I recently downloaded NordVPN on my smart TV to get around some geo-restrictions on popular streaming services (that you probably subscribe to as well).
While I was doing it, I made some notes on the whole set up process which I’m sharing to make everyone else’s lives easier.
NordVPN – If you don’t have NordVPN then get yourself a 30-day trial and discounted paid account with my link.
Quick summary
- NordVPN enables Smart TV users to circumvent geographic content restrictions.
- Installing NordVPN on an Android Smart TV can be done directly through the app.
- Alternatives such as smart DNS or router configuration are available for other Smart TV models.
Accessing a broader range of Smart TV apps from different geographic locations can be challenging due to broadcasting restrictions.
These restrictions limit content availability by country or region. NordVPN offers a viable solution to bypass these limitations. It allows users to access their desired content from anywhere in the world by altering their virtual location.
The process of integrating NordVPN with a Smart TV varies depending on the type and model of the TV. Some setups are more straightforward than others.
For example, Smart TVs operating on the Android OS can directly install the NordVPN app, streamlining the process.
For other TV models, alternative methods such as configuring the VPN on a WiFi router or employing NordVPN’s smart DNS service are available to ensure users can successfully connect their Smart TVs to NordVPN.
Methods to Set Up NordVPN on Smart TV
Installing NordVPN on Android Smart TVs
For Android-based Smart TVs, acquiring the NordVPN application is straightforward and effortless.
Owners of brands such as Sony, Hisense, Phillips, and TCL, which operate on the Android system, can install NordVPN through these steps:
- Before installation, ensure to register for NordVPN service. This can be done on NordVPN’s official website.
- On the Smart TV, launch the Google Play Store and search for the NordVPN app.
Download and install the app onto the Smart TV.
Once the app is installed:
- Open the NordVPN application on the Smart TV and sign in with your account credentials.
- Choose a server in the desired region to establish a connection. For instance, to access U.S.-specific content on streaming services like Disney Plus or Netflix, connect to a U.S. server.
- With the connection established, you can now start the streaming application of your choice and enjoy the content.
In case of any streaming issues:
- Attempt to clear the application cache.
- Connect to an alternate server location.
- The process is designed to be user-friendly, but a comprehensive tutorial is also available for detailed instructions on installing and utilizing NordVPN on an Android TV.
Utilizing NordVPN’s SmartDNS Functionality
NordVPN offers a SmartDNS service as part of its subscription, which allows Smart TVs without Android OS to bypass regional restrictions encountered when accessing content online.
This is a particularly useful feature when apps or websites use DNS lookups to determine your location, which is typically identified through your Internet Service Provider (ISP).
With SmartDNS, you can direct DNS queries through NordVPN’s private servers, thus choosing the region for your requests. This method is faster than configuring NordVPN on a router and enables access to geo-restricted content.
However, it does not encrypt your traffic like a VPN does, therefore your device could be less secure.
NordVPN’s DNS Addresses are:
- Primary: 103.86.96.100
- Secondary: 103.86.99.100
To deploy NordVPN’s SmartDNS:
- Disconnect NordVPN on all devices you are using.
- Use the same network to connect your Smart TV and another device, such as a smartphone or computer.
- Log into your NordVPN account on the secondary device, select Services, then NordVPN, and enable SmartDNS.
- Click Activate SmartDNS. Wait a few minutes for the activation to finalize.
- On your Smart TV’s settings, manually input the DNS server addresses given above, replacing the default ones.
The configuration steps can vary based on your Smart TV model. NordVPN’s customer support is available around-the-clock for assistance.
For LG Smart TV:
- Navigate to the Settings menu.
Select Network followed by Wi-Fi Connection. - Ensure both TV and secondary device share the same network.
- Access Advanced Wi-Fi Settings, turn off IPv6, and click Edit.
- Disable the automatic DNS option, input the primary DNS, and select Connect.
For Samsung Smart TV:
- Access the TV Menu, choose Network, and review the Network Status.
- Enter the IP Settings.
- Select DNS Setting and change to Manual Entry.
- Enter the primary DNS and confirm with OK.
Verify the internet connection status on your TV.
Installing the NordVPN Application on Fire TV Devices
To set up NordVPN on your Smart TV through an Amazon Fire Stick or Fire TV device, access the NordVPN app available within the Amazon Appstore.
- Navigate to the Apps section from the home screen of your Amazon Fire device.
- Launch the Appstore, then search for NordVPN.
- Select Get, proceed to Download, and after installation, choose Open.
- Once the app opens, log in to your existing account or create a new one.
Configuring NordVPN on Your Network Device
To establish a VPN connection across all smart gadgets at home, configuring your router with NordVPN is a viable option.
This method ensures devices like gaming consoles and Smart TVs are secured under one VPN connection, essentially using it as one device in terms of connection count.
