Best Roku VPN in 2024

Launched in 2008, Roku revolutionized streaming with the first-ever external player to stream Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and other popular services directly on TV. As you might know, each of these streaming platforms offers different content to different regions, which are easy to unlock with a VPN. However, while the streaming platforms themselves are very compatible with a VPN, Roku itself does not natively support dedicated VPN software.

But, here’s a silver lining - you can still get a VPN for Roku by installing it directly onto your router. After that, all you have to do is connect your Roku to the newly configured router and unlock a whole new library of content. Of course, not all VPNs are suitable for the task, so I tested 20 services to find the best Roku VPN that is router-compatible, capable of bypassing geo-restrictions, and powerful enough for seamless streaming. Continue reading and learn about my top VPN for Roku selection.

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Best Roku VPN: shortlist

1. NordVPN

   The best VPN for Roku
   9.8
2. Surfshark VPN

   Roku VPN with the greatest country variety
   9.5
3. PrivateVPN

   Streaming VPN for Roku TV
   8.7
4. PureVPN

   Affordable VPN for Roku
   8.5
5. IPVanish

   Well-rounded Roku TV VPN
   8.4

Why do you need a VPN for Roku?

Various online content (including movies and TV shows on streaming services) is subjected to geographical restrictions. In short, it means that many goods are licensed to specific regions and can only be distributed there. Meanwhile, other countries don’t have the right to access them.

This discrepancy becomes especially apparent when you’re traveling abroad and can’t continue watching a particular TV show on Netflix. Luckily, you can fix this injustice with a well-performing VPN for streaming. It can change your virtual location, unlock foreign movies, and keep connection speeds fast enough for UHD video quality. Plus, these services are compatible with popular home entertainment devices, including Roku TV.

Besides that, virtual private networks are frequently used to stay secure and anonymous online. That’s because the software hides your IP address and makes your online activities unreadable, thanks to AES-256 encryption. Furthermore, the leaders of the industry also block virus-laden ads, intrusive trackers, and even malware.

However, keep in mind that these benefits are only available with a handful of industry-leading VPN services. Luckily for you, I tested a lot of VPN providers with Roku devices to find the absolute best for getting around geo-blocking.

5 Best Roku VPN: detailed list

1. NordVPN - the number one VPN for Roku
2. Surfshark - a Roku VPN with unlimited devices
3. PrivateVPN – budget-friendly VPN for Roku TV
4. PureVPN – cheap and well-performing Roku VPN
5. IPVanish – versatile VPN for Roku at a reasonable price

Unfortunately, Roku doesn’t natively support VPN software. Therefore, you’ll need to opt for router-compatible VPN services to get the best possible streaming experience. Then you can’t forget about the crucial tools that keep your true location under wraps – high-grade encryption, IP and DNS leak protection, and a kill switch.

The service should also be optimized for 4K HD video quality and zero buffering, so the latest tunneling protocols are a must. Besides this, having a wide-reaching server network will also ensure you get access to optimal server connections, plus foreign libraries on such services as Netflix and Disney+.

1. NordVPN – the number one VPN for Roku

NordVPN is the ultimate Roku VPN for accessing foreign streaming content on your home entertainment device. It can stream UHD videos from any location, thanks to its proprietary NordLynx tunneling protocol. If you’re unwilling to commit at first, consider the 7-day free NordVPN trial on the Google Play Store.

The vast network of 7000+ servers spread across 118+ countries manages to offer incredible speeds at any time, any place. Enjoy your favorite movies in crisp 4K quality using the NordLynx tunneling protocol. Anonymity-conscious folks aren’t left out either – all servers are RAM-only.

There’s nothing NordVPN can’t unlock when it comes to popular platforms. From Netflix to BBC iPlayer, the entertainment possibilities are endless. Additionally, you can use the coveted SmartPlay feature to unblock streaming content on devices that don’t support VPN software.

Coming at $2.99/month after applying a NordVPN coupon, it’s just what you need with 10 simultaneous connections. Don’t hesitate to sign up because your subscription is protected with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

For a deeper investigation of NordVPN, read our NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark VPN – Roku VPN with unlimited devices

Go with Surfshark VPN if you want access to the most diverse selection of foreign movies and TV shows. This VPN for Roku boasts excellent connection speeds and a vast server fleet covering over 100 different countries. Snag the 7-day Surfshark trial on your preferred app store and try it out risk-free.

You’re bound to find the best server when the network consists of a whopping 3200+ RAM-only servers. Furthermore, the next-gen WireGuard protocol powers the software, so you won’t be bothered by lag during the most intense moments in movies.

In addition to what Roku TV offers in its own library, you can tune in effortlessly into Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, or other geo-restricted services. And if you’re not a fan of manual router setup, Surfshark supports Smart DNS as an alternative for many streaming devices.

