How to Use a VPN on Apple TV: A Step-by-Step Guide

Apple TV is a fantastic device for streaming all your favorite content, but like many smart devices, it doesn’t have native VPN support. This means you can’t directly install a VPN app on your Apple TV. So, how do you protect your privacy and access geo-restricted content? Don’t worry; there are effective workarounds! This guide will walk you through the process of setting up a VPN with your Apple TV using various methods.

Why Use a VPN with Apple TV?

Before we dive into the how-to, let’s understand why using a VPN with your Apple TV is beneficial:

• Privacy: A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, making it harder for hackers, ISPs, and other third parties to monitor your online activity.
• Access Geo-Restricted Content: Unlock streaming libraries on Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more that are not available in your region.
• Bypass Throttling: Some ISPs throttle bandwidth when they detect streaming. A VPN can help you avoid this by hiding your streaming activities.
• Enhanced Security: Especially useful when using public Wi-Fi.

Methods for Using a VPN with Apple TV

Since Apple TV doesn’t directly support VPN apps, here are the most common ways to get it working:

1. Using a Router with VPN Support
2. Sharing a VPN Connection from a Computer or Mobile Device
3. Using Smart DNS (Not Technically a VPN, but Similar)

Method 1: Using a Router with VPN Support

This is generally the most reliable and recommended method. It involves configuring your router to connect to a VPN server. This means all devices connected to that router, including your Apple TV, will automatically have VPN protection.

Steps:

1. Choose a VPN Provider: Select a reliable VPN provider that supports router configurations. Popular choices include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, and CyberGhost. Make sure to check their websites for detailed router setup guides.
2. Check Router Compatibility: Ensure your router is compatible with your chosen VPN. Not all routers support VPN connections. You might need a router that supports OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, or WireGuard protocols.
3. Flash Your Router (If Needed): Some routers require custom firmware (like DD-WRT or Tomato) to support VPNs. This is a more technical step and should only be attempted if you’re comfortable with router flashing. Refer to your router’s documentation and VPN provider’s guides.
4. Access Your Router Settings: Open your web browser and enter your router’s IP address in the address bar (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1). You’ll be prompted for your router’s username and password. Consult your router manual if you don’t know these.
5. Find the VPN Configuration Section: The location of this section varies depending on your router. Look for labels like ‘VPN,’ ‘Advanced Settings,’ or ‘Network Settings.’
6. Enter Your VPN Credentials: Input the VPN server address, username, and password provided by your VPN service. Select the desired protocol (OpenVPN is generally recommended).
7. Connect to the VPN: Save the settings and connect to the VPN.
8. Test the Connection: Go to your Apple TV and check the internet connection by opening an app or website. Verify your IP address with a website like whatismyipaddress.com to ensure you are connected to the VPN server.

Method 2: Sharing a VPN Connection from a Computer or Mobile Device

This method involves turning your computer or mobile device into a VPN-enabled hotspot and then connecting your Apple TV to it. It’s less stable than router-based VPNs but a viable option if your router doesn’t support VPNs.

Steps (Using a Windows PC as Example):

1. Connect to Your VPN: On your Windows computer, install and connect to your chosen VPN provider’s app.
2. Create a Mobile Hotspot: Go to ‘Settings’ > ‘Network & Internet’ > ‘Mobile Hotspot’. Turn the hotspot ‘On’ and note the network name and password.
3. Connect Apple TV to the Hotspot: On your Apple TV, go to ‘Settings’ > ‘Network’ > ‘Wi-Fi’ and select the hotspot created on your computer. Enter the password.
4. Test Your Connection: Make sure that the internet connection works, and then use a site like whatismyipaddress.com on Apple TV to confirm the VPN is in effect.

Note: The steps for macOS and mobile devices (Android/iOS) are similar but may vary slightly based on the operating system.

Method 3: Using Smart DNS

While not a true VPN, Smart DNS is an alternative that can bypass geo-restrictions. It doesn’t encrypt traffic but routes only specific connections through a proxy server. This is often a faster alternative to a VPN.

Steps:

1. Get a Smart DNS Service: Sign up for a Smart DNS service. Many VPN providers offer it alongside their VPN service, or you can use a standalone Smart DNS provider.
2. Locate DNS Server Addresses: The Smart DNS provider will give you two DNS server addresses (primary and secondary).
3. Configure Apple TV DNS Settings: On your Apple TV, go to ‘Settings’ > ‘Network’ > Select your connected Network (either Wi-Fi or Ethernet).
4. Configure DNS: Select ‘Configure DNS’ and set it to ‘Manual’. Enter the DNS server addresses provided by your Smart DNS service.
5. Test the Connection: Open any streaming app to test the DNS configuration, if its not working, then verify IP on your account with the Smart DNS provider.

Conclusion

While Apple TV doesn’t support native VPN apps, you can still enjoy the benefits of a VPN using these methods. The best approach depends on your technical comfort level and specific needs. For the most consistent experience, using a VPN-enabled router is usually the best route. However, the other options provide viable alternatives for enhanced privacy and access to a wider range of content. Happy streaming!