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Configuring Pocket Travel Routers and VPNs

Aug 24, 2024

Lecture on Pocket Travel Routers and VPN Configuration

Introduction

  • Previous Setup: Implemented NordVPN on Slate AX router for location spoofing.
  • New Goal: Use home IP address globally with a second pocket travel router (Opal).

Hardware Overview

  • Opal Router:
    • Lacks Wi-Fi 6 but has gigabit Ethernet ports.
    • Connects to home router and travels with the user to share home IP.

Initial Setup

  • Device Connection:
    • Each router has unique SSID (shown on device bottom).
    • Access via 192.168.8.1.
    • Set admin password and connect to Wi-Fi.

Firmware and Remote Access Configuration

  • Firmware: Ensure devices are updated.
  • Dynamic DNS (DDNS):
    • Enable DDNS under remote access to handle changing IPs.
    • Copy and save device ID for DDNS use.

VPN and Port Forwarding Setup

  • WireGuard vs. OpenVPN:

    • WireGuard is preferred due to speed and efficiency.
    • Allow access to local network (optional for security).

  • Port Forwarding:

    • Necessary but varies by router; research required for individual setups.
    • Common port: 51820.

Configuration on Frontier Router (Example)

  • Port Forwarding Steps:
    • Access firewall settings; input port and device IP.
    • Ensure TCP/UDP is selected.

WireGuard Server and User Configuration

  • User Setup:

    • Add new user (e.g., "Demo") in WireGuard server.
    • Use QR code for mobile or plain text for other routers.

  • Dynamic DNS Address:

    • Replace static IP with DDNS in configuration.

Slate AX Router Configuration

  • Connection and VPN Setup:
    • Connect to Slate AX SSID.
    • Configure WireGuard Client with home IP details.

Performance Testing

  • Speed Test Results:
    • WireGuard provides higher speeds than OpenVPN.
    • Expected improvement with Ethernet connection.

Toggle Switch Configuration

  • Functionality:
    • Set toggle to switch between WireGuard and local IP.
    • Useful for accessing different streaming service catalogs when traveling.

Conclusion

  • Practical Uses: Access home network remotely; benefit from regional content access.
  • Overall Summary: This presentation covers configuring and using pocket travel routers with VPNs to remotely use a home IP address while traveling, using the Opal and Slate AX routers as examples.

Full transcript