5 Best VPNs for Samsung Smart TV in 2024

Aliu Isa  - Streaming Expert
Last updated: November 26, 2024
Read time: 14 minutes Disclosure
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Let's explore the world of Samsung Smart TVs, their amazing features, their unfortunate limitations, and how VPNs can change so much.

Geo-restrictions are censors placed on content, ensuring it is only accessible in specific locations. Hence, you can not view content from a different location when it is geo-restricted. The Samsung Smart TV is, unfortunately, shackled by these limitations. However, Samsung Smart TV-tailored VPN services can bypass geo-restrictions, keep you private, and protect your online activities.

VPN-Sheild

This article explores five VPN services compatible with your Samsung Smart TV and how to use them effectively.

Best VPN for your Samsung Smart TV – Quick list

Here is a brief overview of the best VPN services for Samsung Smart TV tested in 2024.

  1. NordVPN: Top-notch security for your Samsung Smart TV. Stay safe and private while accessing geo-restricted content with your Samsung Smart TV.
  2. Private Internet Access (PIA): Large network of servers, perfect for the Smart TV’s streaming needs. Experience smooth and lag-free streaming thanks to its over 35000 different servers.
  3. ExpressVPN: Top recommended VPN for Samsung Smart TV. Features a built-in MediaStreamer for devices without VPN support and a dedicated router app with top-notch unblocking functionality and lightning-fast speeds.
  4. PureVPN: Simplistic and intuitive VPN for Samsung Smart TV. Allows for simple manual configuration on routers and also a Smart DNS feature.
  5. Surfshark: Best value for money VPN for Samsung Smart TV. Offers users the chance to stream all their favorite content on their Smart TV at roughly $2/month only.

Factors to consider when selecting the best VPN to use with your Samsung Smart TV

  • Massive server network: A VPN should operate with at least 1000+ servers in all central locations worldwide.
  • Fast speeds: A VPN should have high speeds to ensure you only stream content in HD and 4K.
  • Ability to unblock streaming sites: A VPN must-have formidable unblocking capabilities to ensure you have access to any blocked platforms, such as Hulu, Disney+, Netflix, and more.
  • SmartDNS: Since the Samsung Smart TV runs on the Tizen OS, it does not support native VPN apps. To get around this, you must ensure the VPN has a SmartDNS feature to bypass the geo-restrictions on your Smart TV.
  • Security: A VPN should ensure fast streaming but also safe streaming, and it must do so with top-notch security features. These features include AES 256-it encryption and a kill switch.
  • Money-back guarantee: A good VPN must allow users to try it out for a while before committing to a subsequent subscription. This trial period should span more than 15 days and include reimbursement upon request if the user is dissatisfied. Most quality VPN providers offer at least a 30-day money-back guarantee to new subscribers.

Best Samsung Smart TV VPN – Detailed list

Our list comprises only the best, most affordable, and most feature-packed VPN services. We selected these options using strict criteria: security, price, logging policy, protocols, etc.

After rigorous testing, we have highlighted five VPN providers who meet all our requirements.

1. NordVPN

NordVPN for Streaming

An effective and user-friendly VPN service that boasts a super-secure connection and unbreakable encryption. Provides a safe and seamless viewing experience on your Samsung Smart TV.

servers A network of over 5,000 secure VPN servers in 60 countries
Ad Blocker feature Reliable threat protection (malware, tracking, and ad blocker)
encryption Industry standard, most secure encryption available: AES-256
Kill switch An easy-to-use kill switch feature with high functionality
Split tunneling feature Split tunneling feature works efficiently
MultiHop mode Offers multi-hop VPN for double encryption
tor compatible Provides seamless Onion over VPN functionality
Zero-logs policy Does not store users’ data
simultaneous connections Users can connect up to ten devices simultaneously with each account
money-back guarantee A 30-day money-back guarantee with no questions asked
Pros
  • Servers support HD streaming
  • Offers pre-configured routers and supports manual configurations
  • Impenetrable security and privacy protocols
Cons
  • Sluggish desktop app

This is our safest VPN choice for your Samsung Smart TV because it works even in the most restrictive locations, which makes it a top-notch unblocking option. As a result, NordVPN bypasses the geo-restrictions on Netflix, AMC, HBO Max, and others.

