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In today’s streaming era, Apple TV is a great choice for enjoying a wide range of digital content on the big screen. However, restrictions and privacy concerns can limit what you can watch and increase the risk of cyberattacks on your device. This is where using a VPN for Apple TV becomes important.
You can bypass these restrictions using a VPN, which hides your location and protects your data by routing your internet traffic through worldwide servers.
Given that 40% of streaming devices are vulnerable to viruses, a VPN also adds an essential layer of security. Among the top contenders, NordVPN stands out, offering Fast speeds and strong security measures that ensure smooth and secure streaming.
This guide will explore the best VPNs for Apple TV, helping you access global content and elevate your streaming experience.
All day long, people just want to relax and enjoy some shows and movies on their Apple TV, but they often feel frustrated by geo-restrictions that prevent them from streaming the content they really want to watch.
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) helps you bypass these restrictions by masking your IP address and making it appear like you’re streaming from a different location. But a VPN is capable of more features.
VPNs encrypt your internet traffic, ensuring your online activities stay confidential and protected from prying eyes. A VPN protects you from threats, so you don’t have to worry about hackers, data trackers, or your internet service provider (ISP).
A VPN is a tool for accessing your country’s streaming services while travelling overseas or exploring content available in other countries.
1) NordVPN: The Best overall VPN for Apple TV in 2024. |
2) Surfshark: The best dedicated Apple TV VPN app. |
3) ExpressVPN: Reliable Apple TV VPN compatible with many router models. |
4) PrivadoVPN: Budget-Friendly VPN for Apple TV. |
5) CyberGhost VPN: User-Friendly VPN for Apple TV. |
Without a VPN, your streaming choices are often limited. Experts agree that using a VPN with Apple TV unlocks its full potential.
Streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ offer different content depending on your location. A VPN lets you access these vast libraries, giving you content you wish for.
Expert opinions highlight that VPNs help with accessing content and improve speed and security. ISPs are known to slow your connection during peak times, but a VPN helps maintain fast streaming speeds, reducing interruptions.
Studies show that users with a VPN experience fewer buffering issues and better overall streaming quality, especially when connecting to servers closer to the content source.
Apple’s tvOS 17, released in September 2023, has been a game-changer. It introduced long-awaited features like FaceTime, a more functional control centre, and a Siri remote locator. Most importantly, it added support for VPNs, which was previously missing.
Since this update, many VPNs, including ExpressVPN and NordVPN, have launched compatible apps, with Surfshark joining in April 2024.
However, there’s still room for improvement. Most Apple TV VPNs offer basic features, like connecting to a server. Future updates might bring more advanced options, such as split tunneling and the ability to change protocols.
Now that we’ve established the need for a VPN on Apple TV, let’s delve into the specific benefits:
1. Access to Geo-Blocked Content: The most obvious advantage is the ability to access content that is restricted based on your geographical location. With a VPN, you can virtually be in any country and enjoy a wider selection of shows and movies.
2. Improved Security and Privacy: VPNs encrypt your data, protecting your online identity and personal information. This is particularly important when using public Wi-Fi or if you’re concerned about third parties tracking your streaming habits.
3. Enhanced Streaming Speed: Some ISPs intentionally slow down your internet connection when they detect heavy data usage, such as streaming. A VPN can help prevent this throttling, ensuring smooth, uninterrupted streaming.
4. Better Deals and Promotions: Sometimes, streaming services offer discounts or exclusive content in certain regions. By changing your virtual location, you can take advantage of these deals, saving money while expanding your viewing options.
Choosing the Best VPN for Apple TV isn’t just about picking the one with the best reviews. It’s about finding the one that best meets your specific needs. Here are the key factors to consider:
1. Speed: Streaming in high-definition requires a fast connection. Look for VPNs that offer high-speed servers optimized for streaming.
2. Server Locations: The more server locations a VPN offers, the better your chances of finding one that provides fast and reliable access to the content you want. A VPN with thousands of servers in dozens of countries ensures that a fast server will always be available.
3. Security Features: Not all VPNs are created equal regarding security. Ensure the VPN offers strong encryption, a no-logs policy, and advanced features like a kill switch. Premium security features are crucial to protect your data while streaming.
4. Compatibility with Apple TV: A VPN with a dedicated tvOS app is usually the best option, as it requires no complex configuration or installation. Some VPNs also offer native apps for devices like routers or smart TVs, making it easier for them to set up with Apple TV.
