| Updated: January 10, 2025
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Certain things should be kept in mind when downloading a VPN on any device. Always download VPN software from a reliable provider or directly from the Play or App Store.
There are several commercial VPN providers offering the best VPN features like optimized VPN servers, secure VPN protocols, multiple device usage, and advanced security features with the subscription.
Downloading a VPN is a straight froward process if your VPN provider offers a native app for your devices. Here is what you should do:
NordVPN is the overall best VPN provider and works on every device. I have successfully configured it manually on a PC, Mac, router, etc, and it works perfectly and has the best customer support.
VPNs have gained significant popularity due to the increasing threats of cyberattacks, data theft, and online privacy breaches. Downloading and installing a VPN on your device is one of the simplest steps you can take to enhance your online security. Most commercial VPNs provide feature-rich apps for various devices, including PCs, Macs, and mobile devices.
A VPN is an essential tool for frequent travelers who connect to public Wi-Fi networks, download torrents, or access geo-restricted channels and streaming platforms. With numerous benefits, it’s no surprise that 22% of internet users rely on a VPN for added security and privacy while browsing online.
This article will detail the basic steps you can follow to download and use a VPN on your device. I have covered all the basic devices that are globally used with VPN for browsing the internet, downloading, streaming, etc.
A VPN installed on your PC, mobile device, TV, etc., has many benefits. One key advantage is that it hides your IP address and encrypts your internet traffic, eventually protecting you from the prying eyes of your ISP and government agencies. Additionally, a VPN allows you to change your IP location, enabling access to regionally restricted content and channels.
For example, you can connect to a British VPN server to access BBC iPlayer from the United States and enjoy your favorite British series. Moreover, a VPN lets you use social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram in countries where they are banned.
Here are the benefits of a VPN with usage:
| Benefits | Description |
| Privacy Protection | Hides your IP address and encrypts your internet traffic, preventing ISPs, governments, or hackers from tracking your activities. |
| Access Geo-Restricted Content | Allows you to bypass geographic restrictions and access content, streaming services, and websites unavailable in your location. |
| Enhanced Security on Public Wi-Fi | Encrypts your data, protecting you from hackers when connected to unsecured public Wi-Fi networks. |
| Bypass Censorship | Grants access to blocked websites and services, such as social media platforms, in countries with strict internet censorship. |
| Secure Remote Work | Provides a safe connection to corporate networks for employees working remotely, protecting sensitive company data. |
| Avoid Bandwidth Throttling | Prevents ISPs from slowing down your internet connection based on your online activities, such as streaming or gaming. |
| Online Anonymity | Masks your identity online, allowing you to browse anonymously and avoid targeted ads or online tracking. |
| Safe Torrenting | Ensures secure and anonymous downloading or sharing of files via P2P networks, protecting your identity from other users. |
| Cost Savings | Helps save money by accessing region-specific discounts on flights, hotel bookings, and online subscriptions. |
There are a few disadvantages to using a VPN. One common drawback is reduced internet speed, as your traffic is encrypted and routed through a secure tunnel to a VPN server before reaching the internet. Another concern is the legal status of VPNs in certain countries, particularly those with restrictive or authoritarian regimes, where using a VPN may be illegal.
However, most premium VPNs, such as ExpressVPN and NordVPN, offer optimized servers capable of maintaining fast internet speeds. Additionally, they provide obfuscated servers designed to bypass VPN blocks and firewalls, ensuring uninterrupted access even in restrictive environments.
Most VPN users operate on a Windows PC or Mac, so I will focus on the setup details for these two platforms. Later, I will provide a separate guide on setting up a VPN on Linux.
The easiest and most convenient way to use a VPN on your computer is to download its native app. Almost all commercial VPNs offer native Windows and Mac apps that can be downloaded from their websites or the app store.
However, there are other methods to configure a VPN on your computer, like manually setting it up or connecting it to a VPN-enabled router. Here are detailed guides on setting up a VPN on both devices;
I have detailed different ways to set up a VPN on your computer, which can be useful if your VPN provider doesn’t offer a native app or you are setting up a corporate VPN. Let’s move forward with securing our computers by downloading the VPN app.
Most commercial VPNs offer a native Windows app, which can be downloaded from the Microsoft Store or VPN provider’s website. Here are the steps to install a VPN on your Windows PC.
You have successfully installed a VPN on your Windows PC. Open the VPN app and connect to your desired server to secure your internet traffic. For enhanced protection, consider using a VPN with antivirus software to safeguard both your device and online activities.
Additionally, you can set up a virtual router on Windows and secure all your household devices. This is useful for devices that do not have a native VPN app, like Roku, Smart TVs, etc.
Most premium VPN providers offer a native Mac app, making it the easiest way to install and use a VPN on a Mac. Follow these steps to download and install a VPN on your Mac:
You can set up a virtual VPN router on your Mac to secure older models of Apple TV, Chromecast, and Fire TV Stick. This is especially useful since only a few VPN providers offer a native app for Apple TV, and older models of Chromecast and Fire TV Stick do not support VPN functionality.
