Router Recs Needed: OpenVPN/TLS + WireGuard, Easy 5G Modem Setup

VPN
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I’m looking for a new router and could use some expert advice. My priorities are simplicity, reliability, and the right setup for my needs. As a regular user, I rely on a VPN when traveling to securely connect back home, so a solid failover setup is essential. Additionally, I want to encrypt all my DNS lookups and ensure strong privacy by using a robust VPN. My ideal router should support OpenVPN with TLS and have DNS over TLS (DoT) functionality. . I’m trying to balance a few key needs here:

  1. Keep It Simple: I’m not a networking pro, so I need a router that’s relatively easy to set up and manage. I’m not looking for a complicated process.
  2. VPN Security: I want a router that can act as a strong VPN server. I need it to support OpenVPN with TLS for classic security, and I’m also looking for WireGuard for fast, modern VPN connections.
  3. Strong Wi-Fi: Since I rely on a 5G connection, excellent and consistent Wi-Fi is important.
  4. External 5G Modem Focus: I’ll be using an external 4G/5G modem connected via ethernet as my primary internet source, so I’m looking for solid compatibility with that type of setup.
  5. Budget: up to $250.

I’m open to suggestions, but my main questions are:

  • Setup Ease? Which routers are genuinely the easiest to set up, specifically with an external 4G/5G modem and VPN (OpenVPN with TLS and WireGuard) and failover?
  • OpenVPN/WireGuard Experience: Anyone have experience setting up OpenVPN with TLS and/or WireGuard, specifically with these routers, with a 5G modem connection? Any advice on which ones make this process easy and straightforward?
  • Firmware Feedback: How’s the software and UI on any of the routers that you are using? Which one works best and is easiest to manage for the features I need with an external 4G/5G modem?
  • Real-World Tips: Any advice from people who have used a router specifically with an external 4G/5G modem for failover? Any pitfalls I should be aware of?
  • 5G Specific: Any experience using any routers as the main access point for a 5G modem? What type of issues or benefits did you find with that type of connection?

I’m a normal user who will use the VPN when I travel for secure access back to my home, with a good failover setup. Simplicity and reliability are key, but I also want to make the correct choice for my setup.

Thanks for sharing your experience!