Utilizing a VPN on your FritzBox router allows you to protect multiple devices simultaneously, enhancing your home network’s security. This setup enables remote access to your home network, including smart devices and NAS content, while also bypassing regional restrictions on streaming services. The article outlines practical steps for configuring VPN access on various operating systems, highlights the differences between FritzBox VPN and traditional VPN services, and warns against the risks of free VPNs, while promoting secure options for comprehensive protection.
If you’re already taking advantage of a VPN service on your computer or mobile device, you’re likely experiencing the numerous advantages of a Virtual Private Network. But what about your other devices? Instead of installing a VPN on each one individually, you can protect all of them simultaneously by setting up a VPN connection through your WLAN router. This approach is particularly effective for those using a FritzBox from AVM, offering a convenient way to safeguard your entire home network.
Many internet service providers supply the router when you set up your internet connection. With powerful Fritz accessories such as repeaters and powerline adapters, you can quickly and affordably create a stable home network that connects multiple PCs, printers, NAS systems, and smart home devices. This is where VPN protection becomes essential for enhancing your security.
The Advantages of Using VPN on FritzBox
With a VPN, you can access your home network while on the go. This means you can control smart home devices or retrieve content from your NAS, just as if you were connected to your home WLAN with your computer or mobile device.
The added benefit is that when you’re abroad, you can access German content from streaming platforms or bypass internet restrictions. If your travel destination blocks certain online content, having your own VPN allows you to surf the web using your home internet connection rather than the local one at your accommodation.
2025 VPN Services Comparison: Safe and Anonymous Browsing with Our Top Picks
How to Set Up VPN on Your FritzBox
Setting up a VPN on your FritzBox requires a few simple adjustments. After that, you will also need to prepare your PC or smartphone for VPN access. This setup will enable you to connect to your home network from remote locations and browse using your German IP address.
First, create a free MyFritz account with AVM. This will grant you access to your FritzBox from anywhere at any time. You won’t need any additional tools like a DynDNS service.
Next, establish a local FritzBox user account that allows remote access via VPN. It’s important to understand that the MyFritz account and the local user account serve different purposes: the former provides the necessary technology, while the latter allows you to utilize FritzBox services.
Configuring FritzBox VPN on Windows
Now, you can set up your Windows PC to connect to the FritzBox VPN. Unfortunately, this cannot be done through the standard Windows VPN settings, as AVM employs its own VPN protocol that Windows does not support. AVM suggests using the FRITZ!Fernzugang tool, but this can be somewhat complicated.
A simpler alternative is to use Shrew Soft VPN, which is free if you select ‘Standard Edition’ during installation. To set up the VPN on Windows, you will need to input specific values.
Connecting to FritzBox VPN on macOS
Using the VPN connection on macOS is much easier than on Windows. Unlike Windows, Macs can connect to the FritzBox VPN without requiring any additional software, making the process straightforward.
Accessing FritzBox VPN on Linux
You can also use the login credentials provided by your FritzBox to connect your Linux laptop or tablet. Since there are various Linux distributions, we will illustrate the process using Ubuntu, which is one of the most popular options.
Setting Up FritzBox VPN on Android
You can utilize the FritzBox VPN with mobile devices as well. First, follow the earlier steps to create a MyFritz account and a local VPN user. Once that’s done, grab your Android smartphone to establish the VPN connection and proceed accordingly.
Using FritzBox VPN on iOS
If you own an iOS device, you can also access the VPN. The initial steps are quite similar; begin by navigating to your device’s settings.
FritzBox VPN vs. Traditional VPN Services: What’s the Difference?
Once set up, FritzBox VPN provides a practical way to connect with your home network remotely. You can interact with your network as if you were physically at home. Essentially, FritzBox VPN acts as a classic VPN that links your computer to your network.
An additional benefit is the ability to bypass network restrictions when connecting from countries like Turkey. While traveling, you can use your home internet connection to access all the websites you typically visit at home. However, it’s important to note that this does not provide anonymity; your German IP address remains visible to all websites.
This distinction is crucial when comparing FritzBox VPN to services like NordVPN, CyberGhost, or ExpressVPN. These services operate on a similar principle but connect you to the VPN provider’s network instead of your FritzBox. This means your connection is routed through various exit points in the VPN provider’s network, making you appear as one of their users.
If your goal is anonymous browsing and evading network restrictions, FritzBox VPN may not be the best choice. Instead, consider using one of the many VPN services available. Unfortunately, free VPN options cannot be set up directly on the FritzBox, which means you won’t be able to secure all your devices with a VPN using it. Other routers, like those from Asus, are better suited for this purpose.
However, it’s worth noting that Surfshark can be configured with WireGuard on your FritzBox router, providing another option for users. Detailed steps for this setup can be found in the appropriate guide.
Caution Regarding Free VPNs
While free VPNs may seem appealing, they come with certain risks. This warning does not apply to trial or free versions from reputable VPN providers, but rather to lesser-known free VPNs that make grand promises in app stores. Such free apps can pose significant risks to your device.
By securing your FritzBox directly, you can avoid these potential dangers. Nonetheless, it’s essential to critically evaluate the provider you choose to encrypt your internet traffic.
Expanding VPN Protection to Multiple Devices
Do you wish to protect additional devices with a VPN? Our site offers comprehensive guides for various setups and operating systems. Below, we have compiled links to the most essential resources for your convenience.
To ensure you don’t get lost in the process, be sure to follow our detailed instructions closely.