It is essential to test your VPN after setting up a virtual router and connecting other devices. In some cases, misconfigurations or incorrect protocol settings can cause the VPN to malfunction, causing users to mistakenly believe there’s an issue with the provider.
However, these problems are often caused by setup errors. This guide explains why your VPN might not be working and how to resolve the issue.
Many of us have transitioned from using PCs to mobile devices for both work and entertainment. While a mobile device may not fully replicate the experience of a PC, it excels as a powerful tool for communication.
Streaming and consuming content on mobile devices has become incredibly popular, with many users enjoying podcasts or watching YouTube videos on the go. In fact, in 2023, YouTube recorded an astonishing 98 billion visits from mobile devices compared to just 8 billion from desktop users.
These numbers highlight the clear preference of users for mobile devices over desktops and Smart TVs when it comes to streaming their favorite content on YouTube.
A VPN can secure your internet traffic, provide access to geo-restricted channels, and protect you from bandwidth throttling. Here are quick steps to install a VPN on your mobile device. While the guide focuses on Android and iPhone, you can follow these steps for other smartphones as well.
Most commercial VPNs offer an Android app. All you need to do is type your VPN provider’s name in the search bar on Google Play Store and download the VPN app. Follow these steps:
You have successfully configured a VPN on your Android phone. However, there are alternative methods to set up a VPN on your Android mobile without an app.
The only way to download a VPN on an iPhone is through the App Store. Unlike Android devices, iPhones do not support downloading APK files.
Here are the steps you should follow:
You are now connected to a VPN, and your internet traffic is secured. Here is a detailed guide on installing a VPN on iPhones with and without the App Store. I recommend checking for mobile VPN leaks every time they download a new VPN on mobile devices.
Most of us like to watch movies and TV shows on our TVs. That is because watching your favorite action movie on a big screen gives a cinematic experience. However, a VPN can bring more excitement to entertainment.
You can unblock geo-locked channels on your Smart TV, which means you can live stream football, cricket, or NFL without subscribing to an expensive cable subscription. However, free and cracked VPNs don’t work properly on Smart TVs, and I recommend getting a premium VPN like Private Internet Access, which has a smooth refund policy and a 30-day money-back guarantee, in case you don’t like it.
I have covered installing a VPN on Smart TVs, Android TVs, and Apple TVs. You can follow similar steps to install a VPN on your TV or connect a VPN-enabled streaming device.
Most Smart TVs now come with built-in Google TV and access to Google Play Store. That means you can download a VPN on your Smart TV with a few clicks, just like on an Android mobile phone. Here are the steps to do that:
Smart TVs with custom operating systems do not support Android apps and lack access to the Google Play Store. Here’s a comprehensive guide on setting up a VPN on Smart TVs that do not support Android apps.
Smart TVs by Samsung and LG run on their proprietary Linux-based operating systems, which do not support Android apps or native VPN apps. However, you can still use a VPN with these Smart TVs by following these methods:
I use CyberGhost VPN to connect my Smart TV to a VPN. It provides optimized servers for streaming and comes with a generous 45-day money-back guarantee. CyberGhost’s cancellation and refund process is seamless, with no questions asked at the time of the refund.
Downloading a VPN on your Android TV is incredibly easy. Most popular TV brands use Android as their operating system and are supported by Google. This means you can conveniently download and install a VPN directly from the Google Play Store. Here are the steps to do it:
Another method for downloading a VPN on your Android TV is to use the APK file, which can be found on the provider’s website. I prefer IPVanish for Anrdoid TV due to its user-friendly app and optimized servers for streaming. You can get a 100% refund within 30 days with the IPVanish cancelation and refund policy.
Only a handful of commercial VPNs offer apps that are compatible with Apple TV. To help you out, I’ve created an extensive guide on installing a VPN on Apple TV, including a list of VPNs that provide native apps specifically designed for this device.
Here are the steps to do it:
VyprVPN is one of the oldest and most reliable players in the VPN market. Over the years, it has consistently improved its features and services. I highly recommend using it on Apple TV due to its user-friendly app.
I have also tested VyprVPN’s money-back guarantee, which is smooth and hassle-free. Its cancellation policy allows subscribers to try the VPN for 30 days and get a full refund if they are not satisfied.
Many streaming devices can be used with a VPN. I have listed the most popular devices that are used for streaming movies, TV shows, channels, and sports. These include Amazon Fire TV Stick, Google Chromecast, Kodi, and Roku.
Here are the steps to download a VPN app on a Fire TV Stick from the Amazon Store. If your VPN provider does not have an app on Amazon, download and install the APK file.
Here is a detailed guide on installing and using a VPN on Amazon Fire TV Stick via the Amazon store, APK file, and other alternatives. I use Surfhsark on my Fire TV Stick, and it works perfectly in accessing restricted streaming platforms like Hulu from outside the USA.
