VPNs have become extremely popular because they give internet users the ultimate level of security. A VPN, short for virtual private network, encrypts your data and masks your IP address, making it borderline impossible for third parties to track your search history and more.

Additionally, a VPN allows you to bypass geo-restrictions, granting access to a wider range of streaming content from around the world. So it only makes sense that you’d want to use one on your Apple TV!

Whether you're binge-watching your favorite shows or accessing region-locked services, a VPN ensures your digital footprint remains private and your entertainment options limitless — making it an indispensable tool for any smart TV user.

Understanding VPNs and Apple TV

Adding a VPN to your Apple TV doesn’t just mean that you’re going to get access to the UK’s Netflix catalog. Many people want to install a VPN on their televisions to prevent ISPs (Internet Service Providers) from throttling their speed without telling them.

VPNs also prevent your ISP from paying attention to your search and streaming history. Your location is virtually untraceable, so you’ll have the most anonymity.

Since smart televisions are powered through an internet connection, you’re still getting tracked as if you’re using a phone or computer. So, you want to make sure you’re well protected. That’s where VPNs for Apple TV come in handy.

What is a VPN and how does it work?

Since we’ve already teased the importance of a VPN, it may be helpful to explain what it really is. The virtual private network has a range of benefits for those who work from home, want to keep their documents private, or simply want to stream content that is regionally exclusive.

If you’re worried about payment information being stolen, work emails leaking, or sensitive content on your devices, a VPN for your Apple TV will encrypt your data and safeguard it from unauthorized external parties viewing your info. It even scrambles your data into a code that is unreadable to those without an encryption key.

With a VPN, you’re basically in incognito mode. Your location will be undetectable, your information unreadable, and your options for search will be endless.

Apple TV and its internet connectivity features

Apple TV offers seamless connection features that enhance your streaming and entertainment experience. With built-in Wi-Fi connectivity and support for Ethernet cables, Apple TV ensures stable and reliable internet access. This allows you to stream content, play games, and access a variety of apps without interruption.

The device also supports advanced networking technologies such as AirPlay, enabling effortless streaming of content from other Apple devices directly to the TV screen.

And, because Apple TV integrates with iCloud, you can access your photos, videos, and music stored in the Cloud — expanding the entertainment possibilities.

Whether you're streaming the latest blockbuster movie or sharing cherished memories with loved ones, Apple TV's internet connectivity features provide a seamless and immersive entertainment experience.

The benefits of using a VPN with Apple TV

We've already gone into some of the benefits of using a VPN on your Apple TV, but we can’t get enough of how useful one can really be. Here are some essential examples of how a VPN can change your Apple TV experience for the better:

• Privacy Protection: Encrypts your internet connection, shielding your browsing activity from potential hackers and data snoopers. This includes your work and personal emails, credit card numbers, and personal information.
• Security Enhancement: A VPN provides an extra layer of security, especially when accessing sensitive information or using public Wi-Fi networks. We’ve all heard horror stories about hackers, and a VPN will help ease the worry.
• Bypass Geo-Restrictions: Allows you to access region-locked content on streaming platforms by spoofing your location. So your Netflix account just got even better.

And yes, that means you can listen to new albums even earlier than midnight.

• Enhanced Streaming Experience: Ensures stable and buffer-free streaming by bypassing ISP throttling and optimizing your connection. Faster streaming, happier viewing experience.
• Prevents Bandwidth Throttling: Helps maintain consistent streaming speeds by preventing your ISP from limiting your bandwidth based on your online activities.
• Protection for IoT Devices: Safeguards other smart devices connected to the same network as your Apple TV, such as smart cameras or thermostats, from potential cyber threats.
• Secure Remote Access: Allows you to access your home network securely while away, enabling remote control of your Apple TV and access to local content from anywhere.

Why should you use a VPN for Apple TV?

We’ve all been there (or at least know someone who has): you get a notification from your banking institution that your card has been hacked. Hundreds, sometimes thousands of dollars, have been drained from your account thanks to a data leak.

Whether you want to fully protect your credit card information or secure your embargoed work emails, a VPN has you covered. By making your data completely encrypted and unrecognizable, your information is safe on a VPN for your Apple TV.

Then, there’s the more fun reason to get a VPN: stream your favorite artist’s album early, work from wherever in the world you please, or watch your go-to British Netflix show. Since your location is undetectable with a VPN, the world is truly your oyster.

If you’ve ever grown frustrated with a football game that lags every five minutes, or a livestream that keeps buffering, having a VPN set up on your Apple TV will help fix all those pesky problems.

Your Apple TV will now have unlimited access to shows all over the globe and a completely untraceable search capability. Plus, with a seamless setup, you’ll be able to use your VPN on any Apple TV in your home — no cable guy required.

Luckily, a new version of tvOS allows you to download VPN apps directly to your Apple TV. Trusted VPN servers can now be utilized directly on your Apple TV on newer versions of tvOS like tvOS 17.

So, now that you’re ready to set up your VPN on your Apple TV, let’s talk about the simplicity of the setup.

How to set up a VPN on Apple TV?

Setting up a VPN on your Apple TV is relatively simple once you’ve found the VPN service for you. To do so, you must ensure that your reliable VPN provider is compatible with your Apple TV.

Once you’re all set, start by configuring the VPN on your router. This involves going into your router's settings through your browser of choice and inputting the VPN credentials provided by your service provider.

Alternatively, if your router doesn't support VPN configuration, you can use a virtual router or set up a VPN on your computer and share the connection with your Apple TV using network-sharing options.

After configuring the VPN on your network, you'll need to connect your Apple TV to the newly secured network. This typically involves navigating to the network settings on your Apple TV and selecting the newly configured VPN network.

