Check Your Routers Operating System And Install Your VPN
IPVanish and most other VPN software that work on routers require that your router is running using specific router operating systems . There are two that work here: DD-WRT or Tomato. IPVanish can work with both of these router systems. However, DD-WRT has been updated more recently, while Tomato has not had a new software release since 2010. For that reason, well focus on DD-WRT.
- You will also want to install your VPN before starting, as youll be putting the VPN software onto the router rather quickly.
The chances are good that you dont have DD-WRT installed on your current router. However, theres a good chance it will work with the router you have.
Did you find your router? Click on Install Guide next to your router. DD-WRT provides a very detailed guide on how to install its software for all supported devices.
Best Free VPNs For Apple TV Quick Guide
Use Smart Dns On Your Apple TV
Some VPN services come with a Smart DNS feature. This solution is ideal for unlocking geo-restricted video content.
Smart DNS works by changing your DNS servers, but doesnt hide your IP address, nor does it encrypt your internet traffic.
You shouldnt use it if you want to protect your online security or privacy.
Using Smart DNS involves changing settings on the Apple TV device itself. This looks daunting, but its actually very straightforward.
Before you start, go to your VPN providers website. Log in and look for the address of the DNS server you need to use and make a note of it for later.
Weve used ExpressVPNs MediaStreamer as an example in the following instructions. If youve also chosen to use ExpressVPN, you can find full installation instructions in our ExpressVPN Apple TV guide.
How to Set Up Smart DNS on Apple TV:
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Nordvpn Best Overall Apple TV VPN
Since getting a VPN for your Apple TV device is all about speed and availability, there is no better VPN than NordVPN. They have long been one of the leading names in the industry and for good reason.
Using VPNs to expand your selection of streaming service options relies on your VPN being available in multiple countries.
If your VPN cannot connect to the country you want to watch TV from, then it simply will not work for you. This is what makes NordVPN so greatthey have data centres all over the world.
They are also known for having incredible speeds and security. Speed and security are two things that rarely go together that well, but NordVPNs cutting edge technology makes it work.
Cutting edge is the best way to describe them. NordVPN is able to do things no other VPN does. While it is ideal for streaming, it also serves as a good VPN for normal VPN purposes, like privacy and security. This is because of their encryption, safety features, and no-log policy.
Drawbacks
There is just one problem with NordVPN: The cost. Admittedly, you will get at least the first year heavily discounted. Some coupon codes will even give you one or more months free. But part of the reason NordVPN employs these marketing tactics is because the price of their VPN is noticeably high.
Pros
- Connects to tons of countries
- High speeds and tight security at the same time
- Good number of features
- On the more expensive side
Set Up The Dns On Your Apple TV

After registering your hostname with ExpressVPN, youll need to enter the IP address of the DNS server on your Apple TV. This IP address can be found on your VPN providers website. Follow these steps :
You have now set up your Apple TV via DNS.
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Surfshark Speed Test Data
Website: www.ExpressVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ExpressVPN has proven time and again that it can securely access pretty much anything. That includes US and UK Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Sling TV, and HBO Now/Go. Simply ask the 24/7 live chat support which VPN server to connect to for your preferred streaming channel. Over 3,00 servers are littered across 94 countries. ExpressVPN sets the gold standard for both connection speed and security. It always scores well in our speed tests and only uses the strongest encryption parameters, including perfect forward secrecy.
The provider sets the bar even higher by allowing its subscribers to utilize its smart DNS proxy service with or without connecting to a VPN. Called MediaStreamer, this service allows you to send DNS requests through a proxy service and unblock geo-locked content without actually connecting to a VPN. This is especially useful for Apple TV owners because the device does support changing the default DNS settings. More on how to set this up below.
If MediaStreamer isnt enough and you want a full VPN to use with your Apple TV, ExpressVPN also makes its own custom router firmware. If youve got a compatible router, you can flash the firmware for free. Or you can purchase a pre-flashed router directly from ExpressVPN. The router firmware is already set up to be used with any ExpressVPN server, and its far simpler to operate than the competing DD-WRT and Tomato-based firmware.
