How to Install VPN on Android TV

Edited 4 months ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team

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In today's world, staying connected to the internet through various smart devices is a big part of our daily lives. One such device that many of us use is Android TV. Android TV is a great way to stream content from various online services, watch YouTube videos, or explore games and apps using the vast library available on the Google Play Store, specially designed for a rich television experience.

However, with the widespread use of the internet by consumers, comes a significant concern for privacy, security, and accessing geo-restricted content. This is where a Virtual Private Network (VPN) becomes important. A VPN is a tool that helps protect your online privacy and allows you to bypass regional restrictions to make the most of your online activities by securing your internet connection.

Why use a VPN on Android TV?

Before we move on to the installation process, let’s understand why installing a VPN on your Android TV can be beneficial.

• Privacy and Security: VPN encrypts your internet connection, which means your online activities remain hidden from any prying eyes, whether it's hackers, trackers, or government surveillance. This adds a layer of security to your internet connection on your Android TV device.
• Access geographically restricted content: Often, content on streaming services varies from region to region. A VPN can help you access content available in another geographic location, giving you multiple options for viewing.
• Bypass ISP throttling: Internet service providers may intentionally slow down your internet speed when you're streaming. A VPN can prevent this by hiding your online activity.

How to install and use VPN on Android TV?

Installing a VPN on Android TV is the same as installing any other app. However, there are a few nuances that need to be taken into consideration, especially for first-time users. Let’s understand the steps involved in this setup:

Method 1: Install VPN directly on Android TV

This is the simplest way to install a VPN app directly from the Google Play Store.

1. First, make sure your Android TV is connected to the internet.
2. Open the Google Play Store on your Android TV. You can usually find it on the home screen or by using the search feature.
3. In the Google Play Store, go to the search bar and type VPN, followed by the name of the VPN service you want to use (for example, 'ExpressVPN' or 'NordVPN').
4. Browse the available VPN applications. Choose a reliable application, preferably one with good reviews and a trustworthy reputation.
5. Once you have selected a VPN service, go to its application page and click the Install button.
6. Wait for the app to download and install on your Android TV.
7. After installation, return to the home screen and go to the applications section. Here you will find the installed VPN app.
8. Open the VPN application and log in with the credentials you used to sign up. If you don't have a subscription yet, you'll need to sign up for the service first.
9. Once you've logged in, the VPN application will usually provide you with a list of server locations to connect to. Choose a server you want to connect through, usually one in the region whose content you want to access.
10. Click the Connect button and the VPN will establish a secure connection.

Congratulations! You have successfully installed and activated a VPN on your Android TV. You can now browse and stream content with enhanced security and expanded access to geo-restricted content.

Method 2: Side-load a VPN app that is not available on the Google Play Store

Sometimes, a particular VPN app of your choice may not be available on the Google Play Store. In such cases, you can sideload the application. This process involves manually installing the APK file of the VPN application. This can be done like this:

1. On your Android TV, go to Settings, then Device Preferences, and find the Security & Restrictions section.
2. Enable the option of Unknown Sources. This will allow you to install apps from other places, not directly from the Play Store.
3. On a PC or mobile device, download the APK file of the desired VPN service and transfer it to your Android TV. You can use a USB drive for this purpose or use cloud storage services like Google Drive.
4. Install a file manager app from the Google Play Store on your Android TV. Apps like ES File Explorer are great for this purpose.
5. Use a file manager app to locate the APK file and select it for installation. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the VPN app.
6. After installation, the VPN app should be available in your apps menu.
7. Open the VPN app, log in or create an account, and select the server location you want to connect to.
8. Press the Connect button to activate the VPN.

This method offers flexibility if your preferred VPN service isn’t readily available on the Play Store, and gives you more options to suit your specific needs.

Method 3: Use a VPN on the router

If you want an easy setup where all devices, including your Android TV, connect to the VPN automatically, setting up the VPN on your router is a viable option. This method also eliminates app compatibility issues since the VPN function extends to every device on your Wi-Fi network.

1. Make sure your router is compatible with the VPN service. Some routers have built-in VPN support, while others can be flashed firmware like DD-WRT or Tomato for VPN compatibility. Check your router's documentation or the manufacturer's website for more information.
2. Log into your router's admin settings via your web browser. You can often access this by entering the default router IP address (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) into the browser's address bar.
3. Find the section for VPN configuration. Depending on your router model this may also be labeled as OpenVPN Settings or something similar.
4. Enter your VPN service credentials and the server information provided by your VPN provider into the router's VPN settings.
5. Save the settings and apply them. It may take some time for the connection to be established, so give it a few moments.
6. Once configured, all devices connected to your router, including your Android TV, will route internet traffic through the VPN, providing seamless privacy and access to content from different regions.

Using a VPN directly at the router level can make streaming on your Android TV a completely hassle-free experience, while keeping every other device connected to your network secure.

Conclusion

Installing a VPN on your Android TV involves several simple steps, ensuring your streaming and browsing experience remains private and unrestricted. Depending on your needs, you can install the VPN app directly, sideload an app, or extend VPN functionality through your router.

Whichever method you choose depends entirely on your needs, the availability of specific VPNs, and the nature of your network setup. Remember to use a reputable VPN service to protect your privacy and provide a stable and secure connection. Armed with this knowledge, you should be well prepared to protect all your activities on Android TV, enhancing both privacy and content access.

Please make sure you remain compliant with the terms of service of the streaming platform you use, as VPNs can sometimes go against their guidelines. Happy streaming!

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