How to Download a VPN on Most Devices

Downloading a virtual private network (VPN) onto your device is one of the easiest steps you can take to secure your online identity. A VPN will hide your browsing activity and IP address from hackers, doxxers, and other bad actors. Best of all, you can use a VPN on any device in your household.

Ready to take control of your online privacy and security? We’ll guide you through how to download the best VPNs on your main operating systems, smartphones, streaming devices, and routers, with ExpressVPN as our example. Whether you're new to VPNs or just adding one to a new device, we've got you covered.

How to download a VPN on your computer’s operating system

Imagine locking your front door when you leave home to keep intruders out. Think of a VPN as that digital lock for your computer. We’ll teach you how to download and set up a VPN on Windows, macOS, and iOS.

Windows

Here’s how to download ExpressVPN on Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, and Windows 11.

1. Sign in to the ExpressVPN account dashboard.
2. Enter the verification code sent to your email.
3. Now, hit Download for Windows. Don't close this browser window; you'll need the activation code during setup.
   
4. Double-click the downloaded file on your computer.
   

   

   
   

5. When asked to install the app, hit Install.
6. When prompted, click Sign In and paste the activation code you got earlier.
7. Then, tap Continue.
8. To set up a VPN connection, tap the On button. ExpressVPN will automatically suggest the best server for you.

As soon as you spot the Connected message on the app screen, you know you’ve properly installed your VPN on Windows.

macOS

Here’s how to install and use a VPN on your Mac.

1. Sign in to the ExpressVPN account dashboard.
2. Check your email for a verification code and enter it when prompted.
3. From your dashboard, select Download for Mac. Don’t close this browser window; you’ll need the activation code during setup.
4. Find the downloaded file on your computer and open it.
5. A pop-up window will say, “This package will run a program to determine if the software can be installed.” Click Continue until you reach the Installation Type screen.
   

   

6. After determining where to install ExpressVPN on your device, click Install.
7. If you've used ExpressVPN on your Mac before, you might see an options screen. Select Keep an existing account if you're using the same activation code as before, or choose Remove existing account if you have a new activation code and click Continue.
8. Once the installation is finished, click Close.
   

   

9. When the app opens automatically, click Sign In and paste your activation code.
10. Then, click Sign In.
11. If you’re asked to add ExpressVPN IKEv2 for VPN configurations, click Allow to continue.
12. To connect to a server, click the On button. ExpressVPN will suggest the best location for you by default.

You’ll know ExpressVPN is working once the app says Connected.

Linux

To install ExpressVPN on Linux, follow these steps:

1. Sign in to the ExpressVPN setup page.
2. Check your email for a verification code and enter it when prompted.
3. Select your Linux operating system from the drop-down menu on the right.
4. Click Download and select Save File. Don’t close this browser window; you’ll need the activation code during setup.
5. Go to your Downloads folder and locate the installer file.
6. Right-click the installer file.
7. Select Open with Other Application > Software Install > Select.
8. Click Install.
9. Enter your password, then click Authenticate.
10. Once the installation is complete, open the Terminal and run the command: expressvpn.
    

    

    
    

11. For the command line install for the app, in the Terminal window, run this command: cd ~/Downloads/
12. If needed, use the command line installation:
    For Ubuntu/Debian/Mint: sudo dpkg -i [installer filename].
    For Fedora: sudo dnf install [installer filename].
    For Arch: sudo pacman -U [installer filename].
13. To activate the app, open a new Terminal and run: expressvpn activate.
14. Paste the activation code (it won't display on the screen) and press Enter.
15. Choose whether to share anonymized diagnostic reports (Y for yes, N for no).
    
16. In the Terminal, run: expressvpn connect. (ExpressVPN will choose a server location based on speed and proximity if it's your first time connecting. Otherwise, it will connect to your last-used server.)

    

    
    

Once connected, you'll see a green "Connected to..." message by default, and a notification will confirm the connection.

How to download a VPN on your mobile device

Your smartphone is like a personal assistant, always by your side. But did you know you can make it more secure with a VPN app? Read on to learn how to download a VPN on iPhone and Android.

Android

Here’s how to set up a VPN on Android:

1. On your Android device, go to the ExpressVPN setup page and sign in.
2. Enter the verification code sent to your email.
3. Under ExpressVPN for Android, tap Get it on Google Play.
4. In the Google Play Store, tap Install, then tap Open once it’s ready.
5. Once the app is open, tap Sign In.
6. Enter your email and password, then tap Sign In.
7. Choose whether you want to share anonymous diagnostics with ExpressVPN.
8. Approve connection requests by tapping OK and OK to continue.
   

