How to Use ExpressVPN on Apple TV — Quick Setup in 2023

You can’t directly install or download ExpressVPN on an Apple TV device (tvOS). So, using and setting up ExpressVPN on Apple TV might seem challenging. However, there’s a way to access your favorite shows through Apple TV from anywhere with this VPN.

My step-by-step guide helps you install ExpressVPN on Apple TV within minutes. There are multiple ExpressVPN Apple TV setup methods you can use. Overall, the easiest option is to install ExpressVPN on a router.

Not all VPNs work on Apple TV or can be installed on a router. That’s why I recommend using ExpressVPN. It has a vast server network and lightning-fast speeds to access your favorite platforms interruption-free. The VPN also offers robust security features to protect your online activity. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free as it‘s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

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Why You Need a VPN to Watch Apple TV

Services like Apple TV+, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu are geo-restricted on Apple TV. You may not be able to install region-specific apps. This means you can’t take full advantage of your Apple TV device and watch all your favorite shows when abroad.

If you’re already using ExpressVPN, you most likely know that a VPN reroutes your internet traffic through a secure tunnel. This way, it replaces your actual IP address with one of your chosen countries. For example, a VPN tunnel can make it look like you’re in the US while in Australia. You can easily bypass geoblocks and access your streaming accounts.

ExpressVPN offers a vast server network across 94 countries for easy unblocking. It also has blazing-fast speeds to watch your favorite shows on Apple TV+, DAZN, Disney+, and other streaming platforms in 4K without buffering. Plus, it has robust security and privacy features (like military-grade encryption, TrustedServer technology, and a no-logs policy).

Subscription prices start at $6.67/month, but ExpressVPN also regularly offers generous discounts. I got 49% off when I signed up for the 12-month plan and even 3 extra months for free. Plus, ExpressVPN is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. Getting a refund is hassle-free if you’re not 100% happy with the service — just contact customer support via 24/7 live chat and request a refund.

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How to Install ExpressVPN on Apple TV

ExpressVPN Apple TV setup isn’t as challenging if you follow the steps below. There are multiple methods to use ExpressVPN on Apple TV. Just go ahead and choose the best one for you.

The VPN is compatible with many Apple TV generations, such as:

• 2nd generation Apple TV 4K
• 1st generation Apple TV 4K
• HD (4th gen) Apple TV
• 3rd generation Apple TV
• 2nd generation Apple TV
• 1st generation Apple TV

Also, make sure to subscribe first — choose the plan suited to your needs before downloading the firmware.

1. Set Up ExpressVPN on Apple TV Using a Router

Using ExpressVPN on Apple TV through a router is the best option for a permanent and secure connection. This way, you protect all your devices connected to your home WiFi network (like your PCs, smart TVs, and game consoles). Your streaming data is safeguarded by military-grade encryption and the most advanced security protocols.

Downloading and Installing ExpressVPN on a router takes around 10 minutes. Here’s a list of the routers that ExpressVPN supports:

• Asus — RT-AC56(U/R/S), RT-AC68U (up to v3), RT-AC87U
• Linksys — EA6200, WRT1200AC, WRT1900AC(S), WRT3200ACM, WRT32X
• Netgear — R6300v2, R6400v2, Nighthawk R6700v3, Nighthawk R7000, Nighthawk R7000P

For Netgear Routers

Step 1: Log in to your ExpressVPN account and go to Set Up Devices.

Step 2: Tap on “Router” and select your model from the list.

ExpressVPN offers firmware for several routers — Asus, Linksys, and Netgear

Step 3: Download the firmware and copy the activation code.

Step 4: Turn on your Netgear router and connect to the internet.

Step 5: Type “192.168.0.1”, “192.168.1.1”, or “routerlogin.net” into the search engine.

You can log in to your router’s dashboard using the default username and password

Step 6: Log in with your username and password and go to the Advanced tab.

Step 7: Select Administration > Router Update and browse for ExpressVPN’s firmware.chk file.

Step 8: Click on Upload — your router should restart automatically.

Step 9: Connect your PC to the VPN router. Then, head to the ExpressVPN router page and select Get Started to complete the setup by following the on-screen instructions.

After filling in your router’s network name and password, ExpressVPN is successfully configured on your router

Step 10: Connect to a server that allows you to access the content you want and use your Apple TV with ExpressVPN.

ExpressVPN dashboard allows you to change servers with a single click

For Linksys Routers

Step 1: Log in to your ExpressVPN account and go to Set Up Devices.

Step 2: Tap on the “Router” and select your model from the list.

Step 3: Download the firmware and copy the activation code.

Step 4: Log in to your router admin panel on the Linksys sign-in page and enter the credentials.

Step 5: Click the Connectivity tab, go to Router Firmware Update, and select Manual.

Step 6: Flash the ExpressVPN firmware you downloaded, click the Start button, and let your router restart.

Step 7: You need to connect to your router’s WiFi and then visit the ExpressVPN router page.

Step 8: Set up ExpressVPN on your router and paste the activation code you received.

