Are you using one of these D-Link VPN routers? Why you should replace it as soon as possible

VPNs can increase your online privacy by masking your activity. on the Internet and applications from your ISP. While you can install a VPN app on individual devices, running a virtual private network on your router allows you to add privacy to your entire home and bypass device limits. But if you use certain D-Link VPN routers, you may risk a serious security vulnerability.

As a company announcedsix of its VPN routers have a security exploit — specifically, a buffer stack vulnerability. Essentially, this means that it is possible to execute code remotely on one of the affected routers, so a bad actor could inject malicious code. Affected units include:

• DSR-150
• DSR-150N
• DSR-250
• DSR-250N
• DSR-500N
• DSR-1000N

Because these models are end-of-life, meaning the manufacturer no longer provides service through updates, D-Link will not patch the vulnerability. Instead, D-Link recommends users replace their routers. If you currently own any of these routers, you can take advantage of an offer to get 20% off the price of a new one DSR-250v2 VPN Router.

Alternatively, you may be able to install a VPN on another router — but you’ll want to make sure you don’t void the warranty. You can also buy some routers with VPNs pre-installed. ExpressVPNs Aircove and Aircove Go routers offer easy ways to set up a virtual private network for your whole home by being installed with ExpressVPN. If you use another VPN service, for example NordVPN, Surfshark or Proton VPN, FlashRouters it has a lot of different options. You can also use a Windows PC as a mobile hotspot to turn your desktop or laptop into a makeshift VPN router.

For devices that support native VPN applications such as Windows, macOS and Linux PCs, Androids, iPhones, Apple TV streamers and Amazon Fire TVsyou can forego a VPN router altogether. You can consult us complete guide to using a VPN for more detailed information on setting up a virtual private network on different devices. In addition to using a VPN for privacy consider running some of the the best antivirus software (or free antivirus software if you want to save money) for complete cyber security protection.