How to Install a VPN on Roku: A Step-By-Step Guide

When it comes to streaming movies online, Roku is one of the well-known devices designed specifically to make streaming enjoyable. Instead of downloading multiple streaming platforms and switching from one to another, you can gather them in one place with Roku. Once you plug your Roku device into your TV and link it to the internet, you can watch movies and other content from any platform you choose. This ease of use has made Roku popular among cord-cutters, and as of 2020, more than 100 million people were already using Roku in the US.

However, since most streaming platforms have geo-restrictions that make them unavailable in some countries, using a VPN on Roku becomes imperative. The issue is that Roku doesn’t support VPNs, which poses a big challenge to users who want to use one. If you are among those facing this challenge and looking for how to install a VPN on your Roku device, look no further; the solution is here. Keep reading this article to learn how to use a VPN on your Roku device without stress.

How to Install a VPN on Roku Worldwide – Quick Guide

1. Subscribe to a VPN and install it on a compatible router.
2. Log in to your router’s admin panel and configure the VPN.
3. Connect your Roku to the VPN-enabled Wi-Fi network.
4. If needed, create a new Roku account with the VPN active.
5. Alternatively, set up a virtual hotspot on your PC/Mac.
6. Connect Roku to the virtual hotspot for VPN-protected streaming.
7. Restart Roku and start streaming with geo-restricted content access.

How to Use a VPN on your Roku Device – Detailed

When you understand that the Roku device does not support the installation of VPNs, the next thing is to find alternatives that can work. There are things you could do to make it work, and we shall discuss them below:

1. Install and Use the VPN through a router.
2. Use a pre-flashed router.
3. Connect with a virtual router using a Mac device.
4. Use a Windows device as a virtual router to connect.

The pre-flashed router is the easiest to set up and use immediately, making it the most recommended option. However, if you’re on a low budget, you could consider using a Windows device as a virtual router.

1. Use the VPN on Roku through a Router

To install the VPN on your router, follow some guidelines, which will be explained to make the process easier.

– Install DD-WRT on the Router

DD-WRT is Linux-based alternative Open Source firmware that supports functionalities on wireless routers and access points.

1. The first thing to do is to confirm that the router is compatible with DD-WRT.
2. Next, download the .bin files suitable for your router hardware.
3. Follow the instructions in the manual for the router hardware to flash the new firmware on your router.

– Install a VPN on the DD-WRT

Installing the VPN on this firmware involves logging into your router and setting it up for optimal performance. Here are some simple steps for achieving that:

1. Open the setup interface of your router by copying the router’s IP address and pasting it into your browser’s search bar.
2. Once the interface is open, click Setup > Basic Setup > Network Address Server Settings.
3. Visit the VPN website and copy its DNS server address, then fill it in the space provided.
4. IPv6 should be turned off.
5. Proceed to Services > VPN and disable the PPTP Server, PPTP, and Start OpenVPN.
6. Enable “OpenVPN Client” and “Use LZO Compression”
7. Click on “Start OpenVPN client.”
8. Input the following data from the VPN provider: Your email address, Your VPN account password, The server address you have selected to use, and The protocol type you have chosen to use.
9. Copy your VPN’s certificate key and paste it into the required field.
10. Click on Apply Settings.

– Connect Your Roku Device to the Router

After the settings have been affected, you should now be able to connect your Roku to your Wi-Fi to begin streaming. It is advisable to choose a server in the US or UK because they are mostly known to have more content in their streaming services libraries.

2. Use a Pre-flashed Router to Install a VPN for your Roku

If you’re not on a low budget, pre-flashed routers remain the best option as they are stress-free. A pre-flashed router removes the need to check DD-WRT compatibility or install anything before use. Pre-flashed routers usually have a VPN already installed, thereby removing the stress of router setup. If you already have the VPN you want to use in mind and have no plans to change it, just get a pre-flashed router.

3. How to Use the VPN by Setting Up a Virtual Router on a Mac

Setting up your Mac device to function as a virtual router requires a more complicated process. However, with the appropriate steps, you can still do it successfully. If your Mac device lacks an Ethernet port, all you need is an Ethernet cable and an adapter. To use your Mac device as a virtual router, follow these steps to set it up. In no time, you will be using it to connect to your Roku.

– Set up your VPN Connection

1. If you need a VPN-enabled virtual router, you must manually set up your VPN connection.
2. Go to System Settings on your device and select “General” from the menu on the left.
3. Click on the option “Sharing” and toggle on the Internet Sharing option. You will be asked to confirm the selection.
4. Click the “i” beside the Internet Sharing toggle, and select Wi-Fi once the second tab opens.
5. Conclude by adding a name and password to it.

– Set up your Roku Account

Once you’ve converted your Mac device to a virtual router, look for the router you just named and use it to connect your Roku to the internet. Connect to your preferred VPN server before you can create your Roku account.

Note: Another alternative would be to download a VPN on your mobile phone, enable the mobile hotspot, and connect your Roku to your hotspot. You will only face limitations due to speed because a mobile hotspot is not as fast as a router.

4. How to Use the VPN by Setting Up a Virtual Router on a Windows Device

This is another option that you can consider, especially when a router is not accessible to you since Windows is very accessible to many people. This method requires creating a virtual router on your Windows PC. Below is a step-by-step guide on setting it up.

– Verify that your PC Supports Wi-Fi Transmission

Before you begin, you must confirm that your Windows PC supports Wi-Fi transmission. Follow the steps below to confirm this:

1. Open the search bar by pressing the “Windows” and “S” Keys.
2. Type “cmd” in the search bar, and the command prompt will appear; then open it.
3. Type in “netsh wlan show drivers” and press enter to reveal network driver configuration.
4. Ensure that “Hosted Network supported” is showing “Yes.”