   

    
9. To connect to a VPN server location, tap the On button. ExpressVPN will suggest the best location by default.

Once you see the Connected message on the app screen, you're all set to browse.

iOS

Here’s how to install ExpressVPN on iOS devices:

1. Go to the Apple App Store and enter ExpressVPN in the search bar.
2. Tap GET to download the ExpressVPN app.
   After the app is installed, tap OPEN to launch it from the app store screen.
3. On the app's welcome screen, tap "Sign In."
4. If you didn't purchase your ExpressVPN subscription from the app store, enter the email address and password associated with your ExpressVPN account and tap Sign In.
5. If you bought your ExpressVPN subscription from the App Store, tap restore your App Store subscription. You may be prompted to enter your Apple ID password.
6. Next, you'll see a statement on the information collected by the ExpressVPN app. Tap Agree and Continue to proceed.
7. Once you're invited to set up your VPN app, tap Continue.
   

   

8. A pop-up will ask if you’d like to add VPN configurations. Tap Allow when prompted.
9. Use your Touch ID or enter your device passcode to add the VPN configurations.
10. ExpressVPN will also ask if you’d like to receive notifications. Select OK or No Thanks to continue. If you agree to receive notifications, tap Allow.
11. The app will also ask if you'd like to share anonymous analytics. Select OK or No Thanks to continue.
12. To connect to a VPN server location, tap the On button. ExpressVPN will suggest the best location by default.

Once you see the Connected message on the app screen, that's it! You've successfully learned how to set up a VPN on your iPhone.

How to download a VPN on your smart TV

If you're looking to level up your smart TV experience, consider adding a VPN app to the mix. A VPN can boost your online security, ensuring your streaming activities remain private. It can also help you access shows and movies that might not be available in your location. Keep reading to see how to install a VPN on various smart TVs.

Amazon Fire TV

The ExpressVPN app works with all versions of Fire TV and 2nd generation or newer Fire TV Sticks. Here’s how to download a VPN app on Fire TV:

1. On your Fire TV, navigate to the magnifying glass icon.
2. Enter ExpressVPN in the search bar and select it from the results.
3. Hit Download.
4. Once installed, open the app and select Sign In.
5. Enter the email and password associated with your ExpressVPN account, then tap Sign In.
6. The app may ask if you want to share anonymous information to improve ExpressVPN. Choose OK or No Thanks to continue.
7. When prompted to accept ExpressVPN's connection request, tap OK.
   

   

   
   

8. To connect to a VPN server location, tap the On button. ExpressVPN will suggest the best option by default.

Once you see the Connected message, your Amazon Fire TV will be completely set up.

Android TV

Installing a VPN app on Android TV is simple. Follow the instructions below:

1. On your Android TV, find the Google Play Store.
2. Search ExpressVPN in the Play Store search bar.
3. Select ExpressVPN from the search results.
4. On the ExpressVPN app page, choose Install.
5. After installation, select Open to launch the app.
6. Inside the ExpressVPN app, select Sign In.
7. Enter your email and password associated with your ExpressVPN account, then select Sign In.
8. You may be asked if you want to share anonymous data to improve ExpressVPN. Select OK or No Thanks.
9. Then, select OK to configure the app.
10. When asked to accept ExpressVPN connection requests, choose OK.
    

    

    
    

11. To connect to a server, click the On button. ExpressVPN will suggest the best server by default.

You’ll know you’re connected when you see the green Connected button light up.

Apple TV

Here’s how to install ExpressVPN on Apple TV:

1. Go to the ExpressVPN DNS settings page and enter your account credentials.
2. Enter the verification code sent to your email.
3. Click Register my IP address under IP address registration. If it's already registered, there's no need to do it again.

   

   
   

4. Toggle on Automatically register my IP address to keep it updated automatically.
5. To get your MediaStreamer IP address, visit the ExpressVPN setup page and hit Sign In.
6. Enter the verification code sent to your email.
7. On the right, you'll find the MediaStreamer DNS server IP address. Keep this info close by, as you’ll need it later.
8. On your Apple TV, go to Settings > Network.
9. In the Network menu, choose your active connection (typically Wi-Fi).
10. In the Wi-Fi menu, choose your Wi-Fi network.
11. From the connection’s settings menu, scroll down and pick Configure DNS.
    

    

12. Choose Manual in the Configure DNS options.
13. On the manual DNS input screen, enter your MediaStreamer DNS IP address.
14. To apply the DNS change, you must restart your Apple TV.
    

By now, you've successfully set up MediaStreamer DNS services on your Apple TV, allowing you to access geo-blocked content with ease.

Kodi

Here’s a step-by-step on how to download a VPN on Kodi for macOS. Before you begin, make sure you have an active ExpressVPN subscription and Kodi installed on your Mac device.

1. Download and install the ExpressVPN app for Mac.
2. Launch the app and click on the More icon (three dots).
3. Connect to your preferred VPN server location.
4. Verify your connection by checking your IP address.

Now, your Kodi is VPN-connected.

How to download a VPN on your router

Wouldn’t it be great to secure all the devices in your home with a single move? Installing a virtual private network on your router creates a protective shield for every device connected to your Wi-Fi network. Plus, it simplifies the process, eliminating the need to configure VPNs on each individual device.