NordVPN has a download speed of 83.82 Mbps and an upload speed of 44.64 Mbps on a standard 100 Mbps connection. This VPN service also ensures online privacy with its obfuscation technology, which keeps you anonymous and lets you access any geo-blocked content.

As you maintain anonymity, NordVPN does not leave you without any security cover; it protects you with AES 256-bit encryption, Double VPN, Onion over VPN, and two kill switches to ensure your cover never gets blown.

Since your Samsung Smart TV runs on Tizen OS, it does not support VPN native apps, but NordVPN comes with its own Smart DNS feature known as “SmartPlay.” Moreover, this feature does not require any extra configuration to work.

NordVPN has unique apps for every major operating platform, which includes Linux, Windows, Android, Mac, and iOS. It also supports devices like Amazon Kindle, Kodi, Fire Tablet, and Firestick.

With 24/7 customer support, solutions to your issues are only one call away. You can get this awesome service for $3.99 monthly, with a free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee.


2. Private Internet Access (PIA)

Private internet access pros cons block logo

A multi-feature VPN service that works well with Samsung Smart TV. It has a large number of servers and other impressive features to support smooth streaming.

servers Owns 35,000 secure VPN servers available in more than 80 countries
P2P optimized servers Offers tremendous P2P support on most servers
encryption Secure connection with dependable encryption; AES 128-bits and 256-bits
Ad Blocker feature Robust protection against malware and adware threats with in-built MACE
Zero-logs policy Enforces a policy of zero logs
Trusted servers nord Runs on RAM-only VPN servers (benefits privacy)
Split tunneling feature The split tunneling feature works as expected
Kill switch Boasts a feature-rich kill switch
simultaneous connections Each account allows connection to unlimited simultaneous devices
money-back guarantee 30 days no-questions-asked money-back guarantee
Pros
  • Integrated ad-blocking and anti-malware capabilities
  • A responsive customer support via live chat
  • Boasts double VPN mode for extra security layer
Cons
  • Unavailable in China

With PIA, you get unlimited bandwidth and many dedicated servers, making unblocking an absolute breeze. This VPN service effortlessly unblocks Hulu, Netflix, NBC, HBO Max, Peacock TV, and more. It also has download speeds of 65.78 Mbps and upload speeds of 57.16 Mbps while on a standard 100 Mbps connection with no buffering.

Private Internet Access has robust security features, including an automatic kill switch, split tunneling, port forwarding, and AES 256-bit encryption.

In addition, PIA works great with major operating systems and has compatible apps, and PIA functions smoothly on iOS, Windows, macOS, and Android devices. PIA also allows you to have unlimited simultaneous connections.

You can access the customer support team anytime; they work 24/7 to ensure you always get the best help. This VPN service is also great for your budget, as it only costs $2.11 a month and has a free 7-day trial and a money-back guarantee for 30 days.


3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN new features block logo 120 by 120 now

Our top-rated VPN service as it ensures complete security while online. It has a user-friendly interface and is easy to configure on your Smart TV.

servers Boasts an effective network of over 3,000 fast VPN servers scattered in 90+ coutries worldwide
Trusted servers nord TrustedServer technology (RAM-based server network)
encryption A reliable and standard military grade AES-256 encryption
Zero-logs policy Strictly follows no-log policy
Split tunneling feature A split tunneling feature that works seamlessly
network lock feature Has Network Lock (kill switch) feature
tor compatible Supports Tor over VPN on all servers
P2P optimized servers Allows Peer-to-Peer connections on most servers
simultaneous connections Each account can connect up to eight devices at once
money-back guarantee 30-day tested pay-back policy
Pros
  • Has a MediaStreamer feature to make configuration on Samsung Smart TVs easier
  • Dedicated routers with built-in custom firmware
  • 24/7 customer service for your assistance
Cons
  • No customizable features

ExpressVPN is our top recommended service for your Samsung Smart TV for many reasons. First, this VPN service has a download speed of 92.26 Mbps and upload speeds of 89.45 Mbps on a standard 100 Mbps connection with zero lags. It also performs well in terms of unblocking content libraries.

In addition, ExpressVPN allows users to have five simultaneous connections. As a result, you can protect five separate devices with a single subscription plan. ExpressVPN also comes with the MediaStreamer feature that allows users to configure the VPN easily on devices that do not support VPNs.

