How To Use Vpn On Apple Tv 2024 Guide

Before I show you how it is done, here’s a look at why you should consider using a VPN on Apple TV.

Why should you use VPN on Apple TV?

There are multiple benefits of installing a VPN on Apple TV:

Enhanced privacy and security: A VPN encrypts your internet connection, making it more secure and protecting your online activities from prying eyes, including advertisers and potential hackers. Access to geo-restricted content: Content streaming services, such as Netflix, Hulu, and Prime Video, offer different content libraries in regions other than yours. By using a VPN service on your Apple TV, you can change your virtual location and access the restricted content in your region. Bypass ISP throttling: Many internet service providers throttle their internet speed for certain activities like streaming. You can bypass this throttling using an effective VPN service and enjoy smoother streaming experiences.

Before starting the setup process, it’s important to subscribe to a VPN service you’d like to use for your Apple TV or Apple TV 4K. You can choose from two types of VPNs. One that has a dedicated app for tvOS, such as ExpressVPN. Or the other that offers budget-friendly plans and requires manual configuration through router settings, such as SurfShark VPN.  To learn more, you can check out our detailed guide on the best VPNs for Apple TV and pick a service that best meets your needs.

How to use a VPN on Apple TV – 4 ways

You can set up and use a VPN on your Apple TV in four ways, each of which I have explained below in detail. But I’ll begin with the easiest method.

1. Install VPN app on tvOS 17 or later

With many popular VPN companies like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and IPVanish now offering Apple TV dedicated VPN apps, using VPN on Apple TV has become easier than ever. However, you must make sure that your Apple TV or Apple TV 4K streaming device is running tvOS 17 or later. After that, all you need to do is download the VPN app on your Apple TV, launch it, and connect to your preferred server. Here’s how: 

2. Set up a VPN on your router

If you own a VPN-compatible router, I recommend you set up a VPN on your router to enhance the security of your Apple TV and access content across the globe. The advantage of setting up VPN on your router is that it not only protects your Apple TV but all the devices connected to it. To use VPN on your router, you need to first obtain OpenVPN credentials from your subscribed VPN service and manually add it or your router’s configuration panel. The process can get a bit tedious. But the steps below will help you along the way.

3. Set up a virtual router with VPN

If your router is not VPN-compatible or offers no firmware, you can create a virtual router using your Mac and connect your Apple TV to it. And don’t worry; using a virtual router won’t reduce the benefits you get with a VPN router. You’ll still get full VPN encryption and access to the entire server list offered by your VPN provider. Here’s how you can set up the virtual router with a VPN on your Mac: 

4. Set up Smart DNS on your Apple TV

Now, if your objective is to just access geo-restricted content, you can manually set up Smart DNS on your Apple TV. This will route your entire internet connection through a remote server and allow you to bypass regional restrictions.

How to disconnect VPN on Apple TV

If you want to use a VPN temporarily on your Apple TV, you can disconnect it after use. From the dedicated Apple TV app: From router:

Bonus: Use AirPlay to stream geo-restricted content on Apple TV

Want to avoid getting into the hassle of setting up Smart DNS on Apple TV or VPN on the router level? Well, you can do so and still enjoy geo-restricted content on your Apple TV if you have a VPN set up on your iPhone. Here’s how:  I have included this method as a bonus because it might not work for everyone or every streaming platform. But hey, it’s still a workaround that might do the trick for some. Keep streaming… I am sure this guide will help you set up and use a VPN on your Apple TV. Whether you want to opt for a VPN service that offers an Apple TV dedicated VPN app or are comfortable setting it up on a router level, the choice is yours.   If you encounter any issues while setting up the VPN, feel free to comment below, and I’ll happily respond.  Read more:

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