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What is the best VPN for Apple TV? Here's my experience using different VPNs with Apple TV


To help you find the best VPN for Apple TV, I reviewed 41 providers alongside the Cybernews research team. I tested each one for setup simplicity, streaming access, speed, and server availability. In this guide, you’ll find the top VPNs for Apple TV in 2025, a comparison of their features, step-by-step setup instructions for different Apple TV models, and tips for unblocking popular streaming platforms.

Best Apple TV VPNs in 2025

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Best VPNs for Apple TV in 2025: detailed list

With the help of the Cybernews research team, I reviewed 41 VPNs to determine which ones work best with Apple TV streaming devices and the platforms they support. We tested each VPN for compatibility with Apple TV, speed, streaming unblocking capabilities, and more. Based on the results, I narrowed the list down to the 5 best VPNs that can help you access Apple TV’s content libraries.

1. NordVPN – the best VPN with a dedicated Apple TV app

NordVPN banner 1
Dedicated Apple TV VPN app:
✅ Yes
Smart DNS:✅ Yes
Servers/countries:7700+ servers in 118 countries
Simultaneous connections:10

NordVPN ranks as the top VPN for Apple TV due to its seamless compatibility, excellent performance, and robust streaming support. It offers a dedicated Apple TV app, Smart DNS, and access to 7700+ servers across 118 countries. With support for 10 simultaneous connections and consistently high-speed performance, NordVPN delivers everything needed for a smooth, secure, and flexible streaming experience.

nordvpn appletv screenshot1
NordVPN connected to a Canadian server on Apple TV

My testing experience using NordVPN

Installing NordVPN on Apple TV was quick and straightforward. I downloaded the dedicated tvOS app, logged in using a QR code on my phone, and hit Quick Connect – the setup took less than two minutes. NordVPN works on all Apple TV HD and 4K models. If you’re using an older model, you can also install it through a VPN router. Unlike Surfshark, which doesn’t support first or second-generation Apple TVs via app, NordVPN works smoothly on newer devices and is easy to manage.

NordVPN has made several improvements that help with Apple TV use. It recently reorganized its server list, making it faster to find the best streaming connection. The Threat Protection Pro feature also got a more user-friendly design and now reacts more reliably when scanning content. While these updates are aimed at desktop apps, they show the provider constantly improving its overall experience, which benefits all users.

One thing to keep in mind: NordVPN doesn’t offer a full free version. Android users get a 7-day trial, but others need to use the 30-day money-back guarantee to test the service.

My experience streaming with NordVPN

NordVPN proved to be one of the best VPNs for streaming sports because of its massive server coverage and reliable Smart DNS feature, which makes it easy to stream on Apple TV. I tested NordVPN with various platforms, including Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and ESPN+, and it unblocked everything on the first try. Streaming was consistently smooth, even during live sports events and in 4K resolution.

What made the experience better than most providers was how fast and stable the connection felt, regardless of the region I connected to. Accessing different content libraries – like Netflix Japan or Hulu US – was quick and uninterrupted. NordVPN’s huge server fleet in over 16 US locations made it especially easy to avoid region-based blackouts or errors on services like MLB.TV or ESPN. The Smart DNS setup also came in handy for streaming on an older Apple TV model that doesn’t support VPN apps.

Internet speed using NordVPN

NordVPN is the fastest VPN available, and my test results supported that. Using the NordLynx protocol, it reached 438.9Mbps download speed – an 88% retention rate from the 500Mbps baseline – with a stable 105ms ping. That’s fast enough for 4K streaming, even on multiple Apple TV profiles simultaneously.

nordvpn-speed-test-results-apple-tv
NordVPN speed test results

Streaming was consistently smooth, with no buffering or lag. In comparison, Proton VPN retained just 83% of base speed, making NordVPN a clear winner for speed-focused users who want a fast VPN that works flawlessly with Apple TV.

NordVPN pricing

NordVPN prices start at just $3.39/month. It’s also the best VPN with a free trial, offering a 7-day trial for Android users and a 30-day money-back guarantee for all platforms. This makes it easy to test the service risk-free before committing to the long term. Here’s a quick summary of NordVPN’s plans and prices.

