How to Use a VPN on Apple TV

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What tvOS 17 changed

Before tvOS 17, getting a VPN on Apple TV required either setting up the VPN on your router or using Smart DNS. tvOS 17 added native VPN Network Extension support — VPN apps can now install and run directly on Apple TV 4K just like on iPhone. This makes setup significantly simpler and gives you all VPN features rather than just IP masking.

How to install a VPN on Apple TV

Open the App Store on Apple TV. Search for your VPN provider. Download and install. Open the app and sign in. Connect to a server. The VPN now covers all traffic from your Apple TV.

Best VPNs for Apple TV

ExpressVPN has the most polished tvOS app and was among the first to release a native Apple TV VPN app. The interface is remote-friendly, auto-connects on startup, and includes MediaStreamer Smart DNS as an alternative. NordVPN released its Apple TV app in 2024 and it is well designed with SmartPlay for streaming optimisation. Surfshark's tvOS app is clean and easy to navigate with the Apple TV remote.

Smart DNS as an alternative

If your VPN does not have an Apple TV app, Smart DNS is an alternative. Go to Settings, Network, WiFi, configure DNS manually with the Smart DNS server address provided by your VPN. This gives you geo-unblocking without encryption — faster but less private. ExpressVPN MediaStreamer and NordVPN SmartPlay both work this way.

What you can unlock

With a US server: US Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Peacock, Paramount+. With a UK server: BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4. With a Canadian server: Canadian Netflix and CBC Gem. With an Australian server: Australian streaming platforms and Stan.