NordVPN Launches New OpenWrt Router Support for Full Network Security
Published
- NordVPN OpenWrt Routers: Headless VPN package launched in December 2025 for full-network router-level VPN protection.
- OpenWrt Router Support: Uses NordLynx protocol, managed via JSON configuration and simple command-line tools.
- Future Development Plans: UI support and more VPN features planned while keeping package size lightweight.
NordVPN has announced the launch of a new headless package for OpenWrt routers, marking another step in its effort to provide wider and more flexible VPN coverage. The new package was introduced in December 2025 and is aimed at users who want to protect their entire home or office network using a router-based VPN setup.
The announcement was shared by Lukas Tamašiūnas from NordVPN on December 16, 2025. According to the company, this update is part of its ongoing mission to support a safer and more private internet for users worldwide.
What is OpenWrt and why it matters
OpenWrt is a free, open-source operating system based on Linux. It can be installed on supported home routers and embedded devices as a replacement for the manufacturer’s default firmware. Many users prefer OpenWrt because it offers greater control, customization, and access to advanced networking features.
One of OpenWrt’s key strengths is its package manager. This allows users to install additional software such as network monitoring tools, ad blockers, and VPN services. Because of this flexibility, OpenWrt routers are often described by tech enthusiasts as small, always-on computers with powerful capabilities. With the new NordVPN package, users can now add whole-network VPN protection directly to these devices.
NordVPN’s Headless Package for OpenWrt
Starting December 2025, NordVPN users can install a dedicated headless package on routers running OpenWrt. While NordVPN has supported router configurations in the past, this is the first time the company has released a headless package specifically designed for OpenWrt with JSON-based configuration.
A “headless” package means there is no graphical user interface (GUI). Instead, setup and management are done using the command-line interface (CLI). NordVPN states that the process is still simple and suitable for users who are familiar with basic router management.
At launch, the package supports only the NordLynx protocol, NordVPN’s high-speed VPN protocol based on WireGuard. Users configure the VPN using a single, human-readable JSON file and manage the connection over Secure Shell (SSH). Basic commands allow users to connect, disconnect, check status, and view logs.
By default, the package routes all local network (LAN) traffic through the VPN, providing whole-network protection. Traffic generated by the router itself is also forwarded through the VPN tunnel.
NordVPN OpenWrt Router Setup Overview
To use the NordVPN headless package on OpenWrt, users need a router that is already running the latest version of OpenWrt or OpenWrt 24. The router should have enough free flash storage, with NordVPN recommending around 12–15 MB of available space for the package and its dependencies. SSH access and an active internet connection are also required for installation.
The setup process involves downloading the correct NordVPN package file for the router’s CPU architecture and installing it through the LuCI web interface. Configuration is handled through a single JSON file located on the router. Users must insert their NordVPN authentication token and can choose either a recommended server or a specific country.
Once configured, the VPN connection is controlled using simple CLI commands over SSH. Users can start or stop the service, check connection status, and view available countries. Changing the VPN location only requires editing the JSON file and restarting the service.
Boot-time autostart is supported but is not enabled by default. Users can manually enable it or start the service again after a reboot.
NordVPN also provides troubleshooting tips, such as checking the authentication token, verifying JSON syntax, and ensuring the router’s system time is correct. More detailed logs can be enabled if needed, and the log files are stored locally on the router.
Open-Source Approach and Future Plans
The NordVPN OpenWrt router package, called “nordvpnlite,” is open-sourced. Users and developers can view the source code and related documentation on the official GitHub repository. This allows for transparency and community involvement in the project’s development.
Currently, the first version of the package supports only the NordLynx protocol and does not include a graphical interface. NordVPN has confirmed that future updates are planned. These include the possible addition of a user interface for easier management and support for more NordVPN features, while still keeping the package lightweight.
With this launch, NordVPN expands its router-level VPN offerings and provides OpenWrt users with a new option for securing their entire network through a single, centralized setup.
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