NordVPN plan durationBasic planPlus planComplete planPrime plan
1 month$12.99/month$13.99/month$14.99/month$17.99/month
1 year$4.99/month$5.99/month$6.99/month$8.99/month
2 years$3.39/month$4.39/month$5.39/month$7.39/month

Who should pick NordVPN?

NordVPN is ideal for users who want top-tier Apple TV performance – fast speeds, strong security, and an easy-to-use app. It unblocks global streaming platforms in 4K, supports Smart DNS, and includes premium features like NordLynx and Threat Protection. As the NordVPN review highlights, it’s the most complete solution for Apple TV streaming. Unless you need unlimited device connections (Surfshark fits that need), NordVPN delivers the best overall value.

2. Surfshark – an affordable and server-rich Apple TV VPN

surfshark-banner
Dedicated Apple TV VPN app:✅ Yes
Smart DNS:✅ Yes
Servers/countries:3200+ servers in 100 countries
Simultaneous connections:Unlimited

Surfshark is the best budget-friendly VPN for Apple TV users, offering a solid mix of value, performance, and flexibility. It includes a native Apple TV app, Smart DNS support, and access to 3200+ servers in 100 countries. Unlike ExpressVPN, Surfshark allows unlimited simultaneous connections, making it ideal for large households or users with many devices.

surfshark-appletv-app-us
Surfshark connected to a US server on Apple TV

My testing experience using Surfshark

Setting up Surfshark on Apple TV was quick. I installed the Surfshark VPN: Fast & Reliable app directly from the App Store, signed in, and tapped Quick Connect. It works with tvOS on all Apple TV HD and 4K models. Just like NordVPN, Surfshark also supports router installation and Smart DNS, giving you backup options if your device doesn’t support native apps.

Surfshark recently upgraded all of its servers to 10Gbps, which boosted streaming stability during peak hours. It also introduced handy features for iOS users, like VPN pause widgets and app exclusions. While these changes target mobile devices, they reflect the provider’s focus on usability, which extends across all platforms, including tvOS.

The only catch is that Surfshark’s free trial lasts 7 days and works only on Android or iOS. Like NordVPN, the best way to try Surfshark on Apple TV is to use its 30-day money-back guarantee

My experience streaming with Surfshark

As one of the best VPNs for Netflix, Surfshark handled every platform I tested without major issues. It successfully unblocked US Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and ESPN+, offering quick access to location-specific libraries. Most shows loaded instantly, and the playback was smooth, even during peak hours or when streaming in 4K.

I appreciated how stable Surfshark remained while switching between servers, especially in the US and UK. Its CleanWeb feature also helped block intrusive ads on some free streaming sites, making browsing feel faster and less cluttered. While it doesn’t offer special streaming servers, Surfshark’s large server fleet across 22 US cities worked reliably to bypass regional restrictions and blackouts on platforms like MLB.TV.

Internet speed using Surfshark

Surfshark delivers strong speed performance. In our tests, it maintained 84% of the original download speed, averaging 422.1Mbps. Ping reached 114ms, which is still reasonable for smooth HD and even 4K streaming on Apple TV. I didn’t notice any buffering or quality drops while connected to US or UK servers.

surfshark-speed-test-result-apple-tv
Surfshark speed test results

Compared to NordVPN’s faster speeds and lower ping, Surfshark was slightly behind, but still fast enough for nearly any Apple TV task. It uses the WireGuard protocol, which balances speed and security well, making it an excellent choice for streaming and browsing.

Surfshark pricing

Surfshark’s subscriptions start as low as $1.99/month, making it the cheapest VPN on the market. You can also try it with a 7-day free trial or take advantage of the 30-day money-back guarantee if it’s not the right fit. Here’s a full breakdown of Surfshark’s plans and prices.

Surfshark plansSurfshark StarterSurfshark OneSurfshark One+
1 month$15.45/month$17.95/month$20.65/month
1 year$3.19/month$3.39/month$6.09/month
2 years$1.99/month$2.49/month$3.99/month

Who should pick Surfshark?

