TP-Link ER605, Wired Gigabit VPN Router

The TP-Link ER605 is a dedicated wired gigabit router built for users who need secure, reliable routing across multiple internet lines. Designed with flexible Ethernet configurations and dedicated hardware protections, it serves home offices and small business setups that require continuous network availability and encrypted remote connections.

Port versatility is central to this device. It features five gigabit ports in total: one fixed WAN port, two switchable WAN/LAN ports, and two dedicated LAN ports. This setup lets you run up to three distinct WAN connections to manage and balance bandwidth across different internet service providers. Additionally, a built-in USB port allows you to attach a compatible 4G or 3G mobile broadband modem, ensuring you have an emergency cellular backup line if your wired connections go down.

Security and remote access options are extensive. The router supports up to 20 LAN-to-LAN IPsec links, 16 OpenVPN tunnels, 16 L2TP tunnels, and 16 PPTP connections for secure site-to-site or client access. Built-in network defense includes an SPI firewall, DoS defense, Ping of Death protection, and IP, MAC, and URL filtering to block unwanted traffic before it reaches your local devices.

As a purely wired router, the ER605 does not emit a wireless signal, meaning you will need separate wireless access points if your setup requires Wi-Fi. Furthermore, USB mobile modem compatibility is limited to specific 4G/3G models listed on the manufacturer website, so you must verify your cellular hardware before relying on mobile failover.

Verdict: The TP-Link ER605 is an excellent choice for network administrators and power users who need multi-WAN load balancing, cellular backup, and robust VPN tunneling. If you want a dependable wired routing foundation with advanced firewall tools, this router delivers solid functionality.

A great fit if you:

• Need to combine or balance up to three wired internet connections on one device.
• Require secure remote access using OpenVPN, IPsec, L2TP, or PPTP protocols.
• Want a backup internet line using a 4G or 3G USB cellular modem.
• Prefer managing network traffic with dedicated firewall, DoS defense, and URL filtering rules.

Consider something else if you:

• Want an all-in-one unit with built-in Wi-Fi broadcasting.
• Need more than five total physical Ethernet ports directly on the router.

How many WAN ports does the TP-Link ER605 offer?
The router has one dedicated Gigabit WAN port and two switchable Gigabit WAN/LAN ports, allowing you to use up to three WAN ports simultaneously.

What types of VPN connections are supported?
It supports up to 20 LAN-to-LAN IPsec tunnels, 16 OpenVPN connections, 16 L2TP connections, and 16 PPTP connections.

Can I use a cellular modem for internet access?
Yes, you can plug a 4G or 3G modem into the USB WAN port for mobile broadband backup. You should check the TP-Link website for the full list of compatible modems.