Stream Safely & Securely: Installing AstrillVPN on Roku

If you’re a Roku user, you know how frustrating it can be when you cannot access certain content due to geo-restrictions or censorship. That’s where a VPN comes in – encrypting your internet traffic and masking your IP address, you can bypass these restrictions and stream content from around the world. 

In this blog, we’ll focus on how to use VPN on Roku and how it can be installed on both virtual and physical routers, as well as on your PC. By the end of this blog, you’ll know how to install Astrill VPN on Roku and start streaming securely and privately on your Roku.

Why Use a VPN for Roku?

There are several reasons why you might want to use a VPN for Roku:

Bypass Geographical Restrictions

Many streaming services, like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video, have license agreements that limit the availability of certain content to specific countries or regions. For example, a movie or TV show on Netflix in the US may be available on something other than in Canada or the UK. With a VPN, you can connect to a server in the country where the content is available and access it as if you were there. This allows you to watch a wider range of content on your Roku device, regardless of where you are.

Protect Your Online Privacy 

When you use a VPN, your internet traffic is encrypted, which means it’s scrambled so that no one else can see what you’re doing online. This includes your ISP, government agencies, and anyone monitoring your internet activity. This is especially important if you’re using public Wi-Fi networks, like those in coffee shops or airports, where it’s easier for hackers to intercept your data.

Secure Your Internet Connection

A VPN provides an extra layer of security for your Roku device, making it more difficult for hackers and other cybercriminals to access your device. This is important because Roku devices can be vulnerable to hacking, especially if they’re not updated regularly or connected to an unsecured Wi-Fi network. You can help protect your device from these threats by using a VPN.

Avoid ISP Throttling

Some ISPs may slow down your internet connection when streaming video, especially if you’re using a lot of data. This is known as throttling, and it can result in buffering and other issues that can make it difficult to watch your favorite shows and movies on Roku. Using a VPN, you can bypass this throttling and enjoy smoother streaming, even when using a lot of data.

How to Install AstrillVPN on Roku

There is no direct method of installing a VPN on Roku, but you can do so by the following workaround methods:

Method 1: Install AstrillVPN on a Virtual Router

1. If your computer doesn’t have a built-in wireless adapter, you can purchase an external USB adapter.
2. Download and install AstrillVPN on your computer.
3. Set up a virtual router by using built-in features in Windows or macOS.
   
   In Windows, you can do this by following these steps:
   • Open the command prompt as an administrator.
   • Type “netsh wlan set hostednetwork mode=allow ssid=Your_SSID key=Your_Passphrase” and press enter.
   • Type “netsh wlan start hostednetwork” and press enter.

In macOS, you can set up a virtual router using the following steps:

• Open System Preferences.
• Click on Sharing.
• Click on Internet Sharing.
• Select Wi-Fi from the list of sharing options.
• Choose the virtual router you want to create from the “Share your connection from” dropdown menu.
• Enter a name and password for the virtual router.
  

4. Once you’ve set up the virtual router, connect your Roku device to it using the Wi-Fi network name and password you created in the previous step.
5. Now open AstrillVPN on your computer and connect to a server. Your Roku device should now be connected to the internet through the virtual router, with all of its internet traffic routed through the VPN connection.

Method 2: Install AstrillVPN on a Physical Router

If you want to install AstrillVPN on a physical router, then you should keep the following things in mind: 

1. Your router must be either ASUS Merlin or DD-WRT. The DD-WRT router must be at least 8MB flash.
2. Only OpenVPN and RouterPro protocols can be used. Both TCP and UDP modes are supported.
3. Our applet can filter devices, filter domains / IP addresses that go through VPN, and who do not want to turn on VPN just for certain Wifi channels.

Follow these steps to install AstrillVPN on your router:

1. Download AstrillVPN Router Applet. 
2. Install AstrillVPN applet over SSH.
3. Allow SSH in your router settings.
4.  Run the following command once you get into the SSH console on your router:

eval `wget -q -O – http://astroutercn.com/router/install/3059184/d0068ad278165eff34c65cb2674d3587`

5. Now refresh your router admin page, and start using applet features.

Method 3: Install AstrillVPN on a PC and Share the Connection

Follow the steps to install AstrillVPN on a PC and share the connection:

1. Download and install the AstrillVPN client on your PC from the Astrill VPN website.
2. Enter your login details to sign in to the client and Connect to a VPN server.
3. Go to the Network and Sharing Center in the Control Panel
4. Select your VPN connection, and click on “Properties”.
5. Go to the “Sharing” tab and check the box that says, “Allow other network users to connect through this computer’s internet connection”.
6. Connect your Roku device to your PC using an Ethernet cable. 
7. Go to the settings menu on your Roku device and select “Network”. 
8. Select “Set up connection” and choose “Wired”.
9. Now, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.