ExpressVPN also guarantees premium security features, including split tunneling, a kill switch, DNS leak prevention, and 256-bit AES encryption, which work together for maximum online security. Additionally, you can amp your speed while maintaining your security with the Lightway protocol.

Furthermore, ExpressVPN ranks as number one for more reasons, chief among them being its compatibility with all operating systems and devices. You can find dedicated iOS, Android, macOS, and Windows apps. It also supports multiple router models, which makes for seamless configuration.

If you have any technical issues with this VPN, you can always find someone to help on the 24/7 customer support team. Finally, you can get the ExpressVPN plan for just $6.67 monthly, including a 30-day refund policy and a free trial.


4. PureVPN

PureVPN small logo

A well-maintained VPN service that provides reliable encryption for protecting online data. It boasts impressive speed all around for hassle-free streaming.

servers Has a network of over 6,500 servers present in 75+ countries
encryption Secures connection by providing AES-256-bit encryption
P2P optimized servers Allows Peer to Peer sharing on servers
Zero-logs policy Tested and proved no-log policy
IP leak protection Robust protection against DNS and IP leaks
Kill switch Effective kill switch function
Split tunneling feature A split tunneling feature that just works
simultaneous connections Each account can connect up to ten devices at once
money-back guarantee A generous 31-day money-back guarantee
Pros
  • Seamlessly unblock almost all streaming platform
  • Easy to configure app even for beginners
  • Extremely pocket-friendly service
Cons
  • Lacks Smart DNS functionality

PureVPN is a user-friendly VPN with a massive network of servers of over 6500 in 78 countries. For this reason, its streaming quality is amazing and one of the best. With its unblocking capabilities, PureVPN can access the entire libraries of HBO Max, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and much more with zero lags or dips in video quality.

In addition, you can enjoy up to 10 simultaneous connections on PureVPN, increasing to unlimited connections if you configure it with your router. Furthermore, PureVPN is not behind in security, thanks to its military-grade AES-256 encryption that maintains anonymity, split tunneling, obfuscation protocol, port forwarding, and a kill switch.

All these amazing features come at a low price of $2.08 a month, with a 31-day money-back guarantee and a 7-day free trial period.


5. Surfshark

SurfsharkVPN

A special VPN network for beginners that has an intuitive app and user-friendly interface. The service boasts affordable pricing plans to facilitate content consumers.

servers More than 3,000 efficient VPN servers present in over 100 countries
Trusted servers nord Runs on RAM-based servers (recommended for better privacy)
Zero-logs policy Does not see or watch users’ online activity
encryption Robust data AES-256 (industry-grade) encryption
P2P optimized servers Supports Peer to Peer traffic on most servers
Kill switch Security-enhancing smart kill switch feature
Clean web features Functional CleanWeb ad and malware blocking feature
Split tunneling feature Split tunneling with dependable effectiveness
simultaneous connections No limit to the number of connections per account
money-back guarantee 30 days of no-questions-asked refunds
Pros
  • Supports seamless and quality streaming
  • High speeds connection all around the server
  • Easy to install and configure
Cons
  • Delayed connection time for certain servers

This VPN service may be the last on the list, but it surely does not reflect the quality of the VPN service. Surfshark is super affordable, with various beneficial features. Its unblocking function is the most efficient, thanks to over 3,000 servers in 100 countries, making it the fastest VPN for your Samsung Smart TV. Moreso, you can connect unlimited devices to Surfshark, ensuring maximum protection on one subscription.

Surfshark does well for unblocking and bypassing geo-restrictions for several streaming platforms, including Netflix, Showtime, Tubi TV, Hulu, Disney+, and Youtube TV, without buffering or lags.

Regarding speed, Surfshark has impressive numbers, with its download speed rated at 81.32 Mbps and upload speeds at 76.12 Mbps on a standard 100 Mbps connection.

Surfshark also has formidable and impressive security features, all of which are customized to ensure you enjoy maximum security. For example, you will find that this VPN comes with military-grade AES 256-bit encryption, Whitelister, CleanWeb, a kill switch, and MultiHop.

Surfshark also scores high for compatibility, supporting various operating systems, including Linux, Windows, iOS, Android, and macOS.

Customer support is 24/7, and you can use the live chat option. In addition, you can get the Surfshark experience for only $2.30 monthly, with a free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee.


