5 Best VPN for Roku in 2022: How to Setup & Install a Roku VPN
Roku is a streaming player that delivers great quality video and audio to your TV. It’s one of the most popular ways to watch online content in the US, and it’s also available in other countries around the world.
There are several reasons why you might want to use a Roku VPN. Perhaps you want to access geo-restricted content that’s only available in the US, or maybe you’re concerned about your privacy and security when streaming online. Whatever your reasons, a VPN for Roku can help.
The best VPN for Roku will offer fast speeds, strong security, and easy-to-use apps. We’ve tested dozens of VPNs to find the best ones for Roku users, so you can stream your favorite content with ease.
Here are our top picks for the best VPNs for Roku.
5 Best VPN for Roku: Quick Overview
- ExpressVPN – 3,000+ servers in 90+ countries. Lightway Protocol.
- NordVPN – 5,900+ servers in 60+ countries. NordLynx Protocol.
- Surfshark – 3,200+ servers in 63+ locations. WireGuard Protocol.
- CyberGhost – 6,000+ servers in 88+ locations. OpenVPN Protocol.
- PureVPN – 6,500+ servers in 78+ countries. OpenVPN Protocol.
How to Install VPN On Roku: Quick Steps
Step 1: Sign up for a reputable VPN provider (we recommend ExpressVPN).
Step 2: Set up ExpressVPN on your router.
Step 3: Connect your Roku device to the router.
Step 4: Enjoy streaming geo-restricted content on Roku!
Still confused? Scroll down and take a look at our detailed guide.
Best VPN for Roku: Detailed Analysis
1. ExpressVPN: Dedicated Router App for Roku Users
ExpressVPN offers a dedicated router app that makes it easy to set up on a compatible router. It is our top pick for Roku users thanks to its fast speeds, strong security, and user-friendly apps.
It has a server pool of over 3000 servers in 160 locations around the world, so you’ll be able to unblock a wide range of content. ExpressVPN is also one of the few VPNs that offer split tunneling, which lets you choose which apps use the VPN and which don’t.
This makes it easy to keep your streaming traffic encrypted with a Roku VPN while still being able to access your local network and devices. ExpressVPN uses AES 256-bit encryption and provides a strict no-logs policy, so you can be sure your data is safe.
They also have a kill switch and DNS leak protection to further protect your privacy. ExpressVPN offers 24/7 customer support in case you need any help.
All ExpressVPN servers are optimized for streaming and they work on famous streaming platforms including Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC IPlayer, and more. Moreover, you can also add ExpressVPN on Kodi, Chromecast, Firestick, and so on.
The monthly plan of ExpressVPN costs $12.95. There is a 6-month plan that costs $9.99/mo. and a 1-year plan that costs $6.67/mo. All the plans require upfront payment and they’re also covered with the 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. NordVPN: Fast Speeds for Streaming
NordVPN is another excellent option for Roku users. It offers fast speeds for streaming and has a server pool of over 5000 servers in 60 countries. NordVPN is a great choice if you’re looking to unblock geo-restricted content from around the world.
NordVPN uses military-grade encryption and has a strict no-logs policy which is also audited by a third-party firm. They also have a kill switch and DNS leak protection.
May it be Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, or BBC IPlayer, NordVPN’s SmartPlay can unblock them all to give you a magical streaming experience. You can also use NordVPN on Firestick, Kodi, Chromecast, and much more.
You can connect up to six devices at the same time with a single NordVPN account.
Other features of NordVPN include Onion over VPN, Double VPN, CyberSec, and Split tunneling.
The monthly plan of NordVPN costs $11.99. There is a 1-year plan that costs $4.99/mo. and a 2-year plan that costs $3.99/mo. All the payments require upfront payments and they’re covered with a 30-day money-back guarantee offer.
- SmartPlay technology.
- CyberSec tool.
- 5,600+ servers in 59+ locations.
- No router app.
3. Surfshark: Affordable VPN for Roku
Surfshark is a great budget-friendly option for Roku users. It’s one of the most affordable VPNs on the market, yet it still offers fast speeds, strong security, and an easy-to-use interface.
The monthly plan of Surfshark costs $12.95, 1-year plan costs $3.99/mo. and the 2-year plan costs $2.49/mo.
Surfshark has a server pool of over 3,200+ servers in 63 locations around the world. It offers advanced protocols like IKEv2, OpenVPN, and WireGuard along with AES-256-GCM encryption, which is the most secure encryption method.
It provides a strict no-logs policy, a kill switch, and DNS/IPv leak protection. And the most amazing thing is that you can connect an unlimited number of devices with a single Surfshark account.