Surfshark is a top pick for budget-conscious users (at just $1.99/month) who want unlimited device connections and solid streaming performance on Apple TV. It’s easy to set up and works with all major platforms. The Surfshark review shows it offers excellent value for households or users with many devices. However, those seeking the absolute fastest speeds may prefer NordVPN instead.

3. IPVanish – a security-oriented VPN for Apple TV

ipvanish-banner
Dedicated Apple TV VPN app:
✅ Yes
Smart DNS:❌ No
Servers/countries:2400+ servers in 109 countries
Simultaneous connections:Unlimited

IPVanish is a privacy-focused VPN that offers unlimited simultaneous connections and a dedicated Apple TV app. With 2400+ servers in 109 countries, it supports VPN router setup and virtual routers, though it lacks Smart DNS. IPVanish is ideal for users who value security and want to stream Apple TV content across multiple devices without limits.

ipvanish-appletv-screenshot
IPVanish connected to an Australian server on Apple TV

My testing experience using IPVanish

Installing IPVanish on Apple TV was simple. The app works on models from 2015 onward, and the setup takes just a few steps: install, log in, and connect. It felt just as seamless as setting up ExpressVPN. If you'd rather not use the native app, IPVanish also lets you connect through your Wi-Fi router.

While the provider hasn’t recently released major Apple TV-specific updates, it has rolled out improvements that reflect a broader focus on user protection, like VIPRE-powered threat protection and a revamped transparency center. These additions don’t directly impact tvOS but show that IPVanish is pushing to enhance trust and usability across its ecosystem.

One notable downside for IPVanish is the lack of Smart DNS support. This means Apple TV users can’t use DNS configuration as a backup method for unblocking content, unlike providers like NordVPN or Surfshark, which support this feature. Without Smart DNS, your only option is the app or router setup.

My experience streaming with IPVanish

As one of the best BBC iPlayer VPNs, IPVanish delivered a stable streaming experience. I also had no trouble accessing BBC iPlayer, Netflix US, and ESPN+, and the content played reliably in HD. While I did notice a few brief buffering pauses on more distant servers, reconnecting to a closer US location usually fixed the issue.

One standout point is IPVanish’s support for unlimited devices, which came in handy when testing across multiple Apple TV units and mobile devices. However, its smaller server network compared to NordVPN or Surfshark occasionally meant fewer options when accessing less common libraries. That said, its WireGuard protocol ensured the overall connection remained fast and secure for standard streaming needs.

Internet speed using IPVanish

IPVanish delivered better-than-expected results in our speed tests. It retained 89% of the original download speed, averaging 443.9Mbps, with a ping of 118ms. That’s enough for lag-free HD and even 4K streaming on Apple TV.

ipvanish-speed-test-results-apple-tv
IPVanish speed test results

Despite having a smaller server network than top-tier competitors like NordVPN, the connection remained stable across various regions. The WireGuard protocol plays a key role here, keeping performance steady without sudden drops. It’s also a good tool to stop ISP throttling with a VPN, since IPVanish doesn’t suffer much during peak hours.

IPVanish pricing

IPVanish is an affordable VPN option. The subscription costs $2.19month and covers unlimited simultaneous connections. You can test IPVanish risk-free with the 30-day money-back guarantee. Here’s a complete list of IPVanish plans and prices.

IPVanish plan durationIPVanish EssentialIPVanish Advanced
1 month$12.99/month$14.99/month
1 year$3.33/month$4.49/month
2 years$2.19/month$3.29/month

Who should pick IPVanish?

IPVanish is a solid choice for privacy-focused users who value strong security features and unlimited device support. It’s beneficial for Apple TV owners looking for a straightforward VPN with a reliable app and extras like Threat Protection. As the IPVanish review highlights, it delivers stable performance and good speeds. However, its smaller server fleet may limit streaming options in some regions. NordVPN is a stronger alternative for broader access and better global coverage.