Quick comparison table for the best VPNs for Samsung Smart TV

VPNs comparison
VPNNordVPNPIAExpressVPNPureVPNSurfshark
Samsung Ranking12345
Device supportedWindows, iOS, Mac, Android, LinuxMac, Windows, Linux, Android, Routers, iOS, Smart TVsWindows, iOS, Mac, Linux, AndroidMac, Android, iOS, Windows, LinuxLinux, Mac, Windows, iOS, Android
Streaming sitesNetflix, Paramount+, CrunchyrollNetflix, Hulu, HBO MaxNetflix, Amazon Prime, HBO MaxBBC iPlayer, HBO Max, HuluNetflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu
Download speeds (Mbps)83.8287.7865.7874.4781.32
Best deals ($)3.99/month2.11/month6.67/month2.08/month2.30/month
Simultaneous connections10Unlimited810Unlimited 

Can I use a free VPN for Samsung Smart TV?

Free VPN Risks and problems

While you can use a free VPN for your Samsung Smart TV, it is not advisable for many reasons.

The first is that free VPNs do not offer the Smart DNS feature nor have easy router configurations for your Smart TV. In addition, they have a limited range of services and operate using a reduced number of servers, and they will most definitely throttle your data as well – limiting how much you can use per day.

Free VPNs are also notorious for coming with a bombardment of annoying, intrusive ads that pose a great privacy and security concern and are very inconvenient. In addition, the ads can gather your private data and sell it to companies looking to buy.

The use of free VPNs is ultimately not worth the risks and pitfalls that come with it. But if you do not care about the precautions and insist on using a free VPN, we can recommend ProtonVPN.

This free VPN is security-centric and has some of the market’s best free privacy and security features. ProtonVPN features AES-256 encryption, a no-logging policy, secure protocols, and perfect forward secrecy.

How to configure a VPN on Samsung Smart TV

configure VPN

Since Samsung Smart TVs do not support native VPN apps and you cannot download said apps directly onto the device, there are a few ways to install a VPN on your Smart TV. They are as follows:

  • Using DD-WRT routers   
  • Using an Android
  • Configure a Smart DNS on Samsung Smart TV
  • Using your PC/laptop

1. Setup using DD-WRT Routers

DD-WRT routers are considered the easiest way to use a VPN service on a Samsung Smart TV since all the router devices will have a VPN connection when you establish the connection.

To set up a VPN on DD-WRT and Tizen OS, follow the configuration steps below:

  1. Download OpenVPN config files.
  2. Access the router settings via 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 in your web browser.
  3. Select the “Services” tab and click on “VPN.”
  4. Toggle on the “Start OpenVPN Client” option.

In the OpenVPN configuration interface, enter the following custom settings:

  • Input Server Title: Enter the .ovpn file or VPN-provided server. 
  • Port Address: Enter the VPN-provided port address.
  • Tunnel Device: Click the “TUN” option.
  • Tunnel Protocol: Select either TCP or UDP protocol.
  • Encryption Cipher: Toggle the encryption cipher to “AES.”
  • Hash Algorithm: Change the hash algorithm to “SHA256.”
  • Advanced Options: Toggle advanced options to “Enabled.”
  • TLS Cipher: Leave as not checked.
  • LZO Compression: Change to “Adaptive.”
  • NAT: Select “Disable.”
  • IP Address: Leave blank.
  • Subnet Mask: Leave blank.
  • Firewall Protection: Enable firewall protection.
  • Tunnel MTU setting: Toggle to “1500.”
  • Tunnel UDP MSS-Fix: Enable the tunnel UDP MSS-Fix.
  • UDP Fragment: Change the UDP fragment to “1450.”
  • Serotype verification: Ensure it is marked.

2. Using an Android to SetupSamsung Smart TV VPN

Samsung Smart TVs running on the Android OS have a relatively more straightforward setup process. You can download and install the VPN straight from the Google Play Store.

Below is how you can set it up on your own:

  1. Launch the Google Play Store app on your Samsung Smart TV.
  2. Search for a premium VPN service. The top recommended VPN for Samsung Smart TV is ExpressVPN.
  3. Download and install the ExpressVPN app for Samsung Smart TV.
  4. Log in to the Samsung Smart TV VPN using your account credentials.
  5. Connect to your desired server and start streaming.

