How to Install ExpressVPN On Apple TV? [Guide April 2022]

How to Install ExpressVPN on Apple TV

In this guide, we will tell you how to install ExpressVPN on Apple TV with not one but four different techniques. You can use these methods on Apple TV models including Apple TV (1st Gen, 2nd Gen, 3rd Gen), Apple TV HD, Apple TV 4K (1st Gen, 2nd Gen).

Watching your favorite movie in a cozy blanket in front of your Apple TV is a worthwhile experience. But sadly, you won’t be able to stream your favorite content if it’s geo-blocked in your region.

But pairing your Apple TV with a reliable VPN can give you access to the geo-restricted content on streaming platforms. You can unlock different region libraries with ExpressVPN’s wide range of VPN servers.

Also, experiencing a blockbuster movie with no buffering screens to annoy you is an indescribable feeling.

So keep on reading to know how you can install ExpressVPN on Apple TV and bypass geo-restrictions on streaming platforms.


To know more about ExpressVPN, visit our detailed guide: How Does ExpressVPN Work.


Short on time? Here’s a Short Summary of How to Install ExpressVPN On Apple TV.

  • Use the MediaStreamer feature to stream geo-restricted movies.
  • Create a virtual router using a computer and connect to the VPN.
  • Install a VPN on your router.


How to Install ExpressVPN On Apple TV?

You can install ExpressVPN on Apple TV in four ways.

  1. Use AirPlay and play the content of your phone on your Apple TV.
  2. Use the MediaStreamer feature offered by ExpressVPN.
  3. Create a virtual router on your Windows PC and connect your Apple TV to it.
  4. Install a VPN on your router and connect your Apple TV to that Wi-Fi network.

1. How to Install ExpressVPN On Apple TV Using AirPlay?

How to Install ExpressVPN On Apple TV Using AirPlay

For this method, we’ll need an iPhone or Mac. You don’t need to install the VPN software directly on your Apple TV. Instead, we’ll install the VPN app on the iPhone or Mac and cast its screen to the Apple TV.

It is advised to not use an Android phone as a casting device to your Apple TV as the result will not be up to the mark.

If you’re on point with all this setup, here’s how you can install ExpressVPN on Apple TV using AirPlay.

Step 1: Get a VPN subscription from ExpressVPN.

Step 2: Turn on your Apple TV and iPhone/Mac. Connect them to the same Wi-Fi network.

Step 3: Download the ExpressVPN app on your iPhone/Mac and sign in with your VPN account.

Step 4: Choose a location server and connect to the VPN.

Step 5: Launch the Netflix app on your iPhone and play something. For Mac: Open your favorite browser. Go to the Netflix website and play something.

Step 6: Find the AirPlay icon on your screen and tap on it.

Step 7: Find your Apple TV and connect your iPhone/Mac to it.

Now you can see the Netflix content of your iPhone or Mac on the big screen. Enjoy!


2. How to Install ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer On Apple TV?

How to Install ExpressVPN's MediaStreamer On Apple TV

ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer is a DNS proxy feature that lets you geo-spoof your location so you can watch region-restricted movies and TV shows on streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, BBC IPlayer, etc.

It doesn’t encrypt your traffic or anonymize your online identity, it just changes your location. So only go for this option if you don’t mind being open on the web.

MediaStreamer is a feature specially built for streaming. It gives you an interruption-free streaming experience, eliminating the chances of those annoying buffering screens staring at you.

Here’s how you can install MediaStreamer on Apple TV.

Step 1: Sign up for an ExpressVPN subscription plan.

Step 2: Go to the ExpressVPN website and click on My Account.

Step 3: Head to the DNS Settings.

Step 4: Click on Register My IP address, you’ll find it in the IP Address Registration section. And turn on the toggle button for Automatically Register My IP address so you don’t have to do this again if your IP changes.

Step 5: Go back to the ExpressVPN dashboard and head to Set Up Devices.

Step 6: You’ll see a list of devices, select yours, which is Apple TV. Your DNS MediaStreamer IP addresses will appear on the screen. Keep this tab open, we’ll need these IPs later.

Step 7: On your Apple TV, go to the Settings and then head to Network. Navigate to Wi-Fi and find your Wi-Fi connection.

Step 8: Select your Wi-Fi connection and then select Configure DNS. Pick the Manual option.

Step 9: Paste the two MediaStreamer IP addresses from Step 6 in the correct slots.

Step 10: Select Done.

Step 11: Restart your Apple TV to apply the settings.

Now you can stream geo-blocked streaming services or content on your Apple TV.


3. How to Install ExpressVPN On Apple TV By Creating a Virtual Router?

How to Install ExpressVPN On Apple TV By Creating a Virtual Router

You can create a virtual router on your Windows computer. What we’ll do, we’ll connect to an ExpressVPN server on the Windows PC and then connect the Apple TV to this VPN-protected computer.

Here’s how you can do it.

Step 1: Sign up for an ExpressVPN subscription plan.

Step 2: On your Windows computer, go to the Settings and head to Network & Internet.

Step 3: Select Mobile Hotspot on the left panel and turn on the toggle button for Mobile Hotspot on the right panel.

Step 4: On the left panel, select Status.

Step 5: Click on Change Adapter Options on the right panel.

Step 6: Find the connection that says ExpressVPN TAP Adapter. Right-click on it and click on Properties.

Step 7: Head to the Sharing tab and tick the box with the label “Allow other network users to connect through this computer’s internet connection“.

Step 8: Open the drop-down menu and select your newly created network. Click on OK.

