Samsung smart TVs provide a range of great features like streaming apps, web browsing, and smart home integration. However, being connected to the internet also comes with privacy and security risks. Using a virtual private network (VPN) is an effective way to browse more safely on your Samsung TV.
As someone with over 10 years of experience helping people improve their online privacy and security, here is my guide on how to set up a VPN on your Samsung TV.
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Why You Should Use a VPN on Your Samsung TV
There are several important reasons why using a VPN can benefit Samsung TV owners:
1. Access Geo-Restricted Content
One of the main reasons people use a VPN is to access streaming content that is geo-restricted by services like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, etc. A VPN allows you to change your virtual location so you can access a wider range of shows and movies.
2. Protect Your Privacy
Samsung smart TVs can collect data on your viewing habits, browsing history, and personal information. Connecting through a VPN encrypts your traffic so that your data stays private.
3. Safeguard Against Cyber Threats
Like all connected devices, smart TVs are vulnerable to cyber attacks. Using a VPN adds an extra layer of security to prevent your Samsung TV from being hacked.
4 Ways to Set Up a VPN on a Samsung TV
The easiest way is to install the VPN directly onto your router. This secures every device connected to your home network, including smart TVs. Here are the main methods:
1. VPN Router Setup
This is the most convenient way to add VPN protection for your Samsung TV. It also secures all your other connected home devices too. Most leading VPNs like ExpressVPN have apps that make the router installation process straightforward.
If your VPN provider doesn’t support router installation, another option is to share the VPN connection from a desktop PC, smartphone, or tablet via Wi-Fi or ethernet. Devices like the Amazon Fire TV Stick also work well for sharing VPN access.
3. Use VPN Smart DNS Feature
Some VPN providers offer Smart DNS as an alternative way to change your virtual location and bypass geo-blocks. It doesn’t provide the same level of security as a VPN but is very easy to set up.
4. Manual Router Configuration
For advanced users, it is possible to manually configure select routers to connect with the VPN service. This method is more complex but also very secure once set up correctly.
Top 5 VPN Recommendations for Samsung Smart TV
Based on factors like fast streaming speeds, router compatibility, and ease of use, below are my top 5 recommended VPNs for using on your Samsung TV:
- ExpressVPN – Extremely fast speeds, best for 4K streaming, router app for easy setup, works with Netflix. 30-day money back guarantee.
- NordVPN – Also very fast, over 5,200 servers, dedicated IP available, supports router connection. 30-day guarantee.
- Surfshark – Unlimited devices plan, good speeds, Antivirus feature for malware protection. 30-day money back policy.
- CyberGhost – User-friendly apps, 7,000+ servers, dedicated streaming profile. 45-day refund policy.
- Private Internet Access – Budget-friendly but still good speeds, router installation guides available. 30-day refund promise.
When choosing a VPN for your Samsung TV, I recommend selecting one that offers a free trial or money-back period. This allows you to test if performance and features meet your needs before paying.
Step-By-Step Guide on Setting Up a VPN on Samsung TV
Once you’ve chosen the best VPN option for your needs, follow these steps to install and connect it to your Samsung smart TV:
Step 1 – Create an account with your selected VPN provider. Download their app and log in.
Step 2 – If your VPN offers router installation, use the router app to set this up and connect your Samsung TV to it. ExpressVPN and NordVPN make this very straightforward.
Step 3 – If configuring the router manually, follow your VPN’s guide carefully for your specific router make and model. Use ethernet cables for both the router and Samsung TV connections.
Step 4 – Alternatively, install the VPN app on a Fire TV Stick, Android TV box, PC, or other device. Use HDMI or casting to display the video onto your Samsung TV.
Step 5 – For VPNs with Smart DNS, simply change your Samsung TV DNS settings to match what is provided in your VPN account dashboard.
Step 6 – Once connected via one of the above methods, check your new IP address at websites like IPLeak.net to confirm your virtual location has changed through the VPN.
Step 7 – Access and enjoy geo-blocked content or any other websites more securely!
It is important when setting up and using your VPN to always connect to a server in the same country as your actual physical location. This will provide better speeds for streaming. For the best performance, choose VPN servers that are closest to your time zone.
I recommend running periodic speed tests through your VPN connection to your Samsung TV. Switch server locations if speeds drop below levels suitable for streaming HD or 4K content.
Using a VPN takes a little bit of setup effort but provides great privacy and security benefits alongside wider access to streaming content libraries from around the world.
Hopefully this guide gives you all the key information on how to safely browse on your Samsung TV with the protection of a virtual private network. Let me know if you have any other questions!