5. Cost vs. Value: While free VPNs might be tempting, they usually have limitations such as restricted bandwidth, slower speeds, fewer servers, and potential security risks.
Paid VPNs, on the other hand, often provide better speed, reliability, and security. Weigh the cost against the features offered to determine the best value for your money.
6. Customer Support: Look for VPNs that offer 24/7 customer support in case of any issues. Access to quick and reliable customer service can be a lifesaver, especially when dealing with connectivity or configuration problems.
For more details, you can explore our comprehensive Buying Guide before choosing a VPN.
With each passing year, it appears more difficult to remain safe online. At times, the number of cyberattacks, hacks, and social engineering attempts to steal passwords and data can seem terrifying.
Although Apple is known for its strong security, its system can’t protect users from everything. Sometimes, more powerful tools like VPNs are needed to provide complete security and stay secure.
Therefore, it is common advice to use services like virtual private networks (VPNs) and password managers to enhance online privacy and safeguard personal data.
NordVPN AppleTV is a top choice for speed and security. It offers double VPN and AES-256 encryption, protecting data across multiple servers. The NordVPN AppleTV app is user-friendly and easy to install. For a detailed analysis, check out our NordVPN review.
| Plans | Get Ultimate | Get Plus | Get Basic |
| 2- Year Plan | $ 6.99 /month | $ 4.99 /month | $ 3.99 /month |
| 1- Year Plan | $ 7.99 /month | $ 5.99 /month | $ 4.99 /month |
| Monthly Plan | $ 15.99 /month | $ 13.99 /month | $ 12.99 /month |
Surfshark is an affordable VPN that competes with more expensive options, offering great features and unlimited connections at a low cost. It’s one of the best Apple TV VPNs because it has a native app that’s easy to install and use.
Key Features:
Negatives to Avoid:
| Plans | Surfshark Starter | Surfshark One | Surfshark One+ |
| 24 – Months +3 EXTRA Months | $ 2.19 /month | $ 2.69 /month | $ 4.29 /month |
| 12 – Months +3 EXTRA Months | $ 2.79 /month | $ 3.19 /month | $ 5.09 /month |
| 1 Month | $ 15.45 /month | $ 15.95 /month | $ 17.95 /month |
ExpressVPN is the best VPN for beginners, offering reliability, strong security, and fast speeds with a 30-day money-back guarantee. It has a wide network of servers and is easy to use.
| Plans | Pricing |
| 12 Months + 3 Months Free | $ 6.67 /month |
| 6 Months | $ 9.99 /month |
| 1 Month | $ 12.95 /month |
PrivadoVPN is a newcomer yet highly rated, no-log VPN service that’s lightweight and robust. It offers fantastic speeds due to WireGuard and includes a decent free plan without speed limits.
| Plans | Pricing |
| 24 Months Unlimited VPN + 3 Free | $ 1.99 /month |
| 12 Months Unlimited VPN + 3 Free | $ 2.99 /month |
| Monthly Plan | $ 10.99 /month |
CyberGhost is the most user-friendly and cost-effective VPN option for beginners. It is straightforward, making it an excellent opportunity for new VPN users.
| Plans | Pricing |
| 2 Years + 2 Months | $ 2.19 /mo. |
| 6 Months | $ 6.99 /mo. |
| 1 Month | $ 12.99 /mo. |
We didn’t just take these VPN providers at their word; we tested them ourselves. Here’s how we did it:
1. Speed Tests: We ran multiple speed tests at different times of the day to assess how each VPN performed under various conditions.
2. Security Tests: We examined each VPN’s encryption standards, no-logs policies, and additional security features.
3. Ease of Use: We tested how easy it was to install and configure each VPN with Apple TV, focusing on user-friendliness and customer support.
4. Compatibility: We ensured each VPN was fully compatible with Apple TV, whether through a VPN-enabled router, Smart DNS, or other methods.
5. Real-World Streaming Tests: Finally, we streamed content from various regions to see how well each VPN handled geo-blocks and streaming quality.
Our Conclusions: NordVPN and Surfshark consistently performed at the top, offering the best balance of speed, security, and ease of use.
Setting up a VPN on Apple TV can seem daunting, but it’s actually quite simple with the right guide. Here are three methods you can use:
Step 1: Choose a VPN provider that supports routers.