For those with experience, NordVPN provides comprehensive instructions for an array of routers including, but not limited to:
- AsusWRT
- DD-WRT
- Tomato
Additionally, for a hassle-free setup, consider a router pre-installed with NordVPN, otherwise known as a pre-flashed router, which avoids the complex setup process.
Precautions:
- Beginners may find the process challenging.
- Incorrect setup could render the router inoperative.
Ethernet-Based NordVPN Connection Sharing
To distribute a NordVPN connection via Ethernet, initiate the process on a Windows PC by ensuring that NordVPN is not active. Navigate to “Network and Sharing Center” and choose “Change adapter options.”
Identify “TAP-NORDVPN Windows Adapter”, initiate its properties, select the “Sharing” tab, and enable the option for sharing the PC’s internet connection. In the home networking connection, select “Ethernet.”
Then, link the PC to your Smart TV with an Ethernet cable, selecting the preferred VPN server location for connection.
On a macOS device, start by accessing “System Preferences” and choosing “Sharing.” Activate “Internet Sharing” and choose “Ethernet” from the dropdown for ‘Share your connection from.’ Confirm “Ethernet” is checked under the ‘To computers using’ list. Finally, connect the macOS device to the Smart TV using an Ethernet cable, ensuring you’re linked to the desired VPN server.
Configuring NordVPN on Your Network Device
To extend NordVPN coverage to devices that may not support VPNs directly, users can distribute their NordVPN connection through Wi-Fi from a Windows 10 computer or macOS device.
For Windows 10 Users:
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet, then click on Mobile hotspot to ensure Wi-Fi sharing is active.
- Under Settings > Network & Internet, select Change Adapter Options.
- Locate and right-click TAP-NORDVPN Windows Adapter, choosing Properties.
- Ensure the NordVPN application is set to use either the TCP or UDP protocol.
- Within the properties, navigate to the Sharing tab, and select Allow other network users to connect through this computer’s internet connection.
- Choose your previously created hotspot from the dropdown, typically noted as Microsoft Wi-Fi Direct Virtual Adapter near the hotspot name.
- Connect the Windows 10 device to a NordVPN server, then connect other devices such as Smart TVs to this hotspot to utilize the VPN connection.
For macOS Users:
- After ensuring that NordVPN uses the IKEv2 protocol by installing the specific IKEv2 application from the App Store, head to System Preferences and click on Sharing.
- Activate Internet Sharing and select the VPN adapter in the Share your connection from dropdown.
- Under To computers using, click Wi-Fi, turning your macOS device into a secure wireless access point.
- Once the VPN connection is active on the macOS device, other equipment like Smart TVs can be connected to this hotspot and secured via NordVPN.
NordVPN on Smart TV: FAQs
What are some free VPN alternatives for Smart TVs?
Using a free VPN service for your Smart TV may pose challenges. Most free VPNs are tailored for mobile app use and may not offer the required performance for streaming through your Smart TV.
Low streaming speeds, blocked VPN servers by streaming platforms, and potential privacy concerns are common issues with free VPNs. Unlike free options, premium VPNs like NordVPN prioritize user privacy and are developed with features to enhance it.
How can VPN services be utilized beyond streaming purposes?
VPNs serve multiple purposes beyond streaming. They provide access to a wealth of overseas streaming services, circumvent geographic censorship, and enable the use of restricted apps.
VPNs obscure your IP address through encryption, maintaining user privacy by shielding activities from both ISPs and public Wi-Fi vulnerabilities. Alongside streaming benefits such as avoiding ISP throttling, VPNs often support Tor and peer-to-peer networks.
What should I know about Smart DNS vs VPN?
Smart DNS and VPNs represent distinct online tools. A Smart DNS alters your DNS server to bypass regional website blocks, while VPNs encrypt your connection, granting the added benefit of privacy. NordVPN integrates Smart DNS via SmartPlay.
This feature is activated by default with the VPN or can be used independently by inputting specific nameserver addresses into your TV’s settings, effectively unblocking content while preserving privacy.
What are common VPN-related software issues on Smart TVs?
Smart TV software issues stemming from VPN use are not common, as direct VPN support is rare. Issues might occur if installing a VPN in an unsupported manner.
Sideloading a VPN onto a Smart TV, for example, could conflict with the device’s operating system and may risk damaging the system. Authorized methods such as the NordVPN app for compatible devices are recommended.
How does using a VPN affect Smart TV connection speeds?
Server proximity and encryption methods influence performance, with NordVPN demonstrating near 200 Mbps server speeds – ample for 4K streaming. Users can typically expect better speeds from servers closer to their location.
Is VPN compatible with Android TV?
Android TV users can easily install and operate VPN applications, you don’t need any smart TV development. The process resembles installing other apps on the platform.
Android-based Smart TVs accept VPN apps natively. NordVPN offers a dedicated Android TV app. This application supports varied server types designed to optimize your viewing experience and content accessibility.
