I’m guessing most people don’t understand the extent to which our data gets tracked. ExpressVPN is one of the best options out there to protect our privacy. When I found out they offer a router that covers ALL my online devices, I knew a test was necessary. In this review I explain the simple setup and benefits of having the Aircove router in my home.
Why would I need a VPN router? That is the first thought that goes through my head when I first read about the Aircove. I load up NordVPN just fine on my cell and PC. Then I realize the truth. I have about 15 other devices (at least) that connect to my home network. Vacuums, Echos, laptops, TVs, and cell phones alike connect to WiFi in my house. Are they protected? No. In fact, most standalone VPNs offer protection for several devices. If privacy is important to you than you should protect all of your devices.
NordVPN covers six devices on its own. ExpressVPN as a standalone subscription covers five devices. Their Aircove Router covers ALL devices connected to it. It just makes sense to have. It doesn’t come free, but I buy my routers and pay for a separate VPN anyways – why not buy one that offers both? No brainer.
Logically, it makes sense, but how does it work in practice? Well, I can honestly say the setup is just as easy as any other router. I connect it to the modem and turn it on. I then connect to the Wi-Fi which has an obvious name, “Aircove”. From here I input the password on the bottom of the router itself. Now, I simply go to expressvpnrouter.com to complete my setup. It is guided and helps those who may not be familiar with setting these devices up.
I did have to input my activation code for the actual VPN to work. ExpressVPN sent me one in advance, so I enter it and I connect flawlessly. Now in the settings I can change the name of my network, move devices in and out of protection, and even decide where I want each device individually connected. If I want my Xbox to connect from Japan, I can make that happen. Just know this can severely limit the speed at which it connects (better off connecting through the US close to home).
The biggest issue I face is figuring out which device is which on occasion. When I start connecting my devices, some of them are obvious. My phone states Galaxy S22 Ultra. Other devices aren’t so lucky. It took me a long time to figure out which device my Blink cameras were. They show up as random jargon letters. The good news is once I determine what I connect I can rename it in the dashboard, so I don’t lose track of what is there. Now, I can choose if I want it on the VPN or not and where it connects from.
What about speed though? I will admit, I don’t always get quite the same download speeds. NordVPN as an installed program gives me more MB/s in speed tests. It’s not enough for me to warrant switching back, but it is noteworthy. I’ve yet to buffer for movie watching, but my kids now decide to hardwire into the network while on the VPN for less lag in Fortnite. Before they didn’t have to. They also never used the Xbox on a VPN in the past.
The best part? I feel more secure, and I feel like my information is my information. I don’t need every single company to log every single thing my family does online. This day and age it is worrisome, and I wouldn’t consider life without a VPN. My philosophy is if companies feel a VPN is necessary, we should probably feel one is necessary in our homes as well.
If you are looking for a great router that protects every device you connect, the Aircove is a ridiculously user-friendly option. While I did see a minor decline in speeds, the peace of mind it offers is worth it. Sure, I have to pay for the VPN protection separately, but the router is a one-time purchase.
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