Before going into details of how to set up a VPN on your Android TV, let’s go over the uses of your provider and how you can make the best out of it.
Why use a VPN on your TV?
Although the answer is more than obvious, there is more to it, as an Android TV is not like the typical home flat-screen smart TV. A VPN provider can be helpful when used on any kind of device that provides you with watching movies, because it easily unblocks any kind of content, by also keeping you protected from prying eyes.
However, when it comes to Android TV it can be helpful in more ways than one. Watching and streaming movies, playing games, and all other sorts of things. A while ago, when Google decided to shut down Google TV and replace it with the Android one, people were a bit skeptical.
But after seeing that the platform is completely different and much better than the previous one, it became the new thing on the market. The TV can be voice-controlled and it has access to Google Play Store, making it possible for you to download your favorite games and apps.
With this said, you need to choose the right VPN provider. One that has the speeds, can unblock any kind of content, and all this while keeping you protected with the highest security protocols and encryptions.
You have to set your standards high in order to have the best possible experience while enjoying your free time. After choosing the VPN provider that suits your needs the most, the next step is to set it up. And don’t worry, it’s very simple.
Step by step guide – how to set up a VPN on your Android TV
Before trying to set up a VPN on your Android TV, make sure that the provider is compatible with this type of device. Although most VPN service providers are compatible with the most popular and widely used devices and software, such as Windows or Mac, Android or iOS, some might not support it.
Once this is out of the way, there are two options for configuring your VPN provider on your Android Smart TV. The first one is by downloading the app available on the Google Play Store. It’s simple, you just download the app, sign in with your username and password, and log in.
That’s it. However, not every provider has a standalone app on Play Store. In fact, only a few have. And if you are not one of the lucky ones, then the second option is your only choice.
Setting up a VPN without the Play Store app is slightly more complicated. Before starting, you will need two crucial things – the OpenVPN app and the Google Chrome browser. You can easily find and download OpenVPN from the Play Store, however, Chrome should be downloaded through the APK Mirror and then sideloaded.
After installing everything you need, open up Chrome and type the website from which you purchased your provider. With the username and password login to your account. Keep in mind that Chrome is not designed for an Android TV, so reaching this point might be slightly difficult, especially if you are using a remote or a controller.
After logging into your account, search for the “configuration file” that needs to be downloaded. If you have troubles finding it, ask your provider for it. Choose the right file for your device and click download. Note that Chrome needs to have permission to write files on the system.
Once it’s downloaded, go to the OpenVPN app and find the import button. It’s a square with a little arrow pointing down, usually in the upper right corner. Click on it and select the configuration file you just downloaded.
It will require time to fully load, but after it’s done, simply click on the checkmark (upper right corner) and click to save the configuration. If you followed the instructions carefully, you should be able to highlight the file you just imported in order to activate the VPN. It will open the last box.
By now, you should be over with most of the setup. All you have left to do is import your username and password into the box and click OK to authenticate. There should be no problems, and if your private network is finally connected to your Android, you’ll see the following “Connection: Success” in your OpenVPN app. This means your VPN protection is up and running.
If you want to connect or disconnect the VPN, you will have to do it through the OpenVPN app. And even though sometimes it can be a bit annoying, at least now you’ll be protected and the overall experience with your TV will be much better.
Also, you can now watch all the movies and TV series that were once blocked in your country. So grab some popcorn, put on your favorite movie, and enjoy!