Step 2: Follow the VPN provider’s instructions to configure the VPN on your router.
Step 3: Connect your Apple TV to the router, and you’re good to go!
Step 1: Sign up for a VPN that offers Smart DNS.
Step 2: Go to your Apple TV’s settings, select “Network,” and then “Wi-Fi.”
Step 3: Select your network and enter the Smart DNS addresses provided by your VPN.
Step 1: Install the VPN on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
Step 2: Connect to a server in the desired location.
Step 3: Use Airplay or screen mirroring to stream content from your device to Apple TV.
For a detailed guide on setting up a VPN on Apple TV using these methods and more, check out How to Use a VPN on Apple TV. I have included a step-by-step guide along with helpful screenshots.
Like any technology, VPNs can occasionally encounter problems that disrupt your Apple TV experience. From connection interruptions to streaming service blocks, these issues can be frustrating, but they’re usually easy to fix with a few troubleshooting steps.
Here’s how to resolve some of the most common VPN issues on Apple TV:
1) Restart Devices: A simple restart of your Apple TV and router can often resolve connectivity
issues.
2) Update Settings: Verify that all VPN settings are entered accurately. Incorrect setups are a common cause of connection failures.
3) Check Compatibility: Ensure your VPN is compatible with Apple TV and your setup method (Smart DNS, virtual router, or VPN router) is correctly configured.
4) Switch Servers: Occasionally, IP addresses linked to VPNs are blocked by streaming services. Try connecting to a different VPN server if this occurs to get a new IP address.
5) Contact Support: If the problem persists, contact your VPN’s customer support for further assistance and troubleshooting tips.
By following these steps, you can quickly overcome most VPN-related issues and resume enjoying your favourite shows and movies on Apple TV.
There are free VPN choices available, but for the best experience, we suggest utilizing a premium VPN. Here’s what you need to know:
Free VPNs can be a good starting point, but they often have limitations, such as slower speeds, fewer server options, and data caps.
PrivadoVPN offers a solid free plan with 10GB of monthly data, which can be enough for light streaming. Windscribe is another good option, offering 10GB per month and servers in 10 countries.
Free VPNs often lack the advanced security features and reliability of paid options. They may also be more likely to log your data or display ads.
Choosing the right VPN is crucial when optimizing your Apple TV streaming experience. Based on our extensive testing, NordVPN and Surfshark are the top recommendations due to their speed, security, and user-friendliness.
However, each VPN we’ve reviewed has its strengths, and the best choice depends on your specific needs—affordability, privacy, or ease of use.
With the help of a VPN, you can unlock a world of content, protect your privacy, and ensure smooth streaming on your Apple TV. So why wait?
Choose the best VPN for your needs and start streaming like never before. So make the most of it. For more information, read how to set up a Mac and install a VPN on an iPhone.
Install the NordVPN or Surfshark app to watch Netflix on your Apple TV without any complicated setup.
If you prefer, you can also set up the VPN on your router or change the DNS settings on your Apple TV to use your VPN provider’s SmartDNS.
Once done, download the Netflix app from the Apple TV app store, log in, and start streaming.
You can still use a VPN even if your router doesn’t support it. One option is installing third-party firmware like Tomato or DD-WRT, which might void your warranty.
To avoid that, you can use Smart DNS or MediaStreamer to bypass geo-restrictions without changing your router settings. However, it won’t give you the extra security of a VPN.
Alternatively, you can use NordVPN, which you can easily install like any other app.
No, Apple TV is a device, while Apple TV+ is a streaming service. Both are owned by Apple. The Apple TV device lets you access various streaming apps, including Apple TV+, like Netflix or Hulu.
You can watch Apple TV+ on many devices; it doesn’t have to be on an Apple TV, but you can use it there.
Most likely not. If you only need a VPN to unlock geo-blocked content, it might not be worth paying for one just for your Apple TV.
However, most VPN services allow multiple devices to connect at once, so you can also use it to protect your PC, smartphone, and other devices.
No. Since 2023, Apple has allowed third-party VPN providers to create native apps for its set-top box.
Apple introduced this feature to help businesses and schools access private networks, making Apple TV useful in more places like offices and conference rooms.
This change is also great news for consumers who want the added security and features of a VPN.
Although VPN encryption can slow your connection, top services like NordVPN work hard to keep speeds fast. Choosing a quality VPN and connecting to a nearby server can help you maintain fast streaming speeds.
