Does ExpressVPN Allow Port Forwarding?

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ExpressVPN allows port forwarding via its router setup. This is good news if you want to use the VPN to safely access remote devices or speed up connections!

Its port forwarding connection can be used for smart TVs, gaming consoles, and PCs, making it a hit for gaming, torrenting, and more!

Read on to see how to use ExpressVPN’s port forwarding. Additionally, glance at my ExpressVPN alternatives for direct support on more devices.

How to Use ExpressVPN Port Forwarding?

It’s easy to use ExpressVPN port forwarding. However, you must have a compatible router for the setup to work. Compatible routers include Linksys, Asus, Netgear, Netduma, Sabai, DD-WRT, and Tomato models.

It’s worth mentioning ExpressVPN’s Aircove router, which comes with ExpressVPN pre-installed. If you have one of these, skip step 6 below!

Here are the steps:

  1. Grab an exclusive ExpressVPN deal here.
  2. Click “Start Your Trial Today” to use the VPN risk-free.
  3. Choose a plan that works for you.
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  1. Enter your email address and payment details to activate an account.
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  1. Sign in to your account.
  2. Set up ExpressVPN on your router by opening your router’s firmware in your browser. Here’s a quick video for Netgear routers – the process is similar for other supported models.
  1. Sign in to your ExpressVPN router app and click Advanced Settings > Port Forwarding.
  2. Click “Add New Rule.”
expressvpn add new rule button
  1. Enter a description to name the forwarded port.
describing expressvpn port forwarding connection
  1. Ensure the device you want to use with port forwarding is connected to your router. Choose the device from the drop-down menu.
xbox device for port forwarding
  1. Enter your preferred port numbers and choose a protocol (TCP/UDP).
port numbers and protocol
  1. Click “Save.”
Now, you can access the selected device remotely using your public IP address and the external port you entered.

Which Ports Does ExpressVPN Use for Port Forwarding?

ExpressVPN allows you to use any port for port forwarding. However, for optimal performance, my Live Chat agent suggested the following OpenVPN ranges:

  • TCP443
  • UDP1195
  • UDP1198
  • UDP10088 to UDP10098
  • UDP10188 to UDP10198
  • TCP10288 to TCP10298

Lightway, the provider’s proprietary protocol, uses the same ports as OpenVPN UDP.

ExpressVPN Port Forwarding Alternatives

If ExpressVPN is not compatible with your router or if you prefer a simpler port forwarding setup for your devices, try these VPN alternatives:

PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN offers static and dynamic port forwarding by issuing random port numbers. The feature can be enabled via the app dashboard using OpenVPN. 

Dynamic port forwarding is available on the VPN’s dedicated servers, safeguarding privacy for those wanting to use port forwarding more securely.

While it offers in-app support, this functionality is limited to Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices – with manual configurations for other operating systems.

On the plus, all PrivateVPN server locations can be used for port forwarding, ensuring you can create a remote connection anywhere.

privatevpn port forwarding number

PureVPN

PureVPN website

PureVPN offers easy-to-use port forwarding as an add-on service. 

For an extra $0.99/month, you can log in to your PureVPN account and open all ports or a specific port by entering your preferred port number. 

The account setup allows you to connect a broader range of devices to a specific port, including PCs, Android, Huawei, iOS, Android TVs, and Apple TV!

However, unlike PrivateVPN, port forwarding doesn’t span across the provider’s entire server fleet. Here are the supported locations:

FAQ

ExpressVPN port forwarding is necessary for torrenting if you plan to seed torrent files. This applies to users who use private torrent sites that require seeder reputation.

ExpressVPN port forwarding also lets you bypass NAT firewalls and enable a peer-to-peer connection. Furthermore, while it isn’t necessary for downloading torrents, it can improve P2P download speeds.

Port Forward With ExpressVPN

My guide shows you how to use ExpressVPN for port forwarding. 

The router setup allows you to define ports on your preferred device(s).

Plus, ExpressVPN’s 30-day money-back guarantee lets you test its port forwarding and is useful if you find any clashes between your router model and the VPN app.

Try ExpressVPN now for a faster or remote internet connection.

But if you want port forwarding for more devices or an easier setup, grab these PrivateVPN or PureVPN discounts.

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