How to block specific IP addresses on TP-Link routers

Certain streaming services will function more reliably if you block specific IP addresses on your router. This guide will show you how to block specific IP addresses on TP-Link routers, using two Google DNS server addresses as an example (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4).

To block specific IP addresses on your TP-Link router, you’ll need to set some special routing rules. These rules ensure your network traffic will not flow through the IPs you specified.

1. With your router connected to the internet, go to 192.168.2.1 (or 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1). If you’re stuck, see instructions for finding your router gateway.
2. Sign in with your router username and password. The default username and password are usually admin and admin.
3. At the top of the page, click on the Advanced tab.
4.  On the sidebar, go to Network > Advanced Routing.If you’re using the older version of the router dashboard, click on Advanced Routing > Static Routing List.
5. Under Static Routing, click + Add.If you’re using the older version of the router dashboard, click on Add New…
6. Fill the following information:
   1. Network Destination/Destination Network: 8.8.8.8
   2. Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.255
   3. Default Gateway: <your router IP>  (e.g. 192.168.2.1)
   4. Interface: LAN
   5. Description: Google 1
   6. (For older versions of the dashboard) Status: Enabled
7. Your screen should look like this:For older versions of the dashboard:
8. Click Save.
9. Repeat steps 5 to 7 using the following:
   1. Network Destination/Destination Network: 8.8.4.4
   2. Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.255
   3. Default Gateway: <your router IP>  (e.g. 192.168.2.1)
   4. Interface: LAN
   5. Description: Google 2
   6. (For older versions of the dashboard) Status: Enabled
10. Depending on which streaming service you want to use, you may need to add a few more IPs. For the list of specific IPs, please contact the ExpressVPN Support team.
11. If you’re on Windows, open your Command Prompt. If you’re on Mac, open your Terminal.
12. Enter ping 8.8.8.8 and ping 8.8.4.4 (and the other IPs you blocked).
13. The ping tests should fail (e.g. “Timed Out” or “Destination Host Unreachable”). If you get a response, check you have performed the steps above correctly. If the problem persists, reboot your router and repeat the steps above.
14. Once you see the ping tests fail:
    1. Turn off your router
    2. Unplug it from the power source
    3. Wait for 30 seconds
    4. Plug in your router
    5. Turn on your router

Need help? Contact the ExpressVPN Support team for immediate assistance.