Apple’s media streaming device (Apple TV) is based on tvOS, which doesn't support VPN apps. However, there's nothing to be worried about, as you have several workarounds at your disposal. That means you can still set up a VPN on your Apple TV - just differently than usual, letting you unblock new media streaming apps.
When it comes to the available options, you can use a custom DNS (the most straightforward method available), install a VPN on a router, or share your VPN connection from your computer (you can use a Windows or macOS computer for that purpose).
Of course, we're here to explain all those options in-depth. Keep reading to learn more!
How to Set Up a VPN on Apple TV
To get a VPN on your Apple TV, you'll need to pick a workaround aligned with your level of technical knowledge. So, here are the 3 best ways to install a VPN on your Apple TV:
- Method #1: Set Up a VPN on Apple TV Using Custom DNS
- Method #2: Set Up a VPN on Apple TV Using Your Router
- Method #3: Set Up a VPN on Apple TV By Sharing a VPN Connection
Method #1: Set Up a VPN on Apple TV Using Custom DNS
Most VPN services feature 'SmartDNS,' letting you change your location and unblock streaming apps. Keep in mind that your data won't be encrypted that way, so it's not the same as using a VPN. However, this method is highly suitable for media streaming devices.
Here's how to configure your VPN's 'SmartDNS' and set it up on your Apple TV:
1. Start by setting up a DDNS service. So, use any Web browser to visit Dynu's website.
2. Click "Create Account" and register for a free Dynu account.
3. You'll now receive a verification link to your email inbox. Go ahead and use it.
4. If needed, log in to your Dynu account. Then pick "DDNS Services."
5. Click "+Add" to create your DDNS service.
6. Unless you have a hostname, feel free to create one (free of charge).
7. Once done, Dynu will take care of the rest of the process.
8. Install the Dynu IP Update Client to update your hostname whenever your IP is changed.
9. Next, pick a VPN with a 'SmartDNS' feature. Our recommendation is ExpressVPN. (You can try it risk-free for 30 days.)
10. Once you subscribe, return to ExpressVPN's home page and click "My Account."
11. Use your credentials to access your ExpressVPN account dashboard.
12. On the left-hand side, pick "DNS Settings."
13. Look for the field named "Dynamic DNS Registration." Input your hostname there.
14. Return to your ExpressVPN account dashboard.
15. Click "Set Up Other Devices." Then, pick "Apple TV."
16. You will see your DNS server on the right side.
17. Using your Apple TV, navigate to Settings > Network.
18. Select your Web connection and pick "Configure DNS."
19. Choose "Manual" and enter your DNS address (copy it from ExpressVPN's site).
20. Restart your Apple TV. That's it!
Method #2: Set Up a VPN on Apple TV Using Your Router
To install a VPN on your router, you need a VPN service that supports routers. We recommend using ExpressVPN, as it supports an extensive range of routers.
Keep in mind that installing a VPN on a router is a process that takes some time. It’s not an overly complicated process, but it requires your full attention and some technical knowledge.
Here's what it exactly entails:
1. Pick a VPN that supports plenty of routers, such as ExpressVPN.
2. Then, learn how to set up ExpressVPN on your router.
3. Visit your router's admin panel and ensure that you have an active VPN session.
4. Go to Settings > Network > Wi-Fi on your Apple TV.
5. Connect to your Wi-Fi network and return to Apple TV's home screen.
6. You can now use your Apple TV as if you're elsewhere.
We’ve put together a series of helpful links and articles (found below), providing highly detailed instructions on setting up a VPN on your Apple TV. So, take a look.
First, you’ll need a router that supports a VPN service. We recommend reading about how to choose a VPN router, and then you can proceed to check our hands-on recommendations.
Here are the best VPN routers overall, as well as the best DD-WRT routers right now. If you’re on a tight budget, check out the best DD-WRT routers for under $100. Â
In case you didn’t know, DD-WRT is a type of custom firmware suitable for running a VPN service. For additional info, here’s our explanation of DD-WRT.
Once you obtain your VPN subscription and a VPN-compatible router, it’s time to combine these two. To learn how this is done - here’s our freshly updated guide on installing a VPN on a router.
Method #3: Set Up a VPN on Apple TV By Sharing a VPN Connection
We will show you how to share your VPN connection by turning your computer into a virtual router. Once set up, you can connect your Apple TV to this virtual network and reap the benefits that your VPN offers.
So, here's how to set up a VPN on your Apple TV by sharing your VPN connection.
How to Share Your VPN Connection on Windows 10/11
In the past, Windows users were forced to use a command-line interface to enable this option. However, Windows 10 and 11 have an easy-to-use interface that helps you create a mobile hotspot. So, here are our step-by-step instructions.
1. You need an active VPN, so go ahead and set up ExpressVPN on your Windows PC.
2. Then, go to Start > Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Hotspot.
3. Flip the switch on your screen to activate your mobile hotspot.
4. Select "Wi-Fi" next to "Share My Internet Connection From."
5. Click "Edit" to set a new network name and password.
6. Select "Change Adapter Options" below "Related Settings."
7. Note the name of the network you created moments ago.
8. Right-click on "ExpressVPN Tap Adapter." Pick "Properties."
9. Select the "Sharing" tab and pick "Allow Other Network Users to Connect..."
10. From the dropdown menu, pick your newly created connection.
10. Finally, click "OK" to save your settings.
You’re free to connect to the newly created connection by going to your Apple TV settings. Once you do so, you’ll encrypt your Internet connection and access new types of streaming apps.
How to Share Your Internet Connection on macOS
If you use macOS, you can also share your Web connection – and then use Apple TV to get VPN-related benefits. However, remember that you need to have an L2TP/IPSec VPN connection on your Mac as a requirement.
To learn more, here's how to set up a VPN on a Mac (make sure to go through the second method mentioned there). Then, do the following:
1. Go to System Preferences > Sharing.
2. On the left, select "Internet Sharing."
3. Pick your VPN connection next to "Share Your Connection From."
4. Select "Wi-Fi" in the field that says "To Computers Using."
5. Use the "Wi-Fi Options" button in the bottom right corner.
6. Give a name to your connection and create a password. Then, click "OK."
7. Tick the box next to "Internet Sharing" to start sharing your VPN connection.
8. Return to your Apple TV and go to Settings > Network > Wi-Fi.
9. Connect to your newly created Wi-Fi network (you'll recognize it by its name).
10. Feel free to return to your Apple TV's home screen. That's it!
Final Thoughts
As you can see, it's possible to set up a VPN on your Apple TV - but not directly. That means you'll need to pick a workaround based on your level of technical knowledge. However, with a little bit of effort, it's possible to reap the benefits of encrypting your data and changing your geo-location on your tvOS streaming device.
We'll also remind you that the best VPN for Apple TV is ExpressVPN. No matter which of the workarounds from above you'll pick, you'll need a trustworthy VPN to run in the background. You can also try ExpressVPN risk-free for 30 days.
Lastly, if you'd like to extend the reach of your VPN network, check our central guide on setting up a VPN, covering more than 60 different devices and platforms.
You’ve reached the end of our guide on how to set up a VPN on Apple TV. We hope that you’ll manage to go through this procedure without any issues. However, if any problems arise, feel free to let us know by posting your comment below.