How to install a VPN on Roku in 2024 with Easy steps

For those of you who are into binge-watching TV shows and like to stream movies and live sports, Roku is the final stop. It offers a user-friendly interface with advanced features and streaming capabilities on a Smart TV, and all of that is available for free, no-monthly subscriptions.

This widespread popularity has helped Roku maintain an impressive user base of over 85 million active accounts. Its revenue continues to soar, rising from $3.1 billion in 2022 to $3.5 billion in 2023, reflecting an 11% year-over-year growth. The momentum has carried into 2024, with Roku achieving a remarkable $1.06 billion in total revenue in Q3 alone, further bolstering its yearly growth when compared to prior years.

I know how streamers love Roku, but what if I tell you that you can utilize more from your Roku device and stream more movies and TV shows? You want it right! This article will teach you how to install a VPN on your Roku device.

I will cover all the methods to set up a VPN on your Roku device, including the best VPN options for Roku and the devices you can use to install a VPN, with simple, step-by-step instructions.

Why you need a VPN for Roku?

Roku is one of the best streaming services on the market. It offers the best service and user-friendly experience compared to its competitors. However, unlike its competition, Roku does not support a VPN, which is why you won’t be able to access geo-locked content on Roku.

However, where there’s a will, there’s a way. Streamers eager for more content have discovered alternative methods to indirectly install a VPN on Roku. Using these techniques, you can access geo-restricted content and switch Netflix libraries on your Roku device.

How to install a  VPN on Roku in 2024?

Unfortunately, Roku does not support VPNs like other streaming devices, and you won’t be able to find a VPN app in Roku’s app store, aka “Streaming Store.” However, there are other ways to route your Roku traffic, such as VPN tunneling and accessing restricted apps and streaming platforms.

Here are the most popular and tested methods to install a VPN on Roku:

• Buy a pre-flashed router.
• Installing a VPN on your router.
• Using your Windows PC as a hotspot.
• Using a Mac as a hotspot.

Before exploring the methods for installing a VPN on your Roku device, it’s essential to choose a reliable VPN that can change your IP address and allow you to access restricted or geo-locked content.

I would recommend purchasing a pre-flashed router that comes with a VPN. You don’t have to do the tech stuff because everything has already been done. Just plug and play your pre-flashed VPN and start using a VPN on your Roku devices.

I have also listed affordable methods to install a VPN on your Roku device. However, let’s begin with the easiest and most convenient method to use a VPN on a Roku TV or device.

1. Buy a pre-flashed router with a VPN

The easiest way to use a VPN on Roku devices is to use a pre-flashed router with a VPN installed. Several pre-flashed VPNs come with popular brands like ExpressVPN and NordVPN.

I personally started using this method to use a VPN on my Roku TV and change my location to access geo-locked streaming platforms.

I use NordVPN on my Roku Plus 4K TV, which provides a superior streaming experience compared to my TCL Smart TV, offering more options for movies and TV shows. To simplify the setup, I purchased a GL.iNET pre-flashed router with a pre-configured NordVPN yearly subscription for $199.

You can also get the latest Aircove router developed by ExpressVPN for $189.90. It offers advanced security features like Multi-Location VPN Connectivity, Parental Controls, Ad-Blocking Privacy Protection, and Malware Protection, and comes with a 30-day free trial ExpressVPN subscription.

2. Install a VPN on your router

I have mentioned the easiest way to use a VPN on your Roku devices. However, if you are low on budget, you can also set up a VPN on your existing router to access geo-restricted content.

First, install DD-WRT firmware on your router, then configure the VPN on DD-WRT, and finally connect your Roku to that router.

This setup enables VPN access on your Roku as well as all other devices connected to the same router.

• Install DD-WRT on your router 

A VPN can’t be installed directly on a router. You will need to install the DD-WRT, which gives you more options and enables you to install a VPN on your router.

Most modern routers support the DD-WRT Linux firmware. However, if you have an older router model, you may not be able to install DD-WRT on it.

Here are the steps you set DD-WRT on your router:

1. Check this list to see if your router supports DD-WRT.
2. Download the .bin file. 
3. Read the instructions on flashing your router with new firmware.