Expressvpn Apple TV: Faqs
How to Use ExpressVPN on Apple TV?
You can get ExpressVPN on Apple TV by either flashing the firmware of your existing router and get the ExpressVPN router app or simply buy the preconfigured ExpressVPN router.
Is ExpressVPN available on Apple TV?
While ExpressVPN does not offer a dedicated app for Apple TVs, they do make available a router app for setting a VPN connection on your Wi-Fi network. You can even consider getting a preconfigured ExpressVPN router.
How do I install ExpressVPN on Apple TV?
The only way to install ExpressVPN on Apple TV is to either load the manual DNS configurations. However, that does not offer VPN connectivity and encryption, so you will have to set up ExpressVPN on your router.
How do I connect ExpressVPN to my Apple TV?
The process is simple really. If you have a router, you can erase the firmware and install the ExpressVPN router app. This way, you can enjoy ExpressVPN connectivity on all internet-enabled devices, including your Apple TV!
How to connect ExpressVPN to Apple TV?
Once you get a preconfigured ExpressVPN router or download the firmware for ExpressVPNs router application, you can enjoy VPN connectivity on your Wi-Fi network. This means, all devices connected to the Wi-Fi will already be using ExpressVPN.
How does ExpressVPN work with Apple TV?
How to setup ExpressVPN DNS On Apple tvOS?
Does ExpressVPN work on all generations of Apple TV?
How do I change the DNS Settings on my Apple TV?
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Setting Up A VPN On Apple TV
Want to set up a VPN on your Apple TV quickly and easily? We recommend setting up a virtual hotspot on your laptop or PC. You can read more about this in our article about setting up a VPN on a virtual router for Windows.
You can also install the VPN directly on your router. For Apple TV, we recommend using ExpressVPN:
To learn more about using a VPN with Apple TV, read our full article below.
Many people use an Apple TV to watch movies, series, and TV. With Apple TV, you can stream online content directly on your big TV screen. Despite the nice features of the ATV, this device has some safety risks. An ATV usually uses an unsafe internet connection. However, its possible to secure your ATV by using a Virtual Private Network .
An additional advantage of a VPN is that it allows you to unlock a wider range of films and series. With a VPN , you can virtually change the location of your Apple TV so you can also watch movies and series from other countries.
Two: Update Your VPNs Smartdns Settings W/ Ddns Hostname
OK, you have your hostname from NOIP. Next, you need to update your VPNs SmartDNS settings by adding your hostname. To do this, go to your VPN provider on a desktop PC, navigate to SmartDNS settings, and locate Dynamic DNS registration add your hostname here.
This links your hostname with your VPN. We can now begin setting up the VPN on your Apple TV.
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Surfshark For Smart TV
Surfshark is an excellent, and also very affordable VPN to use with your smart TV. Surfshark is the cheapest premium VPN provider that we have tested, but offers great streaming speeds nevertheless. Furthermore, Surfshark can get you access to the US version of Netflix and with its 1040 servers in 61 countries, to tons of other geographically-restricted content as well. Moreover, Surfshark is a very safe VPN provider, which respects and protects its users privacy. After all, it has a strict no-logs policy, first-class encryption protocols and a kill switch. Surfshark works with your smart TV, by using any of the methods described in this article. As such, its the perfect way to easily and affordably enjoy safety, freedom and privacy while using your smart TV.
How To Set Up Pia VPN On Apple TV
Acquire a PIA Smart DNSIP address by using AppleTVs smart DNS technology. Add a new device is the first step. By pressing Select, you can choose the device under the drop down menu. To create a VPN connection, simply select the proper location. Your Smart DNS address will be generated after this.
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Why You Need A VPN For Apple TV
There are plenty of reasons why this award-winning VPN provider is your best choice. From securing multiple devices, to the number of servers, here are some of the reasons why you should go for NordVPN:
- Protect any Apple TV. With NordVPN, it doesnt matter which generation of Apple TV you own. Secure them all: Apple TV 4K, Apple TV HD, Apple TV 3rd Gen., Apple TV 2nd Gen., and Apple TV 1st Gen.
