How to Set Up a Smart TV VPN (2024 Guide) (2024)

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ExpressVPN is the best VPN for smart TVs.

  • Built for blazing-fast HD streaming
  • Access sites and securely watch video from anywhere
  • Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee
  • Built for blazing-fast HD streaming
  • Access sites and securely watch video from anywhere
  • Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee

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How to Set Up a Smart TV VPN (2024 Guide) (1)

One VPN service for all smart TVs

ExpressVPN is compatible with a wide range of smart TVs and streaming devices. Learn more about using ExpressVPN with:

Samsung Smart TV
Apple TV
Amazon Fire TV and Fire Stick
Roku
Google Chromecast
Android TV
Nvidia Shield

ExpressVPN is also compatible with: LG Smart TVs | Mi Box

See more supported smart TVs and devices

How to use a VPN on a smart TV

ExpressVPN has several solutions for all smart TVs. Find the right solution for your smart TV or streaming device

How to Set Up a Smart TV VPN (2024 Guide) (9)

Installing a VPN directly onto the device

Some smart TV systems allow you to install a VPN app directly onto the device, while others may require manual configurations.

For detailed instructions on how to set up and use ExpressVPN on your smart TV, check out our step-by-step tutorials.

How to Set Up a Smart TV VPN (2024 Guide) (10)

Using our MediaStreamer service

Smart TVs that can’t install our app may be able to use MediaStreamer, which masks your location without the privacy of a VPN.

For detailed instructions on how to set up and use MediaStreamer on your smart TV, check out our step-by-step tutorial.

How to Set Up a Smart TV VPN (2024 Guide) (11)

Connecting to a VPN-enabled router

You can also connect your smart TV to a VPN-enabled router to achieve full VPN protection with minimal extra setup.

For detailed instructions on how to set up and use ExpressVPN on your router, check out our router setup guides.

How to Set Up a Smart TV VPN (2024 Guide) (12)

Why do you need a VPN for your smart TV?

Smart TVs are internet-connected televisions. Although there are many smart TV brands, models, and operating systems, almost all smart TVs have apps that let you watch TV shows and movies from streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and HBO, all of which can be viewed securely with a VPN.

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Change your smart TV’s location with a VPN

How to Set Up a Smart TV VPN (2024 Guide) (13)

Using a VPN service lets you change the apparent location of your smart TV. This makes your apps work as intended no matter where you are in the world. A VPN app for smart TVs can also defeat censorship, encrypt your traffic, and help you avoid bandwidth throttling by your ISP.

Why choose ExpressVPN?

TrustedServer technology

Audited to confirm privacy protections, TrustedServer sets a new standard for security.

Stream with no restrictions

Bypass internet censorship, firewalls, and ISP throttling with ExpressVPN.

Superior connection reliability

Enjoy industry-leading connection stability and reliability, no matter where you are in the world.

VPN for all your devices

Protect every device in your home by using ExpressVPN apps and manual configurations.

Get set up right away

Connecting to ExpressVPN is quick and easy. Just sign up, download, and connect!

Live chat support

Contact Support around the clock if you have questions about ExpressVPN on any device.

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Download ExpressVPN for all your devices

A single ExpressVPN subscription lets you download a VPN for every popular platform. Need a VPN for multiple devices? Set up ExpressVPN on everything you own, and use it on eight at the same time.

How to Set Up a Smart TV VPN (2024 Guide) (14)
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Should I use a free VPN
on my Smart TV

Although there are plenty of free VPNs and “free proxies” out there, it’s worth considering how these providers can afford to offer their service at no charge. It pays to remember the mantra: “If you aren’t paying for the product, you are the product.”

In addition to privacy concerns around your personal data, most free VPNs have limited networks, so you may not find a server for the location you need. They are also known to cap data and limit speeds, leading to a less-than-ideal online experience.

To ensure a fast, private, and secure connection for every customer, ExpressVPN pays for a network of high-performance server locations in 105 countries. Our global network of 10-Gbps servers means you’ll experience unlimited bandwidth and blazing-fast speeds. We’re also leading the way with post-quantum protection and other advanced protection features, such as our Threat Manager app and ad blocker feature.

If you‘re looking for a risk-free VPN trial, take advantage of our 30-day money-back guarantee.

