manageable speed loss of around 17-19%. Factors like server distance, server load, and your base internet speed can also affect performance. All About Surfshark VPN: Your Ultimate Guide to Online Freedom and Security

How do I know if Surfshark VPN is working correctly after setting it up on my router?

After setting up Surfshark on your router, connect any device to that Wi-Fi network and visit a website like “What is my IP address?” or Surfshark’s own IP checker. The IP address and location displayed should match the VPN server you connected to, not your actual home IP. You can also run a DNS leak test to confirm.

What should I do if my Surfshark VPN is not connecting or “Route via VPN” is not working?

First, check your internet connection and ensure your Surfshark app if applicable is updated. If connecting to a server, try a different one or switch VPN protocols e.g., from WireGuard to OpenVPN. For router issues, re-verify your Surfshark credentials and configuration files. Temporarily disabling your firewall or antivirus might also help rule out conflicts. If problems persist, contacting Surfshark’s customer support is recommended.

Can I use Surfshark’s “Route via VPN” feature to select a specific VPN server location for a single app?

No, the “Route via VPN” Bypasser feature typically routes the selected apps/websites through whichever VPN server you are currently connected to in the main Surfshark app. It doesn’t allow you to pick a different server location specifically for that single app or website. To change the server location, you’d change it for your entire VPN connection.

Does installing Surfshark on my router count towards my unlimited simultaneous connections?

While Surfshark boasts unlimited simultaneous connections for devices running their app, setting it up on a router is usually considered a single connection. However, every device connected to that router then benefits from the VPN without needing individual app installations, effectively providing VPN protection to an unlimited number of devices through that single router connection.

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