Only Apple TVs with tvOS can run VPN apps, which means AppleTV HD and all generations of Apple TV 4K. Earlier Apple TVs — first, second, and third generation — do not support third-party apps. If you want a VPN for those TVs, you’ll have to get crafty. Here are some methods you can use:
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- Connect to 3200+ servers in 100 countries
- Stay safe with industry-leading encryption
- Overcome snooping and ISP throttling
How to set up a VPN for Apple TV
Install Surfshark VPN’s dedicated Apple TV app via the App Store — it’s that easy!
1. Subscribe to Surfshark
One Surfshark account allows unlimited simultaneous connections. This means you can also get a VPN for your Apple TV and other devices.
2. Download the app from the App Store
Go to the App Store on your Apple TV. Search for Surfshark VPN and download the app.
3. Log in and connect
Log into your Surfshark VPN app with the credentials you entered when you subscribed. Connect to your server of choice, or connect to the fastest server!
How to set up VPN on older Apple TVs
Set up a VPN on your router
- Check whether your router is VPN-compatible.
- Install a VPN client on your router.
- Connect to a VPN server of your choice.
For a more in-depth explanation, check our guide on how to install a VPN on your router.
Set up a virtual router with a VPN
- Get a Windows computer.
- Download and install the Surfshark app.
- Configure the VPN adapter to allow sharing and create a Wi-Fi hotspot.
- Connect your Apple TV to the hotspot.
Need a more detailed explanation? Take a look at our virtual router setup guide.
Set up smart DNS on your Apple TV
- Sign in to your Surfshark account on the Surfshark website.
- Activate smart DNS option.
- Manually enter your smart DNS address in your Apple TV’s DNS settings.
Need more help with figuring out the process? Don’t worry — we’ve got a detailed guide for enabling smart DNS on your TV.
Why should you use a VPN for Apple TV?
Online privacy is the main reason for using a VPN; the same applies to using it on Apple TV. Your activity data (for example, the shows and movies you watch) can be seen. Advertisers may run targeted ads, while bad actors could use your data for elaborate phishing campaigns.
Keep your online activities private
Get a VPN with industry-leading encryption
Why is Surfshark one of the best VPN options for Apple TV?
No activity tracking
We don’t track what you do online or keep any logs. So you can watch content on your Apple TV device or partake in any other online activities, knowing that you’re backed by a strict no-logs VPN policy.
Industry-leading encryption
A VPN service is only as secure as the encryption it uses. That’s why we use industry-leading AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption algorithms to keep your data safe at all times.
Vast server network
Surfshark has 3200+ VPN servers spread across 100 countries worldwide. This ensures that you’ll always be able to find an uncrowded server nearby, which is crucial for a fast VPN connection.
Complete digital security package
Surfshark is more than just a VPN. Even the Starter plan gets you an ad blocker and a cookie pop-up blocker. For an additional cost of less than $1/month, you can upgrade to Surfshark One, which includes Antivirus, Webcam protection, real-time breach alerts, and more.
Unlimited simultaneous connections
Whether you’re using Apple TV, your phone, computer, tablet, or any other smart device — you should never go online unprotected. That’s why Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections. It allows you to maintain an active VPN connection on all your devices without the need to count them.
Lightning-fast speeds
With modern VPN protocols and thousands of servers with 10 Gbps ports, Surfshark can maintain fast connection speeds. As a result, you can enjoy a buffer-free experience whenever you’re using video streaming services or taking part in other data-heavy activities online.
A VPN for all Apple TV generations
You can download a Surfshark VPN app on the most modern generations of Apple TV devices:
- Apple TV 4K
- Apple TV HD
You can use smart DNS or set up a VPN on your router for older Apple TV devices:
- Apple TV 3rd Gen.
- Apple TV 2nd Gen.
- Apple TV 1st Gen.
Surfshark VPN vs. free VPNs
Whether you use a VPN with Apple TV or anything else, a premium VPN will always provide better performance and more security than free VPN providers.
Free VPNs will collect and sell your personal data for money and bombard you with ads. Why? Every VPN service needs to maintain its staff and service, and it’s either your data and ads or a simple subscription.
Speaking of which, free VPNs will also impose data caps and/or speed limits to convince you to buy the premium version. Since we assume you’re using a VPN for Apple TV to enhance your streaming experience, any sort of limit on your internet is very unwelcome.
When it comes to quality and privacy, premium VPNs always beat free alternatives.
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Try Surfshark risk-free with our 30-day money-back guarantee
It’s only fair if you don’t want to commit to a VPN service without testing it first. That’s why we offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, which allows you to try Surfshark and all its features without risking your hard-earned money. If you don’t feel like Surfshark is best for you, ask for your money back within 30 days of your purchase, and you’ll get a full refund.
FAQ
Can you use a VPN with Apple TV?
Yes, you can download a VPN app on Apple TV HD or Apple TV 4K. You can do that via the App Store — just install them like any other map. Older generations of Apple TV can only use a VPN connection that is shared with them via a router or another device.
How do I activate a VPN on Apple TV?
You can set up a VPN on Apple TV in four ways:
- Download the app from the App Store;
- Set it up on the router that the Apple TV connects to;
- Use a Windows PC to set up a virtual router;
- Configure the Apple TV to use a smart DNS service.
While the last method won’t provide full VPN functionality, it will help with things like hiding your location.
What VPNs work on Apple TV?
VPNs that work on Apple TVs are the ones that:
- Can be found on the App Store on your Apple TV;
- Can be set up on your home Wi-Fi router;
- Work on Windows to set up a virtual router;
- Have a smart DNS feature.
Surfshark is compatible with all of these methods.
Is there a free VPN for Apple TV?
There are some free VPN alternatives for Apple TVs, but just because they exist doesn’t mean you should use them. Free VPNs tend to slow down your connection and are generally much less secure than premium options.
Does Surfshark work on all generations of Apple TV?
The Surfshark VPN app can be installed on Apple TV HD and Apple TV 4K (any generation). But if your TV is older (first, second, or third generation), you may set up Surfshark on your router. It will protect all devices connected to your home network, which includes any generation of Apple TV devices.
How do I change my VPN location on Apple TV?
To change your VPN location on Apple TV:
- Open the VPN app.
- Choose a server in the country you want.
- Connect to the server.
That’s it!