Unlock your Apple TV with a VPN and thank me later

Want to unlock more content on your Apple TV, including movies and TV shows from other countries? It’s easier than you might think.

With a VPN, you can easily bypass region restrictions and stream a wider variety of content, no matter where it’s from. Whether it’s Netflix from the UK, exclusive shows from Japan, or movies only available in Canada, a VPN lets you access it all.

Here’s how to set one up on your Apple TV and start streaming content from across the world, all from the comfort of your couch.

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Why should you use a VPN on your Apple TV?

Access region-locked content

HBO/Max

A VPN, also known as a virtual private network, essentially changes your IP address, making it look like you’re browsing from a different location.

When you use a VPN on your Apple TV, you can “trick” streaming services into thinking you’re in another country. This allows you to access content that may not be available in your home country, like UK Netflix, Canadian Crave, and so on.

But a VPN isn’t just for unblocking content. It can also keep your activity private.

Streaming without a VPN means your internet service provider (ISP) can track what you’re watching. A VPN masks your activity, keeping you safe from any prying eyes. So, if you value your privacy or just want to expand your streaming library, using a VPN is a smart move.

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How to install a VPN on Apple TV

Pocket-line / Apple

Installing a VPN on your Apple TV is easy, but there are a few different ways to do it depending on your set-top box model and whether your VPN has a native app for tvOS (Apple TV’s operating system).

Method 1: Use a VPN app on Apple TV

If your VPN provider offers an app for tvOS, this is the easiest way to get it running on your Apple TV. Here’s how:

1. Go to the App Store on your Apple TV.
2. Search for your VPN app (e.g., NordVPN, ExpressVPN, etc.).
3. Download the app and sign in using your credentials.
4. Connect to a server in the country where you want to access content.

Once the app is installed and connected, you can start streaming without any restrictions.

Method 2: Use a VPN router

If your VPN doesn’t offer an app for Apple TV, you can set it up directly on your router. This will route all of your devices, including your Apple TV, through the VPN. Here’s how:

1. Check if your router is VPN-compatible.
2. Install VPN software on your router following the VPN’s guide. (You may also need to look up your router’s guide).
3. Connect your Apple TV to the router as you normally would.

This method protects all devices connected to your router, including your Apple TV.

Method 3: Use a smart DNS service

If you don’t want to deal with a full VPN, you can use a smart DNS service, which will only change your IP address and help you access geo-restricted content without encrypting your traffic. It’s a simple and quick method, but it doesn’t offer the same privacy protection as a full VPN.

1. Sign up for a VPN service that offers Smart DNS (e.g., NordVPN, ExpressVPN).
2. Activate smart DNS in your VPN’s settings.
3. Enter the smart DNS server address on your Apple TV’s network settings.

This won’t affect your speeds as much as a full VPN and is great for streaming.

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What are the best VPNs to use?

Pocket-lint / Apple / NordVPN

Here are some top picks:

1. NordVPN

NordVPN offers a native app for Apple TV, making it one of the easiest to use. With servers in over 100 countries, you can easily access content from anywhere. It’s also one of the fastest, ensuring you don’t experience any buffering while streaming.

2. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is known for its speed and reliability. Its native tvOS app makes installation a breeze. Plus, it has a large server network, which is perfect if you’re looking to access content from all over the world.

3. Surfshark

Surfshark is affordable but still offers great value. It allows unlimited device connections, which is a bonus if you have multiple devices. It also has an easy-to-use Apple TV app, making it a solid choice for streaming from multiple regions.

4. ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN is ideal for those who care about security. It has a strong no-logs policy and is based in Switzerland, offering extra privacy protection. The app for Apple TV is easy to use, and it allows you to access content while keeping your data secure.

5. IPVanish

IPVanish offers a customizable experience, letting you tweak the settings to your liking. It has a native Apple TV app and offers unlimited simultaneous connections, so you can protect all your devices at once.

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How to use a VPN to unlock content from different regions

It’s easier than you think

Google Play Store

Once your VPN is set up on your Apple TV, you’re ready to unlock content. Here’s how you do it:

1. Connect to a VPN server in the country whose content you want to access. For example, if you want to watch UK Netflix, connect to a server in the UK.
2. Open your streaming app (like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, etc.) on your Apple TV.
3. Browse the new content available in the country you’re connected to — you’ll be able to see shows and movies that are only available to viewers in that region.

Just keep in mind that streaming services sometimes detect VPNs and block them, so try a different server if you run into issues.

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Do you need to use a VPN with Apple TV?

A VPN can help you unlock geo-restricted content and keep your online activities private. It’s especially useful if you want to access shows and movies from other countries.

Can you use a free VPN with Apple TV?

While free VPNs exist, they often come with limitations, like slower speeds and fewer server locations. They’re also not as trusted and widely used as paid VPNs like NordVPN and ExpressVPN.

A paid VPN is recommended overall. I suggest looking for a VPN with a native app for Apple TV. Surfshark is a good budget option if you want something more affordable. It starts at $2.19 a month.

Can you use a VPN to access Netflix from another country?

Yes, you can! By connecting to a server in another country, you can access Netflix’s content library for that region.

Is using a VPN on Apple TV legal?

Yes, using a VPN on Apple TV is legal in most countries. However, be aware of the terms and conditions of streaming services, as some may restrict VPN use.

What is a VPN, DNS, and smart DNS and how do they differ?

DNS, VPN, and Smart DNS each serve different purposes when it comes to how you use the internet.

• DNS: DNS is a basic system that translates website names into IP addresses, helping you access sites without needing to remember numbers.
• VPN: A VPN, however, encrypts your data and hides your IP address, giving you better privacy and security online.
• Smart DNS: Smart DNS lets you bypass geo-restrictions by rerouting your DNS queries, but it doesn’t offer the same level of security as a VPN.

If you’re looking to stream content, smart DNS might be the quickest option, but for more privacy and security, a VPN is better.

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