While building your own personal VPN may sound like a tough task, the reality is, you don't need to be a computer whiz to successfully create a secure VPN. In just a few steps, you can bolster your home’s cybersecurity, protect your browsing data, and keep your sensitive information secure.

It's entirely possible to set up a VPN and reap the improved cybersecurity benefits with minimum fuss and little to no expenditure. One of the simplest ways to create a VPN of your own is by buying a high-end router. If your router has VPN capabilities, you can configure a VPN server via your router's web interface and begin the setup process.

Another effective way to build your own personal VPN, as long as you have a compatible router, is by installing custom router firmware. This is essentially a new operating system for your router that unlocks a number of new features, including compatibility with OpenVPN and Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP).

Computers running Windows 10 are capable of functioning as VPN servers as well, although it can be a little challenging to set up correctly. You’ll also lose the capability to spoof your location, since you’ll only have access to one centrally located server.

There are two options here: either purchase a router with VPN capabilities or a router that can support third-party firmware. 

If you're using a router that supports VPN capabilities, the setup process is pretty simple. Simply access your router's user interface from a computer and configure your VPN from there. 

If you're using a router that requires you to install new firmware, carry on to the next step.

There are a number of choices when it comes to getting firmware to flash onto your router. However, there are two stand-out options that are the easiest to install and have the biggest support communities online. 

The most commonly used firmware is DD-WRT, and OpenSource firmware that is compatible with a wide-range of WLAN routers. DD-WRT allows you to wipe the factory settings and install a number of new features on your router - one of them being the ability to host a VPN. 

Another popular option, Open-WRT, offers a greater degree of control, but is considerably less user-friendly.

Once you decide on the ideal firmware for your router, you need to install and begin the setup process. As mentioned above, DD-WRT is more intuitive than Open-WRT, and makes the task much simpler for people who are not as confident in their technological capabilities. 

Once installed, choosing the right settings is vital to get the best experience online. Following a guide closely is advised for this step as getting things wrong could prove to be costly. 

Keep in mind that after you've wiped the factory settings from your device and installed firmware, it's warranty is going to be voided. Exercise the utmost caution when setting up your router for a VPN. Going in blindly could leave you with a useless router that can't connect to the Internet, much less a personal VPN.

Once you've set up your VPN, you're free to browse the Internet with the peace of mind that comes from knowing your data isn't at risk. Every device in your home network will be protected as long as they are connected to your VPN-enabled router. 

You’ll never have to worry about your ISP logging and selling your data to advertisers, prying eyes entering your network looking for sensitive information, or hackers entering your network through a backdoor. All of your activity will be anonymous and your data encrypted.

Now that you know how simple it is to set up your own personal VPN, you should consider if it’s the right option for you. 

If you can’t afford a VPN-compatible router or aren’t confident in your ability to set up a network yourself, there are hundreds of VPN providers that have already done the work for you.