How to set up a VPN on your TV

Why would you want a VPN on your TV?

Installing a VPN app on your TV can have significant perks for both your viewing experience and online privacy. Here’s why you should consider it:

1. Enhanced privacy and security: when streaming content, ISPs (Internet Service Providers), advertisers, and hackers can easily track your data. With a VPN, your connection gets encrypted, ensuring your viewing habits stay private.
2. Reduced risk of bandwidth throttling: ISPs tend to slow down your bandwidth when they detect heavy streaming. Encrypting your TV traffic with a VPN significantly reduces that risk.
3. Safe use of public Wi-Fi: some cities offer city-wide public Wi-Fi, and if you ever connect your TV to one, it’s crucial you have a VPN set up. Public networks are notorious cybercriminal playgrounds; without extra protection, it’s extremely easy for them to intercept your data.
4. Access your home content abroad: if you own a streaming device like a Chromecast or a Fire Stick, you might be tempted to take it with you when you travel. But using your home device is not enough to feel at home — you still need to be able to connect to a server in your home country. With a VPN, you can access news apps and services on your TV just like you would from your couch.

In essence, a VPN not only enhances your options while traveling but also ensures your online activities remain private and secure. With a good VPN such as Surfshark, you get a reliable, easy-to-use, and highly effective service.

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 install a VPN on a smart TV

The process of setting up a VPN on your smart TV can vary in complexity depending on its operating system. Nevertheless, it might be easier than you think, even if you’re not super tech-savvy. 

Method 1: If you have an Android TV, just download an app

If you have an Android TV, the simplest way to set up a VPN is to download the app directly from the Google Play Store. This method is straightforward and requires no additional devices or complex configurations.

1. On your Android TV, go to the Google Play Store.

2. Use the Search function to find the VPN app.
3. Click on the Install button to download and install the VPN app on your TV.
4. Open the app and log in to your VPN account.
5. Select a server location and connect.

6. Your TV is now protected!

Method 2: Install a VPN on your home router

If your TV doesn’t support Android, fret not — installing the VPN directly on your home router is the most comprehensive solution anyway. This method protects all devices connected to your network, providing seamless security across your home.

1. Check if your router is compatible with your VPN. Surfshark’s website has a list of compatible routers.
2. Access your router’s admin panel through your web browser. The router’s internal address is usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1, but this may vary.
3. The router will ask you for your username and password. To ensure you remember them, add them to your password manager. 
4. Follow your VPN client’s setup guidelines. This usually involves entering Surfshark server details and your account information. See Surfshark’s instructions for Asus, DD-WRT, and Tomato routers. 
5. Once the router is set up, any device connected to it, including your TV, will be protected by Surfshark VPN.

Method 3: Set up a VPN-protected Wi-Fi hotspot (on Windows)

Setting up a VPN-protected Wi-Fi hotspot is a convenient option, as it allows you to share your VPN connection from your computer to your TV. However, note that this method only works on Windows since macOS cannot share and receive Wi-Fi simultaneously, and VPN providers no longer support the L2TP/IPSec protocol.

1. Press Windows Key + S, type in Mobile hotspot settings, and press Enter.

2. Turn the mobile hotspot on.

3. Scroll down under Related settings and click Change adapter options.

4. Right-click on your VPN’s internet connection and press Properties.

5. On the top left corner of the window, click the Sharing tab and tick the Allow other network users to connect through this computer’s Internet connection box.

6. Choose your newly created hotspot in the drop-down menu below and click OK.
7. Connect your smart TV to your newly created Wi-Fi hotspot, and you’re good to go!

Method 4: Set up a VPN via an Ethernet cable

Connecting your TV to a VPN via an Ethernet cable is another effective method, and it works on both Windows and macOS devices.

1. Download and install the VPN app on your PC or laptop.
2. Use an Ethernet cable to connect your TV to your computer (note that you’ll need a special adapter for that if you’re using a MacBook).
3. On your computer, go to Network settings, select the VPN connection, and enable sharing. Make sure your TV is set to use the wired connection.
4. Launch the VPN app on your computer and connect to a server. Your TV will now use the VPN-protected connection.

How to install a VPN on a non-smart TV

If you have an older, non-smart TV, you can still enjoy the benefits of a VPN by using a streaming device — a small gadget that plugs into your TV, typically via an HDMI port.

