Fltr: A Novice for More Internet Protection

Although the project is still up on KickStarter, it already rose over $100,000 by more than 600 backers, and the device is promised to be released in June 2017.

No set-up required

One of the best characteristics of Fltr is that you don’t have to waste hours on tricky setups, as the device is ready as it is. Moreover, it supports all devices connecting to the web, even those that usually don’t directly support VPNs, like gaming consoles and smart TVs.

But does it work and if it does, how? Fltr is a router extension that you can use in two different ways: either by connecting it to your modem and your router, or by directly plugging it into your router’s Ethernet port to set it as a separate Wi-Fi access point. Once you have Fltr connected, you can configure it and operate all its features from both the mobile app or via the web interface.

Regarding the built-in VPN, the company delivers the market standards with a fairly decent range of features: servers in 24 countries, AES 256-bit encryption, no-log policy, multiple simultaneous connections, unlimited bandwidth, P2P support and more. In addition to all the above, you can have a Fltr VPN subscription for free or choose between a monthly or an annual plan. The annual subscription will save you 50% of the overall price: it is $49.99 a year, which is a pretty decent pricing. However, if you already have a VPN subscription with another provider or you simply fancy another VPN service more, Fltr supports OpenVPN, OpenConnect and L2TP/IPsec too.

Fltr vs VPN routers

Now that you know what Fltr is about, it is quite evident it should be compared with VPN routers. For starters, both solutions provide a secure connection at the router level, supporting all devices that are not directly compatible with a VPN. However, if Fltr turns out to be what its developer promises, it can save you a few extra dollars while providing the same features (if not more) as a pre-flashed VPN router.

The fact that no setup is required may be another deciding factor, especially for the less tech-savvy who own a normal router. Furthermore, due to the impressive list of internet security features, like the ad-blocker, malware protection and site advisor, it may even beat its opponent, the aforementioned VPN routers and internet security suites by a mile. Although Fltr doesn’t feature antivirus protection, which might seem a problem at first, with all the security features it has by default, you wouldn’t need such an expensive antivirus or security suite to begin with.

Regardless, no one can deny the potential of Fltr, and judging by the amount of pre-orders, it can indeed become quite the cherished product.