Step 9: Finally, choose a server location and press the Connect button.

For Asus Routers

Step 1: Open your Asus router’s admin panel by entering the router’s IP address (192.168.1.1) in your browser. Now, enter the username and password.

Step 2: Click on “VPN” under the advanced settings.

Step 3: Select the OpenVPN section and enter the following details:

• Description (copy from your ExpressVPN dashboard)
• Username (copy from your ExpressVPN dashboard)
• Password (copy from your ExpressVPN dashboard)

Step 4: Upload the.ovpn configuration file you got from ExpressVPN and click OK to add the VPN profile.

Step 5: Click Activate, then check your IP address and location to ensure the VPN is working.

For TP-Link Routers

Step 1: Log in using your account information to set up ExpressVPN on your router. Ensure the username, password, and server address details are ready, as those will be used later.

Step 2: Click the Setup ExpressVPN tab and select Manual config. Enter your router’s admin panel URL in your Apple TV browser to enter the settings page.

Step 3: Click the Advanced TP-link settings and navigate to Network > Internet.

Step 4: In the Internet Connection section, enter the username, password, and VPN server address.

Step 5: Finally, set the Connection Mode to Manually and connect to a server.

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2. Set Up ExpressVPN on Apple TV Using MediaStreamer

Using MediaStreamer is another method to set up ExpressVPN on your Apple TV. However, MediaStreamer is a DNS service, so you don’t get the security benefits of a VPN.

There are 2 ways to use ExpressVPN on Apple TV through MediaStreamer. It depends on whether you have a static or a dynamic IP address. A static VPN IP address is always the same. A dynamic VPN IP address changes every time you start a new session.

Set Up MediaStreamer on Your Apple TV With a Static IP Address

Step 1: Visit the ExpressVPN DNS settings page — it requires logging in to your account.

Step 2: Click the Register my IP address button and toggle on Automatically register my IP address.

Step 3: Head to the Dashboard and find the Set Up Your Devices section.

Step 4: Select Apple TV — the DNS server IP address should be displayed.

Step 5: Turn on your Apple TV and go to the settings.

Step 6: Now, select Network > WiFi > Configure DNS.

Step 7: Click the Manual button and enter the MediaStreamer DNS IP address.

Step 8: Restart your Apple TV and enjoy easy access to all content on streaming apps like Apple TV BBC iPlayer, Netflix US, and HBO Max.

Set Up MediaStreamer on Your Apple TV With a Dynamic IP Address

To set up MediaStreamer on your Apple TV with a dynamic IP Address, you need to create a DDNS hostname, register it with ExpressVPN, and configure DNS on your Apple TV.

Create a DDNS Hostname

Step 1: For setting up a DDNS hostname, it's recommended to use the free Dynu service (you can use another DDNS service provider too).

Step 2: Visit dynu.com and create an account.

Step 3: Fill in the form with the necessary information and check your email — open the attached link to verify your account.

Step 4: Log in to your Dynu account using your username and password.

Step 5: Click on DDNS Services > Add > Use Our Domain Name (you can set up your own domain as well if you’re a more tech-savvy user).

Option 2 allows you to enter your existing domain in the Domain Name box

Step 6: Create your hostname and click the green Add button.

Step 7: Uncheck Wildcard IPv4 Alias, Wildcard IPv6 Alias, and Enable IPv6 Address, then click the Save button — your Dynu account is set up.

If you’re a more advanced user, the Wildcard Alias feature allows you to use sub-domains on demand

Register Your Hostname With ExpressVPN

Step 1: Go to the ExpressVPN website and sign in to your account.

Step 2: Choose the DNS Settings, scroll down to the Dynamic DNS Registration, and enter the hostname you created with the Dynu service.

Step 3: Click the Save Hostname button, and the word “updated” should appear on your screen.

Configure DNS on Your Apple TV

Step 1: Go to the My Subscriptions tab on the ExpressVPN page.

Step 2: Click Set Up ExpressVPN.

Step 3: Select Apple TV and copy the DNS server IP shown on the screen's right side.

Step 4: Turn on your Apple TV, choose Settings from your home screen, and select Network.

Step 5: Under the connection, you should see either “Wi-Fi” or “ethernet” — click the one that appears.

Step 6: Go to Configure DNS > Manual and copy the displayed DNS address (it’s recommended to save it as you might need it in the future).

Step 7: Enter the 12-digit DNS server IP address you copied from the ExpressVPN website and click Done.

Step 8: Restart your Apple TV (select System > Restart in your settings menu).

Step 9: You’re ready to stream your favorite shows on your Apple TV from anywhere.

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3. Set Up ExpressVPN on Apple TV Using Your PC (Virtual Router)

Using a virtual router is a smart way to set up the VPN. Thanks to this method, ExpressVPN works on Apple TV through a hotspot connection. However, one downside is that you must keep your computer running while using Apple TV (smartphones can’t be used for this).

Step 1: Use a Windows/macOS computer and turn on the mobile hotspot. Windows users need to choose the OpenVPN protocol, while Mac users have to use L2TP/IPsec.