Don’t worry if your router is not included in the list. You can turn your PC into a virtual router and use a VPN on your Roku devices.

• Install a VPN on DD-WRT 

Here are the steps to sign in to your router and set up a VPN:

1. Access your router’s setup interface by entering its IP address in your browser.
2. Navigate to Setup > Basic Setup > Network Address Server Settings and input your VPN’s DNS server address (available on your VPN provider’s website. For NordVPN, click here).
3. Disable IPv6.
4. Go to Services > VPN, enable the OpenVPN client, and click “Start OpenVPN client.”
5. Enter the required details from your VPN provider. Details like:
   1. Email address and password
   2. Server address
   3. VPN protocol.
   4. Your certificate key.
6. Apply the settings.

After applying these settings, you have successfully configured a VPN on your router. Any device connected from this router will have the same server address and IP location that you have configured in the settings.

• Connect Roku TV to the router 

After configuring a VPN on your router via DD-WRT. Connect your Roku TV or device to the router and enjoy endless streaming and unlimited access to geo-locked movies and TV shows.

If you are an avid Netflix user, the Australian Netflix library has the latest movies. To access the Australian Netflix library on your Roku TV, select an Australian server’s address and enter it in your router’s settings. You can also access the Japanese Netflix library and watch the latest anime series.

Similarly, you can access Hulu from anywhere on your Roku TV or device by entering an American server address on your router.

3. Set up a virtual router on your computer

This is the best alternative to setting up a VPN on your router. It requires less technical knowledge and is doable by anyone because 85% of laptop users have Windows as the default operating system.

But before you proceed, check if your device supports Wi-Fi transmission, then install the VPN and connect to Roku.

If it does not, change the driver or install the VPN on the router, which I have mentioned in the second heading.

Here are the steps you need to follow to make your PC a virtual router:

• Check your device for WiFi transmission 

Here are the steps to check if your Windows device supports WiFi transmission:

1. Head over to the search bar at the bottom of your screen and type “CMD.”
2. Press Enter after typing it, and the command prompt window will open.
3. In the Command Prompt window, type “netsh wlan show drivers” and press Enter.
4. Look for the line “Hosted network supported” and ensure it says “Yes”.

You can enable “hosted network support” by following these steps if it is turned off:

1. Press Windows + R, type “ncpa.cpl” into the Run dialog box, and press Enter to open the Network Connections window.
2. In the Network Connections window, right-click the network you want to share and select Properties.
3. In the Properties window, go to the Sharing tab and enable the first two options, as shown in the screenshot.
   
4. Click OK, close the Network Connections window, and restart your computer.

I enabled the hosted network support by following these steps. For more information, check out this thread from the Microsoft community.

• Installing a VPN on your device 

Sign up for a VPN and download it on your device. Sign in to the VPN and select your desired server. After connecting to a server, follow these steps to enable VPN connection sharing.

1. In the Windows taskbar, search for “Open Network & Internet Settings” and open the settings dashboard.
2. Select “Change adapter options” to view your network connections. Locate your VPN connection, which will be named after your VPN service.
3. Right-click on it, choose “Properties,” and go to the Sharing tab.
4. Check the box to “Allow other network users to connect through this computer’s internet connection.”
5. Save your changes.

• Connect your Roku device with your virtual router 

After completing the steps above, your PC will now function as a virtual router. Turn on your Roku TV or device and connect it to the virtual router you just created. The network name will typically match your device’s name, such as DESKTOP-EN1VMUT 0822.

Connecting Roku to a mobile hotspot via PC won’t work

While researching for this article, I came across numerous websites suggesting the “mobile hotspot” method for using a VPN on your Roku device via your PC or laptop. However, it does not work as claimed, and I tested it to confirm this.

This method won’t work because your device only broadcasts Wi-Fi signals through the “mobile hotspot” feature on your Windows PC. While your VPN secures your internet connection and encrypts your data, it doesn’t extend that protection or encryption to other devices connected via the hotspot. As a result, you won’t be able to use a VPN on your Roku TV using this approach.

4. Using a Mac as a hotspot

Good news for Mac users with a Roku TV. You can create a virtual router and connect your Roku device with it to access unlimited geo-restricted content. However, setting up a virtual router on a Mac is a bit more complicated than setting up a Windows-based system.