Once you’ve completed the setup, you can start streaming on your Roku device through the VPN connection on your PC.

Benefits of Using a VPN for Roku

A VPN is an essential tool for anyone who wants to get the most out of their Roku device. There are numerous benefits to using a VPN for Roku. Here are just a few of the key advantages:

1. Fast streaming speeds

Astrill VPN has a network of high-speed servers optimized for streaming, so you can enjoy smooth, uninterrupted streaming on your Roku device. With Astrill VPN, you can choose from servers specifically optimized for streaming, ensuring that you get the fastest possible speeds while watching your favorite shows and movies. This means you won’t have to worry about buffering or lag, even if you’re streaming high-definition content.

2. Access to geo-restricted content

With servers in over 110 cities in 62 countries, Astrill VPN offers a wide range of options for accessing geo-restricted content. This includes popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. 

By connecting to a server in a different country, you can bypass geographic restrictions and access content that may not be available in your region. This can be especially useful if you’re traveling abroad and want to access content from your home country.

3. Advanced security features

Astrill VPN uses advanced encryption protocols to protect your online activities from prying eyes. With features like a kill switch and DNS leak protection, you can be sure that your online activities are always secure and private. 

The kill switch ensures that your internet connection is immediately cut off if the VPN connection drops, preventing your IP address and location from being exposed. DNS leak protection ensures that your DNS requests are always routed through the VPN tunnel, preventing your ISP from seeing which websites you’re visiting.

4. Compatibility with Roku

Astrill VPN offers a virtual router feature that allows you to share your VPN connection with your Roku device, even if your router doesn’t support VPN. This makes setting up and using a VPN with your Roku device easy. With the virtual router feature, you can create a hotspot on your laptop or desktop computer and connect your Roku device to it. This will allow you to share your VPN connection with your Roku device, ensuring your internet traffic is encrypted and secure.

5. 24/7 customer support

If you ever have any issues with your Astrill VPN connection, their customer support team is available 24/7 to help you troubleshoot and resolve any problems. They offer a variety of support options, including live chat, email, and phone support, so you can get the help you need whenever you need it.

What to look for in the best Roku VPN?

If you’re looking to add a virtual private network (VPN) to your Roku streaming device, there are a few important things to consider when choosing the best one. 

1. Speed and Reliability

Speed and reliability are key. The best Roku VPNs have fast connection speeds so you don’t notice a difference when streaming your favorite shows and movies. A good VPN will also have reliable servers that don’t disconnect often and leave you unprotected. 

2. Cost 

Cost is another factor. Some VPNs offer free versions but they tend to have lower speeds, less features, and data limits. Paid VPNs range from around $5-$15 per month. Look for deals that offer better value, like longer subscriptions.

3. Ease of use

Ease of use matters. A VPN that is simple and straightforward to set up and use on your Roku will be less frustrating. Look for VPNs that have Roku-specific apps that are well designed and have clear instructions.

4. Number of servers and locations

The number of servers and locations is important. More servers and locations means you’ll have better speed options and be able to access content from around the world. At least 300 servers and 50+ locations are ideal for a good Roku VPN.

5. Security Features

Security features should include a no-logs policy, kill switch, and 256-bit encryption as a minimum. Look for a VPN that has passed independent audits and has a good reputation for protecting users’ privacy.

When choosing the best Roku VPN consider speed, cost, ease of use, number of servers, security features, and the reputation of the VPN provider. Aim for a service that ticks all these boxes to ensure you have a fast, reliable, and secure VPN for streaming on your Roku device.

Conclusion

Using a VPN on your Roku device can open up a world of content that may have been previously unavailable to you. Whether you’re looking to bypass geo-restrictions, protect your privacy, or simply access content worldwide, a VPN like Astrill can help. By following the steps outlined in this blog, you can install Astrill VPN on your device of choice and start streaming securely and privately in no time.

FAQs

How do I change my location on Roku?

You can change your Roku location by changing your Roku account’s region. Go to the Roku website, sign in to your account, and update your account information to reflect your new region. Note that some channels may not be available in certain regions.

Are Roku regions locked?

Yes, Roku devices are region-locked, meaning certain channels and content may only be available in specific regions.

Does Roku track your location?

Roku may track your location in order to determine which channels and content are available in your region. However, you can disable location tracking in your Roku device settings.

Should I use a VPN when streaming?

Using a VPN when streaming can help you bypass geo-restrictions and access content from around the world. It can also protect your privacy and secure your internet connection. However, some streaming services may not work with certain VPNs, so it’s important to choose a VPN like Astrill that is compatible with the service you want to use.

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