Being able to connect to the internet when you are on the go is not only convenient, but in many cases, it is also essential. If you are traveling and need to send an important email, access information for work, or complete any task that requires you to have an internet connection, you can try to find a public WiFi or use mobile data. The problem is that it is not always possible to find a WiFi network and data roaming costs can be excessively high. Having unlimited access to high-speed internet, even when we travel is particularly important for businesses people and anyone who works online.
If you don’t want to depend on public WiFi or can’t get an internet connection where you are, and don’t want to pay for data roaming, don’t worry, there is a more practical solution. You can get a portable WiFi router to ensure that you can enjoy a fast internet connection wherever you go. These devices, commonly known as Pocket WiFi are small boxes that can be used as your personal WiFi hotspot. They are similar to your home internet router, but they have a SIM card inside and if you get an unlocked Pocket WiFi device, you can use any SIM card, even one you acquire at your current location. This allows you get the best rates, no matter where in the world you are.
Pocket WiFi devices are very easy to use and once they are charged, all you need to do is to place a SIM card inside and switch the router on. In some cases, your computer may need to be configured first in order to be able to connect to the device. There are portable WiFi hotspots include a SIM card, but it is important to make sure that the device is unlocked. This is what will allow you to enjoy flexibility and the lowest rates when you travel. An unlocked Pocket WiFi device gives you freedom to use any SIM card so you can simply buy one in the country you are and avoid high data roaming fees.
With a Pocket WiFi router, you can set up your own internet connection, no matter where you are, and they usually support at least 10 devices at the same time. You can connect your laptop, your phone, tablet, gaming console and more. It is possible to find a variety of options when it comes to Pocket WiFi routers and their features vary, but the main thing is to check that there is network coverage in the location you are, so that you can access the internet. Keep in mind that 4G is not supported in some countries. If you don’t want to purchase a Pocket WiFi router, you can find websites that let you rent one for as long as needed.
Pocket WiFi and VPN
Having your own private hotspot allows you to enjoy a safer browsing experience, but it is always worth to increase security even more. With A VPN, you can encrypt all your traffic and protect your information from eavesdroppers, malicious hackers and online spying agencies. Protecting your traffic is particularly important if you travel to a country where internet is heavily monitored. A VPN also allows you to defeat restrictions that prevent you from accessing the content that you want. While you are abroad, you may want to access content that is only available in your home country. You can connect to a VPN server located there and access the websites and services that you enjoy at home.
While VPNs are very practical and they have the potential to enhance the security of your Pocket Wifi connection, setting up a VPN on these devices may not be simple. Running a VPN on your portable WiFi router would allow you to secure all the devices connected and ensure that you can bypass restrictions on all of them. However, some of these portable routers don’t have native support for VPN and it may not be possible to flash them, which is a process that allows you to upgrade the router’s firmware to be able to run a VPN directly on it and to extend its functionality in many areas.
If you have a DD-WRT, Tomato or other custom firmware router, that is running a VPN, you can connect the portable WiFi hotspot to it. This setup would allow you to take advantage on the affordable internet connection that a Pocket WiFi device can give you while you are travelling and at the same, it will let you run a VPN across all the devices connected to the network. Although bringing a DD-WRT router along with you on a trip may not be the most practical solution, it may be the only choice if your Pocket WiFi router doesn’t support VPN. Alternatively, you can just use the Pocket WiFi to be able to connect to the internet and then you can use the VPN software on each device to secure its traffic. Below are some of the best options to consider.
NordVPN
NordVPN offers a high standard of security and since it is a zero logs provider, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your activities and data about your use of the service are not being monitored, or recorded. You can find DD-WRT and Tomato routers that are already running the NordVPN software. Then you can connect your portable WiFi to it. IN addition, since the NordVPN customer support is very knowledgeable, you can reach out to the team for set up guidance.
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN has servers in over 90 countries and it protects your traffic with strong encryption. One of the highlights of this provider is that it offers and incredibly fast service, which makes it ideal for streaming, gaming and downloading content. ExpressVPN has top quality apps for all major platforms and it even has a solution specially designed for routers.
VyprVPN
VyprVPN is another good option to enjoy good speeds and high security, even when you are on the go. The company runs its own network of servers, which allows it to have greater control over speed and reliability. The Chameleon protocol is an exclusive technology that allows you to defeat Deep Packet Inspection and firewalls. VyprVPN also has a convenient app for routers.
PureVPN
If you are looking for a VPN solution that allows you to unblock international content from any location, check PureVPN, a provider that has servers in 141 countries. This makes it an ideal solution for people who travel frequently. Apart from offering incredible global coverage, PureVPN offers high encryption, advanced features and affordable prices. Their Support team is also very helpful and they have great set up guides for routers.