Enter a Surfshark VPN code during the purchase and pay no more than $2.19/month for an excellent service. The 30-day money-back guarantee has you covered if you decide to back out.

For a deeper investigation of Surfshark VPN, read our Surfshark VPN review.

3. PrivateVPN – budget-friendly VPN for Roku TV

PrivateVPN is another great choice for unlocking Roku TV. The service is perfect for customers with tight budgets and diverse needs, be it streaming or digital security.

The sizable server fleet of 200+ servers in 63+ countries offers surprisingly excellent performance. Utilizing HQN (High-Quality Network) to get internet capacity straight from the source certainly plays into it, but we’re sure that PrivateVPN owning all hardware is just as crucial.

Set PrivateVPN up on a router, and you’re free to explore foreign libraries on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and more. And if you have any other streaming devices, say an Amazon Fire Stick or Android TV, you’ll be happy to find they’re fully supported with dedicated apps. Best of all, securing everything you own is easy with 10 simultaneous connections.

You’ll be dropping only $2.00/month if you don’t forget the PrivateVPN coupon during checkout. There’s no rush to subscribe – take full advantage of the 7-day free trial. The commitment isn’t set in stone either with the 30-day money-back guarantee.

For a deeper investigation of PrivateVPN, read our PrivateVPN review.

4. PureVPN – cheap and well-performing Roku VPN

PureVPN is perfect for users looking for excellent speeds and security at exceptionally affordable prices. However, subscription costs can skyrocket if you desire extra cybersecurity perks. But if you just need a cheap VPN for Roku, this provider perfectly fits the bill.

The fleet is enormous, spanning 6500+ servers across 71+ countries, unlocking numerous geo-blocked streaming platforms.. What’s more, videos are guaranteed to be crisp HD quality when most of the hardware supports 10 Gbps speeds and is powered by the WireGuard protocol.

PureVPN is one of the few providers with extensive device compatibility, ranging from Android TV to Chromebook and even Raspberry Pi. Utilize the generous 10 simultaneous connections per account limit to secure them all. Meanwhile, you can utilize a VPN on Roku via the DD-WRT applet.

If you’re looking for a cheap VPN for Roku TV, the $1.99/month price tag will undoubtedly catch your eye. Just drop a PureVPN coupon during the purchase to get it. The 7-day trial version is available for anyone with a spare $0.99 in their wallet, and the subscriptions are risk-free with the 31-day money-back guarantee.

For a deeper investigation of PureVPN, read our PureVPN review.

5. IPVanish – versatile VPN for Roku at a reasonable price

IPVanish is another excellent Roku VPN choice. The service supports unlimited connections with one account, manual router configuration, and is powered by the extra-speedy WireGuard protocol.

Pick a suitable connection from the 2200+ servers scattered in 51+ countries to unblock geo-restricted content easily. The provider owns all hardware, so there’s no need to worry about possible third-party tampering. Being powered by the WireGuard tunneling protocol ensures 4K-ready speeds for smooth Roku streaming as well.

Dive into extensive foreign Netflix libraries or check what BBC iPlayer or Disney+ has in store this season. Easily set up the IPVanish client on Android TV or ChromeOS or opt for full coverage by installing it on the router.

Utilize our IPVanish discount code and subscribe to one of the best VPNs for Roku for just $2.19/month. Not having a trial version isn’t netting the provider brownie points, but it makes up for it by offering a 30-day money-back guarantee.

For a deeper investigation of IPVanish, read our IPVanish review.

Best VPNs For Roku compared

Here’s how my top choices for Roku VPN look compared in a table:

How I picked the best Roku VPNs

My Roku VPN selection process involved picking services that fit my list of necessary criteria. After that, I filtered out the underperformers via manual testing. Let’s have a look at the features I paid attention to when compiling the initial VPNs.

• Router-friendly. Roku doesn’t natively support VPN software. As such, the best workaround is installing the VPN on your router and connecting the streaming device to the now-secure network. So, the provider must be compatible with routers and preferably provide a clear installation guide. Don’t forget to check if your router supports VPN firmware.
• Tight security and privacy. If your actual IP address is leaking, you won’t be able to enter any restricted platforms. The provider’s feature list must include AES-256 encryption, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. These ensure your IP address is hidden and you are free to watch what you want without interruption.
• Global presence. Can’t browse region-exclusive streaming libraries if there are no servers in those locations. That’s why I prioritize extensive networks covering as many countries as possible.
• Wicked-fast speeds. Using a VPN on Roku should ensure UHD video quality and turn the buffering wheel into a distant memory. The latest tunneling protocols make this a reality, so the fastest VPN services that utilize them are suitable candidates in this case.
• Price-to-feature ratio. Don’t pay exorbitant amounts for services that do the bare minimum. There’s no harm in trying out the cheapest VPNs in the market, especially since they tend to outperform their more expensive counterparts.
• Reliable support. VPN issues tend to be a rare occurrence, but it’s nice to know professionals are ready to assist you via 24/7 live chat when they do happen.

