A hybrid VPN combines two or more VPN protocols to provide added security and flexibility in connecting to a private network. The NETGEAR Nighthawk XR500/XR700 Pro Gaming router offers support for multiple VPN protocols, including PPTP, L2TP, and OpenVPN, allowing users to set up a hybrid VPN connection. This guide will provide step-by-step instructions on configuring a hybrid VPN on the NETGEAR Nighthawk XR500/XR700 Pro Gaming router. Whether you’re looking to enhance your online security or need access to a private network, this guide will help you quickly and easily set up a hybrid VPN connection.
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A quick about VPNs
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a secure and encrypted connection between two or more devices that allows users to access the Internet as if they were on a private network. VPNs protect sensitive data from eavesdropping by creating a secure tunnel between devices and also provide anonymity by hiding the user’s IP address. VPNs are commonly used for remote access to corporate networks, online privacy and security, and bypassing geographical restrictions to access the content. When establishing a VPN connection, the VPN server substitutes your actual IP address with one from its server, ensuring the security of your home internet connection.
What is Hybrid VPN?
A Hybrid VPN is a router VPN client that allows you to apply your VPN provider to any device on your network. It provides the option to selectively apply VPN protection to specific games, ports, or applications while leaving the rest of your network with a stable, non-VPN connection. This provides a high level of customization and flexibility, enabling you to secure only the devices or services that require it without sacrificing speed on the rest of your network.
What does the Hybrid VPN feature do?
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) protect your IP address against hacking and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. By routing your computer’s IP through a separate server, your actual IP is kept hidden, and your network is protected from potential collapse.
However, using a VPN can also cause a slowdown in streaming and gaming due to the added routing. The Hybrid VPN feature on Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR300, XR500, XR700, and XRM570 routers from NetDuma offers a solution to this issue.
The Hybrid VPN allows for selective traffic routing, either through a secure VPN server or directly to the Internet. This customization allows for a balance between security and performance, such as routing email and Microsoft Teams traffic through the VPN server while allowing gaming applications to connect directly to the Internet for optimal performance.
Steps to Set up a Hybrid VPN on Nighthawk Pro Gaming Router:
Total Time: 15 minutes
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Launch a web browser.
Launch a web browser on a device connected to your router’s network.
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Go to www.routerlogin.net.
Go to www.routerlogin.net
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Enter login details.
Enter the username (admin) and password for your router.
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Select VPN SETUP.
From the Dashboard, select Hybrid VPN > VPN SETUP.
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Login into Basic settings.
In the Basic VPN settings, enter the username and password provided by your VPN provider.
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Select your VPN provider.
Choose your VPN provider in the Provider section.
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Select country and city.
Enter the desired country and city for your IP address location.
(For instance, you could choose Paris, France, and appear as if you are located in France online) -
Select your VPN protocol.
Select either TCP or UDP protocol based on your Internet connection.
Note:Â TCP is the widely used protocol on the Internet. It provides more dependable information transmission, while UDP is quicker but less secure. It is advisable to opt for TCP protocol for your connection. -
Enable Hybrid VPN.
Enable Hybrid VPN on the VPN Setup page.
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Apply VPN settings.
Click CONNECT to apply VPN settings.
Note:Â Turning on the Block Traffic if the VPN Disconnects feature will cut off internet access for the safeguarded devices and apps if your VPN connection is lost. -
Select ADD DEVICE to protect specific device.
To protect specific devices, go to the VPN Traffic section and select ADD DEVICE.
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Choose a device from the list.
Choose a device from the list of connected devices.
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Repeat steps for all desired devices.
Repeat steps 11-12 for all desired devices.
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The VPN is now active.
The VPN is now active, and all traffic on the added devices is protected.
(Optional) To personalize your Hybrid VPN protection to specific services or applications:
- Select a device and click “ADD SERVICE“.
- Choose a service or application from the list and click “ADD SERVICE“.
- Repeat steps 1-2 for each service or application you want to protect.
- For each device, set the “Mode” section to “Only VPN these services“.
- Your Hybrid VPN is now active and protecting the selected devices and services. By default, “Do not VPN these services” is selected. If you want to bypass VPN for specific services, choose this option.
- Suppose you add a device but do not specify any services. In that case, all traffic will be routed through the VPN (default) or none if “Only VPN these services” is selected.
Note: A router restart may be required after setup to correctly set up your VPN for gaming devices. The VPN information table may show “N/A” for certain providers, but this can be ignored as long as the VPN is connected. For additional guidance on Hybrid VPN setup, refer to the NetDuma forums.
Related articles:
- What are the steps to configure a VPN server for remote access on my Nighthawk Pro Gaming Router?
- NETGEAR Router Setup | NETGEAR Firmware Update | NETGEAR VPN Setup
FAQs (Frequently Asked Question)
What is a Hybrid VPN?
A Hybrid VPN allows you to choose which traffic should be routed through a secure VPN server and which traffic connects directly to the Internet, ensuring optimal performance.
Can I customize my Hybrid VPN to protect specific services or applications?
Yes, you can customize your Hybrid VPN to protect specific services or applications by selecting the device, adding services or applications, and setting the mode to “Only VPN these services“.
What is the difference between TCP and UDP protocols?
TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) is a more reliable protocol for sending information but is slower than UDP (User Datagram Protocol), which is faster but less secure. It is recommended to use TCP for your connection.
What happens if I enable the “Block Traffic if VPN Disconnects” option?
Enabling the “Block Traffic if VPN Disconnects” option will disconnect protected devices and applications from the Internet if your VPN disconnects.
Do I need to restart my router after setting up the Hybrid VPN?
If you connected your VPN to a gaming device that you use in the Geo-Filter, you might need to restart your router after setting it up.
What should I do if details show as N/A in the VPN Information table?
If your VPN is connected, you can ignore this. For some providers, details might appear as N/A in the VPN Information table.
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