Surfshark works on all major streaming platforms including Netflix, BBC IPlayer, Hulu, Disney+, and more. Also, you can try the VPN risk-free as it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee offer.
- 3,200+ servers in 63+ countries.
- Smart DNS for smooth streaming.
- Features like MultiHop, CleanWeb, and Bypasser.
- Limited P2P servers.
4. CyberGhost: User-Friendly VPN for Roku
CyberGhost is another excellent option for Roku users. It’s a user-friendly VPN that offers great value for money. The monthly plan of CyberGhost costs $12.99, the yearly plan costs $4.29/mo., the 2-year plan costs $3.25/mo, and the 3-year plan costs $2.29/mo.
Moreover, CyberGhost is currently offering an 82% discount if you sign up for their subscription plan.
Excluding the monthly plan, all the plans are covered with a 45-day money-back guarantee offer, which is the highest refund period in the industry.
CyberGhost has a server pool of over 6000 servers in 89 countries around the world. It uses AES 256-bit encryption with protocols like OpenVPN and IKEv2. It also ensures that none of the user’s data is logged.
It offers all the major security features like kill switch, DNS/IP leak protection, Smart DNS, and Split tunneling.
CyberGhost can unblock all the major streaming platforms including Netflix, HBO GO, Hulu, BBC IPlayer, and more. It also offers 24/7 live chat support to answer your queries.
- 6,000+ servers in 89+ countries.
- Smart DNS feature.
- IP/DNS/WebRTC protection.
- The monthly plan only has a 14-day money-back guarantee offer.
5. PureVPN: Optimized Servers for Streaming
PureVPN is a great option for Roku users who are looking for optimized servers for streaming. It offers 6,500+ servers in 78 countries around the world.
The monthly plan of PureVPN costs $10.95, the yearly plan costs $3.24/mo., and the 2-year plan costs $1.99/mo. with 3 free months.
With a single PureVPN account, you can connect up to 10 devices and PureVPN is compatible with all the major platforms including Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android. It also offers browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox.
PureVPN features include military-grade encryption, strict no-logs policy, kill switch, DNS/IP leak protection, and Smart DNS.
It also has a dedicated streaming mode that can unblock all the major streaming platforms including Netflix, Hulu, BBC IPlayer, and more.
- 6,500+ servers in 78 countries.
- 10 simultaneous connections.
- Affordable plans.
- Sometimes doesn’t work with Netflix.
How to Install VPN On Roku: Detailed Guide
You cannot use a VPN directly on Roku as it cannot run VPN apps. However, there are other solutions. You can set up a VPN on a router, share a VPN connection from your computer, or use the Smart DNS feature if your VPN provider offers it.
We recommend that you use a top-tier VPN like ExpressVPN. It has a dedicated router app with support for major routers including Netgear, Asus, and Linksys. Other than that, you’ll always find a server that works.
Setting a VPN on Router
You can set up a VPN on your router by visiting the router page of your VPN provider. Make sure you have compatible firmware that would work with your router. After that, you just have to set up a profile and choose a server and that’s it.
However, if your router’s firmware is not compatible with your VPN then you’ll need to flash your router with third-party firmware (OpenWRT, Padavan, DD-WRT, or Tomato).
Before flashing, keep in mind that it is a very delicate process and even a single mishap can damage your router’s normal functionality. So make sure you know what you’re doing.
Moreover, if you’re not sure about flashing your router yourself then you can get a pre-flashed router from FlashRouters or any other provider.
If you need more information, visit our detailed guide: How to Install ExpressVPN on Router
Create a Virtual Router
For this method, you’ll need a computer. Your Roku and the computer you’re using should be connected to the same internet connection. We’ll be performing this on a Windows computer.
Step 1: On your computer, go to the Settings and head to Network & Internet.
Step 2: Select Mobile Hotspot and turn it on with the toggle button on the right panel.
Step 3: Select the Status tab on the left panel and then click on Change Adapter Options under Advanced Network Settings.
Step 4: Press right-click on your VPN provider’s connection. It should look like this: “[VPN Provider Name] TAP Adapter“. Click on Properties.
Step 5: Head to the Sharing tab and check the box that says “Allow other network users to connect through this computer’s internet connection“.
Step 6: Click on the drop-down menu and you’ll see the connection you just created. Select it and click OK.
Step 7: Connect your Roku device to the virtual router connection you just created.
Use the Smart DNS Feature
For this method to work, make sure your VPN provider offers the Smart DNS feature. ExpressVPN calls it MediaStreamer, NordVPN calls it SmartDNS.
Keep in mind that the Smart DNS feature doesn’t encrypt your traffic as a VPN does. It only uses a part of traffic and routes it through its servers. Also, the speed is merely better if you’re streaming with the Smart DNS feature.
