Last Updated on February 6, 2023
The Roku is one of the most versatile and easy-to-use streaming devices. It allows you to access all streaming giants, including Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, and more. You can even connect your Roku to a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to encrypt your network, opening up a world of possibilities.
Of course, using a VPN on Roku isn’t exactly intuitive. So, here’s how to use a VPN on Roku.
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Why You Should Use VPN on Roku
With the help of a VPN, you can create a new IP address. When this happens, you can access sites and services that are blocked in your region. For example, you can access content in the UK, even if you are in the US.
Whenever you use a VPN on your Roku, you will be able to sync channels and stream to many sites previously blocked from your area. So, using VPN is a great idea if you want to have more options for streaming on your Roku.
Setting up VPN on Roku
The difficult part of using VPN on Roku is that Roku doesn’t actually support VPN or smart DNS. What this means for you is that you will have to install a VPN on your router in order for it to work on your Roku. It’s sort of like adding an extra step to the process.
Even though the extra step may be a bit of a hassle, it is really convenient because it will instantly cover all devices, not just your Roku. In other words, it will extend the VPN to your laptop, phone, and any other device connected to the router.
Here’s what you’ll need to do:
1. Make Sure Your Router Supports VPN
You’ll need to ensure that your router supports or accommodates a VPN. Not every router will be able to do so. If your router supports VPN, you can move on to the next step.
If your router does not support VPN, you will have to install new firmware. Many individuals select open-source firmware, such as Tomato or DD-WRT. The process of installing this firmware deserves an article in and of itself. If done incorrectly, it can damage the router.
Another way that you can connect VPN to a router that does not adapt to it is to select a VPN that comes with a pre-configured router app. Express VPN is one of the top options, and you don’t have to worry about it damaging the router. Unless you are experienced with technology, we recommend this option.
The setup process will be different from router to router for either option. We recommend looking up instructions for your specific router type to ensure you do it correctly. Most routers follow similar processes, but they aren’t identical.
2. Set up the VPN Connection
Once you know that you can connect a VPN to your router, you will need to actually set up the VPN connection. You will need to do this using your PC or Mac. Once again, setting up the connection will depend on your router, but it should be intuitive.
Next, open up the VPN app and connect it to your Wi-Fi network. This step will differ based on your computer. Windows and Mac have different connections settings, but it should be easy to figure out how to do it. Once the Wi-Fi network is connected, a hotspot will be created. This hotspot uses the VPN, and you can connect devices to it.
4. Connect the Roku
The last thing to do is connect your Roku to the VPN hotspot. You will connect to this hotspot just as you did your other Wi-Fi connection using the Roku.
How to Use VPN with Roku?
Setting up the VPN connection is only half the battle. Once your Roku is connected, you actually have to change settings so that you can access the VPN on the Roku. Luckily, this is pretty easy, especially in comparison to the last steps.
The first thing you need to do to actually use your VPN is to make sure the VPN and Roku are set to the same location. Let’s say that you are in the United States but want to stream content from France. You will need to change your Roku settings to match the France VPN.
You may need to reset your Roku to factory settings to do this. Once you set the location on Roku, it should connect to your VPN server, just as you want it to. It is as easy as that. You can now use your Roku as normal, but you will have access to more streaming content.
What are the Best VPNs for Roku?
You will have quite a few VPN options to connect to your Roku. The most popular include Express VPN, Surfshark, NordVPN, PrivateVPN, VyperVPN, and CyberGhost.
All of these VPNs are relatively easy to install and offer reliable and safe connections.
- Express VPN – Most popular
- Surfshark – Best overall
- NordVPN – Best privacy and security
- VyperVPN – Best for budget buyers
- CyberGhost – Best for beginners
Select your ideal VPN based on your needs, budget, and requirements. Even though these VPNs are not identical, you really can’t go wrong with any of them because they are reliable and trustworthy. See our top list here.
Final Thoughts
Connecting VPN to your Roku is a great way to enhance the streaming experience. Not only will you have access to streaming content in your area, but you can access content from all around the globe from your Roku.
Since a Roku cannot connect to a VPN on its own, you will have to connect your router to the VPN instead. Even though this sounds difficult, it is relatively easy. Follow the steps above to connect VPN to your router and then set up your Roku accordingly.
We hope that this article has helped you figure out how to use VPN with Roku. Good luck and happy streaming!
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