How to Install a VPN for Samsung Smart TV — Easy Guide 2024

Since Samsung Smart TVs switched to Tizen OS, they no longer have native VPN support. It's now become impossible to watch all my favorite movies and TV shows on the big screen. So, I decided to test different methods of installing a VPN on my Samsung TV and finally found some that work.

The easiest workaround is to install a VPN on your router instead. Any device connected to your router is then covered by the VPN — including your Samsung Smart TV. Plus, VPNs have servers located across the globe, making it possible to securely access content from anywhere on a Samsung TV.

After testing 50 services, my favorite is ExpressVPN. It has custom router firmware for easy setup and impressive speeds with servers across the globe for watching any movie or TV show without buffering. Additionally, it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN without risk. Getting a refund is easy if you're not 100% happy with it. Editors' Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

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3 Ways to Easily Set Up a VPN for Samsung TV

Samsung Smart TVs have fantastic features, but they aren’t cheap. Luckily, a VPN makes it possible to get the most out of a Samsung TV by providing secure access to HD content from around the world.

Your router is the easiest way to install a Samsung Smart TV VPN. But you can also install your VPN on a desktop device and share the connection with your TV or set up Smart DNS.

Below are the step-by-step guidelines for setting up a VPN on your Samsung Smart TV using these 3 methods.

1. How to use a VPN on Samsung TV via a router

You can set up a VPN on your router to bypass geo-restrictions from your Samsung Smart TV. I found this to be the quickest and simplest way — it took me less than 10 minutes during testing.

1. Check that your router is VPN compatible. Not all routers come with the firmware you need, like DD-WRT or Tomato. If you find your router is incompatible with VPNs, you'll need to flash your router or buy one that has a VPN already installed.
2. Get a VPN and sign in. I recommend ExpressVPN because of its custom router firmware for easy setup. Plus, impressive speeds allow for a seamless viewing experience on your Samsung TV.
3. Download the VPN firmware. Once you're logged in, you need to choose where you want to install the VPN. When choosing 'Router' you'll be prompted to select your router type and model. The process will vary slightly depending on the VPN you've chosen, but most will have detailed guides on their website.
4. Connect your Samsung TV to the VPN router. You can do this via WiFi or Lan cable.
5. Complete the setup. Once connected, there should be a setup screen for the VPN router. Simply follow the instructions.
6. Connect to a server. VPNs offer a selection of servers worldwide, so it’s possible to securely access international streaming services on a Samsung TV.
7. Start watching TV shows and movies. You can now safely stream content on your Samsung TV in HD without worrying about ISP throttling.

Warning. Incorrect installation of custom firmware can brick your router, rendering it useless. Make sure to follow your VPN’s firmware installation guides properly to avoid doing any damage.

2. Set up a VPN through Windows connection sharing

This method involves installing a VPN on your computer and then sharing its connection with your Samsung Smart TV. The Windows connection sharing option is easy and fast, but your computer has to remain on the whole time.

1. Download and install a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN since it has impressive speeds for uninterrupted streaming — even over WiFi connections.
2. In the VPN app, choose a server. Choosing the nearest server will provide the fastest and most reliable connections for streaming in HD without delays.
3. Share the connection from your computer. You can do this via your computer’s mobile hotspot or an ethernet cable. Ethernet is faster, but it’s inconvenient. Open your computer’s network settings, click on Mobile Hotspot, select WiFi under “Share my internet connection over,” and activate the mobile hotspot.
4. Connect your Samsung Smart TV to your PC’s mobile hotspot. To do this, go to your TV menu and click “Network” > “Network Settings” > “Network type” > “Wireless.” Choose the mobile hotspot you just created and click on “Done.” This lets the TV connect to the internet through your PC’s VPN connection.
5. Start watching your favorite movies and TV shows. Simply launch your preferred streaming app on your Samsung TV and enjoy safe and uninterrupted streaming through your computer’s mobile hotspot.

3. Set up a VPN through Smart DNS

Smart DNS is a VPN feature that allows access to global content and to stream in HD by masking the DNS address assigned by an ISP behind a different DNS server. Because it doesn’t encrypt your traffic, it may also improve your speed while hiding your real IP.

Not all VPN services offer Smart DNS and those that do usually support limited locations. If you have a VPN that supports Smart DNS, follow these steps to set up the service on your Samsung Smart TV.

