Good Wi-Fi 6e or 7 mesh routers that support Express VPN installation?

VPN
1

Hey Reddit! I wanted to share my experience as a long-time Express VPN user. Over the years, whenever I upgraded my Internet service or switched ISPs, I always ended up with their subpar router offerings. As the number of devices connected to my network increased, none of them could handle the load efficiently.

Now, I’m facing the challenge of having an oddly shaped home, and I’m keen on setting up a mesh network to evenly distribute the connection. While I know that Wi-Fi 7 devices aren’t (widely) available yet, I’m looking for a new router that can stand the test of time as I gradually upgrade my devices. It’s all about making a smart purchase that will bring that long-lasting feeling of satisfaction, not to mention the joy of setting it all up.

I’ve been searching for a router that meets my requirements, but unfortunately, the options suggested by Express VPN’s website, like Aircove, either lack the latest features or don’t support full Express VPN app installation for maximum security.

So, I’m turning to you all for help. Have any of you come across a potential candidate that ticks all the boxes? I would greatly appreciate any suggestions. Thanks in advance!

2

Asus, will likely have if they dont have items to fulfil this now, what I didnt think they had was fast interconnect 2.5G or 10G networking.

3

The app installation and functionality is overseen by ExpressVPN so that would be that limitation and at this time they are focused only on Aircove as a streamlined affordable version of their device.

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Flashrouters has one Asus high end WiFi 6e model but at the current price point, I don’t think it is intended for most - https://www.flashrouters.com/asus-axe16000-merlin-flashrouter

4

I’m in the same situation. What did you end up doing?

5

Thanks. Based on my direct contact with Express VPN support, they have explicitly stated that no Wi-Fi 6E and/or mesh routers are supported. However, it’s worth noting that FlashRouters offers the option to flash routers, including the one mentioned as your example that I used as an example myself in my communication with them, which Express VPN support claims is not supported.

Express VPN support provided the following explanation for suggesting the routers they previously recommended:

"The reason why we are suggesting the routers that we provided to you earlier, especially since your concern is about a Wi-Fi 6E Mesh router, is that we still have a limited number of routers that are capable of installing ExpressVPN on their firmware.

Also, we have a list of routers that you can purchase from FlashRouters that have the ExpressVPN firmware already installed on this link. - https://www.express-vpn-links.com/router-setup/buy-router

However, the router that you saw, which is the Asus ROG Rapture GT-AXE16000 router, from FlashRouters is not included on this list. In case you plan to purchase this router that states that the ExpressVPN firmware is already installed on that router, we cannot guarantee that it will work properly as ExpressVPN’s firmware isn’t compatible with that router model.

Rest assured though that on our ExpressVPN for routers, the ExpressVPN firmware will work properly on these as they are already proven and tested."

Since the acquisition of Express VPN by a rebranded company previously known for focusing on malware, there seems to be a noticeable shift away from customer centricity and developing products that aim to satisfy customers. This raises concerns not only from a security/privacy standpoint (which is a significant reason why people choose their product) but also in terms of their approach to product management.

The fact that their support is unable to provide guidance on specifications and standards to consider in newer router models, or at least offer a list of supported models, suggests a lack of continuous improvement and knowledge in router technology, which is essential to their business, particularly their router product offerings.

It’s becoming ridiculous to even attempt addressing inconsistencies in their repeated responses. I’m giving up - maybe other VPNs are the alterantive I should look for.

6

I ended up buying an Asus router (the UI and modularity with AI mesh are supreme) and canceling ExpressVPN, switching for ProtonVPN. And I was a customer who, when reading these comments here, was loyal enough after years of using ExpressVPN, that I felt bad for them.

7

I think the main issue is that ExpressVPN is attempting to creating a specific router OS to prevent use of other VPNs.

FlashRouters I believe devices that work generically with most VPNs including ExpressVPN and the streamlined, easier to use but restrictive devices.

8

Thanks for the reply and insight!! I’ll likely be doing the same!!

9

I used the Aircove Expresvpn Router with OS installed, and it is very easy to use, I I like how I can create lists and pick what devices use vpn and which do not. I am curious to know what Asus router you got and how you installed Proton VPN . What is your experience so far? I just renewed my contract with Expressvpn but maybe next year I can switch. Thanks

10

My guess is as good as yours. But they are not transparent with their business at all, which is a downside for a privacy protection oriented company. Shady moves.

If I want a WiFi6E router, and there is some that support their VPN, their end business goal should not impede my experience or goals as a paying customer. They should be here to help and support.

11

I got the quad-band (2.4, 5, 5 and 6 GHz) Rog Rapture GT-AXE16000 and it has a dedicated section on the UI for setting up the router with credentials from your VPN provider, it’s really not difficult.

What’s great about Asus is the simplicity combined with granularity of option, should you decide you are skilled enough to dig into those. And it supports many devices as well as pnp integration of Asus repeaters through a dedicated band via AiMesh.

It’s been great so far. Ofc, the speed is slower when the VPN is on, but with fiber you don’t really notice the difference.

12

Thanks for the info, and I will look into it.

13

Sure thing, lemme know what your setup is once you do, would love to see if there is something new I hadn’t thought of.