However, it is still possible and worth a try. Keep in mind that if your Mac lacks an Ethernet port, you will need an adapter and an Ethernet cable to make it work. Here are the steps to create a VPN-enabled virtual router for your Mac device.

• Set up your VPN manually on Mac 

Here are the steps to setup a VPN on your Mac manually to create a virtual router:

1. Open System Settings on your Mac and select General from the left-hand menu.
2. Go to Sharing and enable the Internet Sharing option.
3. A confirmation pop-up will appear; confirm your selection.
4. To configure your Wi-Fi connection, click the “i” icon next to the Internet Sharing toggle and select Wi-Fi from the second tab.
5. Set a name and password for your virtual network to complete the setup.

• Setup Roku account 

After successfully setting up a virtual router on your Mac, connect your Roku TV to it and create your Roku account. To do this, open the Roku interface, locate the virtual router name you created, and test your VPN connection before setting up your Roku account.

Which is the best VPN for Roku in 2024?

Roku does not support VPN, and you will need to follow the above-mentioned methods to use a VPN on your Roku device. The right question you should be asking is “Which VPN best works with Roku?” instead of “Which is the best Roku VPN.”

I have tested three VPNs with my Roku TV, and all three worked perfectly. I was able to unblock Hulu from outside the US, change Netflix libraries, and access geo-locked websites and streaming platforms.

I applied my techniques to optimize internet speed while using a VPN. Here are the three VPNs I tested with my Roku TV, ranked from best-performing (No. 1) to average-performing.

1. NordVPN — Largest Server Network

NordVPN is, in my opinion, the best overall VPN, offering thousands of optimized servers, user-friendly apps, and secure VPN protocols. It has been recognized as the top VPN for streaming in 2024 by several review sites like VPN for What and is a top choice among publications and YouTubers.

Here are a few NordVPN features that make it the best VPN for Roku:

• Access restricted websites and streaming platforms on Roku TV like Netflix, Hulu, and Prime Video.
• Over 6,000 servers in 111 countries ensure fast global connectivity.
• Compatible apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Smart TVs. NordVPN is compatible with several routers, including ASUS, TP-Link, etc
• Features include a kill switch, Double VPN, and malware protection.
• 24/7 support via live chat and email.
• Affordable plans start at $4.49/month and offer a 30-day money-back guarantee. NordVPN’s refund and cancellation policy is smooth and easy.

2. ExpressVPN — Fast, Secure, & Reliable

ExpressVPN is the top choice for privacy enthusiasts, offering some of the best VPN servers on the market. It has undergone third-party audits and follows a strict no-log policy. It can also be used in countries where VPNs are illegal or heavily regulated.

Here are the premium features that make ExpressVPN a strong contender as the second choice for a Roku VPN:

• Over 3,000 servers in 105+ countries with speeds up to 10Gbps for seamless gaming and streaming.
• Secure protocols like OpenVPN and Lightway with AES-256 encryption for top-tier security.
• Supports up to 8 devices simultaneously on platforms like Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Smart TVs.
• Dedicated IPs are available for secure tasks like online banking or business use.
• Unblocks popular streaming services and enables Netflix library switching.
• Priced at $4.99/month with a 24/7 customer support.
• ExpressVPN’s cancelation and refund policy allows subscribers to test the VPN for 30 days and claim a refund if they are not satisfied with the service.

3. Mullvad VPN — Affordable

A Mullvad VPN subscription costs $5.20/month, whether you subscribe monthly or yearly. Compared to NordVPN and ExpressVPN, it offers optimized VPN servers in limited locations.

You can also purchase this VPN anonymously because it accepts cash payments. Here are a few points of Mullvad VPN that make it a good choice for Roku TV:

• It has 653 VPN servers in 48 countries, most of which support speeds up to 10Gbps.
• Based in Sweden and follows a strict no-log policy.
• Offers additional security features like Multi-Hop, Custom DNS, Kill Switch, etc.
• Secure data with OpenVPN, WireGuard, and Shadowsocks VPN protocols. And uses advanced ciphers like AES and ChaCha20.
• Unblocks all streaming platforms and OTT services
• Can bypass VPN blocks and firewalls in countries like China, Russia, Iran, etc.
• Offered at $5.20/month with chat support for subscribers.
• Mullvad VPN’s cancelation policy allows you to use the VPN for 30 days and get a full refund if unsatisfied.