How to install a VPN on Roku

There are several ways to install a VPN on Roku.

1. Configuring your home router with a VPN connection.
2. Creating a VPN-powered hotspot from your computer.

Unsurprisingly, each implementation has its pros and cons.

How to use a VPN on Roku via router

Configuring your router with a VPN connection is the most straightforward way to connect Roku to VPN benefits. You can head to your provider’s support page to learn how to install a VPN on a router. Below is a step-by-step overview of the process.

1. Double-check that your router supports manual VPN configuration on the manufacturer’s website. I recommend looking up router-specific instructions since each device has its own peculiarities. NordVPN can be easily installed on various routers.
2. Open your web browser and enter the router’s IP address into the address bar to navigate to its configuration interface
3. Log in – if this is the first time you’re accessing the settings, don’t forget to change the default password to something more secure
4. Navigate to the VPN options

5. Choose the VPN client – enter the correct settings (found at the VPN provider), and complete any post-installation steps (like configuring the router’s firewall)

6. Test if everything works as intended by connecting any device to the VPN-configured router and heading to a DNS leak test

Now that the secure network is up and running, you want to restart Roku and connect the device to it. There are two methods – the one you follow depends on whether you have a spare Ethernet cable lying around.

Use an Ethernet cable

1. Connect the Ethernet cable to your router via the internet port
2. Connect the other end to your Roku player if there is a port for it
3. Turn on the device and connect it to the TV using an HDMI cable
4. Select the correct HDMI port
5. Go to the Roku Home Screen
6. Go to Settings > Network > Wired
7. Follow the instructions on your screen to finish

Use Wi-Fi

1. Go to Roku’s main menu, and click Settings > Network > Wireless (Wi-Fi)
2. Choose your newly created VPN network
3. Enter the password for your router and click on the Connect button
4. Your VPN for Roku is now connected – enjoy limitless streaming!

How to use a VPN with Roku via PC

Another option to add a VPN to Roku is by sharing the secure connection through your computer. The process is different for Windows and Mac. Here’s how to do it in each case.

How to create a Wi-Fi hotspot on Windows

1. Download a robust VPN, like NordVPN, and install the software on your PC
2. Click on the Windows logo to open the menu and go to Settings > Network and Internet > Mobile hotspot
3. Click on your Wi-Fi network and enable the Mobile hotspot
4. Then return to the Network and Internet settings and select Change adapter options
5. Find [VPN provider name] Windows Adapter and select its Properties
6. Go to the Sharing tab and tick Allow other network users to connect through this computer’s Internet connection
7. Your new hotspot will appear in the drop-down menu now in the drop-down menu. Choose the adapter, click OK, and just connect Roku to the new network.

How to create a Wi-Fi hotspot on Mac

1. Install your chosen VPN software on the PC. NordVPN is compatible with Mac.
2. Click on the Apple logo and go to System Preferences > Sharing > Internet Sharing
3. Choose the VPN from the drop-down menu and check the Wi-Fi box under To computers using:
4. Open the Wi-Fi options and create a new network password
5. Go back to Internet Sharing, press Enable, and connect to the VPN
6. Connect Roku to the new network, and that’s it

VPN not working with Roku

If you suddenly can’t access geo-blocked platforms, it’s very likely the VPN has run into some technical problems. Thankfully, there’s nothing that some troubleshooting can’t fix.

• Check for IP and DNS leaks. Your actual location might be leaking if the security features were accidentally disabled. Use a website like dnsleaktest.com to ensure the VPN tunnel is completely leakproof.
• Try another server. Maybe you’re connected to a country that doesn’t work with the particular service you want to access. Try servers located someplace else and it usually solves the problem.
• Update the VPN. Outdated router firmware might be unable to circumvent the restrictions or properly mask your IP address, so remember to always keep the VPN up to date.
• Get new TAP drivers. If you’ve been trying out different Roku VPN services, chances are the router’s TAP drivers were corrupted in the process. The only way to fix this is to delete them and install new ones.
• Contact support. Either the VPN can’t change your Netflix region, or there’s a glitch in the system. Contact customer support for further answers.

Did everything you can, but using a VPN on Roku still doesn’t give any tangible results? Switch your provider to a service that runs without a hitch. NordVPN, for example, unblocks all popular streaming platforms, offers wide device compatibility, and ensures crisp 4K quality videos.

