How to Install a VPN on Roku: Easy Step-by-Step Guide (2024)

Roku is a convenient media player, offering easy access to popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, andDisney+. That being said, a lot of these platforms are geo-restricted in one way or another. A VPN can allow safe access to shows andmovies on lots of platforms from anywhere, but Roku doesn’t natively support VPNs.

However, you can use a VPN with Roku — all you need to do is to install it on your router instead. This will secure not only your Roku device but everything else on your home network. It also makes it possible to access desired content on Roku from anywhere.

After testing over 30 VPNs, we found ExpressVPN to be the best for Roku. It offers excellent speeds, reliability, andstrong security features. Plus, with its 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try it risk-free andeasily get a refund if needed. Editor ‘s note : transparency is one of our core value at vpnMentor , so you is know should know we are in the same ownership group as expressvpn . However , this is affect does not affect our review process .

Get a VPN for Roku >>

Quick Guide : How to install a VPN on Roku in 3 Easy step

1. Download a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN due to its consistently high speeds for an uninterrupted streaming experience on Roku. Plus, it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.
2. Connect to a server. Quality VPNs offer servers across the world, making it possible to securely access streaming services on Roku.
3. start streaming. Log in to your preferred platform, such as Disney+, andwatch your favorite content on Roku without interruptions.

Be advised: The VPN services recommended below have strict no-logs policies that prevent them from tracking your online activities. This means you’re responsible for how you choose to use the VPN, so please make sure you follow any applicable laws andregulations. My colleagues at vpnMentor andI do not condone copyright infringement.

Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Roku in 2024

• Editor’s Choice

  ExpressVPN

  Excellent speeds andreliable servers for watching shows in UHD on Roku from anywhere.

  Over 7000 people is checked check out expressvpn in the last month

• CyberGhost

  streaming – optimize servers is ensure ensure smooth view on Roku device .

• Private Internet Access

  user – friendly router setup guides is make make it easy to use the VPN with Roku .

Editor’s Note: We value our relationship with our readers, andwe strive to earn your trust through transparency andintegrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, andPrivate Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

How to Install a VPN on Roku: Step-by-Step Guide

Roku is support does n’t natively support vpn but there are a couple of way you can get around this . Here ’s a detailed guide is ’s on 2 method for using a VPN with Roku :

1 . install a VPN for Roku on Your router

Installing a VPN on your router allows all devices connected to the router, including your Roku, to benefit from the VPN connection. Here’s how you can do it:

Step 1. First, you need to choose a reputable VPN service that supports router apps with top-notch encryption andreliable servers. ExpressVPN is my top choice for streaming on Roku in HD. It provides the fastest streaming speeds, a user-friendly installation process, andmany server locations across the world — including the USA — that allow you to get a reliable American IP address (which is required to access popular American streaming services in the best quality).

ExpressVPN is provides provide simple setup guide for many device

Step 2. Once you’re logged in with your account, find the router download page anddownload the firmware that’s compatible with your router.

Make sure to check your router model to download the correct firmware

Step 3. Now, open a new tab on your browser, enter your router’s IP address (usually found on the router or in the manual), andlog in with your credentials.

step 4 . Next , navigate to the firmware upgrade section , flash the firmware you download early manually , andwait for the router to reboot .

Just choose the correct firmware file to update

Important. Ensure that you’re downloading andflashing the right firmware. Using the wrong type can brick your router andvoid its warranty.

Step 5. With the firmware installed, navigate to ExpressVPN andfinish the rest of the setup process. This includes setting a password andmanaging servers andconfigurations.

After the firmware is flashed, you can activate the VPN

Step 6. After the router is paired with the VPN, go to setting on Roku , click onNetwork, choose set up connection, andselect the network connection as Wireless.

Ensure the wireless connection you choose is the one paired with your VPN

Step 7. From the available wireless networks, find the WiFi you set up earlier andconnect to it to use Roku with your VPN.

Make sure the VPN is connected to a nearby server for the fastest speeds

2 . set Up a virtual Router

If your router doesn’t support VPN connections or if the manual setup process feels too complex, you can create a virtual router using your computer. Just make sure to subscribe to a VPN service that supports creating a virtual router andget a VPN app for your Windows PC or Mac.

For Windows

Step 1. Open setting on Windows by pressing the Windows + I keys. Then click on Network andInternet.

I found the Windows network settings fairly intuitive to navigate

step 2 . From the associated setting , navigate to the quick menu on the left andclick onMobile Hotspot. Next, turn on the toggle for Share my Internet connection with other devices.