Chromecast with Google TV

Not all Chromecasts come with Google TV. Third-generation and earlier Chromecasts functioned solely as casting devices and required a smartphone or PC to operate. The newer Chromecast model, however, allows you to install apps and stream content directly from the device. So, if your Chromecast device supports Google TV, you can directly install your VPN app.

1. Open the Google Play Store on your Chromecast, click Search, and type in the name of the VPN app.
2. Click on the app and press Install.
3. Open the app, log in with your account details, and connect to a server.
4. Once connected, your Google TV traffic will be routed through the VPN.

Amazon Fire Stick

Installing a VPN on an Amazon Fire Stick is equally straightforward — you can download the app directly from the Amazon Appstore, as long as your VPN provider supports it.

1. Go to the Amazon Appstore on your Fire Stick and search for Surfshark VPN.
2. Click on the Surfshark VPN app and install it.
3. Open the app, log in to your Surfshark account, and connect to a server. 
4. Your Fire Stick is now protected by Surfshark VPN.

Apple TV 4K

Since Apple TV doesn’t directly support VPN apps, you’ll need to set up the VPN on your home router. This setup ensures that all your Apple TV traffic is encrypted and secure.

1. Configure the VPN on your home router (as described earlier).
2. Ensure your Apple TV is connected to the VPN-protected router.
3. With the VPN active on your router, all your Apple TV traffic is encrypted and safe.

Roku

For Roku devices, creating a VPN-protected Wi-Fi hotspot on your Windows PC is the way to go.

1. Create a VPN-protected Wi-Fi hotspot on your Windows PC (if you’re not sure how to do this, refer to the previous section).
2. Go to Network settings on your Roku and connect to the hotspot.
3. Your Roku device will now route all traffic through the VPN.

Nvidia Shield

With Nvidia Shield, you can easily download and install the Surfshark VPN app from the Google Play Store, just as you would on Google TV or Android.

1. Go to the Google Play Store on your Nvidia Shield and search for the VPN app.
2. Click on the app and install it.
3. Open the app, log in to your account, and connect to a server. 

Quick fix: use smart DNS on a smart TV

Smart DNS (Domain Name System) will allow you to quickly improve the streaming experience on your TV without installing a VPN. While it doesn’t offer the full privacy benefits of a VPN, it’s a great quick fix.

Here’s how to get smart DNS up and running with Surfshark:

1. Sign up or Sign in to your Surfshark account.
2. Go to the My Account page on the Surfshark website. Under the VPN menu, find the option to turn on smart DNS. Click Activate smart DNS.

3. Pick either one of the two DNS addresses displayed.

Note: The following steps may vary depending on the brand and model of your device.

4. Now go to Menu on your smart TV, followed by Settings and Network. 
5. Find Manual setup for your IP (Internet Protocol) address and DNS configuration.
6. When prompted, enter any of the two DNS addresses displayed in your VPN account.
7. Restart your smart TV.

Enjoy seamless streaming with a VPN on your TV

Now that you know how to set up a VPN on both smart and non-smart TVs, you’re ready to enjoy a more secure and versatile streaming experience. Time to sit back, relax, and make the most of your TV with the added protection of a VPN.

Happy streaming!

FAQ

Can you put a VPN on a smart TV?

Yes, you can put a VPN on a smart TV, but it depends on the TV’s operating system. If your TV supports Android, you can download the VPN app directly; otherwise, you can use alternative methods like setting up a VPN on your router.

How do I use a VPN on my Samsung TV?

Since Samsung TVs come with Tizen OS that doesn’t directly support VPN apps, you’ll need to set up a VPN on your router or use a VPN-protected Wi-Fi hotspot. This way, all the devices connected to your network, including your Samsung TV, will benefit from the VPN’s protection.

Which smart TVs have VPN apps?

Amazon Fire TV, Google TV platforms, and Android TV support VPN apps. Smart TVs such as Apple TV, Roku, Samsung, Vizio, and LG also have VPN options. 

Should I use a free VPN on my smart TV?

Using a free VPN on your smart TV isn’t recommended because free services often have speed, bandwidth, and security limitations. A paid VPN service is usually better for the best protection and performance.

Can I use a VPN to stream content?

Yes, you can use a VPN to stream content securely by encrypting your connection, which helps protect your privacy. Additionally, if you’re traveling abroad, a VPN can allow you to access your favorite news apps and services as if you were still in your home country.