If your smart TV runs on Android or you have an Android TV box, you can use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to increase your security.
A VPN encrypts your internet connection, protects your online privacy, and prevents activity-based bandwidth throttling on video traffic from your streaming services.
But how do you get started? Follow this guide to learn how to set up an Android TV VPN and how to choose a reliable VPN provider.
Why use a VPN on Android TV?
Using a VPN on your Android TV or Android TV box helps you achieve the following:
Encrypt your Android TV traffic
A VPN for Android TV encrypts all your streaming and app activity, so your ISP (Internet Service Provider), router owner, or another person on the same Wi-Fi network can’t see what you’re watching or what services you’re using.
This encryption helps protect viewing habits from being monitored or logged at the network level.
Reduce ISP throttling while streaming
Some ISPs slow video traffic or specific streaming services. A VPN makes your traffic harder to classify, which can help with activity-based bandwidth throttling. As a result, streaming speeds on your Android TV may remain more consistent during peak hours.
All your traffic will look the same to your ISP, so they won’t be able to selectively slow down your connection.
Mask your IP address
Connecting through a VPN switches your original IP (Internet Protocol) address with your VPN server’s IP address. This limits how apps and websites can pinpoint your location.
With a VPN, it’s much harder for third parties to tie your online activity to a specific home network or use IP-based tracking when you’re watching your Android TV.
Stay safer on shared Wi-Fi
If you use your Android TV on a Wi-Fi network that you share with others, a VPN gives you an extra layer of privacy against snooping and rogue devices.
The risk of other users intercepting or monitoring your traffic is greatly reduced.
Disclaimer: Please note that using Surfshark services for any illegal activities is strictly forbidden and violates our Terms of Service. Make sure that any use of Surfshark services for your particular activities conforms to all relevant laws and regulations, including those of any service providers and websites you access using Surfshark.
How to set up a VPN on Android TV
The easiest and safest way to set up a VPN on an Android TV or Android TV box is from the Google Play Store. Other methods are available, so here are step-by-step instructions for setting up an Android TV VPN via the most common options using Surfshark VPN as an example.
How to install a VPN from the Google Play Store
- Open the Google Play Store on your Android TV.
- Search for the Surfshark VPN app and install it.
- Log in using your account credentials or a QR code.
- Select Quick-connect to connect to the fastest VPN server available.
Going through the Google Play Store offers the broadest compatibility across devices and ensures you’re getting the maximum security benefits a VPN can offer.
How to install a VPN on a router
- Log in to your router’s admin panel.
- Type the router’s IP address into your browser and log in to the configuration panel.
- Configure your router’s VPN settings by following the instructions provided by your chosen VPN service. Surfshark offers simple guides for specific router brands.
- See if the connection works by connecting to your network and verifying that your IP address has changed.
- Connect your Android TV to the router’s Wi-Fi network to have all your streaming go through the VPN.
How to manually install a VPN
You can use an APK file to manually install Surfshark VPN on your Android TV or Android TV box if you can’t download the app from the Google Play Store. Note that only the WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols will be available when using an APK file.
- Go to Security and restrictions on your Android TV and enable Unknown sources.
- Download the Surfshark VPN APK file and install the app.
- Log in to Surfshark.
- Select Quick-connect to connect to the fastest VPN server available.
Disclaimer: The last two methods require greater technical knowledge and are recommended only for advanced users. Limited VPN features may be available on your Android TV or Android TV box.
What to look for in a VPN for Android TV
Not every Android TV VPN will give you the same experience. If you want the best tool, make sure you choose a service that offers all of the following features:
Native Android TV app
A true Android TV VPN should have an app that installs directly from Google Play. While router and manual connections are technically possible, setting them up can be difficult for some users.
For the simplest streaming, find a provider that just needs a single download, without any extra hardware or complex workaround. Surfshark offers a dedicated Android TV app and a one-click Quick-connect option, so you can start streaming content in no time.
Strong encryption and privacy protection
Your Android TV VPN should use modern, battle-tested encryption and protocols that keep your streaming private from ISPs and prying eyes. Surfshark supports the WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 VPN protocols that offer a powerful mix of speed and security thanks to strong encryption ciphers (ChaCha20 and AES-256).
With Surfshark, you also get added privacy protection from a kill switch that helps prevent data leaks and a RAM-only server network that minimizes the residual data left behind once you turn off your Android TV.
Reliable streaming speeds
If you want to stream movies on Android TV, you need consistent bandwidth and low latency. A good VPN provider helps you avoid buffering and resolution drops by offering a large, well-distributed network that lets you switch servers quickly if one gets crowded.
As the fastest VPN on the market, Surfshark gives you access to 4,500+ servers in 140 locations. The provider even introduced the industry’s first 100Gbps VPN servers in 2025, highlighting that your streaming speeds are in good hands with Surfshark.
No-logs policy
A trustworthy Android TV VPN should have a clear no-logs policy that’s been independently verified. This ensures your streaming activity and connection details aren’t stored, shared, or sold.
Surfshark maintains a strict no-logs policy that’s been independently verified by Deloitte. It doesn’t collect your traffic or usage data, aligning its tech with its privacy promises.
Remote-friendly interface
On an Android TV and Android TV box, usability matters just as much as speed. Who wants to first deal with a clunky, time-consuming tool every time they want to access their streaming platforms?
Surfshark has a clean interface with simplified navigation made for the big screen. Take advantage of the Quick-connect button, auto connect on startup, and straightforward settings that can be toggled with just the TV remote. You can even use Surfshark on unlimited simultaneous devices, so the rest of your home can still stay protected while you stream.
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Get SurfsharkAre free VPNs safe for Android TV?
Free VPNs aren’t recommended for an Android TV, Android TV box, or any other device for the following reasons:
- Missing advanced features: many free options lack strong encryption or leak protection, so you might not get the secure streaming experience you expect. Others may log or sell user data or bombard you with ads to offset costs;
- Speed limits: free VPNs might throttle your bandwidth. This can cause buffering, lower resolutions, and frequent drops — especially with HD or 4K streaming;
- Data caps: free plans tend to cap your data, making them impractical for data-heavy activities like streaming;
- Smaller server networks: free options often rely on smaller server networks with fewer locations to connect to. Users typically find crowded servers, slower speeds, and less reliable connections.
In general, free VPNs might be suitable for testing out basic device compatibility, but not for your routine daily streaming. For consistent, private streaming, the best VPN for Android is a reputable paid VPN.
Experience smoother, safer streaming with a VPN
Android TV is a great choice for a smart TV. And making it even better is only a few steps away.
Improve your experience by protecting yourself with Surfshark today.
FAQ
Does Android TV support VPN apps?
Yes, Android TV supports VPN apps that are specifically designed for the Android TV platform. Many VPN providers offer dedicated Android TV apps that can be installed directly from the Google Play Store on compatible devices.
Can a VPN slow down streaming on Android TV?
Yes, a VPN can slightly reduce your internet speed because your traffic is encrypted and routed through a remote VPN server. However, a high-quality VPN with fast servers should minimize speed loss and still allow smooth access to streaming services.
Can I use one VPN account on multiple devices?
Yes, VPN providers like Surfshark let you use a single account on multiple devices at the same time. Some services have a maximum number of devices, but Surfshark allows for unlimited simultaneous connections on platforms like Amazon Fire Stick, Apple TV, and more.
Does Android have a built-in VPN?
No, Android doesn’t provide a VPN service on its own. It includes built-in VPN support at the system level, but you still need a VPN provider or app to make use of this.