Step 9: Launch the ExpressVPN app and connect to the VPN.

Step 10: You’ve successfully set up the connection. On your Apple TV, go to Wi-Fi and connect to the network that you just created.

Note: You need to keep your PC running in order to use ExpressVPN on your Apple TV. The minute you turn off your computer, the connection will be lost. So if you’re looking for a more stable option, go with the next method of installing a VPN on your router.


4. How to Install ExpressVPN On Apple TV Via Router?

How to Install ExpressVPN On Apple TV Via Router

A VPN router covers all the devices that are connected to your Wi-Fi network. Even devices that have no support for native VPN apps like Roku and Firestick are secured with a VPN tunnel.

ExpressVPN offers a limit of 5 simultaneous connections. But if you install ExpressVPN on your router, it only counts as one.

You can easily create your VPN but first, you have to check if your router has VPN capabilities. The best way to check is to go to your router’s admin panel.

The usual way to access the admin panel is to type 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1 in the browser. Type your username and password. The default username and password would be “admin” for many routers unless you have changed it.

If you can find the VPN tab, then your router can host a VPN server. If not, then you’ll have to flash your router’s firmware version. By flashing, you’ll be basically formatting the operating system of your router to enable to VPN feature.

But it is a risky process so you have to carry out everything with care and good research. Because if you mess up during the process, it can damage your router’s normal functionality.

To know the step-by-step process, check out our dedicated guide on how to install ExpressVPN on a router.

However, if you don’t want to flash your router on your own, you can always purchase a pre-flashed router from FlashRouters.


Why You Should Install ExpressVPN On Apple TV?

ExpressVPN provides all the necessary services and features that can make your life easier. It’s the perfect choice for your Apple TV. Being one of the consistent VPNs worldwide, ExpressVPN keeps on reserving its spot in the top five.

Here’s why you should install ExpressVPN on Apple TV.

Security & Privacy

ExpressVPN uses advanced techniques like the 256-bit encryption method and it offers all the modern VPN protocols like OpenVPN or IKEv2/IPsec. Moreover, it also has its own protocol named Lightway which is super secure.

So while you’re streaming your favorite movie on Apple TV, you don’t have to worry about your online identity being compromised as ExpressVPN has got your back.

MediaStreamer – Feature for Netflix Streaming

ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer is a DNS proxy feature that allows you to watch geo-blocked content on major streaming platforms including Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, etc.

You can change your Netflix region in a snap of a finger and watch your favorite shows with ease. But keep in mind that MediaStreamer only changes your location, it doesn’t encrypt your online traffic. So if you’re okay with this, only then go for this option.

Dedicated Router App

ExpressVPN is the only VPN provider among other top-tier VPNs that provides a dedicated router app. You can easily install a VPN on your router.

This helps you in many ways, first, all the devices that are connected to your Wi-Fi network are covered with a VPN connection.

Second, devices that have no support for native VPN apps are also backed by the VPN tunnel.

And the most amazing thing, ExpressVPN allows five simultaneous connections, which means you can only use five devices at the same time with a single ExpressVPN subscription plan, but if you install a VPN on your router, it only counts as one!

Pool of Servers

ExpressVPN has a pool of approximately 3000+ VPN servers spread across 94 countries. And they are effective on all renowned streaming platforms. You can unlock as many as 19 Netflix libraries with ExpressVPN servers.

Compatible For Every Device

ExpressVPN has the compatibility to work on all major platforms including Windows, iPhone, Mac, Android, and even Linux.

And if you install ExpressVPN on your iPhone or Mac, you can easily play the content of your mobile device or Mac PC on your Apple TV via AirPlay.


Why Is ExpressVPN Not Working With Apple TV?

ExpressVPN is not working if you experience any of the scenarios below.

  • You are not able to stream geo-restricted content. Instead, you just see your local streaming library.
  • On playing movies or TV shows, you get a failed to load content error.

These can happen for a lot of reasons. To perform the troubleshooting process, try these techniques.

  1. Check if your VPN is working. Check your IP address before connecting to VPN and then check again after to see if your IP address has changed.
  2. If you’re using MediaStreamer, go to the ExpressVPN website and check if you registered your IP address correctly by going to DNS Settings.
  3. If you are facing difficulty with the AirPlay technique, check if your Apple TV and the devices from which you’re trying to play the content are on the same network.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

No. Apple TV is a media streaming device that you have to pay for the time you purchase it. However, Apple TV+ is a streaming service that has a monthly subscription fee of $5. You can watch all Apple originals on Apple TV+. And if you buy the Apple TV device, you get three months of free streaming on Apple TV+

Yes. ExpressVPN works with all variants of Apple TV including Apple TV (1st, 2nd, 3rd Gen), Apple TV HD, and Apple TV 4K.

Try restarting your Apple TV and ExpressVPN connection. If it still doesn’t solve the problem, try re-registering your MediaStreamer IP address by visiting the DNS Settings section on the ExpressVPN website.

Apple TV does not have the capability to run native VPN apps. Instead, you have to try other ways like using AirPlay, creating a virtual router, or using the MediaStreamer feature of ExpressVPN.

Apple TV only takes about 2 to 3 minutes to set up.



Conclusion

By now you should know how to install ExpressVPN on Apple TV. The most effective is to install a VPN on a router or use the AirPlay method. But if you don’t want to put yourself into hassle or use other devices to play content on your Apple TV, try the MediaStreamer feature. It works great with streaming platforms, but you have to be okay with this option not encrypting your traffic and just geo-spoofing your region.