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Electronics

How to Set Up ExpressVPN on a Samsung Smart TV

Written by Novak Bozovic
Last updated May 31, 2024

Smart TVs made by Samsung can't run VPN applications. However, ExpressVPN offers a couple of workarounds that you can use. You can set up this VPN on your router, allowing you to use your VPN Wi-Fi network from any device in your household. You can also set up ExpressVPN on a Samsung TV using MediaStreamer, a SmartDNS service that lets you unblock streaming apps.

The router-based method is useful if you want to unblock non-US streaming services (like the UK's BBC iPlayer, for example). If you want to unblock US-based apps (like Netflix, Hulu, or Max, for example), ExpressVPN's MediaStreamer will do the job.

In this article, you'll learn how to set up and use ExpressVPN on Samsung TV using two workarounds.

How to Set Up ExpressVPN on a Samsung TV

To get ExpressVPN on your Samsung TV, you can choose between setting up the VPN on your router or using its SmartDNS service (MediaStreamer). Let's examine both methods in detail.

Method #1: Get ExpressVPN on Samsung TV via Router

By installing ExpressVPN on a router, you'll get this VPN to work at the source of your Wi-Fi network. Any device you connect to your Wi-Fi will receive the same VPN protection. Here's a general guide on how to get ExpressVPN on a Samsung TV via router:

1. Subscribe to ExpressVPN using your Web browser.

2. Go back to ExpressVPN's website and select 'My Account' in the top-right corner of its interface.

Accessing ExpressVPN Dashboard

3. Provide your credentials and access your online dashboard.

4. Click on 'Set Up Other Devices.'

5 Pick 'Manual Configuration' on the left side.

ExpressVPN Set Up Device Selection

5. On the right, note your OpenVPN username and password, and select a server you'd like to use.

6. Download its OpenVPN (OVPN) file to your computer.

ExpressVPN OpenVPN Username and Password

7. Click 'Select Your Device' and then pick your router's brand.

8. A new page will open with the instructions applicable to your router's brand and model.

ExpressVPN Router Selection for Manual Configuration

9. Follow the instructions on ExpressVPN's website to set it up on your router.

10. Once done, connect to your VPN Wi-Fi network from your Samsung TV. That's it!

Now that you know the general instructions, there are two things to remember. First, you'll need a router that supports VPNs. Then, you'll need to go through a lengthy procedure to set up ExpressVPN on a router. Use the link we've provided to get our in-depth guide.

Another way is to purchase Aircove by ExpressVPN, which comes pre-installed with ExpressVPN. It'll save you the hassle of manually configuring the VPN. Here's how to set up ExpressVPN on Aircove.

Method #2: Use ExpressVPN on Samsung TV via MediaStreamer

This method will instruct you to change your Samsung TV's DNS settings, routing its traffic through ExpressVPN's US servers. So, you'll get to unblock US-based apps. Here's what you need to do:

1. Subscribe to ExpressVPN using your computer and any Web browser.

2. Once you subscribe, click 'My Account' using the ExpressVPN website's main menu.

3. Provide your credentials and access your ExpressVPN dashboard.

Signing In to ExpressVPN Website

4. Click 'DNS Settings' on the left. 

5. First, click on the 'Register My IP Address' button (under "IP Address Registration"). 

6. Then, flip the switch labeled "Automatically Register My IP Address."

Registering IP Address for DNS MediaStreamer ExpressVPN
Letting ExpressVPN Automatically Register IP Address

7. Now, return one step (to the homepage of your online dashboard). 

8. Navigate to 'Set Up Other Devices' > 'MediaStreamer.'

9. Note your MediaStreamer IPs on the right.

ExpressVPN MediaStreamer Addresses

10. Turn to your Samsung TV for the rest of this procedure. Using your TV’s remote, press the 'Menu' button. 

11. Then, navigate to Network > Network Status. 

Network Status Settings on Samsung TV

12. Once your TV checks your Web connection, click on the 'IP Settings' button. 

Accessing IP Settings on Samsung TV

13. Select 'DNS Setting' and pick 'Enter Manually.'

14. Enter the string of numbers from ExpressVPN’s site. 

DNS Settings on Samsung TV
Changing DNS Settings on Samsung TV

15. To save these changes, press the 'Enter' button on your remote.

16. Then, select 'OK.' Your TV will recheck your Web connection. No errors should appear at this point. 

Network Status on Samsung TV After Changed DNS Settings

17. Finally, click 'Close' to exit the setup screen and finalize this procedure. 

Final Thoughts

Even though Samsung TVs can't run VPNs, you still have a couple of options. Among these, setting up ExpressVPN on your router is the best method. It not only enables the VPN on your router but also all other devices connected to it. However, if you're looking for the easiest option, you can use ExpressVPN via its MediaStreamer.

Aside from setting up ExpressVPN for Samsung TV, you can run this VPN on plenty more devices as well. So, make sure to check our central guide on how to set up ExpressVPN. And if you have more TVs in your household, here's how to set up ExpressVPN on any smart TV.

That would be all about how to set up and use ExpressVPN on a Samsung TV. In case of any questions or doubts, make sure to post your comments below. Lastly, thank you for reading!



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