Additionally, it is available on the Amazon App Store and comes at an affordable price of $2.69/month (2-year plan with 3 extra months). Surfshark’s cancellation and refund policy ensures every subscription is risk-free, offering a 100% refund within the 30-day trial period.
New Google Chromecast models come with built-in Google TV, an operating system for Smart TVs that supports Android VPN apps. This allows you to easily download a VPN app directly from the Play Store onto your Chromecast device.
Here are the steps to do it:
Older models of Chromecast do not support Android VPN apps or Google TV. To help you get started, here’s an extensive guide on installing and using a VPN on Chromecast. Additionally, I recommend using MullvadVPN for Chromecast due to its secure VPN protocols and optimized servers, ensuring a reliable and secure streaming experience.
MullvadVPN’s cancellation process is super easy, and you will have a time span of 30-days to test it, and get your money back if unsatisfied.
Roku does not natively support a VPN, and you won’t find a single VPN app on the Roku Store. However, there are possibilities of using a VPN on your Roku devices with the following methods:
Here is a detailed guide on installing a VPN on Roku. I have detailed the above-mentioned methods after testing them with different VPNs. However, I prefer PrivateVPN for Roku because of its optimized VPN servers that work perfectly with Roku and other streaming devices.
PrivateVPN’s cancelation and refund policy is up to the mark but not as good as its competitor. You have to provide a valid reason for a refund and will win a refund if your reason is good enough.
Kodi remains one of the most popular streaming apps among movie and TV show enthusiasts. Its rise to fame began in 2017 when streaming movies using P2P technology was a groundbreaking innovation.
Although apps like Stremio and Plex later entered the market with more user-friendly interfaces, Kodi continues to be the top choice for many users who prefer streaming P2P files.
There are two methods of using a VPN for Kodi:
Most Kodi users, myself included, prefer the PC method because it’s easy to set up and allows for the flexibility to change VPN servers anytime with just a few clicks. In contrast, changing a VPN server on a router can be a hassle, as it requires detailed information like the server URL, service credentials, and more.
Here are the steps to install and use a VPN for Kodi via PC:
For those who prefer to install a VPN on their router for use with Kodi, here’s a detailed guide on setting up a VPN for Kodi. The guide also highlights the best VPN options for seamless streaming and enhanced privacy.
I use Windscribe VPN for Kodi because it offers user-friendly apps, optimized servers, and secure VPN protocols. It also provides a flexible refund policy—you can request a full refund within 7 days or after consuming up to 10GB of data. Learn more about Windscribe’s cancellation process and refund policy for a hassle-free experience.
Most commercial VPNs provide highly optimized VPN servers and helpful customer support to configure a VPN on multiple devices.
However, in my experience, NordVPN and ExpressVPN are the top-rated VPNs due to their user-friendly apps and advanced security features. Both VPNs have been reviewed by several VPN review websites, such as VPN for What, and you will hardly see a negative review.
Both VPNs can be used simultaneously on more than five devices and offer modern features like kill switch, split tunneling, Smart DNS, etc. You can manually configure both VPNs on devices like Windows, Mac, mobile devices, Smart TV, etc.
You can get a NordVPN subscription for $4.45/m (2-year deal), and ExpressVPN’s 2-year deal is offered at $4.49/m. Both VPN comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee and great customer support.
Read more about NordVPN and ExpressVPN cancelation process:
Hotspot Shield and Proton VPN are excellent choices for free VPN users. Both offer fully-featured apps compatible with multiple devices and can also be manually configured. These VPNs have no monthly data caps and allow you to stream geo-restricted content from anywhere at no cost.
Hotspot Shield comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee if you’re unsatisfied with the product, while Proton VPN’ cancelation policy offers a 30-day refund period.
Here is a list of features you should look at before purchasing a VPN in 2025:
By focusing on these factors, you can select a VPN that meets your privacy, security, and performance needs effectively.
The most convenient way to use a VPN on your devices is by downloading a native app or software from the app store or the provider’s website. However, if your VPN provider doesn’t offer a native app, you can manually configure the VPN on your devices.
If manual configuration isn’t an option, you can create a virtual router on your PC or install the VPN on your router and connect your devices through it. A VPN secures your internet traffic and masks your original IP address—an essential safeguard in today’s digital age.
Downloading and installing a VPN is a super easy task if your VPN provider offers a native VPN app for your devices.
Here are the simple steps:
To download a VPN on your school Chromebook, first check if it allows the installation of external software. Many school-managed Chromebooks have restricted access, and you may need an admin account to download and install a VPN.
If you have admin rights, open the Google Play Store, search for your VPN provider, install the app, and start using the VPN.
Other methods include installing a VPN Chrome extension from the Chrome Web Store or manually configuring a VPN on your school Chromebook through the network settings.
ExpressVPN and NordVPN are the best VPNs for all devices and operating systems. I have used both VPNs on all my devices and tried installing them with and without the app/software.
Mustafa is a cybersecurity analyst and a co-founder of VPN for What. Since 2017, Mustafa has gained international experience, working with governments, NGOs, and the private sector as a cybersecurity and VPN expert and advisor.