Frequently asked questions

The best VPN for smart TVs is ExpressVPN. With a huge fleet of servers across 105 countries with servers countries, you can easily stream your favorite content from anywhere without sacrificing security or privacy.

The list of smart TV devices is too large to guarantee that all of them will be able to use ExpressVPN directly. Most Android TV devices are able to run ExpressVPN’s VPN app for Android with no issues. Samsung Smart TVs cannot run VPN software, but they can use ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer service. For specific advice, contact Support or consult our guide to popular devices.

Regardless of the above, however, any device with an internet connection can connect to ExpressVPN through a VPN-enabled Wi-Fi router.

Learn about all the ways to get ExpressVPN on your TV.

No. MediaStreamer will allow your device to access content that would otherwise be blocked, but it does so without the privacy benefits of tunneling and encryption. To use a smart TV with all the protection of a VPN, connect it to a VPN-enabled router using the ExpressVPN app for routers.

Using a VPN for Netflix on your smart TV is as simple as:

  • Signing up for ExpressVPN

  • Then, either:

    • Installing VPN on your smart TV,

    • Using our MediaStreamer DNS service, or

    • Connecting to a VPN-enabled router

  • Connecting to one of our global VPN servers

  • Log in to your Netflix account, launch the Netflix app, and stream to your heart’s content!

Yes! You can directly install a VPN app on compatible smart TVs. Android TVs in particular can use the ExpressVPN app for Android.

For smart TVs that cannot install the ExpressVPN app directly, you can still use ExpressVPN by connecting your smart TV to a VPN-enabled router or using our MediaStreamer DNS service, which can help your device mask its location but does not provide the same privacy protection as a VPN.

A VPN works on smart TVs by sending your internet traffic through an encrypted tunnel that nobody can see into, including hackers, governments, and your internet service provider.

A smart TV VPN like ExpressVPN can unblock streaming apps such as Netflix, Disney Plus, BBC iPlayer, and more. Here’s how to use a VPN to access your favorite streaming services securely.

If your smart TV is running on the Amazon Fire TV or Android TV platforms, or if you are using a Roku or Apple TV, you can easily download the ExpressVPN app onto your device.

If you’re using a smart TV that isn’t compatible with a VPN app, such as a Samsung or LG smart TV, you can use our MediaStreamer service. MediaStreamer will allow your device to access content that would otherwise be blocked and also masks your location, but does not provide the full privacy benefits of a VPN.

ExpressVPN is a privacy and security service and should not be used as a means of copyright circumvention. We cannot see or control what you do while connected to our VPN, so you are responsible for complying with our Terms of Service, your content provider’s terms, and any applicable laws.

Why smart TV users love ExpressVPN

How to Set Up a Smart TV VPN (2024 Guide) (15)

I have used numerous VPN’s and did not like that they slowed my streaming down or crashed while I was in the middle of a Amazon purchase. Express is the best and I use it on my Iphone Ipad PC and Fire TV all for one low price.

How to Set Up a Smart TV VPN (2024 Guide) (16)

Apart from the obvious uses like being able to discreetly surf without trading your digital freedom, for me, an English ex pat in the USA this vpn service allows me to watch U.K. tv, the only thing I really miss from home!

How to Set Up a Smart TV VPN (2024 Guide) (17)

Most of the time I am staying outside the US, but I love watching my favorite TV series. Express VPN enables me to do it wherever I am, and I do not have to worry about 'This show is unavailable in your area' information.

Excellent Rated 4.5 out of 5 based on 23352 reviews

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How to Set Up a Smart TV VPN (2024 Guide) (2024)

FAQs

How to set up a VPN on a smart TV? ›

What you'll need to do first is to get a VPN that works on Android, if you don't have one already. Then, navigate over to the Play Store on your Google TV, search for your VPN provider's app and download it. Once you've downloaded the VPN app to your TV, sign in and connect to a VPN server.