1. Get a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN because its MediaStreamer Smart DNS feature is effotless to set up on your Samsung TV.
2. Activate Smart DNS on your VPN. Log into your VPN’s website, navigate to the Smart DNS page, register your TV’s IP address, and get the VPN’s DNS IP address.
3. Configure the DNS on your Samsung Smart TV. On your TV, go to “Settings” > “Network,” > “Network Status,” > “IP Settings,” > “DNS Settings,” > “Enter Manually.” Key in the DNS provided on your VPN website and click on “OK.”
4. Connect to a server. Not all VPNs support this option for smart DNS or limit access to specific countries, like the US. If possible, choose the nearest server for even faster speeds.
5. Start streaming on your Samsung Smart TV. Restart your TV and enjoy streaming HDon your Samsung TV. If you want to connect to a different smart DNS server, repeat steps 2-5.

Best VPNs to Install on Your Samsung Smart TV in 2024

All the VPNs on my list can be used on your Samsung TV and are router compatible. Plus, they have worldwide server networks, enabling accessing HD content securely on a big screen TV without delays.

Using these VPNs on your Samsung Smart TV is straightforward, even if you're a beginner. Plus, they have tried and tested money-back guarantees, so you can try them out risk-free.

1. ExpressVPN — Custom Router Firmware for Easy Setup On Your Samsung Smart TV

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested July 2024

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN has its own firmware compatible with various routers, making VPN-router setup hassle-free. After installing its router firmware, you get access to an intuitive console that makes it easy to change server locations on your Smart TV, manage device connections, and connect or disconnect the VPN.

Its unique Device Groups feature lets you connect your router-enabled devices to 5 different locations. This is handy when you want to use the VPN for different purposes. For example, it’s possible to connect a Samsung TV to a specific server to securely access HD content from anywhere, while torrenting on a PC using a local server.

You can also install the VPN directly on your Smart TV using MediaStreamer. This Smart DNS feature allows streaming US and UK content in HD on devices that does not natively support VPNs, like Samsung TVs. I have an older smart TV so, thankfully, I could set up ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer and start streaming in less than 5 minutes during my tests.

Using its proprietary Lightway protocol, I experienced no buffering while streaming on my Samsung TV. My tests always yielded an average download speed above 27 Mbps, which is only about a 4% drop from my base connection of 28.22 Mbps — more than you need to stream in Ultra HD (4K viewing requires 25 Mbps).

I tested servers in the US, UK, and Canada, and they were all fast enough for 4K streaming

The only drawback is that this VPN is not the cheapest; its prices start at $6.67/month. However, for all the unique features you get, t’s worth it. Additionally, you can save up to 49% on your ExpressVPN subscription by taking advantage of its frequent discounts and deals.

All plans are backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, which means you can try ExpressVPN with confidence. Getting a refund is quick and straightforward if you’re unhappy with the service. I canceled via 24/7 live chat, and the support agent promised to process it within 7 days. I was pleasantly surprised when I received the money in my bank account 3 days later.

2. CyberGhost — Optimized Servers for Secure Samsung TV Streams From Anywhere

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost's streaming-optimized servers makes it possible to safely access international streaming platforms from anywhere. Using the app on my Samsung Smart TV was a breeze. Just select 'For streaming' and type in your preferred platform in the search bar.

I connected to the Netflix US server in just 2 clicks during my tests and started watching 30 Rock immediately. We also didn’t have any problems streaming on Amazon Prime Video and Hulu.

On all the servers I tested, I averaged a download speed of 26 Mbps — ideal for smooth streaming on your Samsung TV. Thanks to its unlimited bandwidth, you can binge-watch as much as you want.

Like ExpressVPN, CyberGhost has a Smart DNS feature to quickly set it up on your Samsung Smart TV. You can also use it on other devices that don’t have native VPN support, like your PlayStation or Xbox. The VPNs also offer Smart DNS IPs to easily stream in HD.

It’s simple to configure your VPN preferences directly from your browser, too. This means you can easily adjust the VPN settings for your router from your browser instead of manually reconfiguring the router. For example, you can log into your browser and toggle on 'Content Blocker' to avoid ads popping up while using your Samsung Smart TV.

I found the short-term subscriptions quite pricey, with only a 14-day money-back guarantee. Thankfully, long-term plans are inexpensive at only $2.19/month. I recommend the 3-year option for the best savings.

You can also test CyberGhost free for 45 days using its money-back guarantee. I found its refund policy straightforward. After sending a cancelation email to customer support, the agent responded within 3 hours, and I received the money in my PayPal account within 5 days. You can also claim a refund through the 24/7 live chat support.

