Security

How to Set Up a VPN on Android TV Box in 2024

By Novak Bozovic / July 11, 2022

Did you know that your Android TV box has hundreds (if not thousands) of hidden apps? Aside from games and utility apps, there's also a way to unblock new streaming apps. That's done using a VPN service, which needs to bring a native app for your TV box and be capable enough to support media streaming. And, of course, you need to learn how to set up a VPN on your Android TV box, which is precisely what we'll show you in this guide.

Since your device has access to the Google Play Store, the process of installing a VPN is quite simple (as is the process of keeping your VPN app up-to-date). With that said, keep reading to learn about the easiest way to start using a VPN on your Android TV box.

How to Set Up a VPN on an Android TV Box

To install a VPN on your Android TV box, you first need to pick a capable-enough VPN. Then, you can download it from the Play Store. Just go through the following steps:

1. If you’re not yet a VPN subscriber, sign up for ExpressVPN, our #1 recommended VPN. (You can also try it risk-free for 30 days.)

2. When you land on the VPN's website, pick a subscription plan.

3. Input your email address and pay for the chosen subscription plan. 

ExpressVPN Sign Up Form

4. Once done, expect to receive a confirmation email from ExpressVPN’s team. 

5. Now, turn to your Android TV box. Make sure to start from its home screen. 

Tip

The following images depict the interface of Google TV, available on select Android TV boxes. However, considering that Android TV boxes run on vastly different versions of Android, you can expect your device’s interface to be somewhat different than what you'll see below. Still, the general procedure is always the same. 

6. Find the Play Store app. Use its search functionality to look for "ExpressVPN."

ExpressVPN Among Search Results on Android TV

7. You should now see ExpressVPN among the search results. Select its icon (card). 

8. At this moment, you should see ExpressVPN’s overview. Use the "Install" button. 

Installing ExpressVPN on Android TV

9. The VPN app will now download and install. Once done, pick "Open."

Launching ExpressVPN on Android TV

10. Once the app opens, select "Sign In" to access your ExpressVPN subscription. 

11. Provide your email and password and select "Sign In" once again. 

Entering Login Credentials on Android TV

12. Choose whether to share anonymous logs and data with ExpressVPN. 

Data Logging Prompt on Android TV ExpressVPN

13. When asked to "Set Up Your VPN," click "OK."

Setting Up VPN Profile of ExpressVPN on Android TV

14. A pop-up will appear with a connection request. Pick "OK" once again. 

VPN Connection Prompt on Android TV

15. At this moment, ExpressVPN’s home screen will appear on your TV screen. 

16. To connect to the closest server available, press the ON/OFF switch. 

VPN Session Active on Android TV

17. To disconnect at any moment, press the ON/OFF switch again. 

18. Select the button below the ON/OFF switch to pick a custom server. 

Picking Specific Server ExpressVPN Android TV

19. Browse the available servers via the "Recommended" and "All Locations" tabs. 

Browsing All Available Servers on Android TV ExpressVPN App

20. Once you pick a server, ExpressVPN will connect you automatically. That’s it!

Final Thoughts

As you can see, the most challenging part of setting up a VPN on your Android TV box is picking a VPN worth your time and money. That's why we'll remind you that ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Android TV available right now, checking all the right boxes.

You can get started with ExpressVPN in under a few minutes. On top of that, new VPN features reach Android TV every couple of months, making ExpressVPN an excellent option in the long term. Also, you can try ExpressVPN risk-free for 30 days.

To learn how to get started on other platforms, check our central guide on setting up a VPN (we made sure to cover 60+ platforms in that guide).

FAQ

Can I Install a VPN on an Android TV Box?

Yes, you can install a VPN on your Android TV box quite easily. The only requirement is to use a VPN that offers a native Android TV app via the Play Store.

Do VPNs Work on Android TV Boxes?

Yes, VPNs work on Android TV boxes, which come in all shapes and sizes. However, to get the best experience, we recommend using a certified Android TV box.

Certified Android TV boxes are approved by Google, which means they have full access to Google's Play Store (used to download, update, and maintain your apps).

Uncertified Android TV boxes might have intermittent access to the Play Store, which can cause issues with VPNs as well as other apps. So, we don't recommend using those.

How Do I Set Up a VPN on My Android TV Box?

The easiest way to set up a VPN on your Android TV box is to download it from the Play Store. But first, make sure to pick a VPN that brings that option.

Our recommendation is to use ExpressVPN, which is incredibly easy to install and use. On top of that, ExpressVPN will help you unblock new Android TV apps, stabilize your Web connection, and ensure your privacy is protected.

How Do I Open a VPN on Android TV?

Once you get a VPN from the Play Store, that app will download and install locally on your device. To open the VPN app, navigate to your "App Drawer."

Android TV comes in many different editions and variations, so it's impossible to say where the "App Drawer" is located in your specific case. However, it should be found on your device's home screen by default.

How Do I Use a VPN with IPTV on Android TV?

To use a VPN with IPTV on your Android TV, make sure to connect to a VPN server before you launch your IPTV app. That's how you'll unblock new channels.

More precisely, if you want to access US-based TV channels, you need to open your VPN and connect to a server found in the United States. Then, open your IPTV app. You should have full and unrestricted access to those TV channels and their live streams.

That would be all on how to set up a VPN on an Android TV box. If you have any questions for us, make sure to post them just below. And finally, thank you for reading!



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