Note: When you get a “NO” instead, you might need to reset your network settings or install new WLAN drivers. If that doesn’t work, you should check if your PC has a Network Interface Card (NIC) as it is a necessary physical layer circuitry for data transmission.

– Install the VPN App on your Windows PC

Once you have verified that your PC supports Wi-Fi transmission, go ahead and do the following:

1. Download and install the VPN software on your Windows. 
2. Then, you can create an account and log in to your VPN to set it up.
3. Type “Open Network Internet Settings” in your Windows taskbar and open your settings.
4. Click on the “change adapter options.”
5. You will see the VPN connection named after your VPN.
6. Right-click on it and choose “Properties”.
7. Locate the sharing tab and click on it.
8. Enable the “Allow other network users to connect through this computer’s internet connection.”
9. Click on “OK” to apply the settings. Once you are done with this process, congratulations! Your PC is now a router!

– Connect your Roku Device to the Virtual Router

To complete the process, open the Roku interface on your television and connect to the newly created virtual router. You can create a Roku account without fear of your IP being detected and enjoy access to premium entertainment.

The Best VPNs to Use for Roku – Detailed List

1. NordVPN

NordVPN is one of the best VPNs for Roku. It performs well in terms of speed, privacy, and server coverage. It has over 6,500 servers in 100+ countries worldwide, all of which are diskless and RAM-only. The innovative “SmartPlay” feature works with the speed of its SmartDNS and the VPN’s security to unblock any content or platform. Its security is ensured with the AES 256-bit encryption, which is military-level encryption.

NordVPN can unblock content in censorship-heavy countries such as China. It also connects up to 10 devices simultaneously, and its speed remains top-notch. It is affordable; with as low as $129.36 at $5.39 per month, you can get NordVPN’s 2-year plan, saving you a whopping 70% on subscription costs. With $83.88 at $6.99 per month, you can join NordVPN’s annual plan, which saves you as much as 61% off subscription costs. However, its monthly plan will cost extra, as you must pay $15.99 monthly.

Pros

Cons

2. ExpressVPN

Another VPN that will give you the best experience when using Roku is ExpressVPN. Express VPN is perfect for streaming with its stable connection, dedicated streaming features, and various servers. ExpressVPN’s firmware is very easy to install on routers, making it regarded as one of the most user-friendly VPNs. This means that setting up your Roku with Express VPN is very easy.

The speed of this VPN prevents lag when streaming. User privacy is guaranteed with ExpressVPN because it allows anonymous browsing and frowns on keeping customer logs. ExpressVPN is a bit more expensive than NordVPN, requiring only $12.95 monthly for the monthly plan. If you are willing to use the service long-term, we’d recommend the 12-month plan, which costs $6.67 per month and saves you 48% on subscription costs.

Pros

Cons

3. Private Internet Access

Despite a few drawbacks, Private Internet Access (PIA) remains one of our top recommendations for streaming on Roku. It offers reliable speeds and a vast network of over 10,000 servers, ensuring smooth access to geo-restricted content. PIA’s Smart DNS feature makes it easy to configure on routers—update your IP address to the best server, and you’re all set. Its military-grade encryption and strict no-logs policy ensure private and unrestricted browsing, making it a solid choice for Roku users.

PIA supports torrenting on dedicated servers, prevents DNS and IPv6 leaks, and provides unlimited bandwidth for seamless streaming. It outshines many competitors in affordability, offering a 3-year plan at just $1.98/month, plus four extra months free and a 30-day money-back guarantee. However, its monthly plan is slightly pricey at $11.95, similar to ExpressVPN’s, with a 30-day refund policy.

Pros

Cons

Why You Should Use a VPN on Roku

VPNs usually provide users with privacy when performing activities online; they keep trackers and malware away. In addition, using a VPN with your Roku device is beneficial to users in some ways. Two of the major advantages are explained here.

• Your IP address remains hidden and encrypted: When connecting to streaming sites, the streaming providers can see your device’s IP address. This address reveals your location and makes it easy for you to get blocked. However, using a VPN on your Roku device will ensure your real location is not detected.
• You can access content without regional restrictions: Most streaming platforms do not show the same content to viewers across various countries. This means that some users do not get access to the complete library of movies and shows to stream. However, with a VPN on your Roku, you have no restrictions.

VPNs You Shouldn’t Use on Roku

It is not new that some VPNs do not have the complete capability to function well as VPNs for streaming. Most of them do not have dedicated streaming servers, so they do not work well with Roku. Check here to see the VPNs you should avoid, not just when using Roku but also on other streaming platforms.

Can You Use Roku with a Free VPN?

Using a Roku with a free VPN might be possible, but streaming is not advisable. Free VPNs always have shortcomings; they keep logs, limit your data usage, or do other worrisome things. Their speed consistency is not guaranteed, and streaming service providers easily block them. Another challenge is setting up free routers on Roku. It is best to stay away from free VPNs.

Verdict: Is Using Roku with a VPN Worth It?

Roku makes your streaming experience seamless and enjoyable, especially if connected to a VPN. It allows you to access any streaming service provider in one place from one device. The only challenge lies in installing a VPN to work with your Roku device so you can unblock any streaming service. Since Roku doesn’t permit the direct installation of a VPN, various options can help you set up your VPN to use it on Roku. You can install the VPN on your router, turn your Windows or Mac device into a virtual router, or use a Pre-flash router.

You also need to know the best VPNs that work well with Roku. Therefore, we have recommended choosing any of the three premium VPNs, NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and CyberGhost, for your Roku. Whether it’s Netflix, Hulu, Max, SlingTV, Peacock TV, or BBC iPlayer, NordVPN or ExpressVPN will give you the speed, safety, and convenience you need while streaming your favorite movies.

Frequently Asked Questions