3. Configure a Smart DNS on a Samsung Smart TV

Smart DNS is a nifty software that works similarly to VPNs and proxies, meaning it has little trouble getting past any geo-restrictions. However, unlike VPNs, it does not encrypt your traffic and, thus, is less secure. However, it is important to note that this lack of security makes the Smart DNS service much faster.

If you do not care too much about security and speed is your concern, then the Smart DNS might be the ‘smart’ choice. Here are the steps to follow if you wish to set up a Smart DNS on your Samsung Smart TV:

  1. Select “Menu” on the remote control of your Smart TV.
  2. Go to “Network” and select “Network Status.”
  3. Choose IP settings.
  4. Open “DNS Setting” and select “Enter Manually.”
  5. Enter the DNS address provided by your Smart DNS service.
  6. Press the “OK” button.
  7. Now, restart your Smart TV once the connection test is completed.

Remember to set the location on your device to the location of the streaming platform you want to use. If you want to stream Netflix US library on your Smart TV, change the location to US.


4. Setting up using Your PC/Laptop

This method involves setting up the VPN on your Smart TV through a shared internet connection from your PC.

  1. Go to the “Start” menu > Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center > Change Adapter Settings.
  2. Next, locate the “TAP adapter” connected to your VPN provider.
  3. Right-click on it and go to “Properties.”
  4. Then click the “Sharing” tab.
  5. Select “Allow other network users to connect through this computer’s internet connection.”
  6. Next, click the drop-down menu, then select the Ethernet connection you configured.
  7. Finally, restart your computer to complete the setup and use this connection on your Samsung Smart TV.

Important note: This method works excellently with NordVPN.


VPNs you should never use with your Samsung Smart TV

VPN

These VPNs are bad and downright harmful to your device if you use them. We will discuss the VPNs and why you should never use them with your Samsung Smart TV.

Hola VPN

This VPN is notorious for selling user activity data, streaming content, and private traffic. It’s cheap, pulling people in, but exposes you to harm, and it has been known to expose vital data such as phone numbers, addresses, identities, and credit card details. We recommend you stay away from HolaVPN.


Hoxx VPN

HoxxVPN is yet another infamous VPN service. It is riddled with problems, from a lack of confidentiality to poor connection and compatibility issues.

It claims it has impressive speeds, but it only ends as claims; it does not have any actual proof, as you will find out when you use it.


HideMyAss

This VPN has a nasty history of IP address exposure; its global servers are made up mostly of virtual servers, and it simply needs to catch up to most quality tests.

HideMyAss (HMA) VPN claims it has a vast user base and is the preferred VPN for Xbox, but both are false and misleading.


Do Samsung TVs have a built-in VPN?

No, Samsung TVs do not have built-in VPNs. To further address this, the Tizen OS, which the TVs run on, does not support using VPNs either.

What can a Samsung VPN do?

A Samsung VPN’s job is to equip your Smart TV with all the features of a standard VPN. In addition, you get extra security, IP address masking, and split tunneling. The VPN also operates with many servers worldwide, so you can effectively bypass most geo-restrictions.

BBC-iPlayer

This VPN also gives you amazing privacy and access to restricted content from major streaming platforms. For example, with an iPlayer VPN, you can stream content like Doctor Who, RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, and many other movies and TV shows, all free and as if you were in the UK.

FAQs

Below are a few of the popular apps a VPN can help you unblock on your Smart TV:

1. Netflix

2. BBC iPlayer

3. TV, Movies, and News

4. The Tennis Channel

5. ESPN

6. Amazon Prime Video

7. Pandora

8. Spotify

9. Tidal

To watch Netflix on your Samsung TV, you only need to install a good VPN, download the Netflix app, and sign in. Then, connect the VPN to your desired server location, and you’re ready to go.

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About the Author

Aliu Isa

Aliu Isa

Streaming Expert
77 Posts

Isa is a Nigeria-born professional writer and editor with more than 10 years of experience under his belt. Having worked with some of the most renowned organizations worldwide, he’s been able to produce and publish hundreds of high-quality articles across a wide range of niches. Over time, Isa has developed an immense interest in digital security and privacy. He has always been a privacy enthusiast, and now, he's giving it all to educate people on privacy, security, and geo-blocking issues around the world.

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