Here’s how you can set up Smart DNS on Roku:
Step 1: Get the two DNS Server IP Addresses of your desired country from your VPN provider.
Step 2: Open your router’s admin panel and head to the DNS settings.
Step 3: Enter the two DNS server IPs and save the settings.
What feature to be considered in Roku VPN
When you are looking for the best Roku VPN, here are some essential features that you should consider:
Router Support
Since Roku doesn’t run native VPN apps, the best way to use a VPN with Roku is by setting it up on your router. You have to choose a VPN that is compatible with your router and offers dedicated apps or easy-to-follow setup guides. ExpressVPN is the best choice for Roku as it offers a dedicated app for routers and supports major routers including Asus, Linksys, and Netgear.
Server Pool
The more servers a VPN has, the better. A large server pool means that you’re more likely to find a server that meets your needs – whether you’re looking for fast speeds or optimized servers.
Streaming Support
One of the main reasons to use a VPN with Roku is to unblock streaming content that may not be available in your region. Make sure to choose a VPN that can unblock all the major streaming platforms, including Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more.
Security
When it comes to security, look for a Roku VPN that offers military-grade encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and all the major security features like a kill switch and DNS/IP leak protection.
Pricing
Of course, you’ll also want to consider pricing when choosing a Roku VPN. Fortunately, there are plenty of great choices that won’t break the bank.
Free VPN for Roku
At BestVPN.co, we strictly advise our user base not to fall into the trap of Free VPN, as most will have their foot deep-rooted into shady business practices to pay for server maintenance, app updates, customer support, and other costs relating to hosting a VPN.
However, since not everyone wants to invest in premium providers, and it can get a little frustrating to pay for a service if you only mean to use it temporarily – free VPNs are a good choice regardless.
Windscribe for Roku
Windscribe is a Canadian-based service that despite being FREE, offers a well-designed website, which provides access to intuitive apps for leveraging max security.
Though the 10GB bandwidth limit is standard on a free plan, upon testing the provider on its four basic servers, we received quite the amazing speeds. This was using the FREE servers and not the premium ones. So, we definitely advise using Windscribe!
Hotspot Shield for Roku
Hotspot Shield is a US-based provider of VPN services, which keeps on gaining and losing its fame, due to a range of issues with its VPN app. However, if it is just for temporary use, as most FREE VPNS are – then it is a great choice for the masses.
The provider offers remarkable speeds for streaming and P2P/Torrenting with low latency. The only problem is that you have a 750 MB of data limit per day.
Hide.me for Roku
Hide.me offers both paid and free services, just like the names mentioned above. The only difference is that it gives you 2GB of data per month to play with.
Other features you receive with the FREE plan include three server locations (Netherlands, Canada, and Singapore), connection to one device, apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and even Google Chrome.
Best VPN for Roku FAQs
Does Roku allow VPN?
No, you cannot run VPN apps on Roku as the platform doesn’t support them yet. However, you can set up a VPN on your router and connect your Roku device to that router to secure your online identity.
Why does Roku need VPN?
A VPN on Roku can unblock geo-restricted content and encrypt your traffic so that your ISP can’t see what you’re doing online. Moreover, a VPN can also improve your streaming speeds and protect your privacy.
How do I get better streaming on Roku?
The best way to improve your streaming on Roku is to use a VPN. A VPN can unblock geo-restricted content and also encrypt your traffic so that your ISP can’t throttle your speeds.
How do I connect my Roku to my phone with VPN?
The best way to connect your Roku to a VPN is by setting it up on your router. You’ll need to choose a VPN that is compatible with your router and offers dedicated apps or easy-to-follow setup guides. Then you can cast your phone to your TV screen to watch Roku content.
How do I change my VPN location on Roku?
Roku cannot run VPN apps so you’ll need to set up a VPN on your router. And to change your location on Roku, you’ll need to configure the VPN on your router with a new location every time you want to change it. Another option is to connect your Roku to a virtual router created with your computer. So when you feel like changing the VPN location, just change the location on your computer and you’re good.
How do I connect my Roku to my Smart TV?
Unbox the Roku device and plug it into the Smart TV using the HDMI port. Use the Remote to navigate through the interface and connect to your Wi-Fi network. Complete the rest of the process and you’re done.
Wrapping Things Up
Devices like Roku are lifesavers that make it incredibly easy and convenient to access all your favorite content from around the world. With access to services like BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime, and more through a single interface, nothing can beat the streaming experience of Roku. But you need the best VPN for Roku that bypasses all geo-restrictions, and you may never leave your home on the weekends, due to a massive binge-watch addiction!