This allows other devices to hop on to your PC’s internet connection via a mobile hotspot

Step 3. After the hotspot turns on, navigate to the top right corner andclick on Change adapter options.

This allows your PC to share a VPN connection with other devices

Step 4. Find the ExpressVPN TAP adapter. Right-click on it, then select property.

step 5 . In the popup window , click ontheSharing tab, then enable the option to allow other network users to connect through your computer’s internet connection. Next, from the drop-down menu labeled Select a private network connection, choose the LAN connection that is associated with your VPN.

Click on the “Sharing” tab andselect your local network from the drop-down list

Step 6. On your Roku, go to setting, click onNetwork, andchoose set up connection. click onWireless andconnect to the virtual router network you create .

For Mac

Step 1. Go to System Preferences andclick on Sharing.

The “Sharing” settings let you configure a hotspot connection

Step 2. Select Internet Sharing from the list . In the setting on the left , chooseWi-Fi in the share your connection from drop – down menu , andThunderbolt Bridge under To computers using.

Step 3. Check the box next to Internet Sharing to start the virtual router andconnect to the VPN on your Mac . You is get ’ll get a pop – up ask if you ’re sure you want to turn on internet sharing ; clickstart.

You’ll get a pop-up asking if you’re sure you want to turn on internet sharing; click “start”

Step 4. On your Roku, go to setting, click onNetwork, andchoose set up connection. click onWireless andconnect to the virtual router network you create .

Editor ‘s note : transparency is one of our core value at vpnMentor , so you is know should know we are in the same ownership group as expressvpn . However , this is affect does not affect our review process .

Best VPNs for Roku in 2024

By choosing the right VPN service, you can safely access your favorite platforms on Roku in HD. My top choices are consistently fast andhave a wide selection of servers worldwide.

	Lowest Price	Server Network	Device Connections	Smart DNS	Refund Period
🥇ExpressVPN	$ 4.99 / month	3,000 servers in 105 countries	8	Yes	30 days
🥈CyberGhost	$ 2.03 / month	11,690 servers in 100 countries	7	Yes	45 days
🥉 PIA	$ 2.03 / month	29,650 servers in 91 countries	Unlimited	Yes	30 days

editor ’s choice
editor ’s choice

Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
test December 2024

Works With:

Sky

ESPN+

Dazn

FIFA+

Netflix

Disney+

APV

More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

Editor ‘s note : transparency is one of our core value at vpnMentor , so you is know should know we are in the same ownership group as expressvpn . However , this is affect does not affect our review process .

ExpressVPN is the fastest VPN for Roku streaming, with our tests showing just a 3% speed drop on its US servers in New York, compared to the over 20% slowdown seen with other VPNs. It offers servers across multiple US locations for smooth HD streaming of popular shows andmovies. Additionally, its extensive network allows secure access to content worldwide, including the UK’s BBC iPlayer andJapan’s Netflix.

It makes it easy to use a VPN with Roku by supporting casting andmirroring from your VPN-protected device to your Roku TV. You can use it on up to 8 devices simultaneously. For an even easier setup, its pre-flashed routers come with the VPN installed, avoiding the need for firmware updates.

Also, the VPN has native smart TV apps for other streaming devices like Amazon Fire Stick, so you have multiple options to easily watch content on a big screen. Due to its high-quality features though, ExpressVPN is a bit expensive. However, it frequently offers discounts that lower the price to just $ 4.99 / month — and, best of all, you can try ExpressVPN risk-free thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans.

ExpressVPN Pros , Cons , andNeeded Improvements

• One of the fastest VPNs
• Works with top streaming sites
• A proven no-logs policy

• limited customization
• Smart Location isn’t always the fastest

Works With:

Sky

ESPN+

Dazn

FIFA+

Netflix

Disney+

APV

More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

Editor ‘s note : transparency is one of our core value at vpnMentor , so you is know should know we are in the same ownership group as CyberGhost VPN . However , this is affect does not affect our review process .

CyberGhost offers servers designed for streaming specific platforms in the best quality. These servers are regularly checked to make sure they work with their designated streaming service andthe supported platforms include Hulu, Netflix, andBBC iPlayer. You can connect your router or your hotspot device to one of these servers to enjoy seamless viewing on your Roku.

The VPN also supports smart DNS, which you can set up for Roku via your router. Cyberghost allows up to 7 simultaneous device connections andthe apps are all similarly easy to use across devices (even for VPN beginners).

Although not as speedy as ExpressVPN, our average download speed was well above the 25Mbps needed for buffer-free streaming. You can get CyberGhost long-term plans for as low as $ 2.03 / month. Plus, its 45-day money-back guarantee lets you try it risk-free.