3. Private Internet Access — Global Server Network to Reliably Bypass Geo-Restrictions on Samsung TV

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

PIA's vast server network makes it possible to access international movies and TV shows securely from anywhere on Samsung TV. With so many servers to choose from, you won't have to deal with congestion due to overcrowding either. I watched Blade Runner 2043 in 4K Ultra HD without buffering. I lost less than 9% of my base speed in my PIA tests, achieving 25.6 Mbps.

Connecting to a US server instantly provided me with a Las Vegas IP address

Thanks to its Smart DNS feature, setting up the VPN on your Samsung Smart TV is easy. I had it installed and working in under 10 minutes. I chose the US as my DNS location, but PIA also has DNS IP addresses for the UK, Germany, Netherlands, and Japan.

The only downside is that beginners might find the VPN a bit complicated due to its many customization options. However, you can use PIA with your Samsung Smart TV immediately as settings come pre-configured for streaming.

A long-term plan will cost you only $2.19/month. I opted for the 2-year option because it's the cheapest.

If you’re unsure whether it’s the right choice for you, you can try PIA risk-free thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee. When I tested the process via 24/7 live chat, the support agent only inquired about my reason for canceling before processing my request. My refund was in my PayPal account that same week.

4. PrivateVPN — Beginner-Friendly VPN to Easily Watch Your Favorite TV Shows on Samsung Smart TV

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try PrivateVPN >

www.privatevpn.com

Securely accessing content on Samsung TV from anywhere is easy, thanks to PrivateVPN’s intuitive interface for smart TVs. By pressing the noticeable power button, you're able to link to a local server. Like CyberGhost, the feature to add servers to the favorites list facilitates rapid connections and straightforward access to preferred streaming platforms.

When testing PrivateVPN, I found installing it on my router effortless, thanks to the website's step-by-step instructions. I was up and running after just a few minutes. Additionally, you can request remote installation for Windows, Mac, and Linux, and then share the connection with your Samsung TV.

You can choose between multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN and L2TP/IPSec. For reliable streaming, I recommend OpenVPN as it gave me the fastest speed and is less likely to be detected by streaming platforms.

Despite my concerns about its limited server network, I encountered no issues watching various local platforms. Even Netflix, which is notorious for blocking VPNs, didn't detect that I was using a VPN server to watch Netflix. I was able to stream The Irishman on my Samsung TV without any interruptions.

You save the most with longer plans, which start at $2/month. Since all subscriptions offer the same benefits, I recommend the 3-year option as it's the most cost-effective.

Additionally, all subscriptions come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. So, you can try PrivateVPN on your Smart TV without risk. I requested a refund via 24/7 live chat and received my money back in my bank account within 5 days.

5. IPVanish — Fast Speeds for Uninterrupted Streaming on Your Samsung TV

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ HBO Max Hulu

BBC iPlayer More

Try IPVanish VPN >

www.ipvanish.com

IPVanish boasts consistent high speeds that are perfect for streaming on your Samsung TV. In my tests on the US, UK, and Australian servers, the average speed was 25.2 Mbps, which is only 10% below my foundational speed of 28 Mbps. The VPN dashboard allows you to easily identify the most suitable server by checking its load and ping.

Choose a server with low ping and server load for faster speeds

IPVanish also provides plenty of options for securely accessing international streaming content with servers spread worldwide. You can even find city-level options under each location. During tests, we could easily stream Jack Ryan on Amazon Prime Video.

Regrettably, IPVanish does not offer a Smart DNS service to modify your TV's virtual location. Nevertheless, IPVanish is compatible with various router brands, and their support team is available around the clock to assist you in configuring the VPN on your Samsung Smart TV. Installing the VPN on my router to stream Disney+ took approximately 15 minutes.

Subscriptions are affordable, with prices starting at $2.19/month. I went for the yearly subscription to save money.

With its 30-day money-back guarantee, you can test IPVanish for yourself. If it doesn't suit your needs, simply cancel your subscription and request a refund via your online dashboard, you don't even have to talk to anyone. I did this and received my money back after 5 days.

