Devices that can run a VPN app
- Amazon Fire TV and Fire TV Stick: many providers offer apps in the Amazon Appstore.
- Android TV and Google TV: many providers offer apps on Google Play.
- Apple TV: recent versions of tvOS support VPN apps, and some providers offer them.
Check your provider’s list of supported devices before you subscribe.
Devices without VPN apps
Many smart TVs, Roku players and games consoles can’t run VPN apps. Your options are:
- A VPN on your router: protects every device on your network, including smart home gadgets.
- A shared connection from a computer running the VPN.
- Smart DNS: some providers offer it for streaming devices. It changes how domain names are looked up but doesn’t encrypt your traffic or hide your IP address, so it isn’t a privacy tool.
Router VPN: pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Covers every device, including ones without apps | Not every router supports VPN client mode; you may need a compatible or pre-configured router |
| Counts as one connection on most plans | Router processors can limit VPN speed |
| Always on, nothing to remember | Changing server or turning it off per device is harder |
Many routers with OpenVPN or WireGuard client support, or open firmware, can be set up using configuration files from your provider. Some providers sell or partner with pre-configured routers.
Last updated: 13 October 2026
