How to Set Up ExpressVPN and other VPNs on Your Apple TV
Setting up a Virtual Private Network (VPN) on your Apple TV can enhance your streaming experience by providing access to geo-restricted content and improving privacy. While Apple TV doesn’t natively support VPN apps, there are workarounds such as using ExpressVPN or other VPN services. Here’s how to set it up:
Use a VPN Router:
ExpressVPN and many other VPN providers offer custom firmware for routers or let you manually configure their service on compatible routers. By connecting your Apple TV to a VPN router, all your internet traffic goes through the VPN, including the traffic from your Apple TV.
– Purchase a router that is compatible with the VPN of your choice.
– Install the custom firmware from your VPN provider (you can find guides on their website) or configure the VPN manually.
– Connect your Apple TV to this router’s Wi-Fi network.
Use Smart DNS:
ExpressVPN offers a service called MediaStreamer, which is essentially a Smart DNS service that allows you to access geo-restricted content without encrypting your data (note: this does not provide the security benefits of a VPN).
– Sign up for ExpressVPN.
– Find the MediaStreamer DNS server settings in your ExpressVPN account dashboard.
– On your Apple TV, go to Settings > Network.
– Select Wi-Fi for wireless network or Ethernet if you have a wired connection.
– Go to Configure DNS and switch it to Manual.
– Enter the DNS settings provided by ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer service.
Share Your VPN Connection:
If you have a computer with a VPN installed, you can share its encrypted connection with your Apple TV.
For Mac:
– Connect to the desired ExpressVPN server on your Mac.
– Go to System Preferences > Sharing.
– Select Internet Sharing, choose Wi-Fi from the “Share your connection from” dropdown menu.
– For “To computers using” select Ethernet if your Apple TV is connected via cable or select AirPort if it’s connected via Wi-Fi.
– Check the Internet Sharing box and start sharing your connection.
For Windows:
– Connect your Windows PC to ExpressVPN.
– Go into Network Connections settings and find the TAP adapter for ExpressVPN.
– Right-click and select Properties > Sharing tab.
– Check “Allow other network users to connect…” box and select the home networking connection from the dropdown menu to share with Apple TV.
Use an HDMI Connection:
As an alternative, you could simply connect a laptop or desktop that is running a VPN directly to your television via an HDMI cable.
Remember, while setting up a VPN on an Apple TV requires some effort, it can greatly expand the range of content available for streaming and keep your viewing habits more secure. Always follow best practices for network security and use reputable services like ExpressVPN when accessing online content.