Here’s how to download a VPN on your router (we used ExpressVPN and Linksys for this tutorial):

1. Visit the ExpressVPN website and choose your Linksys router model.
2. Click Download Firmware. Keep the browser window open since you'll need the activation code later.
3. Make sure your Linksys router is on, connected to the internet, and that your device is connected to the Linksys router.
4. In your web browser, enter 192.168.1.1 (IP address for a new router that has not been set up yet).
5. Enter your router's password (the default is admin) if prompted.
6. Go to the router's admin panel and select Connectivity.
   

   

7. Click Choose File.
8. Choose the ExpressVPN firmware you downloaded and click Start.
   

   

9. Confirm any notifications and allow the router to reboot after successful installation.
10. Connect your device to the VPN router using Wi-Fi or a LAN cable.
11. Note that the network name may initially appear as your default Linksys router's Wi-Fi name.
12. Once connected, you'll see the setup screen for the router with ExpressVPN.
13. If it doesn't appear, visit expressvpnrouter.com, select Get Started, and follow the instructions.
14. Make a note of your new Wi-Fi name and password, as well as your router's password.

You’ve officially set up ExpressVPN on your Linksys router. If you’re interested in a deeper step-by-step guide, check out how to set up a VPN on a router.

Why you should download a VPN

There are many reasons to use a VPN. Here are three major reasons why downloading a VPN can enhance your online experience:

1. Enhanced privacy: When you download and use a VPN, your internet connection is encrypted, which can help protect you from throttling, cyberattacks, and more.
2. Anonymous browsing: A VPN hides your IP address, making it nearly impossible for websites and advertisers to track your online behavior.
3. Unblocking geo-restrictions: Ever wanted to watch a TV show or access a website that's only available in another country? You can change your server to another country and access that content.

Although not all VPNs are created equal, these three service providers have reputations for enabling speed, privacy, and security:

• ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, away from any intelligence-sharing agencies, and it has a strict no-logs policy that’s been audited by a third party. It uses AES-256 encryption and offers the IKEv2, OpenVPN, and Lightway VPN protocols.
  Extensive Server Network Provides Protection Wherever You Go

  

  4.6

  AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

  Editorial Rating

  Learn More

  On ExpressVPN's website

  VPN

  ExpressVPN

  BLACK FRIDAY: Save 61% + 6 months extra

  • Hides intrusive display ads when browsing the web, improving page speed and easing data usage on mobile
  • Privacy and safety benefits of a VPN with best-in-class encryption and innovative server technology in 105 countries
  • Enjoy no activity logs, malicious sites and trackers protection, and more on up to 8 devices

  Read Our ExpressVPN Review

• NordVPN: NordVPN has a large server network of 6,800+ servers and allows up to 10 simultaneous device connections. Its security features include obfuscated servers and the AES-256-GCM encryption algorithm with a 4096-bit DH key for extra protection.
  Customizable Coverage That is Simple to Use

  

  5.0

  AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

  Editorial Rating

  Learn More

  On NordVPN's website

  VPN

  NordVPN

  BLACK FRIDAY: Up to 72% off + 3 free months

  • Ultra-secure, high-speed VPN complete with malware protection and automatic blocking of intrusive ads and third-party trackers
  • Other benefits include a premium password manager, dark web monitoring, and access to IP-restricted content
  • 3 plans to choose from for custom protection on up to 10 devices

  Read Our NordVPN Review

• Surfshark: With Surfshark, you can connect an unlimited number of devices at one time. This VPN provider has 3,200+ servers, offers the WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN protocols, and uses AES-256 GCM encryption.
  Unlimited Device Protection and Large Server Network

  

  4.8

  AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

  Editorial Rating

  Learn More

  On Surfshark's website

  VPN

  Surfshark

  BLACK FRIDAY: Starting at $1.99/mo + 4 months extra

  • All-in-one VPN app with 24/7 protection thanks to 3,200+ servers in 100 countries
  • Real-time malware defense, webcam protection, alternative ID creation, ad blocking, and more
  • One subscription covers unlimited devices for your entire household with access to 24/7 support

  Read Our Surfshark Review

Remember, the VPN you choose should align with your specific needs, whether it's speed, security, or unblocking capabilities.

FAQs on how to download a VPN

Bottom line

VPNs are powerful privacy tools that everyone should have. From increased privacy and security to accessing blocked information and content, VPNs provide many benefits — especially for people under tight surveillance or censorship laws. 

VPNs are also easy to install and use. It’s as simple as three steps: choose a VPN service, install the app, and connect to a server. You can use our guide for the other details specific to each device.

Now that you understand how to download a VPN and why they're so useful, you can explore our guide on the best VPNs to help you make an informed choice and find the right VPN for your needs. By following the steps in this article, you’ll be one step closer to becoming a VPN pro.