ExpressVPN deploys Krack-proof firmware for some Linksys routers

You can disable it but at your own risk

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PopularVPNproviderExpressVPNhas released a new router software for seven device brands.

A new firmware means that vulnerabilities found in the original manufacturer firmware - including theBad Packetsone from earlier in May 2019 - should, in theory, be eliminated. We have confirmed this with a spokesperson at ExpressVPN for Linksys routers affected by the infamousKrackvulnerability.

Implementing the protection however comes with a caveat; it might reduce Wi-Fi stability. ExpressVPN advises users that they can toggle it off if they have patched all devices connected to the router. Amongst the routers that the new firmware now protects are theAsus RT-AC87U, theLinksys WRT3200ACMand theNetgear Nighthawk R7000.

Why opt for a VPN router?

Using aVPN routermeans that on any Wi-Fi-enabled device, even ones that can’t normally run VPN software, like most smart TVs and streaming devices or on gaming consoles like Xbox and PlayStation will be protected. If it has Wi-Fi, it will be protected every time all the time as you don’t have to remember to switch on the VPN.

Certain providers will also allow you to do split tunneling as well and perhaps more importantly, there’s no limit to the number of devices the VPN can service. For example, ExpressVPN has a three-concurrent-device limit; opting for a VPN router that can run ExpressVPN means that you’re only limited by how many devices you can connect to at the same time.

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Désiré has been musing and writing about technology during a career spanning four decades. He dabbled inwebsite buildersandweb hostingwhen DHTML and frames were in vogue and started narrating about the impact of technology on society just before the start of the Y2K hysteria at the turn of the last millennium.

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