4. ExpressVPN – an Apple TV VPN with extensive feature list

expressvpn-banner
Dedicated Apple TV VPN app:
✅ Yes
Smart DNS:✅ Yes
Servers/countries:Servers in 105 countries
Simultaneous connections:8

ExpressVPN ranks among the best for Apple TV due to its high-speed connections, strong unblocking ability, and ease of use. It offers a dedicated Apple TV app, Smart DNS, and support for VPN router setups. With servers in 105 countries and support for up to 8 simultaneous connections, it’s a solid choice for users who want smooth 4K streaming and robust privacy features in one sleek package.

expressvpn-appletv-screenshot
ExpressVPN connected on Apple TV

My testing experience using ExpressVPN

Setting up ExpressVPN on Apple TV was straightforward. I downloaded the app, logged in, and connected in seconds. Just like Surfshark and NordVPN, the native tvOS app made everything smooth. ExpressVPN supports router configuration and Smart DNS for older models or advanced setups, giving users multiple ways to connect.

ExpressVPN has focused its updates on overall performance, including improvements to its Aircove router software and the addition of post-quantum encryption through Lightway. While these don’t specifically target Apple TV, they reflect a commitment to stability and future-ready security.

One drawback is that ExpressVPN doesn’t disclose its total server count. While I had no trouble streaming geo-blocked content, the lack of transparency could be frustrating when comparing options. Users may prefer providers like NordVPN, which clearly state their global coverage.

My experience streaming with ExpressVPN

As one of the best VPNs for Hulu, ExpressVPN offered a smooth and consistent experience on Apple TV. I connected to its recommended US server and streamed Hulu and Netflix in HD without issues. The MediaStreamer DNS feature also helped access geo-blocked platforms on devices that don’t support native VPN apps – a real advantage for older Apple TV models.

Streaming performance was solid across Disney+, ESPN+, and BBC iPlayer services. However, switching servers took slightly longer than NordVPN or Surfshark.

Internet speed using ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN offered fast and consistent speeds in our tests. It achieved an 87% download speed retention, reaching 435.8Mbps with a ping of 114ms. That’s enough to stream Apple TV content in 4K without buffering or stuttering. The key driver behind this performance is ExpressVPN’s proprietary Lightway protocol, which is designed for fast, secure, and stable connections.

expressvpn-speed-test-apple-tv
ExpressVPN speed test results

ExpressVPN pricing

ExpressVPN isn’t the cheapest VPN provider. It costs $4.99/month and covers 8 devices with one subscription. In addition, you can test this VPN with the 30-day money-back guarantee. Here’s a full list of ExpressVPN prices.

ExpressVPN plan durationPrice
1 month$12.95/month
1 year$6.67/month
2 years$4.99/month

Who should pick ExpressVPN?

ExpressVPN is a great pick for Apple TV users who value fast, stable streaming and a polished user experience. The ExpressVPN review highlights that it combines impressive speeds with features like MediaStreamer DNS and the proprietary Lightway protocol for seamless streaming. However, with support for only 8 devices and a higher price point, budget-conscious users or households with many devices may find better value with Surfshark, which offers unlimited connections at a lower cost.

5. Proton VPN – an easy-to-use Apple TV VPN

ProtonVPN banner
Dedicated Apple TV VPN app:
✅ Yes
Smart DNS:✅ Yes
Servers/countries:12600+ servers in 117 countries
Simultaneous connections:10

Proton VPN stands out for Apple TV users who prioritize privacy and transparency. It offers a dedicated Apple TV app and Smart DNS support, backed by one of the largest server networks — over 12600 servers in 117 countries. With 10 simultaneous connections and solid speeds, Proton VPN combines usability and top-grade security, making it ideal for private streaming across global

proton-vpn-apple-tv
Proton VPN connected to a UK server on Apple TV

My testing experience using Proton VPN

Installing Proton VPN on Apple TV was simple. I downloaded the app directly from the App Store and then visited a setup page to verify my device with a short code. The process felt similar to NordVPN’s, though Proton’s app is available only for paid users – free plan users would need to configure a VPN on their router instead.

Recently, Proton VPN rolled out significant updates to its Windows and iOS apps, focusing on speed, ease of use, and streamlined access to privacy tools. While these changes don’t directly target Apple TV users, they show Proton VPN’s broader effort to improve platform usability.

One thing to note: Proton VPN doesn’t support virtual router setup. That means you can’t create a VPN-protected Wi-Fi hotspot from your computer and share it with your Apple TV — a workaround handy for older models without app support. Providers like NordVPN still offer that flexibility, which can be a deciding factor for some users.

