When you flash a router with custom firmware like Tomato or DD-WRT, the functionality of your device is significantly extended. Flashing will enable you to transform a standard router into a powerful machine that supports advanced features. There are guides available on internet, that will allow you to flash your own router and the process is relatively fast and simple. However, there are some risks involved and if you don’t follow the instructions carefully, your router may be permanently damaged.
If you prefer to avoid possible issues while flashing the router by yourself, you may want to consider buying a pre-flashed device. Although this is a more expensive option, it can save you a lot of hassle and will prevent any damage to your router, which could lead to a voided warranty. One of the companies that offers pre-flashed routers is FlashRouters and here we will find out more about them.
Features
Based in the US, FlashRouters focuses on selling routers flashed with DD-WRT and Tomato, two of the most popular firmware solutions. The wireless routers available are suitable for running VPN services and they offer devices from prestigious brands like Linksys, Netgear and Asus. FlashRouters offers international shipping and their devices will allow you to enjoy a versatile networking experience. You will find high quality routers that support fantastic speeds and that are ready to be used with the best VPN solutions available.
Apart from selling pre-flashed routers that will enhance your network settings, FlashRouters offers assistance for customers who want to flash their own routers. If you have a router and want to unlock its potential by upgrading the firmware to DD-WRT or Tomato, FlashRouters will help you with the process through its dedicated support plans. Additionally, there are routers that are pre-configured with a VPN, which allows you a plug and play setting. Among the VPN providers supported you will find leading names like ExpressVPN, IPVanish, NordVPN and Private Internet Access.
Security
FlashRouters is mainly a retailer of physical routers but it is also set to highlight the advantages of open source firmware. Their wireless and VPN routers help you to ensure that your network is secure, keeping your data protected from eavesdroppers and other risks. A flashed router running a VPN service will allow you to protect all your devices. The level of security that you can get depends on the VPN provider you use with the flashed router. The privacy policy of the website establishes that your information is not shared or sold to third-parties.
Plans
There are routers available for different routers with prices that start at around $150 and that go up to $600 USD. It is also possible to find convenient discounts and special promotions that will help you to save money. The website offers useful information that will allow you to choose the best option for your needs. If you are looking for the most practical option, consider a VPN router as it is ready to be used and doesn’t require additional configuration.
The routers are covered with a 90-day hardware warranty that can be extended for an additional fee. There is also a 7-day protection that covers you in case the device is faulty. The 30-day satisfaction guarantee is designed to help you to get a refund when you send the router back in good condition. Keep in mind that there is a fee of $25 applied for restocking and shipping costs and you will have to assume it.
As previously mentioned, you can also obtain support for flashing your own router. There are different tech support plans to choose from and the FlashRouters team will take you through every step of the process and they will even help you to configure the VPN service of your choice. They offer support for a large selection of providers so make sure that you check the list of options available. Plans start at $100 for one remote session/ three months of email support. There is also a Premium plan that gives you one year of email support and two remote sessions.
Customer Support
The website offers a great deal of information about custom firmware and the support resources include a comprehensive knowledge base. The customer support can be contacted via email and ticket and a live chat is also available. The toll-free number is only for sales and product questions and limited to US and Canada customers. While the team is knowledgeable and professional, in some cases, the responses can take quite a while.
Conclusion
FlashRouters is a good option if you prefer not to flash your own router and the retailer offers a great catalog of high quality devices. You can even get help from them in case you have a router that has to be flashed. In some cases, their customer service can be delayed, which may put off new users who need dedicated and reliable support.