You can turn on the WiFi hotspot using the quick settings panel on Windows

Step 2: Configure the network by assigning it a name and password.

Customize the network name and frequency band for faster speeds or better range

Step 3: Connect to an ExpressVPN server on your PC.

Step 4: Turn on your Apple TV and connect to the hotspot connection you’ve just made.

Step 5: Enjoy watching your favorite shows.

Set Up ExpressVPN for Apple TV

4. Set Up ExpressVPN on Apple TV Using AirPlay

For Apple users with Mac or iOS/iPadOS devices, there is another alternative to get ExpressVPN for your Apple TV. AirPlay is a feature that helps you mirror content from one device to another.

This way, you can stream videos from your Apple devices and cast them on your Apple TV. The latest version of tvOS lets you watch YouTube videos in 4K (running on the Apple TV 4K). Just bear in mind that AirPlay doesn’t work with Netflix as the service has removed support for it. If you want to access your Netflix account while abroad, run ExpressVPN on your router or use smart DNS.

Follow the steps below to use ExpressVPN with AirPlay on Apple TV.

Step 1: Sign up for ExpressVPN and download the app for your OS device.

Step 2: If you use Mac, open the ExpressVPN app and choose Preferences > General. To make sure your Mac can discover Apple TV, tick the “Allow access to devices on the local network” setting.

Step 3: Connect to a VPN server that lets you unblock the content you need (for example, connect to the US server to access your Hulu subscription). Then open a streaming platform on your device and start a video.

Step 4: Click the AirPlay icon and select your Apple TV — make sure your device and Apple TV are connected to the same WiFi network.

Step 5: The selected video should be visible on your Apple TV.

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FAQs on Using ExpressVPN on Apple TV

How do I change ExpressVPN’s server location on Apple TV?

The easiest way to change countries on Apple TV is through the router app or PC. Routers can be configured differently and may require additional steps to change the server location. Take a look at our setup guide to get the VPN on your router and change ExpressVPN’s locations on Apple TV. For example, you can watch Apple TV Germany from the US.

If you’re using MediaStreamer (Smart DNS), you can’t change your server location natively. MediaStreamer has a specific list of compatible streaming services. To choose a country, go to Settings > General > Apple TV Language. Then go to General > Region Format and select the desired region. This way, you can access your BBC iPlayer account outside the UK using MediaStreamer.

Is there a difference between Apple TV and Apple TV+?

Usually, this refers to two different things. An Apple TV device (often just referred to as “Apple TV”) is a media box that plugs into your TV, effectively turning it into an entertainment center. You can install various apps and stream content, but you need a VPN like ExpressVPN to bypass global geoblocks.

Apple TV+ (or “Plus”) refers to Apple’s own streaming service. This is, of course, available on Apple TV, smart TVs, and other iOS devices. It’s also available to view in a web browser, meaning you can also watch it on a Windows or Android device.

Can I watch American Netflix on Apple TV with ExpressVPN?

Yes, you can watch Netflix US on Apple TV with ExpressVPN. American Netflix can be unblocked by using US servers. All you need to do is follow the step-by-step guide and set up ExpressVPN on your Apple TV. ExpressVPN lets you watch shows on your other streaming platforms, like Hulu, Disney+, and HBO Max as well.

Why is ExpressVPN not working with Apple TV?

There may be multiple reasons why ExpressVPN is not working with Apple TV. However, there are a few main ones to check first. See if your router IP address is registered on ExpressVPN’s website. Select “Register my IP address” and set up ExpressVPN on your router again.

If you’re using MediaStreamer, verify if the streaming platform you want to access is supported. There may be some platforms that MediaStreamer doesn’t work with. In this case, you must manually connect to a server and use ExpressVPN on Apple TV through a router. If you use AirPlay, make sure your Apple TV is connected to the same network as your phone or laptop.

Can I use a free VPN on Apple TV?

You can, but using a free VPN for Apple TV can put your privacy at risk. Free services don’t provide robust security and privacy features like their premium counterparts. Some have also been known to sell your personal data to third parties. So, a premium VPN (like ExpressVPN) with a reliable money-back guarantee is a safer choice.

Even if you find a free service compatible with Apple TV that doesn’t leak your data, you can face many other limitations. Free VPNs restrict your speeds, bandwidth, and server locations pushing you to upgrade to a paid plan.

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Start Using ExpressVPN on Apple TV Now

Properly following the appropriate guide makes installing ExpressVPN on Apple TV a straightforward process. There are multiple methods available to utilize ExpressVPN on Apple TV, such as configuring it on your router or employing the MediaStreamer option. However, it is essential to ensure that you have an active VPN subscription before proceeding with the setup on your Apple TV.

ExpressVPN is my top choice for Apple TV. It offers blazing-fast speeds and a global server network to reliably unblock content on your Apple TV without interruptions. Plus, its excellent security and privacy features keep your internet connection safe. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free, as it's backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. Getting a refund is hassle-free if you’re not fully satisfied with the service.