My experience streaming with Proton VPN

Proton VPN is one of the best VPNs for MLB.TV thanks to its strong privacy stance and consistent unblocking performance. During my tests, it worked flawlessly with platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and MLB.TV, which is where it really stood out. Geo-restricted content loaded quickly, and there were no proxy errors or access issues.

Streaming quality was solid across the board. Even during MLB.TV blackout games, Proton VPN’s wide US server selection helped maintain smooth, buffer-free playback. I also appreciated how stable the experience remained, even when switching between different regional libraries. While it doesn’t offer streaming-optimized servers like other VPNs, it still delivers reliable results with minimal setup.

Internet speed using Proton VPN

Proton VPN delivered solid performance during testing, but it was the slowest provider on this list. It reached a download speed of 416.1Mbps, 83% of the original connection. The ping clocked in at 113ms – slightly better than IPVanish but still noticeably slower than leaders like NordVPN or Surfshark.

proton-vpn-mac-speedtests-apple-tv
Proton VPN speed test results

Despite the lower speeds, streaming in HD and even 4K was still possible in most cases. I encountered no major buffering issues, but load times were longer when switching servers or starting new streams. If you’re streaming from less common regions or need consistently fast speeds during peak hours, faster providers like NordVPN may be a better fit.

Proton VPN pricing

Proton VPN is one of the cheapest monthly VPNs. Proton VPN is also available for free. But if you want full streaming support or access to high-speed servers, you’ll need the premium version, which starts at $2.99/month. Paid Proton VPN subscriptions also come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Here’s a breakdown of all plans and prices.

Proton VPN plan durationPrice
1 month$9.99/month
1 year$4.99/month
2 years$2.99/month

Who should pick Proton VPN?

Proton VPN stands out with its free version, but as the Proton VPN review shows, it’s not a practical option for Apple TV users. The free plan is limited to just 5 server locations and doesn’t support easy setup methods like a virtual router, making it difficult to even test on Apple TV. While Proton VPN has the largest server count on this list, which can help access less common content libraries, it’s also the slowest provider here. For a smaller price, NordVPN offers a far superior experience with faster speeds, a more straightforward setup, and a more complete feature set.

How we tested and selected VPNs for Apple TV

With the help of our research team, I considered several things when looking for which VPNs would work best with Apple TV. Out of 41 VPNs that I originally reviewed, only the top providers made it to the in-house testing stage. In the end, 5 top Apple TV VPNs excelled in all categories. The main category, naturally, was VPN compatibility with Apple TV, either through a dedicated app or a Smart DNS. So, our research team can confirm that all providers listed can be paired with your Apple TV and work well. Now, as for determining which ones are truly the best, our research team and I used our thorough VPN testing methodology to evaluate the following aspects:

  1. Setup process (20%). An effective Apple TV app was my main criterion when choosing the best VPNs for Apple TV, as it makes the setup process easy. I also looked for router compatibility and Smart DNS for alternative setup methods. In all cases, the process was simple and well explained on the official VPN websites and took little to no time to complete.
  2. Unblocking streaming services (30%). Apple TV not only shows Apple-produced shows and films but also incorporates Disney+, Max, Prime Video, Hulu, and others. So, I prioritized those VPNs that can access foreign content libraries of all the Apple TV streaming platforms. Our team tested this by connecting to various countries and then attempting to watch different streaming service content. If it worked, I knew that a VPN suits Apple TV streaming.
  3. Speed (15%). The best VPNs usually have a high speed retention of 80% or more. This means that your network speed won’t reduce much, if at all, when using a VPN. I tested the speed by using a network speed test before and after I turned on a VPN. I also saw firsthand whether using a VPN caused lag when watching Apple TV content.
  4. Server network (35%). Whether the VPN has an Apple TV app or not won’t matter if it doesn’t have a large server network. Generally, the bigger the network, the better, as this means that servers are not overloaded, and you won’t suffer speed drops. Most importantly, servers in more countries allow you to unblock content available only in specific countries.

