It's sensible for everyone to use a VPN when browsing online. Once thought of as solely the choice for those conducting nefarious activities, it just makes sense for everyone to have an extra layer of security, especially when doing things like checking one's online banking account. 

Without a VPN, your data is effectively open to anyone because it's not encrypted. While most people don't have to worry too much about being spied on, it's still a risk that's not worth taking. Circumventing it by installing a VPN really doesn't take much effort. It's simple enough to find a good quality VPN service — such as NordVPN or ExpressVPN — before setting it up with your devices. Read more...

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BEST CHOICE OVERALL

A no-nonsense design, open source firmware, and plenty of features make this the ideal router for all VPN users.

• Good to know: 1.8ghz Dual-Core CPU Tri-Stream, 160 bandwidth technology, Open Source ready, 5 ethernet ports plus 1 USB 3.0 port

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BEST FOR PERFORMANCE

Fast and reliable performance makes the Asus RT-AC86U an appealing proposition but don't be surprised if its firmware feels overly complicated.

• Good to know: 1.8GHz Dual-Core processor, Game accelerator mode, Range Boost technology, 4 ethernet ports, 1 USB 3.0 port, and 1 USB 2.0 port

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BEST FOR A LARGE HOUSEHOLD

The Asus RT-AC5300 might look like a disturbing villain in a sci-fi film, but it's an impressively fast and powerful router for both home or office.

• Good to know: 1.4GHz Dual-Core processor, Remote Router app, Tri-Band Smart Connect mode, 4 ethernet ports, 1 USB 3.0 port, and 1 USB 2.0 port

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BEST BUDGET CHOICE

A decent VPN router doesn't have to cost a fortune if you don't mind cutting back on some features. The TP-Link Archer C7 AC1750 ably demonstrates that.

• Good to know: 750MHz processor, Alexa connectivity, Fast set up, 4 ethernet ports, 2 USB 2.0 ports

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BEST PREMIUM CHOICE

An absolute beast of a router, the NETGEAR Nighthawk XR700 offers a plethora of features, and its performance is unrivaled.

• Good to know: 1.7GHz quad-core processor, Alexa connectivity, Incredibly fast , 7 ethernet ports, 2 USB3.0 ports