5 Easy Ways to Set up a VPN on Your Smart TV

Installing a VPN on your smart TV can be as easy as downloading an app. You can also extend VPN protection from your router or via the Ethernet cable. But what about non-smart models?

VPNs can boost your smart TV’s security, bypass geo-blocks, and prevent data leaks. They can also stop ISP throttling by hiding your streaming traffic. A good VPN will make your TV faster, richer in content, and more secure.

Learn how to protect any TV in our expert step-by-step guides below.

Is my smart TV compatible with VPN apps?

If you have an Android TV, you can simply download VPNs from the Google Play Store. However, direct VPN installation is impossible with other smart TV operating systems. You'll need to use workarounds.

For example, Samsung's Tizen and LG's WebOS don't support native VPN apps. If you're unsure about your device, check this list of smart TVs compatible with VPNs.

In short, installing a VPN on an Android TV is straightforward. Any other smart TV OS will require an alternative approach.

How to install a VPN on your smart TV

The VPN setup process on your smart TV will depend on its model and OS. Learn how to protect your device in our step-by-step guides below.

Download a VPN app from the Google Play Store

Direct VPN installation is the easiest way to protect your smart TV. Unfortunately, it only works if your device runs on the Android OS.

Here‘s how to do it.

1. Find your VPN provider of choice on the Google Play Store. For instance, type "NordVPN" to locate their app.
   
2. Select your chosen VPN service and click Install.
3. Open the app, log in with your credentials, and connect to a VPN server of your choice.

Set up a VPN on your home router

Although more technical, setting up a VPN on your router will protect all the devices on your Wi-Fi. This includes computers, smartphones, gaming consoles, and more.

Here's how to secure your entire home network.

1. Check router compatibility: Make sure your device is on this list of routers compatible with VPNs.
2. Access router settings: Enter your router's IP address in a browser. You can usually find its IP in the manual or on the back of the router.
3. Install your VPN: Every VPN provider has a detailed guide on installing their client on a router. This often involves downloading and uploading a VPN configuration file.
4. Configure VPN settings: Upload the VPN configuration file in your router's VPN section. Enter the required details, such as your VPN account credentials.
5. Test your VPN: Connect the smart TV to the VPN-enabled network and verify the connection.

If this process sounds too daunting, you can simplify it by purchasing a FlashRouter with a pre-installed VPN. Check the best VPN routers here. A VPN router will also support better connection protocols (like OpenVPN) and stronger encryption.

Share your VPN connection via an Ethernet cable

Routers give your smart TV wireless access to the VPN-protected network. However, you can also share a VPN connection via an Ethernet cable. Ethernet is faster than Wi-Fi, which is ideal for seamless streaming.

Here’s how to share the connection.

1. Access network settings: Right-click the network icon in your system tray and select Open Network and Sharing Center.
2. Change adapter settings: This window will show your Wi-Fi connection, the Ethernet port, and your VPN's TAP adapter. Right-click the TAP Windows adapter and select Properties.
3. Share the computer's internet connection: Enable Allow other network users to connect through this computer's internet connection in the Sharing tab. After this adjustment, match the connection protocol in the VPN app (TCP or UDP).
4. Connect the Ethernet cable: At this point, you can connect your computer and smart TV via an Ethernet cable.
5. Connect to a server: When the Ethernet interface identifies the connection, open your VPN client, pick a server, and click Connect.

Use your desktop or laptop as a VPN-secured Wi-Fi hotspot

You can set up your desktop or laptop computer as a Wi-Fi access point. This turns it into a virtual router, similar to setting up a Wi-Fi hotspot on your phone. You can then share your VPN-protected connection with any device, including a smart TV.

Follow these steps to set up a Windows virtual router.

1. Enable mobile hotspot: Go to Settings > Network and Internet > Mobile hotspot, turn the mobile hotspot on, and pick Wi-Fi.
2. Define the credentials: Choose the network’s name and password.
3. Configure the adapter: Go to Settings > Network and Internet > Change adapter settings, right-click the TAP Windows adapter, and select Properties. Remember to match the protocol in your VPN client (TCP or UDP).
4. Share your connection: Enable Allow other network users to connect through this computer's internet connection in the Sharing tab. Pick the hotspot you've created from the dropdown menu. The connection tag will be Microsoft Wi-Fi Direct Virtual Adapter.
5. Connect: On your smart TV, search for Wi-Fi networks and connect to the hotspot you’ve just created.

If you're on a Mac, you must go through an extra step: Go to System Preferences > Sharing and select Internet Sharing.

How to install a VPN on a non-smart TV

You can set up a VPN on your non-smart TV with streaming devices like Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, or Google Chromecast. You can directly download VPN apps to Chromecast and Fire TV Stick from their app stores, just like with an Android smart TV.

However, Roku and Apple TV don’t support direct VPN installation. You’ll need to set up a VPN app on your Wi-Fi router or use a Wi-Fi hotspot from your computer. They can tap into that protected network and extend it to your non-smart TV.

Streaming devices can also secure smart TVs that don’t support VPN apps. This makes them highly flexible and an excellent option if you want VPN benefits without too much hassle.

Can I use Smart DNS for my smart TV instead?

A Smart DNS will change your IP and bypass geo-restrictions in your country. It’s also faster than a VPN since it doesn’t encrypt your traffic. This will result in faster streams and downloads. A Smart DNS could be a viable solution if you're on a slower network.

However, it won’t hide your online activity like a VPN would. Since there’s no encryption, your overall level of privacy will be less. So, it all comes down to your personal needs – will you sacrifice online privacy for sheer speed? We always recommend using a VPN if you have fast internet since you won’t even feel the speed drops.

What are the best VPNs for smart TVs?

After thorough testing, our experts have shortlisted NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN as the best VPNs for smart TVs. Thanks to their robust features, they’ll ensure a seamless experience on all streaming services.

• NordVPN: Known for its exceptional speed and security and offers a vast network of servers globally
  
  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: A budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise quality and provides unlimited device connections
  
  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
  
• ExpressVPN: Renowned for its lightning-fast speeds and is perfect for high-definition streaming
  
  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

Can I use a free VPN for smart TV?

While free VPNs are alluring for those looking to save money, you should use them with caution. The majority of free VPNs are simply restricted versions of their paid counterparts. They offer limited functionality and typically have capped speeds, limited bandwidth, and fewer servers.

This will ultimately hinder your streaming experience. On top of this, some may be malicious software in disguise and pose a significant risk to your online privacy and security.

We generally advise against free VPNs due to these limitations and potential security risks. However, if you’re on a budget, our best free VPNs article offers the most reliable options.

Installing a VPN for your smart TV FAQ

Bottom Line

With a VPN, you will receive enhanced privacy and unrestricted global content access. You'll just have to pick a method that works for your TV’s operating system and matches your tech skills.

Whether through direct app installations on Android TV, setting up a VPN on your router, or using alternative methods, there’s a solution for everyone.

If you want to explore the world of VPNs further and maximize your smart TV experience, go through our comprehensive guide on the best VPNs for your router. Follow our expert advice and make the most out of your smart TV.