Best Apple TV VPNs compared

For your convenience, I compared all the providers included in our list. You can also read individual reviews to learn more details about each VPN, including information about speed, security, streaming unblocking, and more.

BrandRatingDedicated Apple TV VPN appVirtual router setupSmart DNS setupVPN router setupServersPrice
NordVPN
4.9
✅ Yes✅ Yes✅ Yes✅ Yes7700+ servers in 118 countries$3.39/month
Surfshark
4.7
✅ Yes✅ Yes✅ Yes✅ Yes3200+ servers in 100 countries$1.99/month
IPVanish
4.5
✅ Yes✅ Yes❌ No✅ Yes2400+ servers in 109 countries$2.19/month
ExpressVPN
4.3
✅ Yes✅ Yes✅ Yes✅ YesServers in 105 countries$4.99/month
Proton VPN
4.2
✅ Yes❌ No✅ Yes✅ Yes12600+ servers in 117 countries$2.99/month

The best Apple TV VPN has been proven to be NordVPN, as it offers a native Apple TV app and virtual router, DNS, and router setup options. Additionally, the provider offers 7700+ high-speed servers, perfect for uninterrupted streaming sessions on your Apple TV device. Lastly, NordVPN proved its ability to unblock geo-restricted content with multiple streaming platforms I tried it with. However, if you’d rather try something else, Surfshark and IPVanish could be good alternatives, as they are cheaper and similarly capable. However, both providers offer many fewer servers, and their connection speeds are slightly slower compared to NordVPN.

How to set up a VPN on Apple TV

Below, I provide multiple methods and step-by-step instructions on how to set up a VPN on your Apple TV:

  • Set up an Apple TV VPN app
  • Set up a VPN on your router
  • Set up a VPN with Smart DNS
  • Connect Apple TV to VPN via Wi-Fi hotspot (Windows)
  • Mirror or cast from Mac or iOS

Downloading an Apple TV VPN app is the easiest way to install the service. All Apple TVs running on tvOS version 17 support VPN apps. To check if your device supports VPN, head to the App Store on your device and look for VPN apps. If you can find and download a VPN app, it means your Apple TV supports this functionality. While the details vary depending on which VPN service provider you have, the basics are usually the same. First and foremost, you’ll need a subscription to a VPN that has an Apple TV app. Then, it’s just three simple steps. Here’s an example with NordVPN:

  1. Find a NordVPN app on Apple TV nordvpn appletv screenshot2
  2. Download the app nordvpn appletv screenshot3
  3. Once you have logged in, connect to a country of your choice

Now, every time you want to watch geo-restricted content, you just need to change the country on the app and start watching. It doesn’t get simpler than that.

Setting up a VPN on a router protects the whole local network, which means that all devices connected to Wi-Fi will also be connected to a VPN server. This is a great way to use a VPN with devices that don’t support VPN apps.

To get the best results, check out our article on how to set up a VPN on your router – there are also some helpful tips and a troubleshooting guide.

Smart DNS is a useful technology that provides access to streaming content that otherwise might be blocked in your region. You can manually set up Smart DNS with your Apple TV and watch all the shows you’ve been missing out on.

Follow the steps below to configure your Apple TV’s DNS settings:

  1. Choose a reliable VPN provider that offers Smart DNS. I recommend NordVPN, now 76% OFF
  2. Go to your VPN provider’s website and log into your account
  3. In the settings, enable the Smart DNS feature and whitelist your IP address. You can find your IP address by typing “what’s my IP” into your browser nordvpn-enable-smart-dns
  4. On your Apple TV, go to General and choose Network
  5. Click on Wi-Fi and select the same network as your whitelisted IP
  6. Select Configure DNS, and then choose Manual
  7. Enter the Smart DNS server address of your VPN provider. You can find it on the VPN provider’s website. For example, NordVPN’s Smart DNS server addresses are here

If you can’t set up a VPN on your router, or the VPN provider doesn’t offer Smart DNS, you can also share the VPN-protected connection via a Wi-Fi hotspot. After that, simply connect your Apple TV to the Wi-Fi network and get access to all geo-restricted content. Note that this method only works with Windows devices.