Once you’ve completed those easy steps, you can stream using your VPN with no problem.

Set up a virtual router with a VPN

A virtual router helps you access VPN benefits on devices that don’t necessarily support VPNs. This is where your laptop or desktop with a VPN already installed will come in handy.

Make sure your computer is connected to Wi-Fi and enable internet sharing or create a hotspot. Then, connect your Apple TV to that hotspot or network.

Finally, activate the VPN on your computer, which will encrypt the internet traffic passing through the virtual router, thereby safeguarding all connected devices. This method effectively creates a secure VPN-enabled network, providing privacy, security, and access to geo-restricted content on your TV.

Set Up Smart DNS on your Apple TV

A Smart DNS is a service that still allows you to access geo-restricted content without the protection of your connection. If you chose a Smart DNS instead of a regular VPN, setting it up is still super simple.

Go to your network settings on your Apple TV and enter the DNS server addresses provided by your Smart DNS. If you do this and don’t immediately see changes, restart your Apple TV.

From there, you’re ready to start streaming as if you’re anywhere in the world! Say goodbye to geo-restrictions and hello to a vast collection of entertainment.

How to select the best VPN for Apple TV?

Choosing the best VPN for Apple TV involves considering several key factors to ensure optimal performance and compatibility with your devices.

It’s important to prioritize VPN providers with a large server network. Premium VPNs will allow you to stream all over the world, regardless of the location. It’s also important to take note of the locations where you wish to access geo-blocked content, so you can see if the VPN service reaches that area.

Look for VPNs that support router installation or offer Smart DNS features. These methods enable VPN use on devices like older Apple TVs, ensuring you’ll always have access to your VPN no matter what device you’re using.

If you like high-quality, seamless streaming, you must opt for a VPN with a fast and stable connection speed to avoid buffering. Security features such as strong encryption protocols, a no-logs policy, and automatic kill switches are essential for safeguarding your online privacy.

You should also consider extremely important factors like pricing, customer support availability, and simultaneous device connections to ensure the VPN aligns with your budget and usage needs. After looking through all this criteria, you can confidently select the best VPN to enhance your Apple TV experience while maintaining security and privacy.

Top VPNs for Apple TV

Surfshark:

• Unlimited simultaneous connections
• One of the most affordable, with plans starting at $2.29 per month
• Wide server network with 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries
• Strong encryption and a strict no-logs policy
• CleanWeb feature blocks ads, trackers, and malware
• Supports P2P and torrenting
• User-friendly apps and 24/7 customer support

NordVPN:

• Large server network with 5,400+ servers in 59 countries
• Advanced security features like Double VPN and Onion over VPN
• No-logs policy audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers
• CyberSec feature blocks ads and malware
• Dedicated IP option available
• Easy-to-use apps with 24/7 customer support

ExpressVPN:

• High-speed servers in 160 locations across 94 countries
• TrustedServer technology ensures data privacy
• MediaStreamer feature for streaming on devices like Apple TV
• Split tunneling allows you to route some traffic through VPN while leaving the rest unaffected
• Strong encryption and no-logs policy
• 24/7 live chat support and user-friendly apps

ProtonVPN:

• Strong emphasis on security and privacy with a strict no-logs policy and Swiss jurisdiction.
• Server network with servers in 50 countries, ensuring access to geo-blocked content.
• Secure Core feature routes traffic through multiple servers for enhanced anonymity.
• Offers a free plan with limited features and paid plans with more advanced features.
• Supports P2P and torrenting.

CyberGhost:

• User-friendly interface with dedicated servers optimized for streaming and torrenting.
• Large server network with 7,000+ servers in 91 countries, providing fast and reliable connections.
• Strong encryption and a strict no-logs policy for enhanced privacy.
• Includes ad and malware-blocking features for added security.
• Allows for simultaneous connections on multiple devices.

Windscribe:

• Free plan available with limited data allowance, and paid plans offering unlimited data.
• Supports split tunneling, allowing you to choose which traffic goes through the VPN.
• Wide server network with servers in over 110 cities across 63 countries.
• Strong encryption and a no-logs policy for privacy protection.
• Provides customizable security features like a firewall and ad blocker.

Each of these VPN providers offers unique benefits, so the best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize security, streaming capabilities, or budget-friendly options, there's a VPN provider that suits your requirements.

Frequently asked questions about VPN for Apple TV

We’ve answered all your burning questions about VPNs for Apple TV below!

Can I Use A VPN on Apple TV?

Yes! You can access your VPN on an Apple TV through the steps provided above.

Do all VPNs work on Apple TV?

No, not all VPNs are accessible on Apple TV. Many free versions of VPNs don’t have an app or any ability to connect to a router in order to access the VPN on your Apple TV.

All Apple TV versions don’t support VPN apps, either, but you can set up your VPN other ways. However, the VPN app is the easiest way to access your VPN on your Apple TV if accessible.

Do I Need a VPN for Apple TV?

You don’t necessarily need a VPN for your Apple TV…but you won’t be guaranteed encryption of your data and information, you won’t be able to jump over geo-restrictions and access all of your favorite out-of-range entertainment, and you may experience ISP throttling.

A VPN is here to help make your Apple TV experience even better.

What is the best free VPN for Apple TV?

While we wouldn’t recommend a free VPN for your Apple TV, many of the premium providers like Surfshark, NordVPN, and more offer free trials.

How Do I Change Countries On My VPN?

If you’re using your VPN app, simply scroll to the country you want to utilize. It’s really that easy.

If you aren’t using an app, change the VPN settings through your virtual router interface.