Do I recommend using a free VPN for Roku?

No, I do not recommend using a free VPN for Roku, because a majority of them don’t support router configuration. This is a feature that can only be found with premium providers. Even if a free service does offer this, you have to be extra careful about it. Some of the most common issues with many free providers are:

• Inability to circumvent geo-blocks. You’ll be astonished at how many free VPNs don’t even include the right tools to hide your IP address properly. Plus, they have abysmal server variety, meaning there’s no chance of unblocking exotic content.
• Hidden surprises in the VPN client. These providers tend to end up being the villains with all the malware and intrusive ads peppered into their apps.
• Regular privacy invasions. The only way they manage to stay afloat is by collecting data about you, and who knows what kind of shady third parties end up getting it.
• Data caps and throttled speeds. The videos, if the VPN can unblock a service, take so long to buffer that the paint manages to dry faster. Meanwhile, data caps will make the VPN service unusable after streaming a single movie.
• No router compatibility. Most free VPNs don’t even have the option of manual router configuration, making them unusable with Roku.

You’ll be surprised to hear that the best free VPN for Roku is only available temporarily. To be precise, you’ll need a VPN with a trial period to unblock streaming content without investing anything. However, I recommend skipping this step and immediately opting for NordVPN, the best Roku VPN.

Get NordVPN

What can you do with a VPN on Roku

You need to install a VPN on Roku if you want to open the doors to as many entertainment venues as possible. This streaming device limits what kind of apps and content you see depending on your location, so you might be barred from accessing what you actually want to watch.

Internet Service Providers (ISPs) throttling speeds is another common problem. If you’re constantly using up too much bandwidth, your provider can quickly put a stop to this by imposing stricter speed limits, causing constant buffering.

Can’t forget about security either – Roku devices are no strangers to hacking attempts. Ambitious bad actors can get into the system in no time, stealing your payment info, browsing history, and other sensitive data.

The only way to combat these problems is with the best Roku TV VPNs. Every streaming library becomes instantly available when you can connect to a country that offers them in a few clicks. And the ISP and hackers can’t target what they can’t see if all activity is masked with an unbreakable cipher.

Bottom line

Roku is a hugely popular external streaming device that brings Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and other well-known streaming platforms directly to your TV. The ingenuity and simplicity of it certainly add to the appeal, but there’s one caveat - Roku does not natively support a VPN. And, without a VPN, you’re missing out on a whole variety of otherwise geo-locked content.

However, you can still get the most out of Roku by installing a VPN for Roku directly onto your router. For this, my top recommendation is NordVPN, as it is very compatible with all kinds of routers, is unparalleled in unlocking geo-restricted content, and offers excellent speeds that will give you a seamless streaming experience. What's more, with the best Roku VPN you’ll be streaming in total security, leaving all potential looky-loos blind to what you do online.

Does using a VPN on Roku better your streaming experience? Let us know in the comments below!

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You may also like to read:
Best VPN for Amazon Fire TV Stick
Best VPN for Kodi
Best VPN for Apple TV
Best VPN for HBO Max
Best VPN for BBC iPlayer

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FAQ

What’s the best VPN for Roku?

NordVPN is the best Roku VPN. It supports manual router configuration and grants industry-leading connection speeds with its proprietary NordLynx protocol. Additionally, it has excellent digital security and privacy tools for keeping your viewing habits completely confidential.

How to connect Roku to a VPN?

You’ll have to install the VPN on a router or create a hotspot from another device, because Roku doesn’t support it natively. Then you’ll have to reset your Roku device and connect it to the VPN-powered network to unblock geo-blocked TV channels.

Can you put a VPN on Roku?

Yes, you can set up a VPN on Roku. But since this streaming device doesn’t support the software natively, you will have to do it by installing a VPN on your router. Remember to pick providers that offer router support, like NordVPN.

Is it legal to use a VPN on Roku?

Yes, using a VPN with Roku TV is legal unless one, the other, or both are banned in your country. Utilizing VPNs also goes against the Terms of Service of some streaming platforms, and your IP might get banned if you get sussed out. But there’s nothing switching to another server can’t fix.

Can I use NordVPN on Roku?

Yes, you can use NordVPN on Roku, but you can’t install the VPN directly on the device. Instead, you’ll have to configure the VPN on your home router or create a secure hotspot with another device. Then the network will be in another location and you’ll be able to access geographically-restricted content.

What’s the best free VPN for Roku?

You won’t find a suitable free VPN for Roku. For starters, even the most reliable free VPN services don’t support manual router configuration, an essential feature for Roku VPNs. Additionally, they come with bottlenecked performance, abysmal server networks, and subpar security.