Follow the guide below to share a VPN connection via a Wi-Fi hotspot:

  1. On your Windows PC, go to Settings
  2. Choose Network & Internet and click on Mobile Hotspot windows-enable-mobile-hotspot
  3. Select Wi-Fi and enable the hotspot
  4. Go back to Network & Internet and choose Advanced network settings windows-advanced-network-settings
  5. Scroll down and click on More network adapter options windows-more-network-adapter-options
  6. Find your VPN adapter, right-click on it, and select Properties nordvpn-adapter-on-windows
  7. Select the Sharing tab
  8. Check the box near the Allow network users to connect through this computer’s Internet connection windows-allow-users-to-connect-through-computer
  9. Click OK
  10. Connect your Apple TV to the mobile hotspot

This option allows you to connect only your macOS or iOS device to a VPN and then mirror or cast your stream through Apple TV. You don’t need to connect the TV itself to a VPN.

To try this method, follow the steps below:

macOS:

  1. Choose a fast VPN that’s good at unblocking content. I recommend NordVPN, now 76% OFF.
  2. Download and install the VPN app on your Mac
  3. Launch the VPN app and log in
  4. Connect to a VPN server
  5. Connect your Mac and Apple TV to the same Wi-Fi network
  6. You will see a mirroring icon appear on your Mac screen. Tap it and choose your Apple TV. apple tv mirroring icon on mac screen
  7. If you can’t see this icon, go to System Preferences on your Mac and then Display mac-system-preferences
  8. Choose the Display tab mac display tab
  9. In the AirPlay Display drop-down menu, choose Apple TV
  10. Check the box near Show mirroring options in the menu bar when available
  11. Wait for your Mac’s screen to appear on your Apple TV

iOS:

  1. Get a reliable VPN that unblocks your favorite streaming services. I recommend NordVPN, now 76% OFF.
  2. Download and install the VPN app on your iOS device
  3. Launch the app and log in
  4. Connect to a VPN server
  5. Make sure your iOS device and Apple TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi network
  6. Choose a video you want to stream
  7. You will see a mirroring icon appear on your iPhone screen apple tv mirroring icon on mac screen
  8. Tap the icon and choose your Apple TV from the list

How to download geo-restricted streaming service apps on Apple TV

Some well-known streaming services are geo-locked to specific regions and cannot be accessed anywhere except that particular location. For instance, Hulu and ESPN+ are geo-locked to the US, while BBC iPlayer, ITVX, and Channel 4 are restricted to the UK. Australia has its own popular streaming services, like 9Now, 10Play, and 7plus, and Canadians have exclusive access to CTV and Sportsnet. Lastly, a popular New Zealand streaming platform, TVNZ, is restricted to that specific country.

If you live outside of the country where certain streaming services are available but would like to download their apps onto your Apple TV, you can use a VPN. However, simply changing your region by using a VPN won’t allow you to download geo-restricted apps from a specific region, as you’ll also need an Apple ID account associated with the country where that particular streaming platform is available. Luckily, you can change your Apple ID account country in a few ways.

Changing the region of your current account. This method requires a VPN, so make sure you first set it up and then connect to a server in your desired location. My top recommendation in this case is NordVPN, which can keep your real IP address hidden well. After connecting to a server in your chosen location via a VPN, open your iPhone’s Settings app, look for the Apple ID section, and access your Apple Account settings. You’ll find your Country/Region through the Media and Purchases field there. Set up your new region with a local address and phone number; you can get them via random address and number generators for your selected country. Once you fill in the necessary information, your Apple ID account region will be changed.

Creating a new Apple ID account. This is a very simple method to change your Apple ID location; however, you must have a local phone number in your desired country. You can order a SIM card from your chosen country online. Once that’s solved, you should start using a VPN, like NordVPN, to change your location to a region where your desired streaming platform is available. Then, log out of your current Apple ID account. After logging out, head back to your iPhone’s settings, create a new account, and use the local phone number to verify it. Ultimately, you’ll be able to use your new Apple ID account, which will be tied to the new country. Simply remember to use a VPN and connect to the same country each time you need to use your new Apple ID.

Once you’ve successfully changed the location of your current Apple ID or created a new one and are using a VPN, you’ll be able to download apps from otherwise geo-restricted streaming platforms to your Apple TV device.

