Setting VPN from router
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We need to distinguish between a VPN server and a VPN Client application.
If I understand you correctly, what you want to do is run your router on a VPN client to connect to an external VPN service provider. The net effect of this (if configured correctly) is that all of your external internet traffic will be forced off the VPN to the VPN provider and then to the wider internet.
This is a relatively advanced configuration and the basic routers (in my experience) don’t serve VPN clients (nor does the VPN server!). Another thing to keep in mind is that encryption/decryption places very high requirements on the router, so you may be able to buy a router that can provide functionality but performance may be lacking.
If you have a NAS, it may be possible to configure the VPN client on. This is not my preferred path as you will have to open ports in your current router to allow access to your NAS, which could put it in the running line.
I notice you’re referring to “affordability vs. performance” – bottom line, I don’t think this would be cheap (even for a basic setup)
Some VPN providers will sell you a router preconfigured for access (again at a price)
For a “budget” DIY approach I think
Budget router – say £120
Modem – you might be able to buy a cheap old BT Openreach modem on fleabay (or pay through the nose for a Draytek 130 for about £80) there might be room in between (I use a Draytek).
You then need to calculate the cost of a good VPN provider (do your research carefully as it’s a rat’s nest – I won’t mention, unless requested, my favorite provider) but the budget is around £85/$100 per year.
While not rocket science, configuring a router/VPN and others will require focus and application (not a minute job) and some basic networking experience will be very helpful.
Chill at the idea yet?
I have supplied and configured an Asus RT-AC66U_B1 (802.11ac) router to flash with a 3rd party firmware from Merlin running a friend’s OpenVPN client in a residential environment which forces all of their traffic to the VPN and their Kodi box is not complaining.
This is the router only and hence the need for a separate modem – in his case he used his existing Openreach modem.
The Merlin firmware is very good. Unlike a lot of third-party router firmware providers, Merlin is closely compatible with existing Asus firmware but offers additional functionality not available in the stock firmware (Asus seems to have included some of the Merlin code in their later firmware revisions)
If I didn’t stop you and you want more detailed information, send me a private message and I’ll try to point you in the right direction.
Note that I’m not professionally involved in this topic (only I have experience setting up my own VPN clients) and would be happy to help.
Of course there may be cheaper solutions, but I’m not aware of any (it might be worth waiting a while to see if anyone else can come up with better options)
Various links
Router
Merlin Firmware Overview
Merlin Firmware Features
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