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

Tips on Choosing The Best VPN for Samsung Smart TV

Although there are hundreds of VPNs available on the market, not all are compatible with Samsung Smart TVs. Some either don't function with these televisions or lack the ability to reliably circumvent restrictions across various streaming services. Should you decide to assess VPNs on your own, these are the criteria I used to refine my recommendations:

• Compatible with Samsung TV — There’s no point in picking a VPN if it doesn’t work with your TV. For a VPN to be compatible with Samsung Smart TV, it should either have an app that works with your router or a Smart DNS feature.
• Fast speeds — Some VPNs slow down your speeds so much that videos take too long to load and keep buffering as you watch. Choose a VPN that won't drop our speed by more than 20-30%.
• Global network — A good VPN should have many servers worldwide. This makes it possible to avoid geo-restrictions and securely access streaming platforms from anywhere.
• Easy to set up and use — Get a VPN that has a simple, user-friendly interface and is easy to install on your router. A Smart DNS feature is a bonus.
• Trustworthy money-back guarantee — You might want to test whether a VPN suits your needs, and knowing it as a reputable refund policy will put your mind at ease.

FAQs on Samsung Smart TV VPNs

Does Samsung TV support VPNs?

No, but you can use a VPN on your Samsung TV by installing it on your router. All you need to do is choose a VPN that's router compatibility to get it working with your Smart TV. You can also set up a VPN on your Samsung TV via a Smart DNS feature, which some premium VPNs offer. Alternatively, you can install the VPN on your computer and share the connection with your Smart TV.

What can I stream with a VPN on Samsung TV?

A compatible VPN allows streaming of a wide range of content uninterrupted on Samsung TV. VPNs use encryption and obfuscation to prevent traffic going through its servers from being inspected. This helps avoid streaming interruptions due to VPN blocks or ISP throttling. All you need to do is set up the VPN on your router and connect your Samsung Smart TV.

Some of the streaming platforms that premium VPNs can securely access on Samsung TV include:

How can I use a VPN to watch Netflix on my Samsung Smart TV?

A VPN with router support or a smart DNS feature makes it possible to stream Netflix on Samsung TV. However, the VPN also needs fast servers worldwide for uninterrupted streaming. Of the VPNs here, ExpressVPN is the easiest to set up for Samsung TV, thanks to its router app and MediaStreamer feature.

Can I use a DNS proxy instead of a VPN on Samsung Smart TV?

You can, but it’s not recommended. To reliably stream movies and TV shows from various platforms on your Samsung Smart TV, you’re better off using a tried-and-tested VPN.

There are a couple of reasons why proxies aren’t the best option. DNS proxies have fewer server locations, limiting the content they can safely access. Additionally, most streaming platforms easily detect and block most DNS proxies. You’ll also have difficulty finding a proxy that works with your Samsung TV since most of them are incompatible with Smart TVs.

Why do I need a VPN for my Samsung Smart TV?

You don’t need a VPN, but it may help you avoid ISP throttling while streaming. Plus, top VPNs offer worldwide server networks that allow secure access to international streaming platforms from anywhere. On top of that, VPNs use encryption and robust security features to protect your data from snoops and hackers while using online services

Can I use a free VPN for a Samsung TV?

Probably not, as it's unlikely that free VPNs can be installed on a Samsung Smart TV. Plus, they generally limit speed, server networks, and bandwidth in the hope that you'll upgrade to a paid plan. A reliable VPN that works with Samsung Smart TVs and has a money-back guarantee is a better alternative.

Most streaming platforms block free VPNs, so they aren’t reliable for accessing content. Some log your data and browsing activity and sell it to third parties, while others can infect your device with malware.

Start Using a VPN on Your Samsung Smart TV Now

A VPN is a great way to access international TV shows and movies securely on a Samsung TV. While Tizen doesn’t support native VPN apps, you can use a router, Smart DNS, or WiFi connection sharing to set up a VPN on your Samsung TV and start streaming within minutes.

My top recommendation is ExpressVPN. It has custom router firmware that makes it easy to install on your Samsung Smart TV, plus a Smart DNS feature for watching US and UK content uninterrupted. It’s also backed by a trustworthy 30-day money-back guarantee so, you can try ExpressVPN risk-free.

To summarize, the best VPNs for Samsung Smart TV are…

Rank

Provider

Our Score

Discount

Visit Website

1

9.9 /10

9.9 Our Score

Save 49%!

Find Out More

2

9.7 /10

9.7 Our Score

Save 83%!

Find Out More

3

9.5 /10

9.5 Our Score

Save 82%!

Find Out More

4

9.2 /10

9.2 Our Score

Save 85%!

Find Out More

5

9.2 /10

9.2 Our Score

Save 83%!

Find Out More

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