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

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ExpressVPN is the best VPN for smart TVs.

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  • Access sites and securely watch video from anywhere
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  • 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 do you set up a VPN on a smart TV? ›

How to install a VPN on most Smart TVs
  1. Sign up for a suitable VPN. ...
  2. Search for your VPN in the Google Play Store. ...
  3. Log in and connect to a server in the required country. ...
  4. Open the region-locked app you'd like to use and play a video.

Is there a free VPN for smart TV? ›

Proton VPN — Best Smart TV VPN With a Free Plan

You can connect to multiple locations on your Android TV through Proton VPN.

How do I use a VPN to watch TV? ›

Using a VPN for streaming is simple. All you need to do is download your preferred VPN service and connect to a server located in the country from where you want access to streaming content. Then just navigate to the streaming service's app or website and start streaming as you normally would.

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!
Jun 25, 2024

Should I use a VPN on my smart TV? ›

Whether you want to avoid ISP throttling, keep your streaming activity private or access geographically limited content, adding a VPN to your smart TV can reap some major benefits. And you can easily set up VPN on your smart TV in just a few steps.

How do I share my VPN connection on my smart TV? ›

The resourceful way to share your VPN with your smart TV
  1. Go to Settings -> Network & Internet -> Mobile hotspot.
  2. Click on Edit to set a network name and password for your hotspot.
  3. Select Wi-Fi under Share my internet connection over.
Mar 17, 2024

Is there a completely free VPN? ›

Without data restrictions, Proton VPN is the only service that could be a true, daily driver free VPN. However, the limited server options means that you ideally want to be in or relatively close to the countries where servers are offered.

Are VPNs a good idea? ›

A VPN will hide the contents of your web traffic from some observers and can make it harder for you to be tracked online. But a VPN can, at best, provide only limited protection against the threats you're most likely to encounter on the web: malware, social engineering scams, and phishing sites.

How much does a VPN cost? ›

The average cost of a VPN is between $2 and $18 per month, depending on your subscription plan and extra features. You can save a significant amount of money by choosing a long-term plan.

Can Netflix ban you for using VPN? ›

Will Netflix Ban Me If I Use a VPN? While Netflix has a ban against VPNs and proxy servers, it's perfectly legal to use VPNs on Netflix; it just may not work. Netflix has specific licensing agreements with TV shows and movies, meaning that they're only allowed to offer them to certain audiences, divided by country.

Where is the best VPN location for streaming? ›

5Which countries are best for VPN server locations? Switzerland, Iceland, Estonia, Canada, Singapore, Spain, the UK, Panama, Romania, and Germany are considered the best countries for VPN server locations due to strong privacy laws, advanced internet infrastructure, and minimal content restrictions.

Are VPNs legal? ›

Are VPNs legal to use? Yes, VPNs are legal in most countries around the world, including the US, Canada, and most of Europe. However, you might risk heavy fines or even imprisonment for using a VPN in a country that bans it, for example, North Korea or Iraq.

How do I setup a VPN step by step? ›

Steps for setting up a VPN
  1. Step 1: Line up key VPN components. ...
  2. Step 2: Prep devices. ...
  3. Step 3: Download and install VPN clients. ...
  4. Step 4: Find a setup tutorial. ...
  5. Step 5: Log in to the VPN. ...
  6. Step 6: Choose VPN protocols. ...
  7. Step 7: Troubleshoot. ...
  8. Step 8: Fine-tune the connection.

How do I use VPN for the first time? ›

  1. If you haven't already, add a VPN.
  2. Open your device's Settings app.
  3. Tap Network & internet. VPN. ...
  4. Next to the VPN you want to change, tap Settings .
  5. Turn Always-on VPN on or off. If you've set up a VPN through an app, you won't have the always-on option.
  6. If needed, tap Save.

What to do before using VPN? ›

How to use a VPN?
  1. Choose the right VPN. Firstly, you need to choose a VPN service provider. ...
  2. Pay for a VPN subscription and sign up. Once you've chosen the VPN service provider, you'll have to purchase a subscription plan before starting to use the services. ...
  3. Download the VPN app. ...
  4. Set up and start using the VPN.
Jan 12, 2024

Are there free VPNs? ›

3. Windscribe Free. Windscribe offers the most features of any free VPN, and its Chrome extension is one of the very best, free or paid. However, awkward apps will put off beginners, and the paid plan can't match Proton VPN if you do upgrade in the future.

What is the best free VPN for streaming? ›

Best Free VPNs for Streaming — Full Analysis (Updated 2024)
  • Editor's Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days. Tested July 2024.
  • Try Proton VPN > protonvpn.com.
  • Try Avira Phantom VPN > www.avira.com.
  • Try hide.me VPN > www.hide.me.
  • Try Hotspot Shield > www.hotspotshield.com.
Jun 26, 2024

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