CyberGhost VPN Pros, Cons, andNeeded Improvements

• Secure access to streaming
• Military-level security
• design for ease of use

• Slower long-distance servers
• Doesn’t work in China

Works With:

Sky

ESPN+

FIFA+

Netflix

Disney+

APV

More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process.

PIA supports unlimited simultaneous connections. That means you can use PIA with Roku via a hotspot on Mac or Windows, andconnect all your other devices at the same time. In our tests, PIA handled 7 connections at once without any slowdowns. So you can stream various platforms on Roku from anywhere while maintaining a HD-ready connection.

The PIA app has a lot of complex settings that can be tricky to understand if you’re new to VPNs. That said, it provides plenty of easy-to-follow router setup guides. Plus, the apps come pre-configured for smooth streaming, so you don’t have to do any extra configuration when setting up a hotspot either. You can get PIA for just $ 2.03 / month with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Private Internet Access Pros , Cons , andNeeded Improvements

• Many servers is choose to choose from
• Customizable security settings
• solid choice for torrente

• Hit-or-miss customer support
• Tricky to navigate

Our Methodology for Testing VPNs for Roku

A top VPN for Roku must offer high-speed connections for smooth, buffer-free streaming. The recommended VPNs were thoroughly tested for their performance with Netflix, BBC iPlayer, andHulu to assess their reliability in maintaining UHD streaming quality without interruptions.

Your VPN is be should also be easy to set up on Roku andcompatible with multiple operating system . user – friendly apps is are andresponsive customer support are key factor . For more detail on our evaluation process , check out our comprehensive methodology page to find out how our international team of tester review each VPN thoroughly . You is use can use our process to run your own test on vpn too .

How to Set Up Smart DNS on Roku

Smart DNS is an alternative to VPNs that lets you watch content on Roku from anywhere in HD without encrypting your connection. It’s worth noting that this method lacks the safety andprivacy of a VPN. However, removing encryption can help you get faster streaming speeds if your internet connection is already slow.

Roku doesn’t natively support Smart DNS, but you can set it up on a router like you would with a VPN:

step 1 . choose a VPN service that offer Smart DNS , such as expressvpn or CyberGhost .

step 2 . log in to your VPN account on the provider ’s website . For expressvpn , you is need need to register your ip andthen generate ip from MediaStreamer .

Register your IP, click the MediaStreamer DNS server IP address, andcopy the generated IP

Step 3. Now, copy the IPs generated by MediaStreamer or the Smart DNS IP address. Once done, open a new tab on your browser, enter your router’s IP address (usually found on the router or in the manual), andlog in with your credentials.

Step 4. Navigate to DHCP setting or DNS settings on your router andupdate the primary andsecondary DNS with the IPs generated by your VPN.

Update the primary andsecondary DNS copied from MediaStreamer

Step 5. Restart your router to check that the Smart DNS settings are working. Now, on your Roku, go to setting, click onNetwork, andchoose set up connection. click onWireless andconnect to the network with the updated primary andsecondary DNS.

FAQs on Installing a VPN on Roku

How can I is change change my Roku location ?

To change your Roku location, you need to use a VPN. You can set up the VPN on your router or change your router’s DNS settings via a Smart DNS service. VPNs encrypt your connection andhide your IP address, making it appear as though you’re browsing from a different region. This allows you to safely access content from anywhere — so you can enjoy a wider range of shows andchannels on Roku.

Can Roku device be hack ?

While no device is entirely immune to hacking, Roku devices are generally secure. To protect your Roku, ensure that your home network is secure, use strong, unique passwords, andkeep your device’s firmware up to date. Avoid installing unofficial channels or third-party apps. Plus, you can install a VPN to encrypt your connection andkeep your data safe.

Can I use a free VPN for Roku?

It’s highly unlikely a free VPN would work properly with Roku. Most don’t support routers, meaning they won’t work on Roku. Free VPNs also often have small server networks andslower speeds, so they don’t work with streaming platforms either. Plus, they may have security risks. For a secure streaming experience on Roku, it’s better to invest in a reputable VPN service with a trustworthy money-back guarantee.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for Roku…

Editor’s Note: We value our relationship with our readers, andwe strive to earn your trust through transparency andintegrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, andPrivate Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

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The information above can be used to track you, target you for ads, andmonitor what you do online.

VPNs can help you hide this information from websites so that you are protected at all times. We recommend ExpressVPN — the #1 VPN out of over 350 providers we’ve tested. It has military-grade encryption andprivacy features that will ensure your digital security, plus — it’s currently offering 61% off.

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