- Huge number of servers. NordVPN offers one of the widest server coverages across the globe. With 5,200+ servers in 60 locations you never have to worry about overcrowding.
- Lightning-fast connection. NordVPNs lightweight NordLynx protocol ensures maximum speed and minimal VPN data usage. Enjoy any streaming service on your Apple TV in complete serenity. No buffering screen will interrupt your favorite show.
- Security on any device Secure your phone, laptop, tablet, router, and IoT devices with just one account. NordVPN works on all the major operating systems and allows you to protect up to six devices.
- Try completely risk-free. Getting NordVPN doesnt immediately have to be a long term commitment. If you dont enjoy our service, you can get your money back within 30 days, no questions asked.
Plans For Business Use

If you use Apple TV in your work life then HMA is a fantastic option. Thats because the more simultaneous connections you buy, the bigger discount you unlock.
Maximum Simultaneous Connections | |
---|---|
Custom | Custom |
And if you want more than 30 simultaneous connections, HMA will create a custom plan for you, ideal for someone that loves to negotiate. With prices as lower than $3 a month per connection per month, this is a cost-effective solution to protecting your sensitive business data.
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Install Nordvpn On Your Router
Instead of just using an app, youll have to install NordVPN directly on your router. The process of installing a VPN on your router depends on its firmware, however most installations will have three steps:
Check out our guides for routers that support a VPN connection here. Read our blog post for more information about how to set up a VPN on a router and why.
Running NordVPN on your router comes with pros and cons.
Pros:
- Secures your Apple TV. Apple TV is incapable of running NordVPN on its own, so this is currently the only way to secure it. However, this also means that your VPN router will cover any other IoT devices you have at home, like security cameras or even smart toasters!
- Youre always secured. As long as your router is on, so is your VPN. Youll never forget to turn it on to secure your traffic.
- Covers everyone. Any device connected to your router will be secured. That includes guests, children, and any new devices connecting to your network.
- Expands device coverage. Ordinarily, NordVPN provides coverage for up to six devices. Thats already a lot, but putting NordVPN on your router will let you push that limit further. No matter how many devices connect to your VPN-enabled router, it still counts as one connected device! Be sure not to abuse this feature, however, as your connection speed and stability may suffer.
Cons:
Encrypt your traffic and stay private.
Connect To Apple TV Through Router
Again, it was simple to connect to HMA through our router, configuring our router to the VPN and then connecting our Apple TV to the router directly. Just make sure that the devices IP address is in the same IP subnet as the router and youll be streaming in minutes. Another option is to get a pre-configured router from FlashRouters, sold in a combination with HMA for $25 off if you spend more than $200. Thatll save you the trouble of configuring, for those with more money and less patience for tech.
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What Makes Expressvpn The Best VPN For Apple TV
Based in the British Virgin Islands, ExpressVPN is one of the most secure and fastest options available in the marketplace. It uses TrustedServer Technology for storing no logs and improving the anonymity of users online and has even been audited by Cure53 and PwC Switzerland.
For connectivity, users have access to over 3,000 servers in 94 countries and 160+ locations worldwide, with access to protective features like AES-256-GCM encryption, a no-logs policy, and RAM-infrastructure servers. You can even get a free trial for 30-days to test the product.
If you encounter any issues, you have a proactive customer service team. They provide you great assistance in selecting the suitable servers for streaming whatever content you want on your Apple TV devices, without any caps on your bandwidth or throttling, allowing you to watch content in 4k quality.
Installing A VPN On A Virtual Router
To install a VPN on your virtual router, follow the next steps:
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What Is A VPN
A VPN is a virtual private network. It is a program that acts as an intermediary between your device and the rest of the internet. This is exactly the sort of thing that Apple does not want you putting onto one of their devices. But VPNs are also incredibly popular when it comes to streaming content.
VPNs are important for devices like Apple TV because they allow you to access streaming services from other countries. The TV shown on Netflix in Australia is very different from the TV shown on Netflix in the UK, for instance. A VPN will essentially make your device appear like it is located in one or the other.