How does a VPN block Roku from your privacy?

A VPN does not block Roku from your privacy or security. Instead, a VPN protects your online activities by encrypting your data and hiding your IP address. You can install a VPN on your Roku device, and your ISP won’t know what movies and TV shows you are streaming on Roku TV.

How to change my Roku local network with a VPN?

Roku does not natively support VPNs, and you won’t find any in the Roku store. However, you can use a VPN on Roku by following one of the methods I have mentioned above. Keep in mind that simply installing a VPN won’t change your local network on Roku. To do so, you’ll need to create a new Roku account after connecting to your desired VPN server.

If you live in the UK, you won’t find the Hulu app in the Roku store, even with a VPN. This is because your Roku account is linked to the British Roku store, which doesn’t change based on your IP address. To resolve this, you’ll need to deactivate your Roku account, and factory reset your Roku device.

Changing your Roku local network with a VPN requires a few steps:

• Factory reset your Roku device.
• Disable your existing account on the Roku website.
• Connect to your desired VPN location, such as the United States.
• Create a new Roku account while the VPN is enabled.
• Link your newly created American Roku account to your Roku device.
• That’s it! You can now download and stream American channels and programs from anywhere.

1. Factory reset your Roku device

Here are the steps to factory reset your Roku device:

1. Reset the Roku device to “Factory settings.”
2. Open your Roku TV/device and go to settings.
3. Click on System > Advance System Settings > Factory Reset.
4. Enter the four-digit code to reset your Roku device to factory settings.
   
5. Click on “Start Factory Reset” to start the process.

2. Deactivate your Roku account

Here are the steps to deactivate your Roku account. This step is necessary to change your local Roku network:

1. Go to the Roku website and log in with your credentials to your Roku account.
2. Click on your profile and “My Account” from the top.
3. Locate “Deactivate Account” in the bottom left corner.
4. Click on it and provide a reason for deactivation.
5. Done.

3. Creating a new account with a VPN enabled

You can create a new account and access unlimited streaming content and channels, which are geo-locked in your country. Follow these steps after you have deactivated your old Roku account:

1. Open the VPN on your PC and connect to your desired server (e.g., United States).
2. Go to the Roku website in a new tab and click on “Create Account.”
3. Fill in your details, such as name and email address.
4. Add a payment method that is valid in the new region.
5. Provide additional details for the region you want to access.

4. Connecting your new Roku account to your device

After the factory reset, your Roku device will boot up as if it’s brand new. Follow these steps to connect the new Roku account you created for accessing channels from other countries:

1. Open your Roku device or TV.
2. Connect to a network (virtual router or hotspot).
3. Ensure your VPN is connected to the same server location you want to access—for example, connect to a U.S. server to access American channels and OTT platforms.
4. Complete the device setup, including settings like picture quality.
5. Enter the email address you created earlier with the VPN enabled.
6. Check your email for an activation link and click on it to activate your account.
7. Continue setting up channels and apps on your Roku device.
8. After selecting channels, click “Continue” to complete the setup.
9. Your Roku device will update in a few seconds.
10. You can now access American channels and OTT platforms like Hulu, Peacock, and Max from anywhere.

Final thoughts on using VPN on Roku

Roku is considered the best streaming device and is a piece of heaven for streamers and movie lovers. Sadly the device does not support VPNs and you wont find a VPN in its store. But that does not mean you cant install a VPN on Roku and access geo-locked content.

I have listed the best four methods to use a VPN on Roku. You can install a VPN on your router or create a virtual router using your Windows PC or Mac.

In my experience NordVPN and ExpressVPN are the best VPNs for Roku TV and enabled me to access geo-locked apps like Hulu and Max from the UK. You can try any VPN you want to but I would recommend these two.

Bottom Line

The most convenient method to install and use a VPN on Roku devices is the following:

• Get a pre-flashed router with a VPN installed
• Connect your Roku device with it and enjoy