Apple TV not working with VPN – what to do

VPN not connecting or unstable connection

How to identify the problem:

  • Failed attempts to connect to a VPN
  • Frequent connection drops
  • Apple TV keeps showing network error messages
  • New settings won’t save or keep reverting

How to fix it: Verify that your VPN credentials, like username and password, and settings are entered correctly. Check for typos or grammar errors and correct them if found. If you’re using router setup, check if everything has been entered correctly in the admin panel’s settings section – the information there should match exactly the information supplied by your provider.

For connectivity issues, check that your VPN app has no pending updates. If so, update your app. Additionally, simply restarting your Apple TV and router (if it’s being used) might solve the issue.

Streaming services keep detecting VPN usage

How to identify the problem:

  • “Content unavailable in your country” error messages keep reappearing
  • Error messages informing about VPN or proxy use
  • Content won’t load
  • Streaming platform library showing wrong the region

How to fix it: The easiest method you can try is simply switching to another server in the same region. Sometimes certain server IP addresses can get blacklisted by streaming platforms or might not be working properly due to congestion. If switching to a different server does not help, try using streaming-optimized servers next, as they are specifically tailored for this task.

If this problem keeps recurring, you may want to look into a dedicated IP address. Such IP addresses are harder for streaming platforms to detect and may be the solution to your issue. Lastly, if you can, try switching to Smart DNS instead of a full VPN connection, or vice versa.

Slow streaming performance

How to identify the problem:

  • Frequent buffering when streaming
  • Decreased video quality
  • Long loading times
  • Audio and video are out of sync

How to fix it: First, perform a speed test of your connection without a VPN. You can easily do it at home by heading to the speed test by Ookla testing page. Then, repeat the test with a VPN and check how much slower your connection is. If you find a significant difference, you can first try to connect to a VPN server closer to you, as closer proximity guarantees better performance. If that does not help, try switching your VPN’s tunneling protocol. Choose WireGuard or a proprietary protocol, as they will be faster. Lastly, you can try configuring Smart DNS, as it works better on Apple TV devices than on full VPN connections.

IP or DNS leaks

How to identify the problem:

  • Streaming services keep detecting your real location, even when connected to a VPN
  • Different websites show different locations
  • Geo-blocks are active even when connected to a VPN
  • Location-based services or sites showing your real location

How to fix it: First, head to an IP leak testing page, like ipleak.net, while connected to a VPN. Check if the IP address corresponds to the location of the server you’re connected to. If you see your real location, check if the kill switch feature on your VPN is turned on. If not, toggle it on, and it should prevent your IP from showing if a sudden VPN connection interruption happens.

You can test your situation on the dnsleaktest.com testing site for DNS leaks. Remember to perform the test while connected to your VPN. If you find a leak, check if your router’s DNS settings are correct and match those provided by your service. If you’re using Smart DNS, check if your IP address is whitelisted on your VPN account settings and if your Apple TV DNS configurations are entered correctly.

Incorrect VPN setup

How to identify the problem:

  • VPN app won’t install on your Apple TV
  • Router does not accept VPN configuration
  • No Smart DNS settings available
  • Missing configuration options

How to fix it: Start by verifying if your Apple TV and its tvOS version support your chosen VPN installation method. Apple TVs running on tvOS version 17 will accept native VPN apps, while older models require Smart DNS or router setup.

If you’re using a router setup, check if your device is compatible with a VPN. Some older models might not work with this technology. If that’s the case, you can still use the Smart DNS method, but remember to ensure your VPN offers such a feature.

Final thoughts

There are many reasons why NordVPN deserves the top spot on the list of the best VPNs for Apple TV. For starters, it’s one of the first VPN providers to have an Apple TV app and is compatible with the latest version of tvOS. Because of this, NordVPN is extremely easy to set up on Apple TV.

NordVPN has also repeatedly proven that it can unblock pretty much all streaming services. Even when testing its performance on Apple TV, I noticed that it worked effortlessly with the main streaming platforms, providing a lag-free viewing experience. So, while you may be inclined to look for more affordable options, note that NordVPN still offers the best value for money.

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