How to set up a VPN on a Samsung TV

Can I use a VPN on my Samsung TV?

Samsung smart TVs run on Tizen OS, which doesn’t natively support VPN apps. However, instead of using a direct app, you can set up a VPN connection on your TV through alternative methods. Getting set up with a VPN is definitely worthwhile because it can improve your privacy and security by protecting your TV and other devices connected to the internet from potential cyber threats.

Ways to set up a VPN on a Samsung TV

Setting up and using a VPN on a smart TV doesn’t need to be hard. Below, find two of the best methods for getting you connected on your Samsung smart TV. 

Set up a VPN via a router

Setting up a VPN on a router allows every device connected to your Wi-Fi, including your Samsung smart TV, to use the VPN connection. Here’s how to do it:

1. 1.Check if your router supports VPNs. Not all routers are VPN compatible. Look for models from brands like Asus, Netgear, or Linksys because your ISP-provided router likely won’t support VPNs. If you’d like to learn more, you can take a look at our guide on the best VPN routers.
2. 2.Log in to your router’s admin panel. Connect a device to your Wi-Fi, open a browser, and enter your router’s IP address (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1). You can find it by typing ipconfig in Command Prompt and checking the "Default gateway."
3. 3.Find the VPN settings. Look for a VPN section in the admin panel. This section may be under “Advanced settings,” “Security,” or a dedicated VPN tab.
4. 4.Enter your VPN credentials. Input the server address, username, and password provided by your VPN service.
5. 5.Connect and apply changes. Click “Activate” or “Connect,” and your router will apply the settings. All devices on your network, including your Samsung smart TV, will be connected to the VPN.
6. 6.Check the VPN connection. One of the easiest ways to test your VPN connection is by going to the "What is my IP address?" page to verify your IP has changed and the VPN is working correctly.

Set up a VPN via an Ethernet cable

If you want to use NordVPN on your Samsung smart TV but can’t install the VPN app directly, you can share your PC’s VPN connection over an Ethernet cable:

1. 1.Connect your PC to the internet via Wi-Fi. This step leaves the Ethernet port available for the TV connection.
2. 2.Adjust your computer’s settings. Open “Network & sharing center” on your PC. Right-click the network icon in the system tray and select “Open network & internet settings,” then click “Change adapter options.”
3. 3.Identify the correct adapters. You should see:
   • Your Wi-Fi internet connection
   • The TAP-NordVPN Windows Adapter (used by the VPN)
   • The Ethernet interface (used to connect to the TV)
4. 4.Enable connection sharing. Right-click the “TAP-NordVPN Windows adapter” and select “Properties.” Go to the “Sharing” tab, check “Allow other network users to connect through this computer’s internet connection,” and select the Ethernet interface from the dropdown.
5. 5.Connect your Samsung TV via Ethernet. Plug one end of the Ethernet cable into your PC and the other into the TV. Once connected, the VPN-protected internet will be shared with your TV.

Whichever method you choose, you’ll be adding a layer of protection to your Samsung smart TV and streaming with greater peace of mind.