How to setup a VPN for dummies? ›

How to Use a VPN?
  1. Download and install the PureVPN app on your chosen device.
  2. Log in using the VPN credentials provided to you through email.
  3. Select your preferred Mode (Stream, Internet Freedom, Security/Privacy, File-Sharing, or Dedicated IP).
  4. Connect to any server location.
  5. Hop on the Internet and you're set to go!
Jan 1, 2024

Is there a free VPN for smart TV? ›

Being one of the top Smart TV VPN providers, ProtonVPN supports HD and 4K streaming. You'll find its mobile/desktop apps impeccable as well, and each plan comes with 10 simultaneous connections. Better yet, ProtonVPN has a free plan. However, it's limited to 3 locations and isn't optimized for streaming.

How does VPN work on my smart TV? ›

A VPN works on smart TVs by sending your internet traffic through an encrypted tunnel that nobody can see into, including hackers, governments, and your internet service provider.

How do I install a VPN on my Samsung smart TV? ›

Samsung Smart TVs don't allow for the installation of a VPN app. You can enjoy the benefits of a VPN on your Samsung Smart TV by installing ExpressVPN on your router. You can also use a VPN while streaming on other devices—such as your phone, tablet, or computer—and cast the screen to your Samsung Smart TV.

How does VPN work step by step? ›

When the user connects to the web using their VPN, their computer submits information to websites through the encrypted connection created by the VPN. The VPN then forwards that request and sends a response from the requested website back to the connection.

Can you set up a VPN yourself? ›

Yes, you can DIY your very own VPN – but it's not easy. You have to choose a suitable device, install VPN software, and configure it for secure access. It may sound simple at first, but it requires some technical know-how, such as understanding network settings and possibly configuring your router.

Is a VPN easy to set up and use? ›

Computer novices love us

“VPN” might sound technical, but with ExpressVPN, it's a breeze. There are no network configurations to mess with. You won't need to wrestle with settings on your Mac, PC, or mobile device (smartphone or tablet). In fact, you don't need any computer skills at all.

Is there any 100% free VPN? ›

Proton VPN's free tier is the only truly free VPN we've encountered that's worth using. True, it lacks support for torrenting and doesn't include all the bells and whistles as its paid subscriptions, but Proton VPN's free tier is secure and doesn't put limits on speed, data or usage time like most other free VPNs do.

What is the best VPN for streaming on TV? ›

One of the best VPNs for streaming TV is Surfshark, because it allows unlimited simultaneous connections and is compatible with every major platform — Android TV, Fire TV, and Apple TV.

What is the best VPN for watching TV? ›

As the fastest VPN we tested, Nord is excellent for 4K video streaming. Surfshark offers the best price-to-performance ratio, with excellent speeds and streaming service support. It also has apps for tons of streaming devices, including Apple TV, Fire TV and Android TV.

What connections are needed for a smart TV? ›

Smart TVs come with built-in Wi-Fi connectivity. This allows them to provide you with a variety of streaming services and content. You can choose to connect your smart TV to the internet either wirelessly or using an ethernet cable.

What are the connection requirements for a smart TV? ›

Smart TVs connect to the internet via your home broadband, usually using wifi, but you can plug the TV into your router using an ethernet cable if they're close to each other. You need good broadband speeds to stream films and TV programmes.

Does a smart TV need Wi-Fi? ›

If you want to use streaming apps on a smart tv then you will need a wifi or ethernet connection with an active internet connection to use the apps. The TV can be used with a cable or satellite box, DVD player, antenna or game system without an internet connection.

Are VPNs legal? ›

In most jurisdictions, the use of VPNs is legal. Some countries such as the U.S. and the U.K. allow citizens to use these tools to protect their online privacy and access geo-restricted content. In contrast, many countries ban VPNs as part of broader efforts to control internet access and suppress dissenting voices.

How much does a VPN cost? ›

The average cost of a VPN typically ranges from $3 to $10 per month, depending on the subscription length and features offered.

Should you use a VPN when streaming? ›

If you primarily watch content from streaming services that are not restricted by geographical regions or you're satisfied with the content available in your region, a VPN might not be necessary. Always make sure you're using your VPN to access content through legal streaming platforms.

How do I stream TV using VPN? ›

How do you use a VPN with streaming services?
  1. Choose a VPN provider. You must choose one with servers in the region where the streaming service you want to access is available. ...
  2. Download and install the VPN software. ...
  3. Connect to a server. ...
  4. Log in to the streaming service. ...
  5. Start streaming.
Mar 19, 2024

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